Xia County Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Xia County

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Xia County Xiyin Archaeological Museum soft opens, exploring civilization's origins

About Xia County

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Must-try food in Xia County

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Xia County dishes and foodie spots.

华莱士·全鸡汉堡(夏县店)

解放北路22号华图教育楼下

荣建猪蹄总店(苏北线店)

209国道西50米

彭德楷黄焖鸡米饭(夏县店)

3.5/5€2

邮电局对面新街巷金樽会所隔壁

LI YING DAN DAN MIAN

5/54 Reviews

Near Dahai Lane Four Sea Hotel (Wuhu Hotel)

李师羊肉烩面(北街店)

解放北路莲湖公园东南侧约90米

Traveller photos and experiences

Duoyun Cave in Xia County｜A Complete Guide to Writing the Taoist Charm into the Sea of Clouds at the "Little Potala Palace"!

🌤️【Introduction · Let the Mist Compose Poems with the Mountain Breeze】 "When the first ray of morning light pierces through the mist of Duoyun Cave, the whole world seems to slow down." I step into Duoyun Cave, where every brick and stone feels like a piano key carved by time. A gentle touch can play echoes of a thousand years. 🚗【Transportation|1-Hour Direct Access by Car/Bus】 Drive with navigation to "Duoyun Cave Scenic Area, Xia County," just 1 hour from Yuncheng city center; By bus, take the "Yuncheng—Xia County" route, then taxi to the site (about 30 RMB). 🎫【Tickets|30 RMB to Experience Taoist Charm】 Adult ticket: 30 RMB; half price for students and seniors; Opening hours: 08:30-17:30. 📸【Photo Spots|4 Shots to Capture the "Little Potala Palace"】 ① Beiji Platform: Side light before 08:00, sea of clouds + golden summit, use phone portrait mode for automatic skin smoothing; ② Sanhuang Pavilion: Use stone carvings as foreground, wide-angle low angle shot, instantly capture the "Stone Carving Journey"; ③ Bifeng Pagoda: Backlit at 13:00, pagoda shadow + sea of clouds, telephoto compression = "Cloud-top Buddhist Pagoda"; ④ Rear Mountain Viewing Platform: 15-minute climb to the top, overlook the "Valley Taoist Temple + Sea of Clouds," 30 minutes before sunset the pink-purple sky is divine. 💡【Local-Level Tips】 ✔ High altitude, dress warmly; summer visits offer cool relief; ✔ The cave is dimly lit, bring a flashlight or use your phone light; ✔ Free parking available in the scenic area, convenient for self-driving visitors; ✔ Last bus at 17:30, recommend descending early or driving back. 🌌【Conclusion · Pocket a Piece of the Sea of Clouds】 When leaving, I captured a piece of the sea of clouds on my phone. On the way back to the city, it quietly shimmered, leaving the tranquility of Duoyun Cave in my palm. "The Little Potala Palace is small, but it holds the entire sky’s Taoist charm." Save this guide, and next time the sea of clouds rises, we’ll meet at the cave entrance!

