2026 Lin County Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Luliang and northern Shaanxi, an eight-day journey through time! The historical charm of Pingyao Ancient City, the artistic treasures of Yungang Grottoes, the tranquility and peace of Mount Wutai, as well as Wang Family Courtyard, Hanging Temple and other highlights are waiting for you to explore. Don’t miss the magical ice cave in Yunqiu Mountain and the ancient village style in Talpo. The magnificence of Hukou Waterfall and the mystery of Yucha and Bolang Valley are waiting for you to discover! -------- 🚩Route arrangement: D1: Depart from Shanghai ✈️ arrive in Yulin, then take a bus 🚍 to Qikou to start your trip to northern Shanxi! D2: Explore the mystery of the Black Dragon Temple - stroll through the quaint streets of Lijiashan Village - climb up to Yanmen Pass and feel the vicissitudes of history. D3: Visit the Yungang Grottoes and appreciate the beauty of Buddhist art - go to the Hanging Temple and experience the architectural miracle on the cliff. D4: Pilgrimage to Mount Wutai, a spiritual journey - visit the Wuye Temple and pray for peace - visit the Jin Temple Museum and explore the culture of the Three Jins. D5: Travel through Pingyao Ancient City and appreciate its charm - visit the Shanxi Wang Family Courtyard and experience the grandeur of the Shanxi merchants' mansions. D6: In-depth tour of Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area, the fusion of nature and humanity - explore the Yunqiu Mountain ice caves, the cool world in summer - be shocked by the majestic momentum of Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River in Shanxi. D7: Walk into Ganquan Grand Canyon and explore the wonders of nature. D8: The last day is reserved for the fantastic scenery of Wave Valley, ending this unforgettable trip to northern Shanxi! 🌈 -------- Must-see attractions: 🌟 Pingyao Ancient City 🌟🌟 Address: Kangning Road, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: Open all day Duration: 1-2 days The Shanxi merchants’ culture is rich in atmosphere. You can feel the weight of history by strolling through the ancient city. The night view is even more charming, as if you have traveled through time and space back to the bustling ancient market. 🌳 Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area 🌟🌟 Address: Dahe Village, Guanwangmiao Township, Xiangning County, Linfen City Opening hours: 08:00-17:00 Duration: 1-2 days This place is known as a natural oxygen bar where three religions converge. Come to Yunqiu Mountain to feel the freshness and tranquility of nature and relax your body and mind. 🏞️ Yungang Grottoes 🌟🌟 Address: No. 1, Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: 08:30-16:30 Play time: 3-4 hours The Yungang Grottoes integrate the artistic features of ancient seals, the Western Regions and various ethnic groups in the Central Plains. Every carving is meticulously detailed, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient art. -------- Travel checklist: 🧳 You must bring these when visiting Luliang! 👕 Clothing: Mainly spring and autumn clothing, bring a thick coat to prevent cold at night. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, so you can walk anywhere without worries! 🎩 Accessories: hats and sunglasses, sun protection and fashion. The backpack should be light enough to hold your curiosities and gadgets. 📲 Electronics: mobile phones, power banks, and taking photos as souvenirs. If possible, bring a camera to be more professional! 💳 ID wallet: Mainland China ID card, cash, bank cards, safety first, don’t forget! 🧴 Daily necessities: Sunscreen is a must, the sun is bright in March but don’t get sunburned. Bring some common medicines with you, just in case. 🍞 Food: Prepare some dry food and water, don’t panic if you get hungry or thirsty in the scenic area. Okay, that’s all! Luliang is waiting for you, let’s go! 🚀 -------- Touring in Luliang with a group is so relaxing and fun! Don’t forget to like and collect this post. Next time you travel, follow the guide and you won’t get lost! 🚩

In the ancient land of Shanxi, time is like a gentle painter, leaving countless treasures behind. Authentic villages and ancient buildings are scattered like pearls across the land, having withstood the test of time for hundreds or even thousands of years. ✔️Qikou Ancient Town Located in Linxian County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province, Qikou Ancient Town is situated on the banks of the Yellow River and was once an important birthplace of Jin merchants. The ancient town is built along the mountains and rivers, with buildings arranged in an orderly manner, as if telling the story of its past prosperity. Strolling along the bluestone road, you can feel the simplicity and tranquility, as if you have traveled back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. ✔️Lijiashan Village Lijiashan Village, located next to Qikou Ancient Town, is an authentic Ming and Qing village. The residential buildings here vary in shape, from luxurious Qing dynasty residences to ordinary cave dwellings, and have existed silently on the land of Shanxi for hundreds of years. Standing at a high point and looking out, the mountains and buildings blend perfectly, with rows of cave dwellings stacked layer upon layer, creating a magnificent scene. This is also the "paradise" depicted by the painter Wu Guanzhong. Walking into Lijiashan Village is like stepping into an ink painting, making it hard to leave. ✔️Fencheng Ancient Architecture Complex "Golden Xiangling, Silver Taiping," the ancient buildings of Fencheng. Fencheng Town is located in Xiangfen County, Linfen City, and was formerly known as Taiping County, with a history dating back to the Tang dynasty. There are currently 12 sites and over 40 buildings from the Jin to Qing dynasties. The entire architectural complex is centered around the Drum Tower, with precious buildings such as the City God Temple, Confucian Temple, and Minglun Temple arranged in sequence. Here, you can stroll through the "cluster" of ancient buildings and encounter the accumulation of thousands of years of history. In Shanxi, time seems to slow down, and the traces of the years are particularly moving. When you slow down and take the time to appreciate the ancient architectural relics that have been gently treated by time, you will deeply understand the preciousness of Shanxi.

