Linyi travel guide and discussion

Honestly, before going to Hejin, I only knew the legend of "Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate." I never imagined that the origin of this story was hidden in the Yellow River Dragon Gate Grand Canyon—the Yellow River Big Ladder Cliff. This time, I made a special trip to visit the Ladder Cliff, Peach Blossom Valley, and Yiti City all at once, and I'm giving you an unbiased, authentic travel guide. Where is it, and what's the best way to get there? The scenic area's full name is Shanxi Yellow River Big Ladder Cliff Tourist Area, a national AAAA-level scenic spot. It's located in Banpo Village, Xiahua Township, Hejin City, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, nestled between the Yellow River Dragon Gate and Stone Gate, bordered by the Yellow River to the west and the Lüliang Mountains to the east. By car: Simply search for "Yellow River Big Ladder Cliff" on your navigation app. There's a parking lot at the scenic area. From Taiyuan/Beijing, take the Jingkun Expressway to the Hejin West Exit and follow the signs. From Xi'an/Hancheng, cross the Yellow River Bridge and exit at the Hejin West Exit. The Yellow River Highway also leads directly there, and the scenery along the way is worth the gas money. For those who prefer public transportation: There's a free tourist bus (Route 21) in Hejin city that goes directly to the scenic area, which is incredibly convenient for those without a car. 💡 Key Points: Opening hours are 8:00-19:30 (last entry at 18:30). It's recommended to allow 2-5 hours for a thorough visit. Tickets are 60 RMB per person during peak season (March 1st - October 31st) and 50 RMB per person during off-season. Students, minors aged 6-18, and families of active-duty military personnel receive half-price admission. Free admission is for seniors over 60, children under 6 or under 1.2 meters tall, military personnel, and disabled persons. 🪜 Core Attraction: The 365-Step Northern Wei Ancient Plank Road The soul of Da Tizi Cliff lies in its 365-step zigzag cliffside staircase—a military ancient plank road carved into the cliff face by Northern Wei craftsmen 1600 years ago. With a vertical drop of 99 meters, it's known as the "Number One Cliffside Staircase on the Yellow River." The 365 steps symbolize the 365 days of the year; one must climb every day to reach the top. What was it like climbing? Let me tell you the truth: the first 100 steps were easy, the middle 100 started making you breathless, and the last 100 or so made your legs tremble. One side of the stone steps clings to a sheer cliff, the other side overlooks a hundred-meter-deep Yellow River canyon. Some sections require gripping chains and using both hands and feet. The moment you reach the top, the entire Longmen Gorge is laid out before you, the Yellow River rushes below for a hundred meters, and the wind rushes into your collar—you instantly understand why Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei Dynasty specifically came here to worship Yu the Great. At the summit are the ruins of Yiti City, a place where the Northern Wei Dynasty stationed troops. Now there's the Yu Bo Garden and Hualong Temple, and to the north, there's a terraced flower sea of ​​over 10,000 square meters—perfect for taking photos. 🎢 Secondary Excursions: How to Choose Without Losing Money There are 5 separately charged attractions within the scenic area. Choose according to your courage and budget: Yuelong Sky Ladder (40 yuan): A 100-meter vertical sightseeing elevator, ascending and descending in 45 seconds. The transparent cabin offers a panoramic view of the Yellow River canyon. Must-buy for families with elderly members and children, saving you the energy of climbing 365 steps! Glass Skywalk (40 RMB): A 150-meter-high transparent walkway with the Yellow River flowing below. Those afraid of heights, walk sideways! Walking on the Clouds (30 RMB): A 100-meter-high, railing-free glass walkway – a heart-pounding experience! Flying Cloud Crossing (40 RMB): A 210-meter-long, 40-centimeter-wide, railing-free climbing walkway, over 140 meters above the ground. Requires professional guidance; not suitable for those over 60 or with high blood pressure. Leaping Dragon Gate Cruise (68 RMB): Cross the narrowest point of the Yellow River, the Dragon Gate, experiencing the thrill of speeding across the water to the birthplace of the legend of "Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate." Package tickets are also available on the platform, such as "Entrance Ticket + Round Trip to the Leaping Dragon Ladder + Glass Skywalk + Walking on the Clouds + Flying Cloud Crossing + Cruise" for around 228 RMB. This saves you money compared to buying individual items, making it a more cost-effective option for those who want to experience everything in one go. 🗺️ Two Classic Routes, Choose the One That Suits You 🔹 Warrior Hiking Route (For those with good stamina/wanting to take great photos) Visitor Center → Pioneer Stone Sculpture (photo opportunity) → Climb the 365-step Northern Wei Dynasty Ladder → Yiti City, Yubo Garden → Feiyun Ferry Rock Climbing → Stroll Through Qingyun → Glass Skywalk → Descend via Yuelong Ladder → Peach Blossom Valley Stream Tracing. 3-5 hours total, allow half a day for slower hikers. 🔹 Leisurely Family Route (For seniors/young children) Visitor Center → Take the Yuelong Ladder directly uphill → Yiti City Ruins → Glass Skywalk (scenic view) → Stroll Through Qingyun (for the adventurous) → Descend via Yuelong Ladder or on foot → Play in the Peach Blossom Valley Water Play. Almost no uphill climbing, easily completed in 2-3 hours. ⚠️ In summer, Peach Blossom Valley is shaded by lush greenery and has cool, refreshing streams. Wading in the water under the shade of 100,000 wild peach trees is a hidden gem for summer fun. In spring, March, it transforms into a photo hotspot with a sea of ​​pink peach blossoms. 📸 Best Photo Spots Mid-section of the Sky Ladder: A shot back at the midpoint of the Sky Ladder: The cliffside stone steps and the Yellow River framed together – a perfect wide-angle shot. Mid-section of the Glass Skywalk: A 150-meter-high aerial view of the Peach Blossom Valley waterfall, complete with a rainbow after the rain. Yilacheng Hualong Temple: Red walls and gray tiles against a backdrop of terraced fields and flowers – perfect for backlit portraits in the evening. One Line Sky Gap: Squeeze through a narrow passage that only allows one person to pass at a time, and the view opens up dramatically upon exiting the cave. Inside the transparent cabin of the Leaping Dragon Sky Ladder: A 45-second aerial shot of the Yellow River Canyon – the dynamic blur is incredibly cool. 🍜 Tips for Eating, Accommodation, and Transportation Eating: There are restaurants and snack stalls at the entrance of the scenic area. There are rest areas and light meals at the top of the cliff; the oil-splashed noodles are quite delicious. In Hejin city, the Yellow River carp prepared in three different ways is a must-try, along with other Shanxi specialties like Wanrong cold noodles, Ronghe steamed dishes, and fried cakes. Accommodation: For those who want to stay close to the scenic area, the Xinlongmen Inn is within walking distance of the main attractions. For more options, return to Hejin city; you can find decent hotels for around 150 yuan per person. Best Season: Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. March for peach blossoms and October for autumn colors are at their peak. In summer, it's recommended to enter the park before 8 am to avoid the scorching sun. In winter, you can see spectacular icefalls, but some attractions may be closed. 🗺️ Surrounding attractions, a day trip itinerary like this: The location of Datizi Cliff is superb, adjacent to the Yellow River Longmen Scenic Area. Most people plan a half-day to full-day itinerary of "Datizi Cliff first, then Longmen": Yellow River Longmen Scenic Area: The site of the legend of "Fish Leaping Over the Dragon Gate," where the Yellow River is less than 40 meters wide at its narrowest point. Take a boat trip through the Jin-Shaan Grand Canyon and see the relics of Yu the Great's "carving mountains and guiding rivers." Admission is free; the aerial tramway + glass viewing platform costs 49.9 yuan. Longmen Ancient Town: Located right at the entrance to Yu the Great's gate. Complete your itinerary with sightseeing and dining! Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway: A scenic drive along the Yellow River, with views from Wanghetai and other observation decks along the way. Ten-Mile Silver Beach/Shimen Mudflats: Locally-owned, pristine spots, just a short drive of about ten minutes, less crowded and wildly beautiful. If you're taking the entire "Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway," you can hike from Hejin Tizi Cliff → Wanrong Qiufeng Tower and Feiyun Tower → Linyi and Yongji Guanque Tower → Ruicheng Yongle Palace, experiencing the most magnificent scenery of the Yellow River in one trip. 🎒 Avoid the Pitfalls (A Lesson Learned Through Hard Work) Wear non-slip sports shoes/river trekking shoes! The stone steps are covered in moss. The scenic area provides free bamboo poles as hiking sticks, so remember to get one. A complete sun protection kit is essential: there's almost no shade on the mountain, and the afternoon sun is intense, so sunscreen, a sun hat, and a sun-protective shirt are necessary. Feiyun Ferry is prohibited for people over 60 and those with high blood pressure. Families with elderly people and children are advised to choose the "Walking in the Clouds" glass walkway instead. If you want to reach the summit for panoramic views, try to arrive in the morning when the light is softer and there are fewer people. In the afternoon, it's not only sunny, but there may also be queues on the glass walkway. Young children must be held hand-in-hand the entire time climbing the ladder. Families with a fear of heights should choose the sightseeing elevator instead of trying to climb. The Peach Blossom Valley stream is only suitable for wading; supervise children and prevent them from going into deep water. Parking is limited on weekends, so it's recommended to avoid Saturdays and Sundays. There are no-fly zones for drones; drone pilots should report in advance. Standing atop Longmen Peak, the wind was very strong, and the Yellow River rushed past hundreds of meters below. Imagine, 1600 years ago, Northern Wei soldiers stood in this very spot; during the War of Resistance against Japan, soldiers of the New Eighth Division also climbed this "sky ladder" in the dead of night to launch a surprise attack on the Japanese army—a cliff below, the Yellow River roaring beside them. That resonance across millennia is truly worth the special trip. After climbing 365 steps, your legs will likely be shaking, but the moment you reach the top and recite, "I won't give up until I reach the Yellow River; today I leap over the Dragon Gate," all the fatigue is worth it. Honestly, before going to Hejin, I only knew the legend of "carp leaping over the Dragon Gate." I never imagined that the origin of this story was hidden in the Yellow River Dragon Gate Grand Canyon—the Yellow River Ladder Cliff. This time, I made a special trip to explore the Ladder Cliff, Peach Blossom Valley, and Yiti City all at once, and I'm giving you an unvarnished, authentic travel guide. Where is it, and what's the best way to get there? The scenic area's full name is Shanxi Yellow River Datizi Cliff Tourist Area, a national AAAA-level scenic spot. It's located in Banpo Village, Xiahua Township, Hejin City, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, nestled between the Yellow River's Longmen and Shimen gates, bordered by the Yellow River to the west and the Lüliang Mountains to the east. Best way to get there by car: Simply search for "Yellow River Datizi Cliff" on your navigation app. There's parking available. From Taiyuan/Beijing, take the Jingkun Expressway to the Hejin West Exit and follow the signs. From Xi'an/Hancheng, cross the Yellow River Bridge and exit at the Hejin West Exit. The Yellow River Highway also leads directly there, and the scenery along the way is worth the gas money. For those using public transportation: There's a free tourist bus (route 21) in Hejin city that goes directly to the scenic area, which is incredibly convenient for those without a car. 💡 Important: Opening hours are 8:00-19:30 (last entry at 18:30). It's recommended to allow 2-5 hours for a thorough visit. Tickets: Peak season (March 1st - October 31st) 60 RMB/person, off-season 50 RMB/person; half price for students, minors aged 6-18, and families of active-duty military personnel; free for seniors over 60, children under 6 or under 1.2 meters tall, military personnel, and disabled persons. 🪜 Core Attraction: 365-Step Northern Wei Ancient Plank Road The soul of Da Tizi Cliff lies in its 365-step zigzag cliffside staircase—a military ancient plank road carved into the cliff face by Northern Wei craftsmen 1600 years ago. With a vertical drop of 99 meters, it's known as the "Number One Cliffside Staircase on the Yellow River." The 365 steps symbolize the 365 days of the year; one must climb to the top every day. What's it like climbing? To be honest: the first 100 steps are easy, the middle 100 start to make you pant, and the last hundred or so make your legs tremble. One side of the stone steps clings to the cliff face, while the other side overlooks a hundred-meter-deep Yellow River canyon. Some sections require gripping iron chains and using both hands and feet. The moment you reach the summit, the entire Longmen Gorge is laid out before you, the Yellow River rushing below for hundreds of meters, the wind rushing into your collar—you instantly understand why Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei Dynasty made a special trip here to worship Yu the Great. At the summit lies the ruins of Yiti City, a military garrison of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Now, it features the Yu Bo Garden and Hualong Temple, and to the north, there's a vast terraced flower field of over 10,000 square meters, perfect for taking stunning photos. 🎢 Secondary Excursions: Which Ones Can't Lose Out? There are 5 separately charged attractions within the scenic area. Choose according to your courage and budget: Leaping Dragon Elevator (40 RMB): A 100-meter vertical sightseeing elevator, ascending and descending in 45 seconds. The transparent cabin offers a panoramic view of the Yellow River Gorge. Must-buy for families with elderly members and children, saving you the energy of climbing 365 steps! Glass Skywalk (40 RMB): A 150-meter-high transparent walkway with the Yellow River flowing below. Those afraid of heights, walk sideways! Walking on the Clouds (30 RMB): A 100-meter-high, railing-free glass walkway – a heart-pounding experience! Flying Cloud Crossing (40 RMB): A 210-meter-long, 40-centimeter-wide, railing-free climbing walkway, over 140 meters above the ground. Requires professional guidance; not suitable for those over 60 or with high blood pressure. Leaping Dragon Gate Cruise (68 RMB): Cross the narrowest point of the Yellow River, the Dragon Gate, experiencing the thrill of speeding across the water to the birthplace of the legend of "Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate." Package tickets are also available on the platform, such as "Entrance Ticket + Round Trip to the Leaping Dragon Ladder + Glass Skywalk + Walking on the Clouds + Flying Cloud Crossing + Cruise" for around 228 RMB. This saves you money compared to buying individual items, making it a more cost-effective option for those who want to experience everything in one go. 🗺️ Two Classic Routes, Choose the One That Suits You 🔹 Warrior Hiking Route (For those with good stamina/wanting to take great photos) Visitor Center → Pioneer Stone Sculpture (photo opportunity) → Climb the 365-step Northern Wei Dynasty Ladder → Yiti City, Yubo Garden → Feiyun Ferry Rock Climbing → Stroll Through Qingyun → Glass Skywalk → Descend via Yuelong Ladder → Peach Blossom Valley Stream Tracing. 3-5 hours total, allow half a day for slower hikers. 🔹 Leisurely Family Route (For seniors/young children) Visitor Center → Take the Yuelong Ladder directly uphill → Yiti City Ruins → Glass Skywalk (scenic view) → Stroll Through Qingyun (for the adventurous) → Descend via Yuelong Ladder or on foot → Play in the Peach Blossom Valley Water Play. Almost no uphill climbing, easily completed in 2-3 hours. ⚠️ In summer, Peach Blossom Valley is shaded by lush greenery and has cool, refreshing streams. Wading in the water under the shade of 100,000 wild peach trees is a hidden gem for summer fun. In spring, March, it transforms into a photo hotspot with a sea of ​​pink peach blossoms. 📸 Best Photo Spots Mid-section of the Sky Ladder: A shot back at the midpoint of the Sky Ladder: The cliffside stone steps and the Yellow River framed together – a perfect wide-angle shot. Mid-section of the Glass Skywalk: A 150-meter-high aerial view of the Peach Blossom Valley waterfall, complete with a rainbow after the rain. Yilacheng Hualong Temple: Red walls and gray tiles against a backdrop of terraced fields and flowers – perfect for backlit portraits in the evening. One Line Sky Gap: Squeeze through a narrow passage that only allows one person to pass at a time, and the view opens up dramatically upon exiting the cave. Inside the transparent cabin of the Leaping Dragon Sky Ladder: A 45-second aerial shot of the Yellow River Canyon – the dynamic blur is incredibly cool. 🍜 Tips for Eating, Accommodation, and Transportation Eating: There are restaurants and snack stalls at the entrance of the scenic area. There are rest areas and light meals at the top of the cliff; the oil-splashed noodles are quite delicious. In Hejin city, the Yellow River carp prepared in three different ways is a must-try, along with other Shanxi specialties like Wanrong cold noodles, Ronghe steamed dishes, and fried cakes. Accommodation: For those who want to stay close to the scenic area, the Xinlongmen Inn is within walking distance of the main attractions. For more options, return to Hejin city; you can find decent hotels for around 150 yuan per person. Best Season: Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. March for peach blossoms and October for autumn colors are at their peak. In summer, it's recommended to enter the park before 8 am to avoid the scorching sun. In winter, you can see spectacular icefalls, but some attractions may be closed. 🗺️ Surrounding attractions, a day trip itinerary like this: The location of Datizi Cliff is superb, adjacent to the Yellow River Longmen Scenic Area. Most people plan a half-day to full-day itinerary of "Datizi Cliff first, then Longmen": Yellow River Longmen Scenic Area: The site of the legend of "Fish Leaping Over the Dragon Gate," where the Yellow River is less than 40 meters wide at its narrowest point. Take a boat trip through the Jin-Shaan Grand Canyon and see the relics of Yu the Great's "carving mountains and guiding rivers." Admission is free; the aerial tramway + glass viewing platform costs 49.9 yuan. Longmen Ancient Town: Located right at the entrance to Yu the Great's gate. Complete your itinerary with sightseeing and dining! Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway: A scenic drive along the Yellow River, with views from Wanghetai and other observation decks along the way. Ten-Mile Silver Beach/Shimen Mudflats: Locally-owned, pristine spots, just a short drive of about ten minutes, less crowded and wildly beautiful. If you're taking the entire "Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway," you can hike from Hejin Tizi Cliff → Wanrong Qiufeng Tower and Feiyun Tower → Linyi and Yongji Guanque Tower → Ruicheng Yongle Palace, experiencing the most magnificent scenery of the Yellow River in one trip. 🎒 Avoid the Pitfalls (A Lesson Learned Through Hard Work) Wear non-slip sports shoes/river trekking shoes! The stone steps are covered in moss. The scenic area provides free bamboo poles as hiking sticks, so remember to get one. A complete sun protection kit is essential: there's almost no shade on the mountain, and the afternoon sun is intense, so sunscreen, a sun hat, and a sun-protective shirt are necessary. Feiyun Ferry is prohibited for people over 60 and those with high blood pressure. Families with elderly people and children are advised to choose the "Walking in the Clouds" glass walkway instead. If you want to reach the summit for panoramic views, try to arrive in the morning when the light is softer and there are fewer people. In the afternoon, it's not only sunny, but there may also be queues on the glass walkway. Young children must be held hand-in-hand the entire time climbing the ladder. Families with a fear of heights should choose the sightseeing elevator instead of trying to climb. The Peach Blossom Valley stream is only suitable for wading; supervise children and prevent them from going into deep water. Parking is limited on weekends, so it's recommended to avoid Saturdays and Sundays. There are no-fly zones for drones; drone pilots should report in advance. Standing atop Longmen Peak, the wind was very strong, and the Yellow River rushed past hundreds of meters below. Imagine, 1600 years ago, Northern Wei soldiers stood in this very spot, and during the War of Resistance against Japan, soldiers of the New Eighth Division climbed this same ladder in the dead of night to launch a surprise attack on the Japanese army—a cliff below, the Yellow River roaring beside them. That resonance across millennia is truly worth the special trip. After climbing 365 steps, your legs will likely be shaking, but the moment you reach the top and recite, "I won't give up until I reach the Yellow River; today I leap over the Dragon Gate," all the fatigue will be worth it.