ethan_turner_94

Xia County 3-Day Itinerary Guide

Starting from Xia County, a budget of CNY 1,500 is more than enough for a 3-day trip. Xia County itself is dense with ancient architecture and has affordable prices. Use Xia County as your base: spend one day immersing yourself in local culture and hot springs, then spend two days easily connecting to the Guandi Temple, Salt Lake, and ancient villages around Yuncheng for a comfortable pace. 🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary Suggestion: Ancient Architecture, Hot Springs, and Salt Lake Day 1: In-depth Tour of Xia County's Local Culture In the morning, visit Sima Wengong Shrine (ticket approx. CNY 40), the family shrine of the Northern Song dynasty official Sima Guang. The shrine preserves the "Sima Wengong Stele" written and inscribed by Su Shi, and the Jin dynasty clay sculptures of the 18 Arhats in Yuqing Zen Temple are among the earliest surviving mud sculptures in Shanxi. Afterward, head to Duiyundong (ticket CNY 30), a Yuan dynasty Taoist architectural complex built into the loess gullies. It resembles the Potala Palace from a distance and is most photogenic when shrouded in mist after rain. In the afternoon, visit Yaotai Mountain (free), the top of the 8 ancient scenic spots of Xia County. The main peak is 987m high, and the 9-story pagoda on the summit offers a view of the Zhongtiao Mountains and the Xia County basin. In the evening, stay at the Tianmu Xia Du Hot Spring Hotel to soak in the strontium-rich hot spring and relieve fatigue. This 4-star hotel is highly rated, and the private hot spring room experience is excellent. For dinner, have a bowl of Guan Gong pulled noodles in the county town—the noodles are thin and chewy, served with a ladle of pork lard and scallion soup, which is how Yuncheng locals start their day. Day 2: Jiezhou Guandi Temple + Yuncheng Salt Lake In the morning, take the 102 intercity bus from Xia County toward Yuncheng (fare CNY 3–5) and get off at Jiezhou. Jiezhou Guandi Temple is the largest Guandi Temple in the world, featuring red walls, glazed tiles, and thousand-year-old cypresses. The ticket is CNY 60; we recommend setting aside 2–3 hours. For lunch, have a bowl of Wang Jian mutton soup in Jiezhou Town, made with broth boiled from the same ancient well water as the Guandi Temple, served with crescent bread for a hearty meal. In the afternoon, continue by bus to Yuncheng to visit the Colorful Salt Lake. The lake water turns pink in spring. You can rent an electric scooter to slowly tour along the lake and head to the viewing platform at sunset when the light is best. In the evening, go to the Hedong Night Market. Must-try items include Lao Wu stir-fried jelly noodles and mutton hubu; you can have a very satisfying meal for about CNY 30 per person. Return to Xia County for the night. Day 3: Sijiao Ecological Tourism Area + Luming Valley, Relaxed Return In the morning, depart from Xia County and follow the Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway to the Sijiao Ecological Tourism Area. There is a 25km-long canyon boardwalk where you can see the Heilongtan Waterfall, Emerald Valley streams, and thousand-year-old pine forests. With an average summer temperature of only about 18 °C, it is the last primitive forest in southern Shanxi. For lunch, have a farmhouse meal in Sijiao Town and try gouquan (a local pasta) with mutton heluo. In the afternoon, on the way back, stop by Luming Valley, which is located along the Yellow River No. 1 Highway, just a 10-minute drive from Xia County. The rainbow slide and bamboo swings are great for relaxing, and both adults and children can have fun. In the evening, buy some Wenxi boiled cakes as a souvenir (a provincial intangible cultural heritage snack that is "silver-wrapped gold and can be pulled into threads"), then head back at a leisurely pace. 💰 Budget Breakdown (Total approx. CNY 1,100–1,300) · Transportation (approx. CNY 100): The 102 intercity bus from Xia County to Yuncheng costs CNY 3–5 depending on the distance, with frequent departures. Taxi starting fares in the county are low; for trips to Duiyundong or Sima Guang Shrine, we recommend taking a taxi or ride-sharing, which costs about CNY 20–30 per trip. · Accommodation (approx. CNY 300): Economy hotels in Xia County cost about CNY 100–120/night. Xia County Xinxing Hotel is located in the city center, making it convenient for travel. If you want to soak in hot springs, you can stay at the Tianmu Xia Du Hot Spring Hotel, where private hot spring rooms cost about CNY 300–400/night. · Tickets (approx. CNY 130): Sima Guang Shrine CNY 40 + Duiyundong CNY 30 + Jiezhou Guandi Temple CNY 60. Yaotai Mountain, Salt Lake, Sijiao, and Luming Valley are basically free or have low minimum consumption. · Dining (approx. CNY 400): Prices in Xia County are affordable. Guan Gong pulled noodles cost a dozen yuan per bowl, mutton soup is about CNY 20–30 per person, and Yellow River carp is about CNY 50 per person. You can eat very comfortably for CNY 400 over 3 days. 🍜 Specialties · Guan Gong pulled noodles: The most representative pasta in Yuncheng. The noodles are thin, white, and chewy, served with pork lard and scallion soup—a very solid breakfast. · Wang Jian mutton soup: A time-honored brand in Jiezhou. The broth is boiled with ancient well water and served with crescent bread. The soup is rich and the meat is tender. · Wenxi boiled cakes: A provincial intangible cultural heritage snack. "Silver-wrapped gold and can be pulled into threads," sweet but not greasy, suitable as a souvenir. · Mutton hubu: Unleavened pancake strips stewed in mutton soup. Chewy and flavorful, an old taste from the Hedong Night Market. 💡 Practical Tips · Transportation: Driving yourself is the most convenient way to travel in Xia County. We recommend driving to attractions in towns like Duiyundong and Sijiao. If you are not driving, the 102 intercity bus is the most economical way to connect Yuncheng and Xia County. · Clothing: Both Duiyundong and Sijiao Ecological Area require walking, so wear non-slip, comfortable sports shoes. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so bring a light jacket. · Best season: Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. In spring, the cherry blossoms at Duiyundong are in full bloom; in autumn, the forests at Sijiao are ablaze with color. · Special note: Touching is prohibited in the stele area of Sima Guang Shrine; you can bring a notebook to copy the inscriptions. There is no signal in the canyon of Sijiao Ecological Area, so we recommend traveling with a companion. Starting from Xia County, 3 days is just enough to connect local culture, hot springs, and the Guandi Temple and Salt Lake around Yuncheng. It's an affordable, authentic, and solid short trip in southern Shanxi~