🌟Must-Visit Core Attractions (Top Picks in Western Shanxi) [One]- Qikou Ancient Town: "The First Town of the Winding Yellow River," free to explore Ming and Qing dynasty cave dwellings, climb Heilon Temple to hear the roar of the Yellow River, and the Lijia Mountain cave dwellings are known as the "Potala Palace of the Loess Plateau." [Two]- North Wudang Mountain: Famous Taoist mountain in the north, the main peak Xianglu Peak is 1983 meters high, with strange pines and rocks, enjoy the sea of clouds from the summit, and the apricot blossoms and red leaves in spring and autumn are stunning. [Three]- Fenjiu Cultural Scenic Area: The birthplace of light aroma type baijiu, free admission, the museum showcases brewing techniques and offers tastings of 62° original mash liquor, and the DIY brewing experience is super fun. [Four]- Pangquangou Nature Reserve: The largest primeval forest in North China, summer rafting and autumn leaf viewing, habitat of the brown eared pheasant, a natural summer resort and oxygen bar. [Five]- Caijiaya Memorial Hall: Free red education base, former capital of the Jin-Sui border area, houses thousands of revolutionary relics, deeply immersive anti-Japanese war stories. 🌿Hidden Gems (Locals’ Secret Spots) [Six]- The First Bend of the Yellow River: The Yellow River makes a 360-degree big turn at Shilou section, climb the viewing platform for a panoramic shot of "Qiankun Bay," a must for photography lovers. [Seven]- Guashan Scenic Tourism Area: Mountain shaped like the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), thousand-year-old cypress trees complement Tianning Temple, climb to overlook the entire Jiaocheng County, full of Zen atmosphere. [Eight]- Millennium Tourism Scenic Area: The second largest subalpine meadow in North China, suitable for camping, horseback riding, and fishing, a niche getaway from the city. [Nine]- Lvliang North Wudang Ancient Weapons Museum: Free to explore a millennium of weapon history, from bronze swords to cannons, a paradise for history enthusiasts. 🍜Taste of Lvliang · Food Recommendations [MealCover]- Signature Dishes: Yellow River carp (Qikou steamed/braised), Zhongyang pine nut lamb (salt-fried without gamey taste), Lanxian potato feast (108 potato dishes), Xingxian hot soup (dumplings + vermicelli + lamb broth). [Taro]- Specialty Snacks: Liulin rice balls (sour, spicy, and chewy), Youmian Kaolaolao noodles (served with minced lamb), Xiaoyi fire-baked bread (crispy and flaky), Chao’e (potato mash mixed grain product). [IceCream]- Popular Food Spots: Liulin Rice Ball Street, Lishi Pedestrian Street Night Market, Qikou Ancient Town Yellow River Carp Restaurant, Lijia Coarse Grain Restaurant (top choice for pine nut lamb). [Tea]- Souvenirs: Fenjiu / Zhuyeqing liquor, Jiaocheng Duijin (intangible cultural heritage crafts), sea buckthorn juice/oil, Lvliang Minjian noodles (instant pack). 🏨Unique Hotels & 🛏️Accommodation Options 🏡Characteristic Homestays (Full of Atmosphere) - Qikou Inn: Cave dwelling homestay by the Yellow River, fall asleep to the sound of waves, 2-minute walk to the main street of the ancient town, 200-400 RMB/night. - Xinghua Village Wine Culture Homestay: Immersive brewing experience including tasting activities, 5 minutes from Fenjiu Scenic Area, 300-500 RMB/night. - Millennium Tourism Scenic Area Meadow Homestay: Window views of the grassland, camping facilities available, try wild mountain vegetables, 250-450 RMB/night. 🏢High-end Comfortable (500-1000 RMB/night) - Lvliang Century Jinyuan Hotel: Located in the city center, well-equipped, ideal for business and family trips. - Pangquangou International Hunting Ground Hotel: Eco-friendly hotel near the nature reserve, perfect for summer vacation. - North Wudang Mountain Cuifeng Hotel: Taoist culture themed hotel, 1 km from the scenic area entrance, full of Zen vibes. 💵Budget-friendly (100-200 RMB/night) - Home Inn (Lvliang Lishi Century Plaza Branch): Near pedestrian street, free breakfast included, convenient transportation. - Shankeyou Hotel (Qikou Ancient Town Branch): High cost performance, walking distance to Heilon Temple, convenient parking. - Jiaocheng Xinyuan Express Hotel: Close to Guashan and Pangquangou, clean rooms, suitable for transit stays. 🚗Transportation Guide - External Transport ✈️: Taiyuan Wusu Airport → Lvliang Bus (80 RMB/person, 2.5 hours); no direct airport connection, transfer required. 🚄: High-speed rail direct to Lvliang Station / Fenyang Station / Xiaoyi Station, 1.5 hours from Taiyuan, 4 hours from Beijing. 🚗: Best by self-driving, Taihang No.1 Highway connects main attractions, 2 hours from Taiyuan, 5 hours from Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area. - Internal Transport 🚌: Dedicated buses from city to Qikou and Jiaocheng (15-30 RMB/person), infrequent, check schedule in advance. 🚗: Attractions are scattered, car rental about 150-200 RMB/day, private car recommended for Pangquangou and The First Bend of the Yellow River. 🚶: Ancient town and city attractions accessible by walking or shared bikes, flexible and convenient. 💰Scenic Area Ticket List (2026 Latest) Attraction Name Adult Ticket Half-price Ticket Free/Benefit Policy Qikou Ancient Town Free (main street) Free Heilon Temple 15 RMB, combo ticket 50 RMB (includes Lijia Mountain) North Wudang Mountain Peak Season 72 RMB / Off-season 48 RMB Peak Season 36 RMB / Off-season 24 RMB Students half price, seniors/military free Fenjiu Cultural Scenic Area Free (admission) Free Museum 50 RMB, guide fee 30 RMB Pangquangou Nature Reserve 50 RMB (park) 25 RMB Rafting 168 RMB (equipment included) Caijiaya Memorial Hall Free Free ID registration required, free guided tours on the hour Guashan Scenic Tourism Area 30 RMB 15 RMB Students half price, children under 1.2m free The First Bend of the Yellow River Free (viewing platform) Free Parking fee 10 RMB/vehicle Ancient Weapons Museum Free Free Closed Mondays, open 9:00-17:00 🗺️3-7 Day Travel Route Recommendations 📆3-Day Tour (Essence Compact｜Yellow River + Culture) - Day1: Qikou Ancient Town (explore old street + Lijia Mountain cave dwellings) → Heilon Temple sunset viewing → Stay at Qikou Inn - Day2: North Wudang Mountain (hiking and cloud sea viewing + Xuantian Hall) → Chao’e lunch → Stay in Lvliang city - Day3: Fenjiu Cultural Scenic Area (tasting + brewing experience) → Xiaoyi fire-baked bread lunch → Buy souvenirs and return 📆5-Day Tour (In-depth Experience｜Nature + Red History) - Day1: Arrive in Lvliang → Settle in city → Lishi Pedestrian Street night market snacks - Day2: Full day at Qikou Ancient Town → Night tour of Yellow River → Stay in cave homestay - Day3: The First Bend of the Yellow River → Caijiaya Memorial Hall → Stay in Xingxian - Day4: Pangquangou Nature Reserve (hiking + rafting) → Stay in Jiaocheng County - Day5: Guashan → Fenjiu Cultural Scenic Area → Return 📆7-Day Tour (Leisurely Slow Travel｜Full Coverage) - Day1-Day5: Same as 5-day tour (add 1-2 hours daily free time for village photography, intangible cultural heritage experiences) - Day6: Millennium Tourism Scenic Area (meadow camping + horseback riding) → Wild vegetable dinner → Stay at scenic area homestay - Day7: Ancient Weapons Museum → Liulin Rice Ball Street → City shopping for souvenirs → Return 💰Travel Budget Reference (Per Person｜2026 Latest) - 3-Day Tour: 1100-1400 RMB (2 nights accommodation about 400 RMB + tickets about 200 RMB + meals 350 RMB + transport 250 RMB + miscellaneous 100 RMB) - 5-Day Tour: 1800-2200 RMB (4 nights accommodation about 700 RMB + tickets about 350 RMB + meals 600 RMB + transport 350 RMB + miscellaneous 150 RMB) - 7-Day Tour: 2600-3100 RMB (6 nights accommodation about 1000 RMB + tickets about 450 RMB + meals 800 RMB + transport 500 RMB + miscellaneous 200 RMB) ⚠️Travel Tips [Sun]- Ticket Booking: For North Wudang Mountain and Pangquangou peak season, it is recommended to book in advance via the "Lvliang Culture & Tourism" WeChat official account; free attractions require ID registration. [Cloud]- Dressing Advice: Mountain area temperature difference over 15℃ between day and night, wear non-slip shoes for North Wudang hiking, bring change of clothes for Pangquangou rafting; thick down jackets needed in winter. [CloudToOvercast]- Avoid Scams: Ask prices first for brewing experiences and horseback riding in scenic areas; buy Fenjiu only from official stores to avoid fakes. [OvercastSky]- Folk Taboos: Maintain solemnity at Caijiaya Memorial Hall, no loud noises or photography; get residents’ permission before photographing ancient villages. [Cloudy]- Other Tips: Self-driving involves many tunnels and curves, fill up gas in advance; best autumn scenery in September-October, don’t miss Qikou sunset, arrive early to secure viewing spots. Like this travel guide? Like and follow, leave a comment telling me which sights you want to see, and I’ll explore them for you‼️‼️

