https://https://uk.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/shanxi/best-nightspots/10070100056141
Night Attractions
Top 50 Night Attractions in Shanxi [2025]
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Pingyao Ancient City
4.6
/5
20146 reviews
8.5
From US$17.28
Based on 1,380 reviews
Inside Pingyao Ancient City | 29.2 km from downtown
Phone +8603545690000
Address: No. 58 Zhaobi South Street, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
Featured in 2025 Asia 100 - Night Attractions
Highlights:
Overlook ancient city's nightlife
Night food & crafts exploration
Saved by 426 users12686 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
There are many attractions in the city, so it's best to set aside a full day to visit. Xietongqing, the Confucian Temple, and the Pingyao County Yamen are all worth visiting. The county yamen has a court performance, so you can go there in advance to wait for it to start. There are many places to eat in the ancient city. I recommend Tianyuankui. The food is very good, the service is great, and the price is quite affordable with the coupon.
The Pingyao City Wall is located in Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province. It was first built during the reign of King Xuan of the Western Zhou Dynasty (827-728 BC) and covers an area of approximately 85,690 square meters. The western and northern sides of the wall were built by the Western Zhou general Yin Jifu when he stationed troops here during his northern expedition against the Xianyun. It is a national cultural relic protection unit.
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Guanque Tower
4.5
/5
3253 reviews
7.6
From US$7.03
Based on 7 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8603598485381
Address: 852 County Rd, Yongji Shi, Yuncheng Shi, Shanxi Sheng, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-1.5 hours
No.4 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Shanxi
2506 positive reviews10K views in last month
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To see a thousand miles, one must ascend to a higher level.
The Stork Tower is a remarkable ancient structure. Modern renovations have kept it vibrant. Climb it and marvel at the majestic Yellow River.
I've been there twice, and the experience of climbing the Stork Tower is truly remarkable: each level requires gradual progress; it's impossible to achieve everything overnight. This reminds us that in pursuing our life goals, we must follow the principle of gradual progress. No great achievement is achieved overnight; it's the result of long-term accumulation and unremitting effort. We must be down-to-earth, starting with the little things, and constantly accumulating experience and knowledge to lay a solid foundation for achieving our life goals.
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Datong Ancient City
4.7
/5
214 reviews
7.3
From US$5.48
Ancient City Tourist Cultural Area | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8603527699269
Address: 山西省大同市平城区御河西路
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 day
No.20 of Best Things to Do in Shanxi
Highlights:
Nighttime ancient city experience
Outdoor evening opera performances
Saved by 146 users194 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
It's worth a visit! Absolutely worth it! Shanhua Temple and Huayan Temple are both amazing 👍🏻 and stunning! The value for money is also very good!
I even received a Shanxi travel brochure! What a surprise!
Located in the heart of Datong, Shanxi Province, Datong Ancient City is one of China's nine ancient capitals. Its history dates back to the Qin and Han dynasties. The existing city walls were built by Xu Da in the fifth year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, building upon existing walls from the Northern Wei, Tang, Liao, and Jin dynasties. The city is roughly square in shape, with a circumference of 7.24 kilometers. It features four gates, Heyang and Yongtai, and boasts towers and watchtowers. Within the city walls are numerous cultural relics, including the Huayan Temple and the Shanhua Temple, representing a relatively well-preserved example of ancient city wall architecture.
No.
4
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“Seeing Pingyao”
4.7
/5
5271 reviews
7.4
From US$33.42
Outside Pingyao Ancient City | 28.4 km from downtown
Phone +8640065350
Address: No. 154, Shuncheng Road, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
No.17 of Best Things to Do in Shanxi
Highlights:
Taste unique noodles & show
World Heritage Site elements in a live performance
3208 positive reviews10K views in last month
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In the evening, I watched the very popular situational drama "See Pingyao Again" in Pingyao. It was similar in style to the situational drama in Dunhuang, and I felt that there was nothing very expressive! The story was not strong, and a lot of flour was used in the performance. I personally think it was a waste of food and I don't want to give it a good review!
"See You Again in Pingyao" is a stunning, immersive walking performance. Journeying through a century-old escort agency, the tragic story of a bloodline is moving. The unique viewing experience, exquisite stage sets, and profound cultural nostalgia perfectly capture the loyalty and heritage of Shanxi merchants, making it a deeply impactful cultural experience.