BHA. Mia 3008

Yuncheng | National Heritage Site: Tomb of Sima Guang (Xia County) & Pagoda of Chan Master Fanzhou

· Taxi or self-drive recommended · The Sima Guang Shrine scenic area is on the same route as Xinjiang (Jiangzhou Ancient City, Fusheng Temple, etc.). If you are driving or chartering a car, you can visit them in one day · Highlights of the Sima Guang Shrine scenic area: Apricot Blossom Stele, Yuqing Chan Temple (not photographed), and the Sima Guang Spirit Way Stele ✅ Tomb of Sima Guang, Song Dynasty, National Heritage Site (Batch 3) The central part of the tomb area is the shrine, the west is the cemetery, and the east is the Yuqing Chan Temple. There are 4 existing tombstones and 13 burial mounds in the cemetery. There are 8 stone statues on both sides in front of Sima Guang's tomb, and 20 stone statues on both sides in front of his son Sima Kang's tomb. There are 30 existing stone tablets from the Song, Jin, Yuan, Ming, Qing, and Republic of China eras. Additionally, there are 8 stone beasts from the Northern Wei Dynasty. The shrine was built in the Song Dynasty and expanded by Li Zuntang, the magistrate of Xia County, in the 27th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, with construction completed in the 39th year. It faces south, and along the central axis from south to north are the Apricot Blossom Stele Pavilion, east and west wing rooms, and the shrine. The Apricot Blossom Stele Pavilion currently houses the Apricot Blossom Stele, the stele for the reconstruction of the Apricot Blossom Stele Pavilion, and the tombstone of Sima Yi. The Apricot Blossom Stele was erected in the 3rd year of the Yuanyou reign of the Song Dynasty and was destroyed during the Shaosheng reign. In the 8th year of the Huangtong reign of the Jin Dynasty, Wang Tingzhi, the magistrate of Xia County, found the broken stele under an apricot tree. Admiring Sima Guang's political achievements and character, he found the original text at the homes of Sima Guang's great-grandnephews, Sima Zuo and Sima Tong, and had it re-engraved in the 9th year of the Huangtong reign, naming it the Apricot Blossom Stele. The stele is made of bluestone, rectangular in shape, with 68 lines of text across four stones, 41 characters per full line, recording Sima Guang's life achievements and profound knowledge. Yuqing Chan Temple is the incense temple for Sima Guang's ancestral cemetery. The existing Mahavira Hall is an original structure from the Song Dynasty. The Mahavira Hall faces south and has a brick foundation 0.88m high. It is 5 bays wide and 3 rafters deep, with a single-eave hanging mountain roof. The beam structure consists of 6-rafter purlins with 4-rafter beams paired with front breast-shaped beams spanning the eaves, supported by 3 columns. The column heads feature 4-bracket sets with a single cantilever arm, with no inter-column bracket sets. The central bay of the front eaves has double-leaf wooden doors with a plaque above inscribed with "Bie You Tian Di" (A World Apart). The side bays have straight-latticed windows and square stone column bases. Inside the hall are 19 colored sculptures, including the Buddhas of the Three Ages, Manjushri, Samantabhadra, and the Sixteen Arhats, as well as 1 wooden sculpture of a Dharma protector Vajra. All are original works from the Song Dynasty, repainted in the 5th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty. The Stele of Loyal and Pure Virtue is made of bluestone with a dragon-headed top and a tortoise-shaped base. Also known as the Sima Guang Spirit Way Stele, its header is inscribed with the seal script "Stele of Loyal and Pure Virtue." The title reads: "Spirit Way Stele of the Late Song Dynasty Justice Grand Master, Minister of the Left of the Department of State Affairs, concurrently Vice Minister of the Secretariat, Supreme Pillar of State, Founding Duke of Henei Commandery, with 4,100 households of fief and 1,500 households of honorary fief, posthumously awarded Grand Preceptor and Duke of Wen, with the posthumous name Wenzheng, Lord Sima." The inscription is in regular script, totaling 2,266 characters. The header was written by Emperor Zhezong of Song (Zhao Xu), the text by Su Shi, and the calligraphy by Zhu Shichang. The stele header and base are original Song Dynasty works, while the stele body was reproduced by Hedong Censor Zhu Shichang in the 3rd year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty. ✅ Pagoda of Chan Master Fanzhou, Tang Dynasty, National Heritage Site (Batch 5) Built in the 9th year of the Zhenyuan reign of the Tang Dynasty, with the tomb inscription engraved in the 2nd year of the Changqing reign. The north side of the pagoda body is embedded with a 1m high "Tomb Inscription of the Late Great Virtuous Chan Master Fanzhou of Baoguo Temple, Anyi County." It consists of three parts: the pagoda base, the pagoda body, and the pagoda spire, with each part accounting for about one-third of the total height. The pagoda base is circular and tapers slightly from bottom to top. The lower part of the pagoda body is a waist-constricted Sumeru pedestal. Above it is the pagoda body, surrounded by 8 square brick columns that divide the body into 8 bays. The upper pagoda eaves extend outward with corbelled brickwork, and the outer edges of the two layers are carved into imitation wood-structure rafters, flying rafters, and drip tiles. The pagoda spire is decorated with stacked elements including a binding band, an inverted bowl, inverted lotus petals, upright lotus petals, and a precious pearl. Sima Guang Shrine scenic area