I visited Taiyuan a few days ago and made a special trip to see Chunyang Palace. This Taoist temple is hidden in the bustling area near Wuyi Square, yet it is quite serene. Chunyang Palace was first built during the Yuan Dynasty and named after Lu Dongbin, whom it honors. Today, it serves as the Shanxi Museum of Ancient Architecture. Upon entering the courtyard, I headed straight for those two legendary national treasures that are prohibited from being exhibited abroad. The first is the Nirvana Transformation Stele, which stands in the stele gallery. It is 302 cm tall, almost as high as a single-story building. Unlike the text-heavy stone steles we usually see, this one has almost no inscriptions. Instead, it uses a series of reliefs to tell a story, like a "silent movie" carved in stone. I looked up from the bottom—the final teachings, the Nirvana between the twin trees, "Queen Maya mourning at the coffin," the sermon from within the coffin, the funeral procession around the city, the cremation... The entire process of the Buddha Shakyamuni's passing was captured on blue stone, stroke by stroke, by Tang Dynasty artisans. Particularly moving is the "Queen Maya mourning at the coffin" scene: his birth mother, Queen Maya, rushed down from the heavens to mourn over the coffin. This stele was carved in the second year of the Tianshou era of the Tang Dynasty (691 AD) and is a unique example of an official narrative created by Wu Zetian to build momentum for her ascension to the throne. Having survived over 1,300 years of wind and rain and several anti-Buddhist movements, it has miraculously been preserved intact. It was moved from Dayun Temple in Linyi County to Chunyang Palace in 1957. The second is the Statue of the Heavenly Venerable of Changyang. It is hidden in the Qianzhen Cave within the fifth courtyard. It is a seated statue of Laozi carved from white marble, standing 2.56 meters tall. The Heavenly Venerable wears a lotus crown, has a full face, narrow eyes slightly closed, and a long beard hanging down to his chest, with a serene and benevolent expression. His right hand holds a fan and a whisk, his left hand rests on a small table, and he sits cross-legged on a stone pedestal, wearing a wide Taoist robe. This statue was carved in the seventh year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (719 AD). Originally housed in Jingyun Temple in Yuncheng, it is also a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty stone carving art. In 2002, the National Cultural Heritage Administration announced the first list of cultural relics prohibited from being exhibited abroad, and both of these national treasures were included. Standing before them, I suddenly understood the weight of the words prohibited from being exhibited abroad—some things belong only to this land.

Just returned from Zhangcun, Linyi. A relaxing half-day tour that won't wear you out. 📍Basic overview Located in Beijing Township, Linyi, this area combines ancient village charm with fruit orchard scenery. Admission is free, making it perfect for independent travelers who enjoy ancient architecture and culture. 🗺️Itinerary Day 1: Sheng'an Temple Pagoda to Wenbi Pagoda (southeast of the village) Tip: The two spots are close to each other; renting an e-scooter is recommended for getting around. ✨Key highlights The Song Dynasty brick pagoda and the Qing Dynasty brush-shaped pagoda offer a mix of cultural and ancient history. The terrain is flat and easy to walk, perfect for taking photos. You can also pick up some local apples along the way. 🍜Local specialties Lamb soup with bread (fresh and not gamey), Linjin pickled melon (crispy and pairs well with rice), and Huagu twisted dough sticks (crispy and fragrant). These can be found at breakfast shops in the town. 🏨Accommodation recommendations 1. Homestays near the scenic area: Xiaojiejie Homestay (Linyi Bus Station Branch). Affordable and clean, convenient for visiting the pagodas in the morning or evening. 2. City hotels: All Seasons Hotel (Yuncheng Linyi Fengxi Avenue Branch). Well-equipped and suitable for a stopover or rest. 🎒Travel essentials 1. Protection: Sun hat, mask 2. Personal items: Power bank, small change 💡Practical tips 1. Driving or renting a car is recommended, as there are few buses on village roads. 2. The light is soft in the early morning or evening, which is great for photographing the pagodas. 3. The pagodas are old; please do not climb on them. 4. Please respect local customs and do not litter. This pagoda-seeking trip was fulfilling and relaxing.