Highly recommended for anyone visiting Pingyao!
No.
5
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Taiyuan Ancient County
4.0
/5
2103 reviews
7.2
Taiyuan Ancient County/Jinci Temple | 77.4 km from downtown
Phone +8603516598888
Address: 山西省太原市晋源区凤城东街19号
Recommended sightseeing time: 4-5 hours
Highlights:
Night light show & ancient city
Two spectacular nighttime parades
1527 positive reviews10K views in last month
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This relatively low-key attraction boasts sparse crowds and beautiful scenery. While most of the buildings are replicas of ancient buildings, they adhere to the principle of preserving the original, recreating the original appearance of the ancient city of Jinyang, known as the "City of Fengxiang." The replicas pay a sincere tribute to the Ming Dynasty architecture. Arriving late at night, I missed the county town at dusk, but unexpectedly caught an even more stunning night view. Considerable attention has been paid to the selection and application of lighting, integrating the various buildings throughout the county town into a cohesive design that creates a sense of simplicity, elegance, and grandeur, creating a truly immersive experience. A 20-yuan ticket to the city wall offers a panoramic view of the ancient town. At night, crowds are rare, allowing you to fully enjoy the solitary presence of the nearly 8-meter-wide, chariot-accessible wall and the illuminated nightscape of the entire county town. Within the county town, various shops and cultural attractions are accessible by foot or by sightseeing bus. I believe the popularity will only increase as more people visit. I was fortunate to catch the Dehua Gate light show; the content, images, and meaning were all breathtaking. I left with a heartfelt blessing and it's worth a visit and a frequent visit.
The fireworks and ancient charm that travel through time and space, if you want to take travel photos, it should be very good, because there are few people and you don’t have to rush too much. When the weather is good, the sunset is very good, and the night view is also beautiful. The key is that you don’t need tickets
No.
6
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Xinzhou Ancient City
4.7
/5
425 reviews
7.2
Xinzhou Ancient City | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8603503238888
Address: Xinfu District, Xinzhou City
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Featured in Best Things to Do
Highlights:
12-foot-high light show
Spectacular 40-foot illuminated walls
376 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
The atmosphere of fireworks is strong, and you can enjoy the ancient city for free. The local characteristics are super affordable, the price is low, and the value for money is good. The local special flavors will be unforgettable after tasting them. It is a place you want to go again after visiting.
"Black Myth: Wukong" has ignited interest in ancient cities across Shanxi, with Xinzhou's popularity particularly high. From morning till night, the city's several food streets are bustling with activity.
According to various sources, including Didi drivers, B&B owners, and staff at the visitor center, Xinzhou has invested heavily in promoting cultural tourism. Tour guides receive cash rewards for bringing in groups, and all attractions, including the city walls, are free. Restaurants within the ancient city are carefully selected and initially rent-free, but there is a strict closure mechanism for food complaints. This has significantly boosted its reputation, and coupled with the peak summer season, it has become a huge hit.
Described as "a relaxed lifestyle at the foot of Mount Wutai," Xinzhou Ancient City, while many of its buildings are reconstructions, still attracts visitors with its lively atmosphere and relaxed feel. The ancient city's layout is also unique, with its square city walls and the elevated Xiurong Academy to the west, offering a panoramic view of the entire city. Combined with the surrounding mountains, the city's historic identity as the "key to northern Shanxi" is immediately apparent.
No.
7
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Mengshan Grand Buddha
4.5
/5
849 reviews
6.9
From US$6.89
Based on 61 reviews
79.3 km from downtown
Phone +8603516862502
Address: Luocheng Temple Village, Jinyuan District, Taiyuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Featured in Best Things to Do
570 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
1. The stay was fantastic: the lobby was grand and pleasant; the front desk was efficient; and the rooms were fully equipped with smart phones!
2. The hotel was truly excellent: the complimentary bottle of mineral water was a thoughtful touch, the facilities were comprehensive, the breakfast was delicious, and parking was convenient.
3. The front desk service was warm and attentive, and the cleanliness was impeccable. The mattress was comfortable, the internet was fast, and parking was reliable.