MysticEclipse44vfad

🏛️ The Stele Pavilion of Sima Wengong Shrine | A Monument Across Dynasties

Standing in the square of Sima Wengong Shrine, the Stele Pavilion preserves a remarkable meeting of Song-dynasty heritage and Ming-dynasty craftsmanship. First established in the early Jiajing reign of the Ming dynasty, the pavilion was later rebuilt in brick, crowned by a double-eaved roof with sweeping hip-and-gable lines. Within it stands a monumental stele nearly nine metres tall, its imposing scale reflecting the esteem in which the celebrated Song historian and statesman Sima Guang was held. The stele’s history is especially fascinating. Its carved crown and massive bixi tortoise pedestal are original Northern Song relics, while the six characters “忠清粹德之碑” — commemorating loyalty, integrity and exemplary virtue — were written in imperial seal script by Emperor Zhezong of Song. The stele body and inscription were reproduced during the Ming dynasty, with the text recarved from an earlier rubbing of the original composition by Su Shi. Thus, the monument preserves more than a single historical moment: original Song-dynasty components and Ming-dynasty reproductions coexist within one remarkable structure. Look closely, and the pavilion becomes a lesson in how history survives. Stone, calligraphy and architecture carry memories across centuries, even as later generations restore, reproduce and reinterpret the legacy of those who came before. 📍 Stele Pavilion, Sima Wengong Shrine, Xia County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, China 🇨🇳 📸 Photography Tip: Photograph the pavilion from a low angle to convey the monument’s impressive height. Include the roofline and bixi pedestal in separate detail shots to highlight the contrast between architectural form and ancient stone carving. ✨ Signature Feeling: Standing before a monument where the craftsmanship of different dynasties preserves one enduring legacy. Dynasties change, stone endures, and the words of history continue to speak.

Emily101

Curated one-day itinerary for ancient architecture in Yuncheng

Sima Guang Temple in Xia County, Yuncheng | The ultimate immersive Song Dynasty-inspired guide✨ Don't just visit the Salt Lake when you come to Yuncheng, Shanxi! Hidden in Xia County, Sima Guang Temple is a truly underrated, niche treasure🌿 Free from the crowds and commercialization, it features courtyards of Song Dynasty architecture, thousand-year-old stone tablets, and tranquil Zen temples. Every step is history, gentle and healing. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, taking photos, learning something new, family trips, relaxing, or cultural travel! ✅Address: Xiaochao Village, Shuitou Town, Xia County, Yuncheng City (on Mingtiao Ridge, 13 km northwest of the county seat) ✅Admission: ¥30/person, great value ✅Opening hours: Summer: 8:30 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM) Winter: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM ✅Duration: 1.5–2 hours, relaxed and unhurried 🚗Transportation guide ▫️Driving: Search for "Sima Guang Temple" directly. The attraction has a free parking lot and good road conditions. It takes 40 minutes from downtown Yuncheng ▫️Public transport: Take a local bus from Xia County to Shuitou Town, then a short taxi ride directly to the site. Convenient and hassle-free 🌟5 must-visit highlights (for beginners) 1. Apricot Blossom Stele Pavilion | The star attraction📜 The essence of the entire site! It houses the spirit way stele with an inscription written by Su Shi himself, showcasing incredible calligraphy. The stele was once broken and buried under an apricot tree. After a thousand years, it has been restored. The inscription is weathered and profound. If you love calligraphy and history, be sure to take a close look—the atmosphere will transport you straight back to the Song Dynasty. 2. Wengong Ancestral Hall An antique hall housing statues of five people from four generations of the Sima family, with a neat and symmetrical layout. Here, you can learn about Sima Guang's entire life—not just as the "boy who smashed the vat" from textbooks, but as the legendary prime minister who spent 19 years compiling the Zizhi Tongjian. 3. Yuqing Zen Temple An ancient Zen temple built in the Northern Song Dynasty, featuring blue bricks, old trees, and tranquil courtyards. It's quiet and uncrowded. The breeze through the courtyard is healing, making it perfect for taking atmospheric photos in traditional style. Every shot is a winner📸 4. Sima Family Ancestral Cemetery Lush vegetation and towering ancient cypresses create a quiet and solemn atmosphere. Far from the hustle and bustle, walking along the forest trails allows you to truly feel the weight of history. 5. Immersive live performance💫 A major hidden perk! The attraction hosts the "Jing Zhi Guang · Lian Zhi Lv" (Light of the Mirror · Journey of Integrity) live performance daily at 3:00 PM, free with your admission ticket. It recreates classic stories like Sima Guang smashing the vat, studying with a log pillow, and selling a horse with integrity. You can even change into Song Dynasty costumes for free to participate. Both adults and children will love it! 💡Travel tips 1. We recommend going in the afternoon! The light is soft, perfect for photos of ancient architecture, and you'll avoid the midday sun 2. If you're bringing children, be sure to watch the performance. It's a fun way to learn history and easier to understand than reading books 3. The entire route is flat with no climbing, making it stress-free for seniors and children 4. There is plenty of shade in the courtyards, making it very comfortable to visit in early autumn—a great place to escape the heat and take the kids out