🗺️ Itinerary and cost breakdown Day 1: Ancient architecture and local vibes · Morning (CNY 40): Take the free tourist shuttle to Linjin County Government Office (CNY 40), then visit Linjin Confucian Temple (free) and Linyi County Museum (free). · Noon (approx. CNY 50–80): Taste Linjin Jiangyugua (pickled melon), mutton hubu, and more in Linjin Town. · Afternoon (free): Take the free bus to Shuangta Park (to see the "Twin Pagoda Shadows") and view the Guan Hanqing Grand Theater from the outside. · Evening (approx. CNY 100–150): Return to the county seat to try mutton paomo and huagu twist. Stay at an economy hotel in the county seat (approx. CNY 100/night). Day 2: Yellow River scenery and the footsteps of the Merchant Saint · Morning (free): Take the inter-county bus to Wuwang Ancient Ferry (free), or travel along the Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway (free) to experience the Yellow River scenery. · Noon (approx. CNY 100–150): Taste authentic farmhouse dishes like Yellow River carp at the ancient ferry. · Afternoon (free): Head to Yidun Garden/Yidun Tomb; or visit the Former Residence of Fu Zuoyi (free) or Shuangyi Mountain. · Evening: Before departing, you can buy local specialties like Linyi apples and Linjin pomegranates. 💡 Practical money-saving tips · Make good use of free buses: Prioritize using the urban free bus system and the free tourist shuttle that connects core attractions. · Choose economy accommodation: Prioritize well-rated economy hotels such as Thank Inn, Home Inn Neo, or Guozun Business Hotel. · Control dining budget: Frequent small restaurants popular with locals; you can spend as much or as little as you like. · Focus on free attractions: Almost all core attractions on this itinerary are free, so there is no need for admission ticket expenses. Please verify specific costs before your trip. · Flexible spending: Other budget items can be adjusted flexibly based on actual circumstances.

· Taiyuan Chunyang Palace, Ming to Qing Dynasty, National Heritage Site; · My personal third must-visit spot in Taiyuan; · The "Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Courtyard" in the fourth courtyard is the only ancient courtyard in China with this specific layout; · Home to two of the first batch of cultural relics prohibited from being exhibited abroad: the Nirvana Transformation Stele and the Statue of Changyang Heavenly Venerable; · Free guided tours are available (and are quite good); please check official information for details; · Recommended visit duration: 2 to 4 hours. Originally a Taoist temple dedicated to the famous Tang Dynasty Taoist Lu Dongbin, it was rebuilt and expanded on the site of an old Song Dynasty temple in the 25th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1597) by Zhu Xin, the Prince of Jin. Further additions were made during the Qianlong and Jiaqing reigns of the Qing Dynasty, and after the founding of the People's Republic of China, rockeries, a Guan Gong Pavilion, and a stele corridor were added. Facing south, the complex currently consists of five courtyards, measuring 43 meters wide and 122 meters long, covering an area of 5,246 square meters. The first courtyard was built after 1949, while the rest are original Ming and Qing structures. The central axis, from south to north, includes the palace gate (newly built), the "Lu Tianxian Shrine" wooden archway, the second palace gate (Daode Gate), the entrance hall, the Lu Zu Hall (Chunyang Hall), the Xuwu Cave, a square single-room cloister pavilion, the Lingbao Cave, and the Yuhuang Pavilion (Wei Pavilion). There are 12 buildings on both sides, including side courtyards, auxiliary halls, and the Bagua Tower. Chunyang Palace also houses 2 pairs of iron lions, 3 pairs of stone lions, 1 pair of glazed lions, as well as a bronze Maitreya statue, a bronze statue of Guan Gong on horseback, and stone pillars. The stele corridor contains 18 statues and 76 steles. Nirvana Transformation Stele: Tang Dynasty, 2nd year of the Tianshou reign of Wu Zhou (691 AD) Height: 302 cm, Width: 87 cm, Thickness: 25 cm Collected from Dayun Temple, Linyi County, Shanxi Province A national first-class cultural relic and one of the first 64 cultural relics prohibited from being exhibited abroad by the National Cultural Heritage Administration. Front of the stele: The stele head is decorated with chi dragons, and the top is carved with an image of Mount Sumeru. The center of the stele body features a line of text: "Respectfully created by the Great Zhou Dayun Temple for the Holy and Divine Emperor, the Nirvana Transformation Stele." The front of the stele is carved with six scenes related to the Nirvana transformation story. From bottom to top: The Final Precepts, Nirvana under the Twin Trees. From top to bottom on the right: Maya Weeping at the Coffin, Rebirth and Preaching. From bottom to top on the left: Funeral Procession Around the City, Cremation of the Body. Back of the stele: The stele head is also decorated with chi dragons, and the top is carved with an image of a sarira pagoda, which is square with a single-eaved, pointed roof. The two scenes are: The Eight Kings Dividing the Sarira, and the Three Buddhas and Four Bodhisattvas. Sides of the stele: Carved with lions and Vajrapani warriors in armor, accompanied by lotus branches and four-bodied Bodhisattva statues.

Taiyuan Chunyang Palace, also known as Lüzu Temple, is located in the northwest corner of Wuyi Square in downtown Taiyuan. Chunyang Palace was built to worship Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals of Taoism. Lü Dongbin's title was 'Chunyangzi,' hence the name. It was first built in the late Song and early Yuan dynasties, and the existing structures were built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. It is an ancient architectural complex that blends the characteristics of southern classical gardens with northern official architectural styles. Chunyang Palace houses two national treasure-level cultural relics: the Nirvana Transformation Stele and the Changyang Heavenly Venerable Statue, both of which are listed in the first batch of cultural relics prohibited from being exhibited abroad. The Nirvana Transformation Stele is a stone stele from the Wu Zhou period. It was once erected in Dayun Temples across the country, using a comic strip format to tell the story of the Buddha's Nirvana, and conveying the legitimacy of Wu Zetian's ascension to the throne as a woman. Later, because Emperor Zhongzong of Tang ordered their destruction, only this Nirvana Transformation Stele, which was once erected in the Dayun Temple in Linyi County, Yuncheng City, and carved in the second year of Tianshou of the Tang Dynasty (691), remains in existence. The white marble statue of the Changyang Heavenly Venerable is a statue of Laozi (Li Er). The right hand holding a fan was damaged and repaired later. The statue was carved during the Kaiyuan period of the Tang Dynasty and represents the level of stone carving art during the High Tang period. Chunyang Palace has five courtyards in total, and the fourth courtyard is a rare Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams courtyard in the country. This two-story brick-and-wood structure is laid out strictly according to the Eight Trigrams directions, with brick-vaulted cave dwellings on all eight sides, resembling a three-dimensional Taiji Eight Trigrams diagram. Admission ticket 🎫: 30

ll, linking Lin Yi in Shanxi on one end and Heyang in Shaanxi on the other. It is the only water crossing at the Qin-Jin border. Made of more than 30 steel floating pontoons joined together, the 600-meter river section has no underwater piers and can rise and fall with the Yellow River’s water level. After opening, driving across the bridge takes only 5 minutes to cross the river between provinces, replacing the ferry system that lasted over 2,000 years. This greatly reduces travel time between the two sides, significantly improving convenience for local residents and self-driving travelers. This site is home to the thousand-year-old Wu King ancient ferry crossing, one of the three major ancient Yellow River crossings along with Fengling and Yumen ferries. The legendary story of Han Xin crossing the river on a wooden raft took place here. ⚠️ Travel tip: The bridge is open to motor vehicles only. Pedestrians and electric bikes are prohibited. During flood and ice-melt seasons, the floating bridge will be temporarily removed. Please check crossing status before departure.

When it comes to Sima Guang, everyone knows the childhood story of breaking the water jar and is familiar with the timeless masterpiece Zizhi Tongjian. However, many don’t know that the hometown of this famous Northern Song statesman is in Xia County, Yuncheng, Shanxi. The Sima Wengong Memorial, located in Xiao Zhao Village, Shuitou Town, overlooks the mountains and rivers and preserves a rich literary heritage. It is a rare and well-preserved ancestral shrine of a Northern Song minister in northern China and a cultural and historical sanctuary that has accumulated over a thousand years. The memorial backs onto Emei Ridge and faces Zhongtiao Mountain, adjacent to the clear Su River. Surrounded by mountains and water, the terrain is open. The entire scenic area covers more than 100 acres, far from city noise, with lush forests and towering ancient cypresses, creating a quiet and solemn environment. This is the ancestral tomb and exclusive worship hall of Sima Guang. Built in the Northern Song dynasty and renovated during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it has stood steadily for over a thousand years. Today, it is a national 4A-level scenic spot and a key national cultural relic protection unit, a true treasure of Shanxi’s cultural heritage. As the core travel highlight, the ancient shrine is filled with top-tier ancient architecture and cultural relics. The scenic area is divided into four main sections: the burial ground, the ancestral hall, Yuqing Zen Temple, and Su River Academy. The layout is complete and grand. The most precious is the Great Buddha Hall of Yuqing Zen Temple, one of the few surviving official Northern Song wooden halls in Shanxi. It has withstood nearly a thousand years of weather without changing its original appearance. The beams and frames are simple yet majestic, fully showcasing the dignified and elegant style of Song dynasty architecture. The original Northern Song polychrome sculptures inside the shrine are exceptional, fully preserving statues of five generations of Sima Guang’s ancestors. The figures’ expressions are lifelike and the clothing details delicate. After a thousand years, the colors remain warm and vivid. The most famous feature of the scenic area is the Apricot Blossom Stele, the shrine’s treasure. It was written by the great literary master Su Shi, with every character powerful and resonant. It records Sima Guang’s lifetime achievements and spirit, making it a rare masterpiece of both calligraphy and historical inscription. The plaques on the halls were penned by the Qing dynasty calligrapher Fu Shan, whose vigorous brushwork adds a scholarly and ancient charm to the shrine. The profound cultural heritage is the most moving aspect of the Sima Wengong Memorial. Sima Guang served four dynasties, known for his integrity and rigorous scholarship. He spent 19 years compiling Zizhi Tongjian, leaving an immortal historical work for future generations. This land is his hometown and a testament to the Sima family’s tradition of farming and scholarship passed down through generations. Over centuries, Wengong’s honest family values, dedication to learning, and patriotism have been passed down through the shrine, steles, and academy. Walking here, you touch not only ancient architecture but also the traditional Chinese culture of valuing learning, virtue, integrity, and kindness upheld for thousands of years. Here is a practical travel tip suitable for all visitors. The scenic area is free from excessive commercialization, quiet and perfect for slow exploration and study, suitable for all ages. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit. In spring, the greenery is fresh, and in autumn, the ancient cypresses are lush, creating a perfect atmosphere for photos. Take your time when visiting. About 1 hour is just right for a full tour. Focus on the Northern Song wooden structures, ancient polychrome statues, and the Apricot Blossom Stele to fully immerse yourself in the historical depth. Please respect the cultural relics during your visit by not touching or carving on the ancient sites, and quietly appreciate the shrine’s tranquility and weighty history. The memorial is close to Yuncheng and Xia County urban areas, making it ideal for a weekend short trip or family study tour. You can enjoy ancient architecture while learning history and reflecting on family values. One shrine holds Song history, one stele reveals spirit. The Sima Wengong Memorial has no noisy crowds but preserves the purest Shanxi cultural heritage. If you love cultural heritage and immersive historical travel, this place is definitely worth a special visit.