Recently, Qikou Ancient Town, located 50 kilometers south of Lin County in Shanxi Province, has welcomed a winter spectacle. On the wide river surface of the Yellow River Jinshan Grand Canyon, a vast expanse of white ice formations of various sizes cluster and collide, flowing downstream. These ice formations, together with the timeworn buildings of the thousand-year-old town and the vast distant mountains, create a magnificent natural painting. Qikou Ancient Town is a famous historical and cultural town in China, and Xiwang Village within the town is recognized as a famous historical and cultural village. Surrounded by mountains and water, where the Yellow River meets Qiu River, with Wo Hu Mountain stretching across the north of the town and Heilong Temple standing tall to the east of the river, it forms a magnificent scene known as "Tiger Roaring on the Yellow River, Dragon Chanting at Qikou." Visitors can stroll through the ancient town, feel the weight of history and the grandeur of nature, experience the unique winter charm of ice formations reflecting the distant mountains, and gain a sense of tranquility and awe. Come to Qikou Ancient Town and check in to this stunning winter scenery!

Lijia Mountain Village, located in Qikou Town, Lin County, Lüliang City, Shanxi Province, is a unique historical and cultural village. Here is a travel guide: Transportation Guide • Self-driving: From Taiyuan, take the Pinglin Expressway and Hubei Expressway to the Qikou exit, then proceed to Lijia Mountain Village. The journey takes about 3.5 hours. You can navigate to "Lijia Mountain Village Observation Deck Parking Lot," and parking is free. From Lüliang city center, take the Liqi Line, which takes about 2 hours. • Public Transportation: From Taiyuan West Bus Station, take the "Taiyuan-Qikou" long-distance bus (about 3 hours, 80 RMB/person). After arriving at Qikou Town, transfer to a "Cun Cun Tong" (village-to-village) minivan (about 20 minutes to Lijia Mountain Village, 10 RMB/person). Alternatively, from Lin County seat, take the "Lin County-Qikou" minibus (about 1 hour), then transfer to a minivan. Tickets and Opening Hours • Tickets: The core combo ticket includes ancient village guided tour, cave dwelling museum, and Yellow River ferry boat ride, 100 RMB/person (80 RMB/person during off-peak season). Single attraction tickets: ancient village visit 30 RMB/person, cave dwelling museum 20 RMB/person. • Opening Hours: Open year-round from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Recommended Attractions • Observation Deck: Offers panoramic views of the layered cave dwellings, especially spectacular at sunset. • Li Dengxiang's Former Residence: Also known as the East Wealthy Merchant's Courtyard, it's a Qing Dynasty Jin merchant mansion. The brick carvings of "Cultivate and Study to Pass Down the Family Legacy" on the lintel are clearly visible. The courtyard is exquisite, showcasing ancient rammed earth craftsmanship. • West Wealthy Merchant's Courtyard: Features a seven-arch stone cave dwelling on the first floor and a seven-arch brick dwelling on the second floor. There's also a secret anti-theft passage under the stove, fully demonstrating the Jin merchants' wealth. • Cave Dwelling Museum: Learn about the wisdom of loess architecture and watch old craftsmen demonstrate the "Dahu'e" (rammed earth wall construction) technique. • Double-Hook Cave Courtyard: The courtyard where Wu Guanzhong once lived. Here, you can see restored sketches and hear stories of Mr. Wu's artistic endeavors in this place. Special Experiences • Cave Dwelling Construction Class: Learn traditional crafts like "Dahu'e" (rammed earth wall construction) and "Qihuokang" (building a heated brick bed) with old craftsmen. You can also build and take home a miniature cave dwelling model. • Yellow River Farming Experience: Push a wheelbarrow to transport grain, grind corn flour with a stone mill, and in autumn, experience "Dasanzao" (picking sour dates) and taste "Yellow River Fish Noodle Soup" freshly caught and prepared by villagers. Food Recommendations Enjoy Yellow River wild carp, yellow millet date cake, "minjian" (a type of noodle), scrambled eggs with flaxseed oil, and more, available at local farmhouses. Accommodation Recommendations Lijia Mountain offers many cave dwelling guesthouses, allowing you to experience unique local accommodation. For example, some guesthouses converted from Ming and Qing Dynasty cave courtyards retain the traditional features of cave dwellings while being equipped with modern facilities.

Lvliang, this off-the-beaten-path travel destination, is truly amazing! Few people, beautiful scenery, low prices, and you can enjoy it all for under 500 RMB per person in 3 days💰! (👉Friendly reminder: There is a big temperature difference between morning and night here, remember to bring a jacket. Self-driving or chartering a car is more convenient～) -------------🌟Day 1-------------- ⏰Morning: Qikou Ancient Town 📍Address: Qikou Town, Lin County, Lvliang City, Shanxi Province 🕒Opening Hours: Open all day One of the best-preserved ancient towns in Shanxi, with charming Ming and Qing architecture! ✨Must-Photograph Spots: Ancient street stone pavements, old courtyard gates, Yellow River bank 🚗Transportation Tip: Self-driving with navigation to "Qikou Ancient Town" is the most convenient 🍽️Lunch Recommendation: Time-honored Farmhouse Restaurant 👉Must-try: Yellow River Carp (freshly caught and cooked! 48 RMB/jin), Youmian Kaolaolao (authentic Shanxi flavor～) 🕚Business Hours: 11:00-14:00 🌆Afternoon: Lijiashan Village 📍Address: About 3 km from Qikou Ancient Town 🕒Visiting Time: 2 hours The "Little Potala Palace" hidden on the loess plateau, with layers of cave dwellings that are stunning! Aerial shots are amazing📸 🌙Accommodation Recommendation: Qikou Inn ✨Feature: Yellow River view rooms where you can stargaze at night✨, prices 150-300 RMB/night -------------🌟Day 2-------------- ⏰Morning: North Wudang Mountain 📍Address: Within Fangshan County, Shanxi Province 🕒Opening Hours: 8:00-17:00 💰Ticket: 50 RMB (half price for students) A famous Taoist holy site in the north, the summit offers a healing sea of clouds view! Recommended to bring hiking poles🧗 🍽️Lunch Recommendation: Farmhouse Cuisine at the Foot of the Mountain 👉Must-try: Potato feast (10 different preparations!), seasonal wild vegetables Only 30 RMB per person to eat until full～ 🌆Afternoon: Pangquangou 📍Address: Within Jiaocheng County 🕒Opening Hours: 8:30-18:00 💰Ticket: 40 RMB Shanxi's "Little Jiuzhaigou"! The autumn red leaves are breathtaking🍁 (best viewing period mid to late October) 🌙Accommodation Suggestion: Return to Lishi District (chain hotels about 200 RMB/night) -------------🌟Day 3-------------- ⏰Morning: Han Stone Carving Museum 📍Address: Longfeng South Street, Lishi District 🕒Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (closed on Mondays) The only specialized Han stone carving museum in the country! A must-visit for culture lovers📚 🍽️Lunch Recommendation: Lishi Snack Street 👉Must-eat: Wantuo (5 RMB), Cajian (8 RMB), Lamb Pao Mo (15 RMB) Only 20 RMB per person to eat until you can barely walk! 🌆Afternoon: Anguo Temple 📍Address: 15 km west of Lishi District 🕒Opening Hours: 8:30-17:30 A thousand-year-old ancient temple with a peaceful environment🍃 perfect for quiet meditation and worship ✨Summary: 1⃣ Attractions are scattered, so chartering a car is recommended (about 400 RMB/day) 2⃣ Most attraction tickets are under 50 RMB 3⃣ Best travel season: April to October 4⃣ Must-bring: Camera, sunscreen, comfortable sports shoes Just save this guide! If you have questions, ask me in the comments～ Autumn red maples, ancient villages with cave dwellings, fresh Yellow River fish... Lvliang’s surprises are waiting for you to discover!💕