AnniinaLaaksonen

Shanxi Xia County Yaotai Mountain guide | Few people, beautiful scenery, top weekend spot for relaxing

If you want an easy, short hike that won't tire you out and usually has few visitors, Yaotai Mountain in Xia County, Yuncheng, Shanxi, is just right⛰️. This local, little‑known healing landscape is a favorite among residents: no long travel, no intense climbing, and you can easily reach a high vantage point for panoramic views, making it perfect for a weekend unwind. Yaotai Mountain, also called Wuxian Mountain, is one of Xia County's traditional "eight ancient scenic spots." It backs onto the rolling Zhongtiao Mountains and sits beside the clear Baisha River. Historically it's been a popular place to climb, enjoy the moon, and quietly pray, and it has long cultural stories that add depth to its elegant scenery. Whether you're taking kids out, traveling as a couple, or seeking solo stress relief, it fits well. The scenic area is very convenient to reach. It’s located in Yaofeng Town, Xia County, only about 2 km from the county seat, so whether you drive or take a short trip you won't waste time on the road. Opening hours vary by season. The busy season runs from early April through October and is 7:00 AM–8:00 PM, with climbing stopped at 7:00 PM. The low season, from November through March, is a bit shorter: it opens at 7:30 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, and you can't start climbing after 5:00 PM. Plan your visit accordingly. Ticket prices are very affordable: adult tickets are CNY 20, students get half price at CNY 10, and children under 1.2m, people 60 and older, military personnel, and credentialed journalists enter free. Parking at the scenic area is also free, making the value excellent and ideal for everyday outings✅. You can choose how to get there. If you drive, navigate to Yaotai Mountain Scenic Area—there's a spacious parking lot at the foot of the mountain with plenty of spaces. If you don't want to drive, a taxi from Xia County's town center takes only around 10–15 minutes to reach the entrance, so getting there is hassle free. The whole trail is gentle and easy. The path is paved with stone steps and isn't steep, so elders and children can complete it comfortably. The typical route follows the entrance past Taoran Pavilion, Boya Pavilion, and Leishen Cave, gradually ascending to Wangyue Pavilion and finally reaching the iconic nine‑story Wenfeng Tower at the summit to complete the trip. The pavilions along the way are perfect spots to rest, so walking slowly and sightseeing is especially pleasant. The 43‑meter Wenfeng Tower is the main highlight and a must‑check point on Yaotai Mountain. The nine‑story ancient tower is full of classical charm and blends Buddhist and Taoist cultural elements. From the top you can overlook the entire city of Xia County—it's a wide, soothing view and every snapshot looks like a great photo. I highly recommend visiting between 3:00–5:00 PM, when the light is soft and comfortable—not too hot or harsh—making photos look great. In the evening you may also experience the famous "Yaotai night moon" scene, with gentle breezes and peaceful moonlight that creates an incredible atmosphere🌙. You don't need to rush your visit—walk slowly and enjoy the scenery. A full visit takes about 1–2 hours, which is just enough to stretch your legs and fully relax, leaving daily fatigue and anxiety behind. As a lesser‑known scenic area, it avoids crowds and overcommercialization. The quiet woods and fresh air make you feel far from the city noise right away. At the top you can tie prayer ribbons—many locals come to make wishes and pray for safety and healing. A few practical tips: temperatures in the mountains can drop in the evening, so bring a light jacket. The trail is gentle and easy to walk, so you don't need special gear—travel light. Walk slowly and take lots of photos to fully immerse yourself in the scenery. You don't have to go far to find beauty—this nearby mountain landscape is healing enough. On a free weekend, consider a trip to Yaotai Mountain to climb, breathe fresh air, and relax; a simple short trip can heal a long stretch of fatigue.

atticushawthorne93

I thought Taiyuan was beautiful enough, until I visited Xia County in Shanxi.