Chunyang Palace in Taiyuan is a five-courtyard complex integrating temple and garden styles, covering an area of ​​over 10,000 square meters. Along the central axis from south to north are the Gate of Morality, the Offering Hall, the Lüzu Hall, the Nine Kilns and Eighteen Caves, and the Jade Emperor Pavilion. In front of Chunyang Palace is a four-pillar, three-story wooden archway. The main buildings inside include the Lüzu Hall, a cloister pavilion, the Weige Pavilion, auxiliary rooms, brick-vaulted cave dwellings, and the Guan Gong Pavilion. The main building, the Lüzu Hall, has three bays and originally housed a statue of Lü Dongbin. Behind the hall are two courtyards, each composed of pavilion-style buildings of varying heights. The Weige Pavilion in the rear courtyard is the tallest building in the palace. The first courtyard was created after the founding of the People's Republic of China by enclosing the open space outside the original palace gate. In the center of the courtyard stands an elegantly designed and ingeniously structured four-pillar, three-story wooden archway. The two plaques on the front and back of the archway, "Temple of Lü Tianxian" and "Penglai Wonderland," express the essence and scenery of the place. To the east of the first courtyard is a rockery made of Taihu stones. Climbing the steps along the path, one can see the stone coffin of the Xuantong Hongjiao Piyun Zhenren (a Taoist master) and a bronze statue of Guan Yu from the Ming Dynasty at the summit. Along the west wall is a gallery of steles, inlaid with more than twenty ancient steles, including stone Buddhas, beasts, and scriptures from the Han and Tang Dynasties. Among them, the Nirvana Transformation Stele is a relic of Dayun Temple in Linyi County, Shanxi Province, carved in the second year of the Tian Shou era of the Wu Zhou Dynasty (691 AD). The second courtyard, the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Courtyard, is entered through the "Gate of Morality." On either side of the gate are stone couplets written by Sun Yiyuan, a famous Taoist priest of the Ming Dynasty. Above the back wall of the second courtyard gate is carved the nine-fold seal script "Penghu Jiarui" (meaning "auspicious omens of Penglai"). Inside the second courtyard, ancient trees reach for the sky, their branches and leaves lush and verdant. The third courtyard, the Lüzu Hall, is located past the Maitreya statue in the second courtyard. In the center of the courtyard is the Chunyang Palace Lüzu Hall, built in the Ming Dynasty, which is the main hall of the palace. This building, with its simple yet robust design and exquisite craftsmanship, is a rare gem among existing Ming Dynasty architecture, boasting an exceptionally high standard. The fourth courtyard's entrance is the "Void Cave," with the inscription "Void Cave" directly above the brick archway, and the four characters "A Different Paradise" above it. A plaque reading "Mysterious Realm of Yingzhou" hangs under the eaves of the upper floor above the cave. The Chunyang Palace contains over seventy halls, but the most exquisite part is undoubtedly the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Courtyard of the fourth courtyard. The entire courtyard has a square layout with chamfered corners on all eight sides, constructed according to the Taoist Eight Trigrams: Qian, Kun, Zhen, Xun, Kan, Li, Gen, and Dui. Combined with a central three-bay, two-story square pavilion, this forms the "Nine Palaces Structure." Brick-vaulted cave dwellings are located on all eight sides of the courtyard, commonly known as "Nine Caves and Eighteen Grottoes," reflecting the Taoist pursuit of "Paradise" and "Blessed Land." Because "immortals prefer to live in pavilions," Taoist architecture often features multi-story buildings. The upper level of the "Nine Kilns and Eighteen Caves" is a wooden structure with four stories and four fan-shaped corner pavilions, connected by surrounding corridors. In the second-floor corridor pavilion of the fourth courtyard, the first floor houses a Ming Dynasty gilt bronze Vairocana Buddha statue, and the second floor houses a Ming Dynasty bronze statue of Zhenwu the Great. The fifth courtyard, Qianzhen Cave, is a building integrating caves, buildings, and pavilions. The east and west sides are two-story wooden structures. The lower floor, Qianzhen Cave, houses a statue of Changyang Tianzun, one of the "Three Perfections of Pure Yang." Legend has it that Changyang Tianzun is Laozi, a thinker from the late Spring and Autumn Period and the founder of the Taoist school, also known as "Taishang Laojun." Because the Tang Dynasty imperial family's surname was Li, they recognized Laozi (Li Er) as their ancestor, building Taoist temples and sculpting Taoist statues. Taoism flourished during the Tang Dynasty. The Changyang Tianzun statue is located in the fifth courtyard after passing through the Lingbao Cave. The Lingbao Cave displays Han Dynasty stone carvings depicting scenes of farming and warfare, representing exquisite examples of stone art. The Changyang Tianzun statue was sculpted in the seventh year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (719 AD). It is 2.56 meters tall overall, with the statue itself being 2.2 meters high. It consists of three parts: the statue, the base, and the pedestal. The statue is carved from white marble, while the base and pedestal are made of bluish-gray limestone. The Tianzun wears a lotus-shaped crown, has a full face, slightly narrowed eyes, and a long beard reaching his chest. His expression is serene, typical of Tang Dynasty sculpture. The Tianzun holds a fan and a whisk in his right hand, while his left hand rests on a table. He wears a wide Taoist robe and sits cross-legged on a rectangular stone pedestal. The front of the pedestal is inscribed with a 22-line preface and inscription of the Tianzun image. The sides and back are engraved with images of disciples and Taoist priests, as well as the surnames of the donors. The surrounding area is decorated with engravings of lotus flowers, honeysuckle, and cranes. The Zhenyuan Bridge Site Museum is located at the intersection of Jiefang Road and Beidajie Street in Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, China (opposite Exit A of Beidajie Station on Metro Line 2). It is a specialized museum built on the site of a moat bridge of the Ming Dynasty Taiyuan City, and officially opened on January 14, 2026. Construction Period: Originally built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty (approximately the late 14th century), it served as a moat bridge outside the Zhenyuan Gate, the north gate of Taiyuan City, functioning as both a military defense and transportation hub. Discovery Process: Unearthed during the construction of Taiyuan Metro Line 2 in August 2017. After archaeological confirmation, it was protected using a "bridge-station coexistence" model—the Jiefang Road overpass is above, and the metro station is below, forming a space where ancient and modern transportation overlap. Taiyuan Chunyang Palace is a five-courtyard complex integrating temple and garden styles. The entire building covers an area of ​​over 10,000 square meters. Along the central axis from south to north are the Gate of Morality, the Offering Hall, the Lüzu Hall, the Nine Kilns and Eighteen Caves, and the Jade Emperor Pavilion. In front of the Chunyang Palace in Taiyuan stands a four-pillar, three-story wooden archway. The main buildings inside include the Lüzu Hall, a covered corridor pavilion, a magnificent pavilion, auxiliary rooms, brick-vaulted cave dwellings, and a Guan Gong Pavilion. The main building, the Lüzu Hall, has three bays and originally housed a statue of Lü Dongbin. Behind the hall are two courtyards, each composed of pavilion-style buildings of varying heights. The magnificent pavilion in the rear courtyard is the tallest building in the palace. The first courtyard was created after the founding of the People's Republic of China by enclosing the open space outside the original palace gate. In the center of the courtyard stands an elegantly designed, ingeniously structured four-pillar, three-story wooden archway. The two plaques on the front and back of the archway, "Lü Tianxian Shrine" and "Penglai Wonderland," reveal the area's cultural significance and scenery. To the east of the first courtyard is a stone mountain made of Taihu stones. Climbing the steps along the path, one can see the stone coffin of the Xuantong Hongjiao Piyun Zhenren (a Taoist master) and a bronze statue of Guan Gong from the Ming Dynasty at the summit. Along the west wall is a stele corridor with over twenty ancient steles, and numerous stone Buddhas, beasts, and scriptures from the Han and Tang dynasties. Among them, the Nirvana Transformation Stele is a relic of Dayun Temple in Linyi County, Hebei Province, carved in the second year of the Tian Shou reign of the Wu Zhou Dynasty (691 AD). Second Courtyard: Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Courtyard. Passing through the "Gate of Morality," one enters the second courtyard. On either side of the gate are stone couplets written by Sun Yiyuan, a famous Daoist of the Ming Dynasty. Above the back wall of the second courtyard gate is carved the nine-fold seal script "Penghu Auspiciousness." Inside the second courtyard, ancient trees reach for the sky, their branches and leaves flourishing. Third Courtyard: Lüzu Hall. Passing the Maitreya statue in the second courtyard, one arrives at the third courtyard. The Chunyang Palace Lüzu Hall in the center of the courtyard, built in the Ming Dynasty, is the main hall of the palace. This building, with its simple yet powerful form and exquisite details, is of extremely high standard and is a precious example of existing Ming Dynasty architecture. The fourth courtyard's entrance is the "Void Cave," with the inscription "Void Cave" directly above the brick archway. Above this is the phrase "A Different Paradise," and under the eaves of the upper floor hangs a plaque that reads "Mysterious Realm of Yingzhou." The Chunyang Palace contains over seventy halls, but the most exquisite part is undoubtedly the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Courtyard of the fourth courtyard. The entire courtyard has a square layout with chamfered corners on all eight sides, constructed according to the Taoist Bagua (Eight Trigrams): Qian, Kun, Zhen, Xun, Kan, Li, Gen, and Dui. Combined with a central three-room, two-story square pavilion, this forms the "Nine Palaces Structure." Brick arched cave dwellings are located on all eight sides of the courtyard, commonly known as "Nine Caves and Eighteen Caves," reflecting the Taoist pursuit of "Paradise" and "Blessed Land." Because "immortals prefer to live in pavilions," Taoist architecture often features multi-story buildings. The upper level of the "Nine Caves and Eighteen Caves" is a wooden structure with four stories and four fan-shaped corner pavilions, connected by surrounding corridors. In the second-floor corridor pavilion of the fourth courtyard, the first floor houses a gilded bronze Vairocana Buddha statue from the Ming Dynasty, and the second floor houses a bronze statue of Zhenwu the Great from the Ming Dynasty. The fifth courtyard, Qianzhen Cave, is a complex of caves, buildings, and pavilions. Two-story wooden buildings flank the east and west sides. Inside Qianzhen Cave on the ground floor is a statue of Changyang Tianzun, one of the "Three Wonders of Pure Yang." Legend has it that Changyang Tianzun was Laozi, a thinker from the late Spring and Autumn Period and the founder of Taoism, also known as Taishang Laojun. Because the Tang Dynasty imperial family was surnamed Li, they recognized Laozi (Li Er) as their ancestor, building Taoist temples and sculpting Taoist statues. Taoism flourished during the Tang Dynasty. Passing through Lingbao Cave into the fifth courtyard, one finds Han Dynasty stone carvings depicting scenes of farming and warfare, exquisite examples of stone art. The Changyang Tianzun statue was sculpted in the seventh year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (719 AD). It stands 2.56 meters tall, with the statue itself measuring 2.2 meters. It consists of three parts: the statue, the base, and the pedestal. The statue is carved from white marble, while the base and pedestal are made of bluish-gray limestone. The Tianzun wears a lotus-shaped crown, has a full face, slightly narrowed eyes, and a long beard reaching his chest. His expression is serene, typical of Tang Dynasty sculpture. The Tianzun holds a fan and a whisk in his right hand, while his left hand rests on a table. He wears a wide Taoist robe and sits cross-legged on a rectangular stone pedestal. The front of the pedestal is inscribed with a 22-line preface and inscription of the Tianzun image. The sides and back are decorated with line engravings of disciples, Taoist priests, and the surnames of donors. The surrounding area is decorated with line engravings of lotus flowers, honeysuckle, and cranes. The Zhenyuan Bridge Relics Museum is located at the intersection of Jiefang Road and Beidajie Street in Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, China (opposite Exit A of Beidajie Station on Metro Line 2). It is a specialized museum built on the site of the Ming Dynasty Taiyuan City moat bridge and officially opened on January 14, 2026. Construction Period: Originally built during the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (approximately the late 14th century), it was a moat bridge outside the Zhenyuan Gate, the north gate of Taiyuan City, serving both military defense and transportation hub functions. Discovery Process: Unearthed during the construction of Taiyuan Metro Line 2 in August 2017, it was confirmed through archaeology and protected using a "bridge-station coexistence" model—the Jiefang Road overpass is above, and the metro station is below, forming a space where ancient and modern transportation overlap.