🌊 In the bend of the Yellow River, there lies a forgotten time capsule If you are tired of the monotonous commercial ancient towns and want to find a place where even time is reluctant to rush, then come with me to Qikou Ancient Town in Shanxi. There are no neon-lit bars, no identical souvenir shops, only the endlessly rushing Yellow River water and a "living ancient town" that has been sleeping by the riverbank for hundreds of years. I just returned from there, and it feels as if the roar of the Yellow River still echoes in my ears. 🏮 First Impression: Stay in a century-old cave dwelling by the Yellow River It was nearly dusk when I arrived at Qikou. I deliberately chose a guesthouse converted from an old warehouse, and the room was a simple cave dwelling. Opening the wooden window, the muddy Yellow River roared not far away, flowing eastward, with the loess cliffs of Shaanxi on the opposite bank. At that moment, I suddenly understood what is meant by "The First Town of the Nine Bends of the Yellow River"—in ancient times, cargo ships had to stop here due to the dangerous "Datong Qi" rapids and unload their goods to continue by land. The stone-paved road beneath my feet had been walked by countless Jin merchants' camel caravans carrying furs and medicinal herbs to distant places. Must Experience: Be sure to stay a night in the ancient town. Wake up in the morning to the sound of the Yellow River waves; at night, when the tourists leave and hundreds of red lanterns light up one by one, the ancient town reveals its most peaceful and authentic appearance. 📜 Day Tour: Touch a three-dimensional epic of Jin merchants During the day, Qikou is like a tangible three-dimensional history book. · Climb to Heilong Temple and listen to the "Yellow River Resonance": Climbing to the highest point of the ancient town, Heilong Temple, offers a perfect panoramic view. The most interesting part is the opera stage. The old man guarding the temple told me that if you stand in the center of the stage and shout towards the Yellow River, the echo can be heard on the Shaanxi side. The wisdom of the ancients is truly amazing. · Visit Lijiashan and step into a painting by Wu Guanzhong: Not far from the ancient town, Lijiashan Village was the biggest surprise of the trip. Driving up the mountain road, the scene shocked me: hundreds of Qing dynasty cave dwellings stacked like "Han tombs" embedded in the loess slopes. This place was praised by painter Wu Guanzhong as a "Peach Blossom Land isolated from the world." Following an old shepherd through the winding village alleys known as the "Seventy-two Bends," villagers warmly offered freshly picked crisp jujubes. · Stroll through Xiwang Village and unlock the defensive secrets of Jin merchants: Another must-visit ancient village is Xiwang Village. It resembles a secret fortress where all courtyards are connected by a network of "three horizontal and five vertical" alleys. In case of bandit attacks, every household could quickly connect and form a joint defense fortress. Touching the deep marks on the horse-tethering stones at the alley entrances, you can almost hear the bustling sounds of merchant caravans from the past. 🌃 Night Tour: When the thousand-year-old town "comes alive" When night falls, the real excitement of Qikou begins. · Watch "Dreamlike Qikou," a dialogue across time and space: I highly recommend watching the large-scale Yellow River live performance "Dreamlike Qikou." When the lights come on and the old artist wrapped in a white scarf plays the sanxian and sings "The Yellow River’s Ninety-nine Bends," the boundary between history and reality blurs instantly. The soul-stirring impact is beyond words. · Night stroll on the ancient street, seeking the authentic local flavors: After the show, head to the old street of the ancient town to savor local delicacies. Be sure to try the sour and spicy "Saozi" bowl served on an iron plate, topped with aged vinegar, chili, and lamb offal sauce, with a sharp tang that hits your head. Also, freshly caught Yellow River carp and golden crispy "Hongyin Yin" cakes are authentic Yellow River flavors. ✨ My exclusive experiences and practical tips · Transportation: About a 3-hour drive from Taiyuan. You can also take the high-speed train to Lvliang Station, then charter a car or take a taxi (about 1 hour). · Itinerary: I suggest 2 days and 1 night. On the first day, explore the ancient town, watch the performance, and enjoy the food; on the second day, visit Lijiashan and Xiwang Village or take a boat tour to see the spectacular "Yellow River Gallery," a natural water sculpture. · 📸 Photo spots: · Sunset at Qilin Beach: Watch the sunset dye the Yellow River water and pebbles into golden amber. · Archway alleys of Xiwang Village: The light and shadow at 4 p.m. fill the ancient alleys with stories. · 💡 Warm tips: The cobblestone streets of the ancient town are inconvenient for rolling suitcases; backpacks are recommended. Spring and autumn (April to June, September to October) have the most pleasant weather. If you visit in the off-season of autumn and winter, some shops may be closed, but you can enjoy the tranquility as if having the place to yourself. When leaving, I bought a piece of Yellow River stone with natural water patterns from an old craftsman’s stall. He said the patterns resemble ancient merchant route maps. Indeed, the time of Qikou has never left; it is just hidden in the folds of the cave dwellings and the waves of the Yellow River, quietly waiting for every attentive soul to encounter it. This is not a tourist spot but a profound dialogue about time, history, and land.

Here, there are no commercial crowds, only the roar of the Yellow River and the breath of Ming and Qing dynasty old houses. Qikou Ancient Town, once known as the "First Town of the Nine Bends of the Yellow River," where the sound of merchant ships and camel bells echoed through Shanxi and Shaanxi's prosperity, now only leaves behind the most rustic and desolate spirit of the Loess Plateau. On the grand Yuanbao Street—those are stories from a hundred years ago. Today, it is open for free, like a silent elder waiting for you to read its tales. 📸 【Must-Visit Attractions】 Heilong Temple The highest point of the ancient town! Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Yellow River and the town, breathtaking at sunrise and sunset. The ancient opera stage inside the temple has an acoustic design that remains a mystery; it is said that singing there can carry sound for ten miles. Xiwancun Ancient Residences A "Living Museum of Ming and Qing Architecture"! The pinnacle of Shanxi merchant old houses, with staggered cave dwellings and exquisite brick carvings (Twenty-Four Filial Piety scenes, cranes symbolizing longevity), instantly transporting you to the set of "Raise the Red Lantern." Sleep with the Yellow River Water Recommended to stay in riverside guesthouses in the ancient town. Fall asleep to the roar of the Yellow River at night, and open your window in the morning to the rushing river and the misty Wo Hu Mountain. Choose a courtyard with an open-air tea seat to enjoy tea and watch the sunset—absolutely amazing! Lijiashan The "Han Tomb" wonder painted by Wu Guanzhong! Cave dwellings stacked like a honeycomb, and the grand mansion of a wealthy family on Phoenix Mountain still stands impressively. This place is even more primitive than the ancient town, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Yellow River Gallery (Natural Bas-Relief) Downstream requires a chartered car to visit. Natural water-eroded bas-reliefs on the Yellow River cliffs resemble QR codes, jade seals, scrolls... Nature’s craftsmanship is astonishing. It’s recommended to wear non-slip shoes and pair with a flowing long dress to capture a desolate hero vibe. 🚗 【Practical Tips】 ▪️Transportation: 2.5 hours self-drive from Taiyuan. You can also carpool from Taiyuan for about 90-100 RMB per person. ▪️Tickets: Free! Open all day. ▪️Recommended Visit Duration: 2 days and 1 night to fully experience the town’s dawn and dusk. Best scenery in summer. ▪️Note: The ancient town has stone slab roads, so be sure to wear comfortable sneakers. If you want to find the true, unpolished ancient charm, feel the grandeur of the Loess Plateau and the warmth of history, then Qikou will not disappoint you.