After visiting historical sites for a long time, I prefer going to less crowded, non-tourist national heritage sites, as the experience is much better. This time, I visited Xia County in the suburbs of Yuncheng, Shanxi. It's only about a half-hour drive from downtown Yuncheng, making it perfect for a road trip. In recent years, the historical tour routes in Wanrong, Jishan, and Xinjiang, north of Yuncheng, have become increasingly well-developed. However, Xia County, which is closer to Yuncheng, remains very niche—so much so that it's hard to find a public restroom during a day trip. However, when I stood quietly in front of the exquisite ancient architecture, these minor inconveniences didn't matter anymore. Historical site recommendations: P1–P3, Shangfeng Goddess Temple: As soon as I walked in, I was amazed by the magnificence of the Ming Dynasty incense pavilion and the pavilion-style colored sculptures in the Yuan Dynasty Goddess Hall. P4–P6, Qiangxia Guandi Temple: Known as the rural Guandi temple to visit, this is a complex of Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. P7–P9, Sima Wengong Shrine: The Yuqing Zen Temple inside is the highlight, featuring rare official-style architecture from the Northern Song Dynasty. P10, Xia County Confucian Temple: A model of Ming Dynasty architecture that survived the Jiajing earthquake. It features a seven-bay wide facade, with extremely ornate column-head dougong brackets and glazed gable decorations. P11–P12, Duiyundong: A Taoist architectural marvel nestled in the loess gullies. It combines houses built on top of houses, caves hidden within caves, and the cradle of the revolution in southern Shanxi, blending nature and culture. P13–P15, Qiu Family Stone Archway: A collection of stone carving art from the Tongzhi and Guangxu eras of the Qing Dynasty. It consists of a stone archway and five stele pavilions, featuring exquisite carved couplets and reliefs. P16, Dayang Taishan Temple: A Yuan Dynasty original main hall hidden within the village.

ExpeditionEnthusiast#7

The weight of history and the tranquility of Buddhism – Sima Wengong Ancestral Hall

⑩ Sima Guang Ancestral Hall On Mingtiao Hill, towering pines and cypresses stand tall, their thousand-year-old cultural heritage flowing silently within. The tombs of Sima Guang and his ancestors and descendants stand solemnly, their stone beasts silent, guarding the enduring achievements of Sima Wenzheng Gong. The most moving feature of the ancestral hall is undoubtedly the "Stele of Loyalty, Integrity, and Pure Virtue," personally inscribed by Su Shi. In his more than two thousand characters of regular script, Su Zizhan etched the integrity of his close friend onto the stone, each character as powerful as thunder, revealing the profound depth of their friendship. Turning past the stele pavilion, the Yuqing Zen Temple reveals a different world. Inside, a large Song Dynasty painted clay Buddha sits serenely on a lotus pedestal, the Arhats displaying various expressions, their robes exuding a simple, ancient Zen spirit. Here, the weight of history and the tranquility of the Buddhist realm blend quietly, allowing visitors to find peace while paying homage to the sages of the past. ⑩ Sima Guang Ancestral Hall On Mingtiao Hill, towering pines and cypresses stand tall, their thousand-year-old cultural heritage flowing silently. The tombs of Sima Guang and his ancestors and descendants stand solemnly, stone beasts standing silent, guarding the enduring achievements of Sima Wenzheng Gong. The most moving feature of the ancestral hall is undoubtedly the "Stele of Loyalty, Integrity, and Pure Virtue," personally inscribed by Su Shi. In his more than two thousand characters of regular script, Su Zizhan engraved the integrity of his close friend on stone, each character as powerful as thunder, fully demonstrating the depth of their gentlemanly friendship. Turning past the stele pavilion, Yuqing Zen Temple reveals a different world. Inside the hall, a large Song Dynasty painted clay Buddha sits serenely on a lotus pedestal, the Arhats displaying various expressions, their robes exuding a simple and ancient Zen spirit. Here, the weight of history and the tranquility of the Buddhist realm quietly blend, allowing visitors to find peace while paying homage to the sages of the past.

Owen Martinez

Shangfeng Shengmu Temple in Xia County: a hidden Yuan dynasty suspended sculpture secret deep in an ancient village