This is the treasure-level ancient building of Linjin County government office in Linyi County, Yuncheng, Shanxi✨ A well-preserved Yuan dynasty county government office, listed as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 2001 as part of the fifth batch! This 700-year-old architectural memory is definitely worth a visit📸 📜 Historical exploration Linjin County government office was first built during the Yuan dynasty’s Dade era An ancient building that has stood the test of 700 years Linyi County was formed by merging Linjin County and Yishi County This ancient office was the original government office of Linjin County It was repaired and expanded through the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties Retains the complete layout of an ancient Chinese county government office Every brick and tile tells a story of history 🚗 Must-see for visitors 📍Address: Linjin Town, Linyi County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province [Navigate to "Linjin County government office" to arrive] 🎟️Ticket: completely free, a blessing for history lovers 🕰️Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours 👀Nearby must-see: The nearby Linjin Confucian Temple Dacheng Hall is a key cultural relic protection unit in Shanxi Province (announced in 2016). It is recommended to visit and check it out together ‼️Tips: · Wearing traditional-style clothing for photos is recommended for a strong time-travel vibe · You can ask locals for explanations to learn more historical stories · It’s best to visit on a clear day for better photo quality of the ancient building

Red walls hide the Taoist courtyard, the ancient yard holds pure mystery. The bagua conceals a spiritual realm, pavilions and terraces witness the passage of years. Chunyang Palace is an ancient architectural complex that combines Taoist worship, garden art, and cultural relics. It currently houses both the Shanxi Provincial Art Museum and the Shanxi Ancient Architecture Museum. [RoundNails]Location: Chunyang Palace (also known as Lüzu Temple) is located at the northwest corner of Wuyi Square, Yingze District, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province (No. 1 Qifeng Street). [RedHeart]Historical background Chunyang Palace was first built at the end of the Song and beginning of the Yuan dynasties. It was expanded and renovated multiple times during the Ming Wanli period and the Qing Qianlong period. Most of the existing buildings date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Named after Lü Dongbin (also known as “Chunyangzi”), one of the Eight Immortals of Taoism and the founder of the Quanzhen School, it is popularly called “Lüzu Temple.” Chunyang Palace, along with Datong Chunyang Palace and Ruicheng Yongle Palace, are known as the three major Taoist temples in Shanxi’s south, central, and north regions. [HeartBeat]Architectural layout Chunyang Palace features a five-courtyard layout, blending the solemnity of northern official architecture with the elegance of southern gardens. The buildings are arranged with balance and charm, with winding paths leading to secluded spots. [One]First courtyard: The entrance is marked by a wooden archway with four pillars and three stories (“Lü Tianxian Shrine” / “Penglai Wonderland”). Inside the courtyard are Taihu stone rockeries (Guan Gong Pavilion) and a stele gallery housing Tang dynasty steles. [Two]Second courtyard: The original palace gate, “Gate of Morality and Virtue” (brick structure imitating wood), flanked by Ming dynasty stone couplets. Ancient trees tower within the courtyard. [Three]Third courtyard: The main hall, “Lüzu Hall” (Ming dynasty building with a single-eave Xieshan roof), houses a Ming dynasty bronze seated statue of Lü Dongbin. [Four]Fourth courtyard: The highlight area, the “Nine Palaces Bagua Courtyard,” is the only surviving ancient courtyard in the country built in the nine-palace bagua pattern. It is constructed according to the bagua directions, surrounded by brick-arched cave dwellings (nine kilns and eighteen caves). The courtyard center features a square two-story pavilion. The overall layout subtly reflects “nine stars in the sky, eight trigrams on earth.” [Five]Fifth courtyard: Contains the “Qianzhen Cave” and east and west pavilions, enshrining a Tang dynasty statue of Changyang Tianzun. [DoubleHearts]Core highlights: the three Chunyang treasures [One]Nine Palaces Bagua Courtyard: the essence of the Chunyang Palace complex[!] Its unique “nine kilns and eighteen caves” and nine-palace bagua layout embody the Taoist philosophy of “unity of heaven and humanity.” [Two]Changyang Tianzun statue: a white marble statue from the seventh year of the Kaiyuan era in the Tang dynasty (719), representing Laozi (Taishang Laojun). The exquisite statue is among the first cultural relics in China prohibited from being exhibited abroad[!] [Three]Nirvana transformation stele: a Buddhist-themed stele from the second year of the Tianshou era in the Tang Wuzhou period (691), a relic from Dayun Temple in Linyi County, Shanxi Province. The finely carved stele is also among the first cultural relics banned from overseas exhibition[!] [100]Historical and cultural value Taiyuan’s Chunyang Palace is an important physical example for studying Chinese Taoist architectural culture, feng shui, and ancient stone carving art. Its rich historical relics and unique architectural style make it a significant historical and cultural landmark in Taiyuan.

🏯 Yongji, a seriously underrated millennium-old poetic and picturesque small town! Keep this one-day tour guide handy. Maybe you haven't heard of "Yongji," but you must have memorized: "The sun sets behind the mountains, the Yellow River flows into the sea. To enjoy a grander sight, climb one more floor." You’ve also surely heard the love story of Cui Yingying and Zhang Sheng from "Romance of the Western Chamber." These two pieces of poetry and romance, etched deep into the Chinese soul, are all hidden in a small town by the Yellow River—Yongji, Yuncheng, Shanxi. It’s not flashy, but it holds the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, the deep affection of the Yuan Dynasty, and the echoes of the Northern Wei. Visit Yongji once, and you’ll be speechless, stunned by the ancient aesthetic and vision. · -- 📍 Yongji One-Day Tour · Classic Route Guanque Tower → Pujin Ferry Site → Pujiao Temple → Wangu Temple → Dongyao Wen Archway All along the way, culturally dense, perfect for self-driving or high-speed rail + shuttle. · -- ✅ Guanque Tower | The Skyline in Tang Poetry One of the Four Great Towers, originally built in the Northern Zhou, destroyed in the Yuan Dynasty, and rebuilt in 1997 in Tang Dynasty style. Climb the tower and look far— the Yellow River like a belt, the sunset like a plate. Standing where Wang Zhihuan once gazed, you can truly understand the openness and passion of "climbing one more floor." 📸 Photo tip: Climb at dusk to capture the Yellow River sunset, full of poetic charm. · -- ✅ Pujin Ferry Site | A 1,400-Year-Old Tang Dynasty Iron Casting Marvel This was once one of the busiest ferry crossings on the Yellow River. The most stunning sight is the four giant Tang Dynasty iron oxen, each weighing 30 tons, rust- and corrosion-free for 1,400 years. Next to each ox stands an iron figure representing the four ethnic groups: Uighur, Mongol, Tibetan, and Han, exuding majestic power. 🎫 Free admission 📍 About 2 km from Guanque Tower, very convenient to visit on the way. · -- ✅ Pujiao Temple | The Love Story Setting of "Romance of the Western Chamber" The romantic starting point where "lovers finally become family" is right in this ancient temple. The Yingying Tower inside the temple is magical: knocking on the stone on the west side produces frog-like echoes from the tower, known as one of China’s four ancient echo buildings. This is the first pilgrimage site for countless hearts in love. 💡 Suggestion: Climb the tower courtyard, listen to the frog-like echo, and make a wish. · -- ✅ Wangu Temple | An Ancient Pagoda 130 Years Older Than the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Su Shi once wrote: "Water flows out from the stone root, wind drifts from the pine top," referring to this place. Wangu Temple was built in the third year of Zhengguang in the Northern Wei (522 AD). The tall pagoda inside has stood for 1,500 years, one of the oldest existing multi-storied Buddhist pagodas in China, 130 years older than the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an. 📿 The entire temple is built along Zhongtiao Mountain, quiet and rustic, perfect for slow walking and peaceful viewing. · -- ✅ Dongyao Wen Archway | Ming Dynasty Treasures in the Fields Two archways quietly stand on a rural path: · Stone Archway: Built in the first year of Ming Chongzhen to honor Zhang, wife of Wang Jin from Puzhou · Brick Archway: Built in the 40th year of Qing Qianlong to honor Wang, wife of Grand Academician Meng Ting No fences, no tickets, just quietly standing in the fields like two open pages of history. 📷 Great for photos, especially when the sunset light falls on the stone carvings, gentle yet solemn. · -- 🚙 Transportation Tips · Self-driving: Attractions are spread out, self-driving is most convenient · High-speed rail: Get off at Yongji North Station, with official Yuncheng scenic shuttle connecting main spots · Regular train: Yongji Station is also in the city, suitable for slow travelers · -- 💬 Final Thoughts Yongji is not trendy or noisy, but it carries the backbone of Tang poetry, the grandeur of the Yellow River, the tenderness of love, and the echoes of Northern Wei. If you’re tired of crowded popular spots, come here for a walk, and you’ll find— the true beauty of China often hides in places with less famous names. 👉 Save this article, and don’t miss Yongji next time you visit Shanxi.