If you come to Lüliang, Shanxi, you must visit Qikou Ancient Town. This detailed guide will save you time, effort, and money, while letting you enjoy great activities, comfortable stays, and experience the most authentic western Shanxi charm. 🔆 【Itinerary & Transportation】 Arrive at Lüliang Airport, take the free shuttle bus to the city center, tell the driver you want to go to Qikou, and he will drop you off at the transfer point (locally called "Monument," you can navigate to "Xianglede Weimin Supermarket"). Transfer to the red bus heading to Qikou, about 1.5 hours ride, ticket price 15 RMB. It is recommended to plan for two days and one night to truly appreciate its beauty. 🏡 【Accommodation Recommendation】 We stayed at Zishuncheng Inn, a clean cave dwelling with floor heating and hot water, and the owner was very nice. Staying inside the ancient town lets you feel its different charm in the morning and evening. 🗺️ 【How to Spend Two Days and One Night】 ▪️ Afternoon of Day 1: After check-in, stroll around the ancient town. Climb up to Heilong Temple to see panoramic views of the Yellow River and the town, watch the rolling waves by the river, and wait for a sunset. ▪️ Morning of Day 2: Ask the inn owner to help arrange a private car (about 50 RMB) to Lijiashan Village. Strongly recommend hiring a local auntie as a guide (30 RMB); she will tell you the stories behind each courtyard, making the scenery come alive. The architectural wonders of Lijiashan are definitely worth the price. ▪️ Noon of Day 2: Return to the ancient town, then walk 10 minutes to the free Xiwancun Village to see another set of exquisite Shanxi merchant residences, with red dates hanging in the alleys. ▪️ Afternoon of Day 2: Take a bus or carpool (15 RMB) at the village entrance back to Lüliang city center. 🍜 【Food Experience】 ▪️ Lamb Restaurant: A big bowl of lamb noodles for 28 RMB, with fresh broth and tender meat, very satisfying. ▪️ Lamb noodles + scallion pancake: At the food plaza, 18 RMB per set. Dip the scallion pancake in lamb soup—so fragrant and delicious! This is my top recommended meal. ▪️ Claypot dishes: Mixed vegetable and meat claypot for about 60 RMB, steaming hot, perfect for dinner. Everything here is comfortable, natural, and full of warmth. Qikou, I will definitely come back again.

🙋🏻‍♀️If you want to see ancient architecture in Shanxi and also experience the culture and magical natural landscapes of Northern Shaanxi, 👇🏻I sincerely recommend this underrated Jin-Shaanxi loop! ✅Taiyuan + Datong + Yan'an + Yulin, four famous cities, 8 days of fun~ ✅Ancient buildings, courtyards, canyons, Danxia landforms, waterfalls, nature + culture, super rich scenery - 🌟 Shanxi + Northern Shaanxi 8-Day Itinerary: 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟏: Taiyuan 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟐: Taiyuan - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Yungang Grottoes - Datong City - Datong Ancient City Wall Night View 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟑: Datong - Hanging Temple - Wannian Ice Cave 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟒: Dongzhai Town - Qikou Ancient Town - Lijiashan 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟓: Qikou Ancient Town - Xiwang Village - Wave Valley 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟔: Yucha Grand Canyon 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟕: Yichuan / Hukou - Hukou Waterfall - Wang Family Courtyard - Pingyao Ancient City 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝟖: Visit Pingyao Ancient City - Taiyuan - 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions Guide: 👉🏻 Historical Ancient Architecture Yungang Grottoes: There are 20 caves, each with different significance. Be sure to have a guide! Enjoy the art while listening to the history. . Datong Ancient City: Recently very popular! Huayan Temple murals, Shanhuasi statues, Nine-Dragon Wall, Datong Ancient City Wall night view—this is a true ancient city. . Hanging Temple: A temple on a cliff with exquisite architecture and historical cultural significance. Not recommended for those afraid of heights. . Pingyao Ancient City: The birthplace of Shanxi merchants. Taking photos here of the young madam is super photogenic, full of antique charm~ . Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: A wooden high tower built without a single nail, standing strong for nearly a thousand years—a miracle of architecture. . Wang Family Courtyard: A microcosm of Shanxi merchant courtyards, famous for brick carving, wood carving, and ten-carving, the three masterpieces of the Wang family. The overall architecture is also magnificent. . 👉🏻 Natural Scenery: Wave Valley: Red Danxia landform, wandering through it feels like being on the surface of Mars, perfect for shooting wasteland-style photos. . Yucha Grand Canyon: Sunlight passes through the canyon, with vivid green, yellow, and orange colors, and you can also see the Tyndall effect. . Hukou Waterfall: Majestic and thunderous, it’s a feast for both the eyes and ears! . ✅ Travel Tips: ➡️Starting from Taiyuan, direct transportation is more convenient! ➡️Suitable for traveling with kids and elders, no rushing through attractions or roads, easy-going travel ➡️This itinerary crosses two provinces and multiple cities. For sisters who want to travel together, joining a group tour is recommended~ . 🙋🏻‍♀️Sisters who want to join a group tour! Just 📩 [Number of people + Time], and more Shanxi and Northern Shaanxi routes are waiting for you to unlock~

Do you think Lüliang only has coal mines and loess? Deep on the mountain peak across from Qikou Ancient Town, Lijiashan impresses every accidental visitor with its magnificent and silent layers of cave dwellings. The famous painter Wu Guanzhong once marveled that it resembled a "Han tomb" and called it the "Potala Palace on the Loess Plateau." This is not an ordinary village but a living architectural epic growing on a steep slope. 🚗 Arrival: An upward pilgrimage Starting from Qikou Ancient Town, drive windingly up the mountain, about 20 minutes to reach. The mountain road twists and turns, and with every bend, the panorama of the Yellow River and rolling loess hills unfolds layer by layer. It is recommended to charter a car or drive yourself to capture the deeply carved loess landscape along the way. 🏮 Highlights: A three-dimensional cave dwelling museum The essence of Lijiashan lies in its "three-dimensional village." Hundreds of Ming and Qing dynasty cave dwellings are stacked along a 70-degree slope, reaching up to eleven layers. Walking into the village is like entering a maze: cave dwellings piled upon cave dwellings, courtyards connected to courtyards, narrow and steep alleys, with only a strip of sky visible overhead. The two large wealthy family courtyards, "East Wealthy Family" and "West Wealthy Family," are well preserved, with stone carvings, wooden pillars, and brick decorations still reflecting the lingering glory of the Shanxi merchants' heyday. 📸 Popular photo spots for inspiration 1. Village entrance viewing platform: Capture panoramic views; at dawn and dusk, light and shadow carve the mountain, and the cave dwellings are embedded like a honeycomb, creating the most visually striking scene. 2. Lower courtyard looking up: Use the rustic door lintel as the foreground, layered cave dwellings as the background, and have people stand among them to instantly create a historic masterpiece. 3. Under the old locust tree on the mountaintop: Overlook the Yellow River bend and the full view of Qikou Ancient Town, framing nature and culture together. 💡 Travel tips · Best season: April to October, avoid severe cold; autumn offers strong contrast between loess and red leaves. · Accommodation: There are renovated cave dwelling inns in the village, where you can experience a quiet night sleeping between cliff walls. · In-depth experience: Chat with the village elders; many families still preserve traditional farming and paper-cutting crafts. The beauty of Lijiashan lies in its unadorned originality and resilience. There are no noisy shops here, only the wind whistling through cave dwelling doors and the long calls of shepherds. When the sunset dyes the entire mountain village golden, you will understand: this mountain itself is a profound book worth slowly reading, about land and survival.