4. The location was excellent, with easy access to transportation. The room was clean and the bed was soft. The hot water came quickly, and the facilities were comprehensive. The breakfast was delicious, and I'll definitely be back.
The Mengshan Giant Buddha was carved into a steep cliff face and is located near the summit of Mengshan Mountain. The niche is an open-mouthed cliff face, 30 meters wide and 17 meters deep, with a roughly semi-elliptical plan. The mountain is level with the Buddha's neck, suggesting a natural rock protrusion, which was carved into the Buddha's head during excavation. Behind the Buddha, a large flat area on the cliffside houses temple ruins and scattered brick and tile debris. The Mengshan Giant Buddha is a single statue, with no traces of attendant statues inside or outside the niche.
Because the Buddha's rock mass is composed of loose sandstone, it has been severely weathered and collapsed, making the folds of the statue's clothing unrecognizable.
No.
8
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Taiyuan Fantawild Oriental Heritage
4.6
/5
2775 reviews
6.5
From US$39.31
>100 km from downtown
Phone +864001660006
Address: 山西省太原市阳曲县华强中路1号
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-1.5 days
No.9 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Shanxi
2517 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
There were a lot of people today, but it didn't affect the experience. The queues for each project basically took half an hour. I've been here several times, and my children always want to come again.
There were so many people at Fantawild on May Day that you had to wait in line for about 120 minutes for any popular project, but the fireworks at night were so beautiful, and I also saw Phoenix 🐦🔥. In short, it is still the first choice for holiday travel! There are many people but the atmosphere is particularly good!
No.
9
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Situ Town
4.4
/5
650 reviews
6.3
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8603562293766
Address: Jincheng, Shanxi, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 4 hours
No.14 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Shanxi
Highlights:
Ancient merchant streets' night view
Local snacks & crafts market
425 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
It was an amazing up-close experience. I'd only seen the intangible cultural heritage of iron flower making on TV before, but being there was truly breathtaking. My phone was completely busy taking photos and videos. My two-year-old kept saying "wow!" as we watched. Afterward, Mr. Zhou offered to treat us to Sichuan soup on the way out. I didn't try it, but seeing everyone enjoying it on the roadside, I felt that this small town of Situ is truly humane.
As a coal and iron town, the iron flower in Situ Town is the most shocking iron flower I have ever seen. It is also a classic performance of the scenic spot. This alone is worth a visit. The reimbursement of tolls, snacks treated by Lao Zhou, and free rides are icing on the cake. It is recommended that the scenic spot can add clear signs at the venues of small performances, such as program names, program times and other information, to help tourists grasp the itinerary when passing by, without having to frequently open their mobile phones to check. In addition, the weather is hot, the actors are very hard-working and a little tired, and their enthusiasm for the performance is insufficient. I hope the scenic spot will continue to work hard!
No.
10
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Ancient Qikou Town
4.3
/5
340 reviews
6.2
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8603584467001
Address: Qikouzhen, Linxian, Lvliang, Shanxi, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-3 hours
No.8 of Water fun & Cool Retreats in Shanxi
129 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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Qikou Ancient Town is located 48 kilometers south of Linxian County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province. It is located in the middle of the Yellow River Jinshan Gorge. It is named after the Datong Qi of the Yellow River. It is an important commercial town on the Yellow River waterway and enjoys the reputation of "the first town of the nine-bend Yellow River".
The prosperity of Qikou Ancient Town began in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Due to the dangers of the Datong Qi of the Yellow River, it became a transit station for the waterway on the northern mainstream of the Yellow River. In its heyday, there were as many as 150 ships coming and going at Qikou Wharf every day, and more than 300 service shops of various types.
The ancient town is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. It preserves a large number of buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, including commercial buildings such as warehouses, ticket houses, pawnshops, as well as temples, houses, docks, etc. These ancient buildings show the artistic charm of Ming and Qing architecture.
The ancient town is located on the Luliang Mountain and borders the Yellow River. The Yellow River and the Qiushui River meet here, forming a magnificent picture of "tiger roaring in the Yellow River and dragon chanting in Qikou".