This is the most off-the-beaten-path small city in Shanxi I’ve visited this year❗️I’m really afraid it will become popular The sun sets behind the mountains, the Yellow River flows into the sea, To broaden your view a thousand miles, climb one more floor. Do you know where this line, deeply ingrained in the DNA of the Chinese people, refers to? It is the Guanque Tower in Yuncheng, Shanxi, A hidden treasure city by the Yellow River called Yongji. Of course, Yongji is not just about Guanque Tower; there are many other hidden gems to check out. Yongji One-Day Family Tour Itinerary⭐️ Wangu Temple ➡️ Pujiao Temple ➡️ Pujindu Ruins ➡️ Guanque Tower Family Highlights at Each Attraction✨ ✅ Guanque Tower This famous tower standing on the banks of the Yellow River in Yuncheng, is not only an architectural treasure but also a poetic landmark in time, harboring the most magnificent landscape paintings of Shanxi. Entering the Guanque Tower scenic area, the vermilion pillars and flying eaves of the Tang-style architecture are magnificent, as if traveling back a thousand years to the prosperous Tang Dynasty. Climbing up step by step, each floor holds surprises, especially at sunset, when the distant Yellow River and sunset truly inspire poetry and painting. This is also a filming location for the dark fantasy "Wukong." Tell children the story of Wang Zhihuan and learn ancient poetry on site. ✅ Pujindu Ruins During the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong ordered four massive iron oxen weighing 30 tons each to be cast on both sides of the Yellow River. They were connected by iron pillars and chains, firmly anchoring a floating bridge across the Yellow River. Later, the Yellow River changed course several times, and the floating bridge disappeared. Today, the iron oxen no longer anchor the bridge or bear traffic; they stand as witnesses to where the Yellow River once flowed. 🎫 Free admission, about 2 km from Guanque Tower. Teach children about ancient bridge engineering and experience the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. ✅ Pujiao Temple Famous worldwide because of the love story of Zhang Sheng and Cui Yingying described in the Yuan Dynasty playwright Wang Shifu’s "Romance of the Western Chamber," people commemorate Cui Yingying, so the Pujiao Temple Tower is commonly called the Niao Ying Tower. The most prominent ancient building remaining is the Pujiao Temple Tower, originally built in the Sui Dynasty. It was destroyed by an earthquake in the 34th year of the Ming Jiajing era and rebuilt in the 43rd year, retaining some Sui and Tang architectural styles. Tell children the story of "Romance of the Western Chamber" and introduce classical literature. ✅ Wangu Temple Founded in the Northern Wei Dynasty, built against the mountain with a broad view, you can overlook the Yellow River. Ancient cypresses and numerous steles from various dynasties showcase the temple’s grandeur and historical depth. The Duobao Pagoda is the temple’s landmark, an octagonal thirteen-story brick pagoda standing 54.6 meters tall. At the top, a pomegranate tree and cypress grow naturally, a rare sight. The Beamless Hall is one of China’s four major Ming Dynasty beamless halls, built entirely of blue bricks without a single wooden beam. The double-layered vaulted roof structure is exquisite, with superb brick carvings and dougong brackets. Teach children about ancient architectural wisdom. Travel Tips⭐️ 1️⃣ Yongji has Yongji Station and Yongji North Station (high-speed rail), about 1 hour by high-speed train from Xi’an. 2️⃣ Tourist buses run from Yongji North Station to major tourist attractions in Yongji. Accommodation 🏨Yongji Yao Wangtai・Cloud Homestay Yao Wangtai Scenic Area invested tens of millions to create a one-stop resort with horseback riding, massage, foot baths, planting and picking, animal interaction, picnics, and hiking. 🏨Yongji Yishanju Homestay A healing aesthetic space hidden in the mountains of Yongji, with modern minimalist rammed earth architecture, terraces to watch mountain sunrises and sunsets, a literary secret spot. 🏨Yongji Pushe・Nangu Li Homestay Full of fruit fragrance in Puban countryside, a charming Yongji village with beautiful scenery and concentrated delicious food, the top choice for family trips, with a relaxing and cozy atmosphere. 🏨Yongji Runi Suoyuan Homestay A quiet courtyard in Taiyukou Village, romantic and cozy with rocking chairs, clean and comfortable with a homey feel, perfect for cooking, team building, and gatherings.

💰 3000 RMB Budget Allocation · Transportation (¥400): Mainly taxis between scenic spots and short-distance transfers. If renting a car from Yuncheng North Station (approx. 150/day), carpooling for two people is more cost-effective. · Accommodation (¥600): Carefully selected 2 nights of high-quality characteristic B&Bs (1 night at the foot of the mountain, 1 night in the mountains). · Tickets & Experiences (¥450): Includes core entrance tickets and the Shengtan Grand Canyon "Phase 3 Slide + Glass Skywalk" package (approx. 150). · Dining (¥600): Yuncheng's prices are affordable. Besides Yangrou Pao, it's recommended to save room for Shuiyukou Ancient Town, where 50 per person can fill you up. · Contingency Fund (¥950): For purchasing cultural and creative products, snacks, or unexpected situations. · -- 🗺️ Itinerary: Spanning Salt Lake and Yongji Day 1: Valley of Loyalty and Ancient-Style B&B Keywords: Crown of Martial Temples, Southern Jin Courtyard, Ancient Street Night Talks · Morning | Xiezhou Guandi Temple Take a taxi or drive to Xiezhou (approx. 40 minutes from Yuncheng North Station). This is the largest existing Guandi Temple in China. Be sure to see the Chunqiu Tower and the "Qi Su Qian Qiu" archway behind it. · Lunch | Xiezhou Wangjian Yangrou Pao It's a short walk from the scenic area. Unlike Xi'an, the Yangrou Pao here is a thousand-layer pancake served with rich soup. Remember to add lamb oil chili. · Afternoon | Pingchang Street & Guandi Family Temple Go to the nearby "Pingchang Street" to change into Hanfu (approx. 80/set) for photos, then visit the Guandi Family Temple to see its unique Jin Dynasty brick pagoda. · Overnight Stay | Pingchang Holiday Hotel (Changping Family Temple Branch) Highly recommended! It's right next to the Guandi Family Temple, with Zhongtiao Mountain visible from the window. The environment is tranquil, and having tea in the courtyard at night is very pleasant. Price is approx. ¥300/night. Day 2: Conquering Zhongtiao Mountain and Ancient Villages with Local Delicacies Keywords: Geological Wonders, Extreme Challenges, 200 Kinds of Snacks · Morning | Shengtan Grand Canyon Drive there (approx. 40 minutes). Buy a package ticket to experience the "High-Altitude Glass Skywalk" and Qinglong Sky Ladder. The core attractions are Muzihu Waterfall and Shuiliandong (Water Curtain Cave). If you have good stamina, the round trip takes about 3-4 hours. · Lunch | Shuiyukou Ancient Village (at the scenic area entrance) Don't eat instant noodles! Here you'll find snacks from Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Henan provinces: Steamed Pork with Rice Flour, Yangrou Hubo, Jishan Mahua. · Afternoon | Yaowangtai (Optional, free with annual pass) If you're not tired, head to Yaowangtai. Climb high to see the undulating Zhongtiao Mountains. It's free if you have the Yuncheng Tourist Annual Pass (128 RMB). · Overnight Stay | Ru Ni Suo Yuan B&B (Yongji) A Zen-inspired courtyard hidden at the foot of Zhongtiao Mountain, with large floor-to-ceiling windows and a communal tea room, featuring a pure white Instagrammable style, ¥200-¥350/night. Only 1 km from the scenic area. Day 3: Salt Lake Aesthetics and Romantic Sunset Keywords: Salt History, Nitre Flowers, Moroccan Style · Morning | Hedong Salt Lake Museum Return to Yuncheng city. Learn about the history of "Gu" salt and see the Jinmen City Tower, which is very photogenic. · Afternoon | Yuncheng Salt Lake (Ring Road) Navigate to lamp post 006 or dike 22. Don't just go to the muddy flats! Here you'll find nitre flower pools that resemble a "Sky Mirror," with Zhongtiao Mountain in the background. · Evening | End of Trip After enjoying a steaming hot Yuncheng copper hotpot or big plate chicken in the city, head to Yuncheng North Station/airport for your return journey. · -- 💡 Travel Tips (Hard-earned Advice) 1. Essential: Yuncheng Tourist Annual Pass Priced at 128 RMB. If you visit Xiezhou Guandi Temple + Shengtan Grand Canyon + Yaowangtai + Salt Lake, individual tickets would already exceed 200 RMB. Follow the "Yuncheng Tourist Annual Pass" official account to apply online. You can enter by scanning your ID card, but if your itinerary is set, be sure to confirm the activation time in advance. 2. Transportation Pitfalls Yongji North Station is very far from the city center (approx. 40 minutes by taxi). It's recommended to take the high-speed rail directly to Yuncheng North Station, then rent a car in the city, or take a taxi directly from Yuncheng to the attractions. The attractions in Zhongtiao Mountain are scattered and transportation is inconvenient, so renting a car or using Didi for inter-city travel is recommended. 3. Physical Exertion Warning Although Zhongtiao Mountain is not very high, the "Qinglong Sky Ladder" and "Yixiantian" in Shengtan Grand Canyon are quite steep. Seniors and children should be cautious. It's recommended to wear comfortable, non-slip sports shoes; avoid leather shoes. 4. Recommended Food List · Xiezhou Wangjian Yangrou Pao: A must-try. · Hedong Night Market: Roasted Youmo, Shuan Niudu. · Lanshan Gen · Yuncheng Impression: If you're short on time, this is a folk experience area that gathers all of Yuncheng's snacks, with a light show at night. Wish you a happy trip in "Ancient China"! Remember to bring high-moisturizing skincare products, as Yuncheng is relatively dry.

🚗 This is a seriously underrated self-driving hidden gem! Starting from Yongji and heading north along the Yellow River No.1 Tourist Highway, passing through Linyi County, Wanrong County, and Hejin City, the entire route is over 130 kilometers with absolutely stunning scenery along the way! 🌈 Must-visit spots recommended: 1️⃣ Guanque Tower The iconic spot for the poetic scene "The sun sets behind the mountains, the Yellow River flows into the sea" 2️⃣ Yellow River Iron Ox Experience the awe of the thousand-year-old iron ox 3️⃣ Houtu Temple The oldest building in China dedicated to the earth goddess Houtu 4️⃣ Feiyun Tower Known as "China’s largest wooden tower" 5️⃣ Yellow River Longmen Legend says this is where Yu the Great controlled the floods ✨ Travel tips: ✅ Excellent road conditions | Fully paved asphalt road | No trucks allowed ✅ Many scenic viewing platforms along the way | Stop anytime for photos ✅ Recommended to fill up your gas tank before departure, as villages are sparse ✅ If a scenic spot is temporarily closed, you can take parallel national roads or highways ✅ Don’t miss the Ancient Wu King Ferry and Floating Bridge 📸 Photography tips: If you’re lucky, you might catch the super beautiful road art 🌈 Best to shoot early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting Bringing a drone will make your shots even better! 🌅 Continuing north on this route, you can also reach: · Hukou Waterfall · Xiaoxitian · Qikou Ancient Town 💡 Practical information: 📍 Location: Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province ⏰ Opening hours: Open all year round, 24/7

🐲 Taiyuan is truly a city full of stories! When the ancient city gate in "The Taiping Years" slowly opens, the 3,000-year history of Jinyang flows into the streets... The spirit of Zhou Bojian at Jin Temple, the Twin Pagodas Lingxiao Tower overlooking past and present, standing here, just raising your eyes, and it's 1,000 years😭... . 🗺️|3 days 2 nights travel itinerary (see picture 3️⃣🗺️) 𝐃𝐚𝐲❶: Shanxi Museum ➠ Puguang Temple ➠ Shanxi Merchants Museum ➠ Bell Tower Pedestrian Street 𝐃𝐚𝐲❷: Jin Temple Museum ➠ Ancient County Town ➠ Botanical Garden 𝐃𝐚𝐲❸: Northern Qi Mural Museum ➠ Twin Pagodas Temple ➠ Chunyang Palace . 🚄|How to get there Outbound: Beijing Fengtai → Taiyuan South (8:56-11:15 / 2h) Return: Taiyuan South → Beijing Fengtai (18:06-21:01 / 3h) High-speed rail direct, many trains👍 . 🏠|Where to stay I stayed near MixC, centrally located, convenient to go anywhere, one-stop for dining, shopping, and entertainment; While wandering, I found my favorite accessory shop "Bailan"! Didn't expect it to open in Taiyuan. Their accessories are very design-oriented, exquisite and fashionable, perfect for daily outfits and great for photos! . 🐲|Highlights ❶ Jin Temple Check in at the ancestral hall light and shadow scene from "The Taiping Years," see the 3,000-year-old Zhou Bo and the 1,500-year-old Yuzhao Flying Beam; ❷ Ancient County Town Step into the filming location of "Man Jiang Hong," wait under the city wall for a sunset of clashing armor and horses; ❸ Shanxi Museum Search for the original artifact of the "Taiping Chariot and Horse," visit the Jin Marquis Bird Zun, don’t miss the Shang Dynasty Owl You (xiāo yǒu), super cute, nicknamed by netizens as: the Angry Birds of the Shang Dynasty; ❹ Northern Qi Mural Museum The only "tomb entry" experience in the country, the museum is built directly on the original site of Xu Xianxiu’s tomb, that kind of "zero distance" shock, who can understand😭 ❺ Twin Pagodas Temple The Lingxiao Twin Pagodas are one of Taiyuan’s ancient eight scenic spots, climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the city; . Walking through long streets and short alleys, it feels like encountering the prosperous era in "The Taiping Years," may this world enjoy everlasting happiness!! .