Shanxi, this ancient and profound land, is one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization, known as the "Museum of Cultural Relics on Earth." It holds countless cultural treasures waiting for you to explore and discover. Come and embark on a six-day, five-night cultural trip through Shanxi to experience the unique charm of the Sanjin region. You can feel the vicissitudes of a thousand years of history at the Shanxi Museum and admire treasures like the Jin Hou Bird-shaped Zun. Visit the Yungang Grottoes to witness the awe-inspiring World Cultural Heritage site and experience the pinnacle of Northern Wei stone carving art. Wander through the Ming and Qing streets of Pingyao Ancient City to experience the prosperity of Jin merchants' culture. Climb the Hanging Temple and marvel at the ancient architectural wisdom. Stand before Hukou Waterfall and feel the majestic power of the Yellow River rushing by. Besides the rich historical and cultural sites, Shanxi’s cuisine is also unforgettable. Enjoy specialties like knife-cut noodles, Pingyao beef, and lamb offal stew, letting your taste buds revel in a carbohydrate feast. Come and start this Shanxi cultural journey. You will surely be conquered by its history, culture, and food, leaving you with unforgettable memories. Shanxi Six-Day Five-Night Cultural Itinerary (In-Depth Cultural Experience Version) 🗺️ Itinerary Overview Core route: Taiyuan → Datong → Xinzhou → Jinzhong → Linfen → Lvliang (optimized route based on core attractions in the images and geographic location) Accommodation suggestions: Stay each night in local characteristic guesthouses or boutique hotels; two nights each in Taiyuan and Pingyao, one night each in Datong, Xinzhou, and Linfen Daily Itinerary Day 1: 🚄 Taiyuan · First Taste of Urban Culture • Morning: Arrive in Taiyuan, visit the Shanxi Museum (check in at the Jin Hou Bird-shaped Zun, feel the thousand-year history of Sanjin) • Afternoon: Stroll through Yingze Park (experience Taiyuan’s urban leisure atmosphere), visit Shuangta Temple (Taiyuan landmark, Ming Dynasty architectural gem) • Evening: Walk in Fenhe Wetland Park, enjoy Taiyuan’s night view, and taste local snacks like Tou Nao and lamb offal stew Day 2: 🚄 Taiyuan → Datong · Northern Style Grottoes and Ancient Architecture • Morning: Take high-speed train to Datong, tour the Yungang Grottoes (one of China’s three major grottoes, pinnacle of Northern Wei stone carving art) • Afternoon: Visit the Hanging Temple (an aerial pavilion at the foot of Mount Hengshan, a wooden architectural marvel) • Evening: Stay in Datong, savor Datong knife-cut noodles and shaomai Day 3: 🚄 Datong → Xinzhou · Frontier Pass and Buddhist Holy Land • Morning: Head to Yanmen Pass in Xinzhou (China’s first pass, experience frontier culture) • Afternoon: Visit Mount Wutai (one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains, pilgrimage site of Manjushri Bodhisattva, visit Xiantong Temple and Tayuan Temple) • Evening: Stay in the Wutai Mountain scenic area, soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Buddhist holy land Day 4: 🚄 Xinzhou → Jinzhong · Jin Merchant Culture and Ancient City Charm • Morning: Travel to Jinzhong, visit Qiao Family Compound (representative of Jin merchant mansions, experience Jin merchant culture and northern residential architecture) • Afternoon: Arrive at Pingyao Ancient City (World Cultural Heritage site, stroll Ming and Qing streets, visit the Rishengchang Draft Bank Museum, and ancient city walls) • Evening: Stay in Pingyao Ancient City, enjoy the ancient city night view, watch the live performance "Once Again in Pingyao" Day 5: 🚄 Pingyao → Linfen · Yellow River Wonders and Religious Art • Morning: Head to Linfen, admire Hukou Waterfall (the Yellow River’s first waterfall, feel the rushing power of the Yellow River) • Afternoon: Visit Xiaoxitian (hall of suspended sculptures, Ming Dynasty polychrome sculpture treasures) • Evening: Stay in Linfen, taste beef meatball noodles and Hongtong steamed rice Day 6: 🚄 Linfen → Lvliang → Taiyuan · Return Trip • Morning: Go to Lvliang (optional: visit Qikou Ancient Town to experience the Yellow River ancient town charm; if time is tight, return directly to Taiyuan) • Afternoon: Free time in Taiyuan city (shop for Shanxi specialties: aged vinegar, Fenjiu liquor, Pingyao beef), end of trip Travel Tips 1️⃣ Transportation 🚌 • Distances between Shanxi attractions are long; it is recommended to use high-speed trains plus local charter cars or tour buses. In Pingyao and Taiyuan city, taxis or public buses are convenient. • Some roads to Hukou Waterfall and Mount Wutai are mountainous; those prone to motion sickness should prepare medication in advance. 2️⃣ Climate and Clothing 👔 • Shanxi has a dry climate with large temperature differences between day and night, especially at high altitudes like Mount Wutai and Yanmen Pass. Bring windproof and warm jackets. • Use sun protection in summer and anti-slip footwear in winter. Comfortable flat shoes are recommended for visiting grottoes and temples. 3️⃣ Cultural Etiquette • At religious sites like Mount Wutai and Xiaoxitian, observe Buddhist and Taoist etiquette: do not touch statues or ritual objects casually, and keep quiet. • At cultural sites like Pingyao Ancient City and Qiao Family Compound, follow site rules and do not damage ancient buildings. 4️⃣ Food and Health • Shanxi cuisine tends to be salty and sour, mainly noodle-based. Those with sensitive stomachs should bring digestive medicine. • Drinking local water may cause discomfort; it is recommended to drink bottled water. Tasting aged vinegar can help with adaptation. Other • Advance reservations are required for attractions like Shanxi Museum and Yungang Grottoes; avoid peak holidays if possible. • Buy specialties from official shops; be cautious to verify the authenticity of aged vinegar and Fenjiu liquor.