The countryside of Xia County, Yuncheng, Shanxi, is never short of understated ancient architectural treasures. In Shangfeng Village, Nianzhang Town, lies a little-known national treasure temple—the Shangfeng Shengmu Temple. It has no bustling crowds or elaborate commercial packaging. Quietly standing among the village homes, it preserves the authentic Yuan and Ming dynasty architecture and stunning suspended clay sculptures, making it a niche spot cherished by ancient architecture enthusiasts. It quietly tells the story of over 700 years of local culture and heritage. Shangfeng Shengmu Temple is located in the heart of Shangfeng Ancient Village, Nianzhang Town, Xia County. Surrounded by simple farmhouses and green trees, it sits on flat, open land in a peaceful and serene environment. The temple was originally built in the Song dynasty and has been repaired multiple times during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Today, it fully retains the Yuan dynasty main hall and the Ming dynasty incense pavilion, two core ancient structures, making it a living architectural fossil spanning three dynasties. The entire temple faces south with a compact and elegant layout. It sheds the grandeur of famous temples and gains the rustic simplicity and warmth of rural ancient architecture, blending the charm of everyday life with historic grace, creating a particularly soothing atmosphere. The main travel highlight of this niche temple is the rare Yuan dynasty architecture and exquisite suspended sculptures. The most precious Shengmu Hall was built in the third year of the Yuan dynasty’s Yanyou era, over 700 years ago, and is an authentic original Yuan dynasty structure. The main hall features a single-eave hanging gable roof with a simple and grand design, embodying the bold and unrefined style of Yuan architecture. Inside, the rare octagonal stone pillars stand straight and tall, with clean lines on the capitals. The beam and frame structure is concise and sturdy, with four purlins arranged along the eaves, perfectly restoring the Yuan dynasty wood construction techniques. It is a valuable specimen for studying Yuan dynasty architecture in southern Shanxi. The most stunning feature is the suspended palace-style sculptures on the two gable walls inside the hall, which are the temple’s highlight. The delicate and intricate pavilion shapes float in midair on the walls, with layered, exquisite, and translucent details that are complex and lifelike. Paired with the rustic dragon patterns, landscapes, and figure paintings on the walls, though weathered by centuries of wind and rain, they remain vivid and lively, fully showcasing the beauty of Chinese three-dimensional sculpture. The Ming dynasty eight-trigram incense pavilion in front of the hall is also a major attraction. The pavilion is transparent and delicate, with glazed edges in warm colors. The bracket sets are neatly arranged, and the shape is elegant and lively. It contrasts with the heavy and rustic Yuan dynasty main hall, combining the architectural aesthetics of the Yuan and Ming dynasties perfectly with one simple and one intricate structure. For centuries, this ancient temple has accumulated rich local folk culture from southern Shanxi. Shengmu Temple has long been a sacred place for locals to pray for blessings and protection. In the hearts of villagers, the Shengmu protects the area’s favorable weather and seasonal peace. For hundreds of years, generations of villagers have guarded the ancient temple and kept the incense burning. During festivals, the village holds simple sacrificial and blessing ceremonies, continuing the pure folk beliefs. It is not only an ancient building but also a spiritual symbol of stability and continuity for Shangfeng Ancient Village, carrying the most authentic folk cultural heritage of southern Shanxi’s countryside. Finally, here is a practical travel tip. Shangfeng Shengmu Temple is a free national protected site with no commercial consumption. It is quiet and niche, suitable for ancient architecture lovers, short study trips, and travelers who enjoy slow, relaxing visits. The site is suitable for visiting year-round. In spring and summer, green trees surround the ancient buildings, creating an especially peaceful atmosphere. A full visit takes about an hour. It is recommended to slow down and carefully observe the Yuan dynasty woodwork details, exquisite suspended sculptures, and ancient painted murals to fully immerse yourself in the craftsmanship of the ancient architecture. Please be sure to protect the cultural relics during your visit—do not touch or carve the ancient sites to preserve this precious Yuan and Ming heritage. One courtyard holds three dynasties, one sculpture reveals a millennium. Shangfeng Shengmu Temple holds the purest beauty of rural ancient architecture. Avoid the crowds and come here to encounter the understated yet breathtaking charm of a thousand-year-old heritage.

Extravagant 5 Wanderlust

I discovered Shanxi’s version of the "Little Potala Palace"! A hidden fairyland on the loess plateau

🔥 A millennium-old secret hidden in the loess ravines! Finally checked in at this "Little Potala Palace"❗️ 🌫️ Be sure to visit after rain for the magical sea of clouds Rich in cultural heritage and perfect for photo ops 💯 🏞️【Duiyun Cave at a glance】 📍 Location: Shangniu Village, Shuitou Town, Xia County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi (about 25 km from the county seat) 🎫 Ticket: 30 yuan per person (half price for students | free for 60 and older) ⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) ⏳ Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours 🚗 Transportation: Self-driving recommended, navigate to "Duiyun Cave" · From Yuncheng city center: 1 hour · From Xia County seat: 30 minutes 🅿️ Free parking available ✨ Reasons to visit: 1️⃣ A living fossil of Yuan dynasty Taoist architecture 2️⃣ A true earthly fairyland with mist and clouds after rain 3️⃣ Architecture resembling the Potala Palace 4️⃣ Newly designated national protected site since 2019 5️⃣ Few crowds, beautiful scenery, no lines! 📌 Tips: ▫️ Best viewed on rainy, foggy mornings ▫️ Bring a tripod for stunning photos ▫️ Remember an umbrella for sun protection in summer ▫️ Bring snacks if exploring remote areas I was truly amazed by this hidden fairyland! Friends in Shanxi, come check it out~💖