Here is a customized "One-Day Tour Guide to Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas and Xiangkou Shousheng Temple Brick Pagoda" to help you appreciate Shanxi's rich ancient architectural art and Buddhist culture. One-Day Tour Guide to Shanxi Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas and Xiangkou Shousheng Temple Brick Pagoda Highlights Explore the treasures of ancient Buddhist architecture in Shanxi and experience the grandeur and exquisite details of millennia-old temples Admire the majestic architecture and superb stone carvings of the Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas Appreciate the unique architectural style and historical value of the Xiangkou Shousheng Temple Brick Pagoda Experience the tranquil atmosphere of ancient temples, and feel the serenity of meditation and spiritual cleansing Savor Shanxi’s specialty vegetarian cuisine and enjoy the peacefulness of a simple life Itinerary Morning: In-depth Tour of Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas Departure and Arrival Depart from the city center between 7:30-8:00 AM, recommended by self-driving or chartered car Estimated arrival time: around 9:00 AM Visit to Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas Features: The towering twin pagodas are among the representative Buddhist architectures in Shanxi Focus: Appreciate the architectural style, stone carving craftsmanship, and religious symbolism of the twin pagodas Cultural Highlights: Learn about the construction period, building techniques, and their significance in Buddhism Special Recommendation: Take photos to capture the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans Vegetarian Lunch Enjoy Shanxi-style vegetarian dishes at the temple or nearby vegetarian restaurants, experiencing the simplicity of monastic life Afternoon: Xiangkou Shousheng Temple Brick Pagoda and Cultural Experience Travel to Xiangkou Shousheng Temple About a 30-minute drive, start the visit upon arrival Tour of Shousheng Temple Brick Pagoda Features: The brick-carved pagoda is the main architectural highlight, with a distinctive style Focus: Appreciate the architectural structure, brick carving craftsmanship, and historical value of the pagoda Cultural Highlights: Learn about the background of the pagoda’s construction, its religious significance, and its place in Shanxi’s ancient architecture Special Experience: Take photos to feel the charm of ancient brick carving art Cultural and Meditation Experience If time permits, take a walk inside the temple and meditate quietly Participate in meditation or calligraphy experiences (advance reservation required) Return Preparation Start the return journey around 3:00 PM, concluding a fulfilling one-day cultural trip Travel Tips Dress Suggestions: Comfortable shoes, bring rain gear (depending on weather) Photography Notes: Respect temple rules, avoid taking photos in front of Buddha statues or important buildings Cultural Respect: Keep quiet and follow temple regulations Items to Bring: Water, snacks, ID, cash (some temples may not support electronic payments) This in-depth exploration of Shanxi’s Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas and Xiangkou Shousheng Temple Brick Pagoda will take you through the splendor of ancient architecture and the profound heritage of Buddhist culture. The majestic twin pagodas and exquisite brick carvings will become unforgettable cultural memories in your heart.

Yuncheng In-Depth Travel Guide: Exploring Ancient Yellow River Architecture and Savoring Southern Shanxi Culture (Including Prices) Yuncheng, a historic and cultural city located at the junction of Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Henan provinces, is famous for Guan Gong culture, the spectacular Yellow River, and Southern Shanxi cuisine. Whether you are a fan of ancient architecture, a nature explorer, or a food lover, you can find your own travel joy here. Below is a travel guide covering classic attractions, unique experiences, and practical tips to help you plan a cost-effective trip to Southern Shanxi. 1. Core Attractions and Ticket Prices Jiexiu Guandi Temple (AAAA level) Price: About 60 RMB per person; Yuncheng Tourism Annual Pass (100 RMB per card, includes 24 scenic spots) grants free entry. Highlights: The world’s largest Guandi Temple, grand and impressive architecture with a strong atmosphere of loyalty and righteousness culture. Must-see are the glazed tile roof of Chunqiu Tower and the Guandi statue in Chongning Hall, perfect for photos. Recommended to spend 2-3 hours; wearing Hanfu or plain-colored clothes helps capture authentic ancient-style photos. Yuncheng Salt Lake (AAAA level) Price: Free admission; experience packages like floating and black mud wellness start from about 99 RMB. Highlights: China’s version of the “Dead Sea,” the lake water shows colorful mineral hues. In summer, you can float like in the Dead Sea and enjoy black mud wellness; in winter, capture the sunset over the salt lake. Recommended photo spots: Salt Pool No. 006 street lamp, Mountain-Lake Highway frame, Salt Edge Starlight Station. Guanque Tower (AAAA level) Price: About 60 RMB per person; free with annual pass. Highlights: The real scene behind Tang poet Wang Zhihuan’s famous line “To enjoy a grander sight, climb one more floor.” Climb the tower to overlook the Yellow River’s Shanxi-Shaanxi Grand Canyon and feel the poetic atmosphere of the flourishing Tang dynasty. Adjacent to Pujiao Temple (the setting of the West Chamber Love Story), which can be visited together. Yongle Palace (AAAA level) Price: About 60 RMB per person; free with annual pass. Highlights: Famous for Yuan dynasty murals “Chaoyuan Tu,” covering over 1,000 square meters and depicting 290 immortal figures, a world art treasure. It’s recommended to tour with a guide to deeply understand the stories behind the murals. Li Family Courtyard (AAAA level) Price: About 60 RMB per person; free with annual pass. Highlights: The residence of the wealthy Southern Shanxi merchant Li Daohang’s family, blending northern and southern architectural styles with exquisite wood, brick, and stone carvings. The courtyard is huge; wearing Hanfu for photos adds charm, ideal for family trips. 2. Unique Experiences and Costs Ancient Market and Fair One-Day Tour Price: 49-59 RMB per person (includes round-trip transport, guide service, and travel insurance). Recommended routes: Linjin County Government · Wu King Ancient Ferry Line: Visit the Yuan dynasty government hall, enjoy the Yellow River’s grand view, immerse in the lively local market, taste snacks, and shop for rural specialties. Duiyun Cave · Sima Wen Gong Shrine Line: Tour Taoist sacred sites and red heritage spots, visit the Xia Chao ancient fair, and experience authentic rural markets. Houtu Shrine · Ronghe Assembly Line: Pay respects to the root culture of Chinese civilization and experience bustling market life by the Yellow River bank. Yellow River Rafting and Canyon Adventure Price: Hukou Waterfall ticket about 150 RMB per person; round-trip car rental about 100 RMB per vehicle (4 seats). Highlights: Experience the spectacular “Yellow River water coming from the sky.” Summer offers rafting; winter offers ice waterfall photography. It’s recommended to rent a car for flexible scheduling. Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience: Jishan Mother-of-Pearl Lacquerware Making: About 80 RMB per person; make your own mother-of-pearl craft and learn about this national intangible cultural heritage skill. Wenxi Flower Bun Making: About 50 RMB per person; learn to make traditional Southern Shanxi steamed buns and appreciate the charm of noodle culture. 3. Food Recommendations and Average Costs Jiexiu Lamb Pao Mo Recommended Restaurant: Jiexiu Lao Wang Lamb Pao Mo. Price: About 25-35 RMB per bowl; rich soup and tender meat, perfectly paired with sugar garlic and chili. Yuncheng Big Plate Chicken Recommended Restaurants: Lao Wu Fried Chicken, Story Pie Rock ‘n’ Roll Fried Chicken. Price: About 48-68 RMB per pot; tender chicken, soft potatoes, spicy and numbing, very filling, recommended for 2-3 people to share. Yongji Beef Dumplings Recommended Restaurant: Yingying Restaurant. Price: About 15-20 RMB per serving; thin skin, large filling, juicy, authentic Hui Muslim craftsmanship. Xinjiang Copper Hotpot Recommended Restaurant: Old Brand Copper Hotpot Restaurant. Price: About 80-120 RMB per pot; charcoal copper pot with rich ingredients, warming and delicious in winter. Night Market Snacks Recommended Locations: Salt Lake Night Market, Yudu Night Market, Hedong Night Market. Prices: Jishan Mahua (fried dough twist) about 5 RMB each, Wenxi boiled cakes about 10 RMB per box, cold noodles with fried bread about 15 RMB per serving, Ruicheng spicy slices about 20 RMB per bag. 4. Accommodation Recommendations and Price Range Budget Hotels Recommended: Hanting Yuncheng Huaidong Road Hotel, 7 Days Inn Yuncheng Zhongyin Avenue City Government Branch. Price: About 150-200 RMB per night; clean and tidy, cost-effective, suitable for budget travelers. Comfort Hotels Recommended: Vienna Hotel Shanxi Yuncheng Hedong Street Wanda Branch, Yuncheng Marriott Hotel. Price: About 300-500 RMB per night; well-equipped facilities, attentive service, suitable for quality seekers. Salt Lake Scenic Area Hotel Recommended: Colorful Salt Lake Tingtaoge Hotel. Price: About 300-500 RMB per night; enjoy salt lake views, perfect for photo check-ins. 5. Itinerary Planning Suggestions Classic 3-Day Tour Day 1: Jiexiu Guandi Temple → Yuncheng Salt Lake → Salt Lake Night Market. Day 2: Guanque Tower → Pujiao Temple → Yongji Beef Dumplings → Stay in Yongji city. Day 3: Yongle Palace → Li Family Courtyard → Yuncheng Museum → Yudu Night Market. In-depth 5-Day Tour adds ancient market and fair one-day tour, Yellow River rafting, intangible cultural heritage experiences, and more to fully experience Yuncheng’s history, culture, and folk customs. 6. Practical Tips Transportation: Yuncheng’s attractions are scattered; it’s recommended to rent a car or take taxis after arriving by high-speed rail for flexible travel. Tickets: Buying the Yuncheng Tourism Annual Pass (100 RMB per card) can save more than half of the ticket costs, suitable for deep travelers. Seasons: Spring and autumn have comfortable weather, ideal for sightseeing; summer offers salt lake floating; winter offers ice waterfall photography. Photography: The salt lake’s light is best from 4-6 pm; wearing Hanfu or plain-colored clothes at Guandi Temple makes photos stand out. Civilized Tourism: Touching and climbing on ancient buildings and murals is prohibited; let’s protect cultural relics together.