The Black Dragon Temple is one of the landmark buildings of the ancient town. The temple is built on the mountain and integrates nature and humanities. In addition, Lijiashan Village is known as the "Potala Palace on the Loess Plateau". Its three-dimensional and integrated vernacular architecture makes people feel like they are in a painting.
The national intangible cultural heritage - Linxian Dasuona will bring you an auditory feast. The large-scale live-action drama "Dream Qikou" combines history with reality, allowing you to feel the inheritance and development of the spirit of Shanxi merchants.
Tickets: Free.
Opening hours: All day.
Highlights and Features
Profound Historical Heritage
The ancient town of Qikou rose in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It was once an important wharf for Shanxi merchants to "go west", with many merchants and shops. Today, a large number of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties are still preserved, such as escort agencies, bill exchanges, warehouses, etc., witnessing the prosperity of the Yellow River's commercial culture.
Unique Architectural Style
The ancient town is built by the mountains and rivers. The streets and courtyards are mostly cave-style buildings with blue bricks and gray tiles, which are staggered and full of the rustic feeling of the Loess Plateau. The main street "Crouching Tiger Lane" is winding, and the stone slabs and mottled old walls reveal the vicissitudes of life.
Blending Nature and Humanities
Black Dragon Temple: The commanding height of the ancient town, overlooking the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River, the stage in the temple is well preserved, and it was once a place for merchants to pray for blessings.
Yellow River Scenery: The Yellow River rushes by, frozen in winter and turbulent in summer, and the riverside landscape is different in four seasons.
Lijiashan and Xiwan Village: The surrounding ancient villages are famous for their cave dwellings, which are praised by the painter Wu Guanzhong as the "Han Tomb Museum" and are suitable for photography and sketching.
Original Ecological Atmosphere
The commercial development level is low, and there are relatively few tourists. It retains the simple folk customs and quiet life atmosphere, which is suitable for slow travel experience.
Travel Suggestions
Recommended Attractions
The main street of the ancient town: Experience the old sites of Ming and Qing shops, such as "Rongguang Store" and "Changxing Store".
Yellow River Gallery: Take a boat tour of the naturally formed rock wall reliefs on the Yellow River (need to confirm the opening status in advance).
Lijiashan Village: About 5 kilometers away from the ancient town, the cave dwellings are stacked up, which is very visually impactful.
Xiwan Village: The castle-style village layout cleverly combines defense and residential functions.
Best Season
The climate is pleasant in spring and autumn (April-May, September-October), suitable for summer vacation or autumn viewing; winter is cold but you can feel the vastness of the frozen Yellow River.
Transportation Guide
It is recommended to drive or take a bus from Taiyuan/Lüliang to Linxian, and then transfer to Qikou. You can walk around the ancient town, and you can charter a car to visit the surrounding villages.
Accommodation and Dining
There are many inns in the ancient town (such as "Qikou Inn"), which are simple but distinctive; the dining is mainly Shanxi noodles (sauerkraut noodles, oat noodles and kuoluoluo) and Yellow River carp. It is recommended to try local red date products.
Cultural Experience
Folk Activities: If you encounter traditional temple fairs or festivals, you can watch performances such as Jinbei Yangko and Yellow River Lantern Festival.
Handicrafts: Local paper-cutting, fabric art (such as cloth tigers) and other intangible cultural heritages are worth paying attention to.
Photography and sketching: The light and shadow of the ancient town, the sunset over the Yellow River, and the cave buildings are excellent themes for creation.
Notes
The roads in the ancient town are mostly stone steps, so it is recommended to wear comfortable non-slip shoes.
Some scenic spots have relatively simple facilities, so pay attention to sun protection in summer and keep warm in winter.
Respect local customs and avoid entering unopened old houses at will.
Check the water level of the Yellow River and the opening hours of cruise ships in advance, as the rainy season may affect the itinerary.
Summary
The ancient town of Qikou is suitable for tourists who like history, architecture and natural scenery, and is especially recommended for photography enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Although the supporting facilities are not as complete as those of mature scenic spots, its original Yellow River culture, Shanxi merchant relics and the style of the Loess Plateau can still make people feel the heaviness of time. If you are looking for a leisurely slow trip, this is a destination worth stopping by.
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