While the Jiangnan water towns are packed with tourists, I took my children upstream and found the First Town of the Nine-Bend Yellow River, nestled in its embrace. Here, there are no exquisite imitation ancient buildings, only layered Ming and Qing dynasty cave dwellings and shops built into the mountainside, and a bluestone path polished smooth by time. In winter, the sound of the Yellow River mixes with local accents, and the red silks of Shehuo brighten the gray-yellow hues, creating a scene both desolate and vibrant. 🏮 Winter Exclusive Experience: A Symphony of New Year Customs and Daily Life Watch authentic Shehuo: If you visit around the Spring Festival, you might encounter the most authentic Shehuo rehearsals or performances. Yangko dance, land boat running, dragon dance... The performers are local neighbors with simple smiles, and children can experience this joy rooted in the land up close. Stay in a cave dwelling that's warm in winter and cool in summer: Choose a cave dwelling inn converted from an old merchant house. The thick loess layer insulates against the harsh cold outside, keeping the interior warm like spring. Sleep on a 'kang' (heated brick bed) and tell your children about the wisdom of this ancient architecture, the 'yaodong'. Listen to a story of the ancient Yellow River ferry crossing: Stand on the ancient town's pier and watch the slow, turbid Yellow River in winter. Imagine the past prosperity here, where "boats were like forests and merchants gathered like clouds," giving your children a vivid history and geography lesson. 📸 Ancient Town Walking Route: Capturing Light, Shadow, and Life Best times: Early morning and dusk. Morning light bathes the scattered cave dwellings, with wisps of smoke rising; while evening paints a desolate silhouette. Must-visit streets: Explore the main street to feel the commercial heritage, and the back streets to experience the life of the original inhabitants. Don't forget to venture into those seemingly inconspicuous alleys; they hold the most authentic scenes of daily life. Photography themes: Besides architecture, take plenty of photos of people – elderly folks basking in the sun, children playing, artisans at work. Their faces are the soul of the ancient town. 🍜 Hearty Cuisine by the Yellow River Wantuo: A local snack made from steamed buckwheat noodles, chewy and refreshing. Drizzled with spicy oil and vinegar, it has a unique flavor. Saizi Noodles: Chewy noodles with fragrant minced meat topping. A bowl will warm you up from head to toe. Yellow River Carp: Taste the bounty of the Yellow River; its flesh is tender and fresh. Red dates and millet: Local specialties. A bowl of millet and red date porridge is the perfect winter breakfast. 🛏️ Stay in History: Recommended Cave Dwelling Accommodations Yellow River Inn (Huanghe Kezhan): The most representative cave dwelling hotel in the ancient town, composed of multiple ancient courtyards. Its facilities are relatively complete, offering a good balance of experience and comfort. Xiangyunlong Inn (Xiangyunlong Kezhan): A reconstructed old establishment with a central location. The building itself is a sight to behold. Ancient Town Specialty B&Bs: Some locals have converted their own cave dwellings into B&Bs, such as "Wangheju" (River View Residence). While conditions may be simple, the hosts are warm and welcoming, and you can hear more authentic stories. 🚗 Practical Information for Arrival and Sightseeing Transportation: Relatively challenging. You usually need to go to Lüliang City or the county where Qikou is located, then transfer to a bus or hire a car. Self-driving is the most recommended option; simply navigate to "Qikou Ancient Town." Admission: The ancient town is free, but some small attractions charge a fee. Suggested duration: At least 1 night, 2 nights is best. A hurried visit won't allow you to fully appreciate its charm. Nearby attractions: You can combine your visit with nearby ancient villages such as Lijia Mountain Village (a village like "Han tombs" discovered by painter Wu Guanzhong) and Xiwan Village, to experience a more complete picture of Jinxi residential culture. ✨ Prepare Your Mindset for the Trip: This is not a luxury destination. It is rough, rustic, and even a bit dilapidated. But it is precisely this unpolished historical texture and the endless human warmth that give it unparalleled appeal. Bringing children here is an opportunity to experience a different side of China.

Taking the First Town of the Winding Yellow River as an open-air museum, we designed a themed study tour. Starting from understanding a cave dwelling courtyard to hand-painting a woodblock New Year print, children, like detectives, piece together the glorious past of this "water and land dock small metropolis" bit by bit. 🏛️ Theme 1: Economics in Ancient Architecture Task: Find different types of commercial buildings in the ancient town. Observation points: Warehouses: High-walled courtyards with huge storage spaces and passages for pack animals. Look for the name plaques above the doors. Qiaopiao (Ancient Banks): More defensive, with lookout holes and sturdy gates, to understand the security requirements of ancient finance. Camel Inns: Inns specially serving camel caravans, imagine how vast the trade network of the "Jin Merchants" was back then. Guiding questions: Why are the houses built on the mountain? Why are the windows small and few? (Defense, warmth, theft prevention) 🎨 Theme 2: First Experience with Intangible Cultural Heritage Crafts Woodblock New Year Print Experience: In the ancient town, you can find workshops still dedicated to hand-printing woodblock New Year prints. Let children try it themselves—inking, laying paper, printing—and take home a "Door God" or "Surplus Year After Year" print full of auspicious meanings. Dough Figurine Observation: If you meet local skilled grandmothers, watch how they shape lifelike zodiac animals from dough. 🗺️ Theme 3: Geography and Trade Route Exploration Overlooking from Heilong Temple: Climb to the highest point of the ancient town, Heilong Temple. This is an excellent viewing platform. Let children point out the flow direction of the Yellow River, identify the town’s outline, and understand the place name "Qikou" (Qi refers to sandbars in shallow water) and its relation to navigation. Trade Route Guessing Game: Take out a map of China and guess with the children: starting from the ancient town, which places would the caravans loaded with grain and hemp oil pass through, and where would they ultimately be transported? (Northwest, Mongolia, even Russia) 📒 Our Two-Day One-Night Study Itinerary Day 1 Afternoon: Arrive and check in at a cave dwelling inn. Start the "Ancient Architecture Exploration" task, following the map on the streets. Watch the Yellow River sunset at Heilong Temple in the evening. Day 1 Evening: Warm up on the kang bed in the inn, watch documentary clips or related picture books about the Jin Merchants’ history to prepare for the next day’s exploration. Day 2 Morning: Participate in the woodblock New Year print making experience. Then visit Lijiashan Village (a short drive away), a three-dimensional village hidden in the mountain hollow, an advanced lesson in understanding cave dwelling architecture clusters. Day 2 Afternoon: Play the "Trade Route Guessing" game and summarize the trip. Return with your own woodblock print and plenty of reflections. 🛋️ Upgraded Study Accommodation: Choosing accommodations that provide cultural explanations is very important. Ancient Town Cultural Theme Inns: Choose inns whose owners are cultural enthusiasts themselves; they often make the best guides. Lijiashan Sketching Base: For a deeper experience, consider staying at the Lijiashan sketching base, which is quieter and in close contact with the loess plateau landscape. 🍽️ History in Food: Tell children that the commonly seen oat noodles and bean noodles here are durable, easy-to-carry dry foods for merchants and travelers, reflecting geography and history in diet. ❗ Key Tips: There are many steps and uneven roads in the ancient town; be sure to watch your step. The Yellow River area is windy and dry in winter; pay attention to wind protection and moisturizing. Visit with questions and tasks; children’s engagement and gains will multiply.