🌟Yongji 2025 In-Depth Tour! Climb the Stork Tower to Discover the Legacy of the Tang Dynasty and Savor Authentic Shanxi Flavors! > In Yongji, a small town in southern Shanxi, I found the Stork Tower from Tang poetry and the Puji Temple from the Romance of the Western Chamber. This treasure trove of a town gave me so many surprises! When I first stood atop the Stork Tower, gazing at the Yellow River flowing on the horizon, I instantly understood the meaning of "To see a thousand miles further, climb one more story." Yongji's tourism popularity continues to rise in 2025. This small town, with its rich historical heritage, offered me a cultural journey through time with its ancient temples, famous towers, and scenic landscapes! --- 🏯 **Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Climb the Stork Tower for Panoramic Views** As one of the four great ancient towers of China, the Stork Tower is definitely a must-see in Yongji. I chose to climb the tower at dusk, watching the sunset and the Yellow River dyed golden red. I truly experienced the magnificent scene described in Wang Zhihuan's poem, "The sun sets beyond the mountains, the Yellow River flows into the sea." In 2025, the scenic area launched the immersive traditional Chinese style script tour, "Poetry Inspires the Tang Dynasty: Tracing the Footsteps of the Stork," allowing me to experience a cultural adventure across a thousand years through reciting poetry and learning etiquette with historical figures as NPCs. 2. **Experience the Legend of Love at Puji Temple** As the setting of the story of *The Romance of the Western Chamber*, Puji Temple is the only temple in China dedicated to "love stories." Strolling along Yingying Path, I felt as if I had stepped into the love story of Zhang Sheng and Cui Yingying. The scenic area's performances, such as "Turning the Pagoda for Blessings" and "Love in the Western Chamber," vividly recreated the classic love story, and the actors' wonderful performances made me applaud and cheer. Don't forget to circle the Yingying Pagoda three times to pray for blessings; it's said to be very effective! 3. **Visiting the Giant Iron Oxen at the Pujindu Site** At the Pujindu Site Museum, I saw **giant iron oxen from the Tang Dynasty, weighing over ten thousand kilograms**. These iron oxen and figures were the bridge piers of the ancient Pujin Bridge. Their sheer size, weight, number, and exquisite craftsmanship are breathtaking, earning them the title of national treasure. Standing before these millennia-old artifacts, I couldn't help but marvel at the wisdom and creativity of the ancients. 4. **Climbing and Enjoying the Scenery at Wulaofeng** Wulaofeng is a national forest park, where the autumn leaves are particularly vibrant and dazzling. I participated in the park's **first Tai Chi Culture Festival**, experiencing Tai Chi performances, health classes, and an immersive "Tai Chi + Mountain and Water" experience. Reaching the summit, the breathtaking scenery of every tree in autumn colors and every mountain bathed in the glow of the setting sun unfolded before my eyes. 🍜 **Food Recommendations** The food in Yongji kept me stuffed every day: · **Beef Dumplings**: I recommend Xiaoxue Beef Dumplings, Caifeng Green Dumpling Restaurant, and Liu Jie Beef Dumplings, all well-known local dumpling restaurants. · **Shuiyukou Ancient Village Food Street**: Here you'll find various specialty restaurants, such as Shunxiang Fried Dough Sticks, Thousand-Layer Vegetable Boxes, Min Dou Noodles, and Jishan Pancakes… each exuding a rich local flavor. · **Lamb and Carrot Stew**: It tastes like lamb stew with bread, but it's filled with shredded bread; the flavor is incredibly rich. 🏨 **Accommodation Recommendations** · **Pushe·Nangu Li Homestay**: Located in Nanshan Park, with an elegant environment. · **Yaowangtai Yunshang Homestay**: Located within the Yaowangtai Scenic Area, offering a mountain living experience. · **Dianji Hotel**: A very cost-effective option. 💡 **Practical Information** · *Best Time to Visit**: Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit Yongji, with pleasant weather. The autumn foliage at Wulaofeng Peak is stunning, especially around October. · *Transportation**: · **High-Speed ​​Rail**: Take the high-speed rail to Yongji North Station. · **Driving**: Yongji's attractions are relatively spread out, so driving is a convenient option. · *Recommended Itinerary**: · **One-Day Tour**: Stork Tower → Pujiu Temple → Pujindu Ruins · **Two-Day Tour**: Day 1: Wulaofeng Peak → Wuxing Lake Wetland → Museum + Folk Custom Exhibition Hall; Day 2: Yaowangtai → Pujiu Temple → Pujindu Ruins Museum → Stork Tower · -- Every day in Yongji, I was immersed in a sea of ​​history and culture. By day, I wandered among ancient buildings, feeling the weight of history; by night, I savored authentic Shanxi cuisine and experienced the warmth and hospitality of the locals. This city not only boasts a glorious history but also amazing food and unique cultural experiences. If you're looking for a travel destination that blends history and nature, culture and cuisine, then Yongji is definitely the perfect choice! This city, steeped in history, will surely leave you wanting more and with unforgettable travel memories. · *Feel free to share your Yongji experience or ask questions in the comments section! 👇**

|Magnificent Dacheng Hall. Linjin Confucian Temple is located on West Street, Linjin Town, Linyi County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province. It was built in the 10th year of the Zhiyuan period of the Yuan Dynasty (1273) and is the main building of the ancient Confucian Temple. The Dacheng Hall of the Confucian Temple is magnificent and splendidly constructed. It is the main hall for worshiping and offering sacrifices to "the Most Holy Teacher Confucius" throughout the ages. The Confucian Temple also houses two stone tablets, "Confucius Praise" and "Yanzi Praise." In front of the hall, there is a 1,300-year-old Tang cypress tree, which is 19 meters high, with a girth of 540 centimeters and a crown width of 15 meters. This ancient tree has three branches at a height of 3 meters, and one of the branches has a toon tree growing on it. The two trees lean against each other, appearing particularly peculiar. Tickets: 40

|Ancient Pagoda in the Fields. Between Yangyuantou Village and Luyuantou Village in Yishi Town, Linyi County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, in the plains north of the Sushui River, there is a square brick pagoda called "Luyuantou Yongxing Temple Pagoda." The pagoda has eight remaining levels, is about 13.5 meters high, and its construction date is unknown, but it is speculated to have been built during the Tang Dynasty. The pagoda body tapers upwards, with each level having corbelled eaves, and levels two to five have three brick-carved imitation wooden structures on each side. The first level has a column head bracket under the eaves, the fourth level has false doors and windows on the south side, and the sixth level and above have no decorations. The entire pagoda leans slightly to the southwest. The pagoda was originally part of Yongxing Temple, which was destroyed during the War of Resistance Against Japan, leaving only the pagoda. The Yongxing Temple Pagoda is only 5 kilometers away from the Miaodao Temple Twin Pagodas in Linyi County, and they are similar in shape. Now it stands quietly in the fields, welcoming every visitor.

|Ancient pagodas of the Song Dynasty. Before the Northern Song Dynasty, Miaodao Temple was called "Yongfu Temple." During the Song Dynasty, it was called "Miaodao Temple." During the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed "Yanta Temple," and later "Shuangta Temple." The temple's Buddhist halls were magnificent throughout the ages, and it was home to thousands of monks, making it a famous temple in the area. The temple has been destroyed, but the east and west pagodas remain. According to the inscription on the stele unearthed from the underground palace of the west pagoda, "The Underground Palace of the Twin Pagodas of Miaodao Temple in Yishi County, Hezhong Prefecture, Great Song Dynasty," the west pagoda was built in the second year of the Xining period of the Northern Song Dynasty (1069). It faces east, is made of brick and wood, and was originally a square nine-story pagoda. Six stories remain, with a height of 21.98 meters. The east pagoda faces west, is made of brick, and has seven stories. It is 23.07 meters tall, with a base length of 4.95 meters. Inside the pagoda is a stele from the 14th year of the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (1535) and a stone tablet from the 23rd year of the Wanli period (1595). Address: East of Xingjiaofang Village, Yishi Town, Linyi County, Yuncheng, Shanxi Province Transportation: Take bus 103, Linyi 7, or Linyi 11 to Shuangta Square Station.

|Brick pagoda from the Song Dynasty. The Sheng'an Temple Pagoda is located in the courtyard of Zhangcun Village Committee, Beijing Township, Linyi County. This pagoda was built in the Song Dynasty. It is a hexagonal, seven-story pavilion-style brick pagoda. The seventh floor no longer exists and the sixth floor has also been damaged. The tower is about 11.6 meters high. The first floor of the tower is higher, with a door on the front. The tower is 2.5 meters hollow inside, and the floors above are solid. Under the eaves of the first floor, there are brick-carved brackets in imitation of wooden structure. The shape of the brackets is one dou and three sheng, with one bracket at each corner. Under the brackets, there are imitation wooden lintels, and the lintels protrude at the intersection of the corners. The eaves above the second floor have stepped corbels, the front of the third floor has a door, and false straight lattice windows on the side, and each side of the third and fourth floors has imitation wooden structure straight lattice windows. The Zhangcun Sheng'an Temple Pagoda has a simple and symmetrical shape, and its structure and carvings have obvious characteristics of the times, and it has high historical value. Judging from its current appearance, the original appearance of the tower has been preserved after renovation, and the renovation effect is good. Tickets: Free, supervised by cultural relics protection personnel

Black Myth Wukong's popularity Let Shanxi's ancient buildings catch fire Five thousand years is far away, Shanxi is close Look at the ground relics in Shanxi An ordinary small county also hides many treasures Many treasures have long been integrated into the lives of the people Visible and touchable, there are many twin towers in Shanxi, but there seems to be none in Yuncheng. It is said that there is a Song Dynasty twin tower in Linyi. Many people in Linyi have not been there. Just go back to Yuncheng on National Day and take a look. The Miaodao Temple Twin Tower was built during the Northern Song Dynasty. The east and west towers are square tower-style brick towers with symmetrical structures and beautiful tower shapes. The east tower is a solid tower column, and there is also an underground palace under the west tower. Look closely at the tower body and there are Buddha heads inlaid in it. The west tower body has obvious tilt, but it still stands upright. Twin Tower Elephant: On the morning of the 16th of the third and seventh lunar months, and on the evening of the 14th and 15th of the first and ninth lunar months, the east and west towers will appear "sun and moon cross shadow" According to local people, the predecessor of the Twin Tower Park was the Twin Tower Middle School, which was later rebuilt into a civil park. The ancient tower has existed in such a low-key manner for a thousand years, but my heart feels close to a thousand years

The Confucian Temple in Linfen was built during the Song Dynasty, and was reconstructed during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Facing south with its back to the north, the temple currently only retains the Dacheng Hall. It is built on a brick base 0.4 meters high, with a platform set in front, and a double dragon stone carving imperial pathway in the center of the platform front. Stone watch pillars and railings are set around the platform, with carvings of figures, flowers, and other designs. The main body of the hall is five bays wide and six rafters deep, with a single-eaved Xieshan-style roof. The structure features a seven-purlin front and rear corridor-style framework, with triple-step bracket sets on the column capitals, a flat body with five-cluster brackets, and 45° oblique arches in the main bay, all on drum-shaped column bases. The existing building is a relic of the Qing Dynasty.

📍Located on the east bank of the West Yellow River in Linyi County, Shanxi Province📍 👉Here you can find the Yellow River wonder Sand Bird's Nest and the legendary Tongzi Spring; there are both thousand-year-old ancient roads and modern floating bridges; there are both ancient military fortresses and modern water conservancy hubs. 👉After crossing the floating bridge, you will reach Qiachuan, Heyang, Shaanxi. There are many farmhouses and the Yellow River carp is very famous. 👉It has both the sadness of the autumn wind in the ancient fortress and the pleasure of the pastoral scenery; it has both the beauty of the Jiangnan water town and the ruggedness of the northern desert; 👉The river here is wide and misty, with the charm of the sea; here lotus flowers are reflected in the sun, reeds are swaying, sand swallows are flying, and fish are singing to each other. It is truly a paradise for all things. 💡Location: Linyi County, Yuncheng City 🔍Navigation: Search directly for [Wuwang Ancient Ferry] 💰Tickets: None