KENZIE LAWRENCE

What people are saying about Xia County

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Duiyun Cave

The winding mountain path leading to Duiyun Cave resembles a dragon or snake, every stone step soaked with sweat and anticipation. Upon reaching the cave, a sip of spring tea instantly washes away weariness with a gentle breeze.

andylinda

Si Ma Gong Memorial Area

Sima Wengong Ancestral Hall (Third Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units) Built in the second year of the Zhiping era of the Song Dynasty (1065), it commemorates the family of Sima Guang, a politician, historian, and prime minister of the Northern Song Dynasty. Sima Guang (November 17, 1019 – October 11, 1086), courtesy name Junshi, sobriquet Yusou, commonly known as Mr. Sushui, Passed the imperial examination at the age of twenty and served under four emperors: Renzong, Yingzong, Shenzong, and Zhezong, reaching the highest position of Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel (equivalent to prime minister). Opposed Wang Anshi's reforms and devoted himself to writing the *Zizhi Tongjian*. After Zhezong ascended the throne, he served as prime minister in his later years, but unfortunately died after only eight months. Emperor Zhezong commissioned Grand Academician Su Shi to write the inscription and personally inscribed the plaque "Stele of Loyalty, Integrity, and Pure Virtue." Yuqing Zen Temple Main Hall Built in the second year of the Zhiping era of the Northern Song Dynasty (1065), it served as the ancestral shrine and incense hall for Sima Guang. In the eighth year of the Yuanfeng reign (1085), Emperor Shenzong bestowed the name "Yuqing Chan Temple" upon it. The existing main hall has five bays in width and six bays in depth, with a single-eave gable roof, retaining the characteristics of Song Dynasty architecture. Fine Song Dynasty sculptures. The stele inscribed "Imperial Decree Granting Yuqing Chan Temple" clearly shows the Yuanfeng reign title.

Anonymous user

Yuncheng Museum

The artifacts in the Yuncheng Museum are undoubtedly excellent and well worth seeing. The various statues of Guan Yu from different eras and styles are particularly noteworthy. The only area for improvement is the lack of a single elevator. I had walked a lot before and my legs were sore, so I used a wheelchair. However, when I visited, the museum's only elevator was under repair. Fortunately, I'm not truly disabled and could stand up and walk a few steps to take the escalator to the second and third floors. Someone completely unable to stand would likely only be able to explore the first floor. I believe that a national first-class museum should have at least two elevators.

zhongling77

Yuncheng Salt Lake

Good place, absolutely no crowded in week day, delicious ala carte dinner. Very relaxing experience, but waiting for massage or etc was long, I skipped this experience

trvelone

Tianmu · Xiadu Hot Spring Spa Center

The environment was nice, the water was clean, and the children played and frolicked in the water. It was a very happy vacation!

Anonymous user

Chishen Temple

After climbing the steps inside the Pond God Temple, you can see the salt lake in the distance. Animals can still be seen everywhere in the scenic area. From the Pond God Temple, you can walk to the museum and the city wall.

FFFfreya.

Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum

We were very excited about this activity and decided to get a Didi there and arrive between 230-330. There were still plenty of tour groups but we took it easy and pit 1 at 4:30 was INCREDIBLE! Even with crowds people move on quickly and we never had an issue seeing what we wanted and getting photos. This is an amazing place to visit and the scale of it is mindblowing honestly. I would note that after you leave you exit via a huge area with food and souvenirs, almost like a small town. There are so many options and everything is cheaper than in the main complex. Not sure why noone mentions it. You can get souvenirs for a quarter of the price of the souvenirs inside and you will have to leave via this exit so cant miss it. 100% recommend as a great way to spend a few hours!

Lynsiejane

Yuncheng Salt Lake

There are fewer people than expected, the environment is very good, the service is in place, and it is interesting. If I have the opportunity to go again, I will consider staying in a hotel there. Oh, by the way, the mudflats at the door are really smelly... It is recommended that the scenic area be cleaned up

cocoliu4139

Shaanxi History Museum

My trip to the Shaanxi History Museum was made possible by the wonderful explanations given by our guide, Ms. June. Her profound knowledge and engaging approach, rather than simply reciting from a textbook, transformed each artifact into a captivating and accessible narrative, clearly outlining the historical timeline of the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties. Her lively and engaging explanations, coupled with her patient answers to questions, brought the millennia-old relics to life. What was initially a rushed visit became an immersive historical journey. Highly recommended!

_M1***71

Xia County FAQ

What currency is used in Xia County?

The standard currency in Xia County is CNY

How do I exchange currency in Xia County?

Current exchange rate approx.: EUR ≈7.5CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.