When the navigation shows "No road ahead," I know I've found the right place. Lijiashan Village, an ancient village praised by Mr. Wu Guanzhong as a "Han tomb," rests quietly like a giant phoenix on the loess slope by the Yellow River. After winter snow, the black and white contrast with clear lines. Bringing kids here is not just for fun; it’s a pilgrimage—a dual homage to nature and the wisdom of ancestors. 🏔️ A Unique Parent-Child Touring Perspective: Start from the "Viewing Platform": Don’t rush into the village. First, park your car on the road opposite the village, where there is a natural viewing platform. Look down at the entire village with your child and ask them to describe it: What does the whole village look like? (Answer: like a phoenix spreading its wings, or like layered Han tombs). This panoramic impression is crucial. “Count the Steps” Game: The village roads are endless steps. Compete with your child to walk from one household’s door to another and count how many steps are in between. Experience the wonderful pattern of “three-dimensional crossing and layering” through the game. Find “Matching Doors and Households”: Although the village is rustic, the legacy of wealthy Shanxi merchants’ mansions remains. Guide your child to observe the door lintels, doorposts (embracing drum stones), brick carvings, and wood carvings, and guess which family was wealthy and which was an ordinary farming household. 📸 Best Photography and Sketching Spots: First-level platform at the village entrance: Shoot upward to capture the geometric shapes formed by the village and the sky. Near Li Yinlan’s Siheyuan (courtyard house): The alleys here are arranged in an orderly yet staggered manner, with excellent light and shadow effects. By the jujube tree at the highest point of the village: You can overlook the Yellow River and the Shaanxi mountains on the opposite bank, a magnificent landscape. 🚗 Transportation and Itinerary Tips (Very Important): How to get there: Navigate to “Lijiashan Village (Lin County, Shanxi).” The last stretch is a mountain road with decent pavement but many bends and narrow lanes. Drive cautiously in winter; experienced drivers are recommended. It takes about 20 minutes to drive up from Qikou Ancient Town. Best combination: Must be combined with a visit to Qikou Ancient Town. It’s recommended to arrive at Qikou in the afternoon on the first day, explore the ancient town, and stay overnight there; then drive to Lijiashan Village the next morning, savor it for 2-3 hours, and in the afternoon visit other ancient villages like Xiwancun. No entrance fee: The village currently does not charge admission and maintains its original living state. Please respect local residents and greet them before entering courtyards. 🏡 Accommodation Options: Stay by the Yellow River or in the ancient town Qikou Inn: Located in the heart of Qikou Ancient Town, transformed from an old merchant’s house, with windows opening directly to the Yellow River, it’s the top choice to experience the ancient town’s charm. Yellow River Hotel: Also in Qikou, larger in scale, some rooms have balconies facing the river with broad views. Lijiashan Sketching Base: For the ultimate experience, the village has very simple farmhouse inns (such as Li Yinlan’s home) offering food and lodging. Conditions are very basic (dry toilets, kang beds), suitable for adventurous families for a short stay. 🍲 Simple Shanxi West Flavors: Saozi Wantuo: A Qikou specialty, the buckwheat-made bowl base is smooth and chewy, topped with salty and fragrant minced meat sauce, offering a unique taste. Yellow River Big Carp: Available in Qikou Ancient Town restaurants, the meat is fresh and delicious, symbolizing good fortune. Chao’e: A local snack made from potato starch, with a chewy texture, can be stir-fried or stewed. Kids will find both the name and taste fun. 💡 Warm Parent-Child Tips: • Safety First: The village steps are steep, many without railings, and very slippery when covered with snow and ice. Always hold your child’s hand tightly and wear the best anti-slip shoes. • Lower Expectations: This is not a refined tourist spot but a living, slightly dilapidated ancient village. Toilet conditions are basic, so be mentally prepared. But this is exactly its charm. • Bring Snacks: The village has very few commercial facilities, so prepare some snacks and water to replenish your child’s energy.

Want your children to step away from screens and feel the most primitive and simple survival wisdom? Then head straight to the Yaodong (cave dwellings) clusters in Lüliang, Shanxi! This is not a tourist spot but real living settlements scattered across the Lüliang mountains. In winter, when the Loess Plateau is covered in silver, crawling into a yaodong with a heated kang bed and hanging chili peppers and corn instantly wraps you in warmth and the scent of daily life. This is a profound experience about "home" and "adapting to nature." 🛖 How to choose yaodongs suitable for family experiences: First choice: "Jiekou Yaodong" or "Brick Yaodong": Traditional earth yaodongs may have safety risks and dampness. Many farmhouses now have renovated "Jiekou Yaodong" (the cave face reinforced with bricks and stones) or newly built "brick yaodongs," which are sturdier, drier, and better lit. Confirm there are modern bathrooms and heating/kang beds: Purely rural dry toilets and heating only by kang beds might be hard for kids to adapt to. Choose yaodong inns that provide private bathrooms (at least clean flush toilets) and stable heating (kang bed + electric heater). Choose ones with spacious courtyards: Kids need space to play. A courtyard where they can bask in the sun, build small snowmen, and gaze at the mountains is essential. 🧵 Winter yaodong living experience checklist: • Learn to make a noodle dish: Learn from the landlady to roll "cat ears" noodles and roll out "youmian kaolaolao" noodles, starting from kneading the dough, experiencing the hard work behind every grain. • Nights on the kang bed: A hot kang bed covered with festive printed sheets, the whole family crowded together telling stories and watching stars (the starry sky outside the yaodong window is extremely clear) is a warm memory for life. • Morning smoke and fire atmosphere: Wake up early, watch smoke rising from the tops of each yaodong, breathe the crisp air scented with firewood, hear donkeys braying and roosters crowing, and feel the village waking up. 🚗 Core areas and itinerary for the Lüliang yaodong experience: Best experience areas: Villages around Lin County, Liulin County, and Shilou County in Lüliang City. For example, Lijiashan Village (Qikou Town) mentioned earlier is an ultimate artistic presentation of yaodong architecture. Also, villages near the Yellow River’s Qiwang in Shilou County are very charming. Suggested itinerary (2 days 1 night): Day 1: Drive from Taiyuan or Lüliang city to the selected yaodong village (such as Qikou), check into a yaodong inn in the afternoon, and participate in farmhouse activities. Day 2: Morning hiking in the village and surrounding mountains, afternoon visit nearby attractions (such as the Yellow River Gallery) before returning. Travel tips: Be sure to drive yourself, preferably an SUV. Mountain roads are winding; drive cautiously in winter. Communicate with the inn owner in advance for specific routes. 🏠 Recommended yaodong-themed accommodations (all real and relatively well-equipped): Various inns in Qikou Ancient Town: As mentioned, Qikou inns and Yellow River Hotel offer yaodong rooms, conveniently located and safe for first-timers. Huanghe Hotel in Mengmen Town, Liulin County: Not purely yaodong, but some rooms incorporate yaodong elements and ensure modern comfort. "Yellow River Family" farmhouse in Shilou County: Located in villages along the Yellow River, requires advance booking, offering the most authentic kang bed and farmhouse meal experience. 🍛 The "coarse grain, fine craft" feast inside the yaodong: Youmian series: Youmian kaolaolao, youmian yuyu, dipped in lamb sauce or tomato sauce, healthy and delicious.

While city kids play on artificial rock slides in playgrounds, I took my 5-year-old son to Lijiashan Village. Here, the entire village is a huge, real three-dimensional maze. We spent an entire afternoon on a deep adventure combining geographic observation, aesthetic perception, and physical exercise. 🗺️ Our "Ancient Village Explorer" map-making game: Base selection: Find a small shop or a prominent courtyard at the village entrance as the "base camp." Task assignment: Dad is responsible for taking photos of intersections with his phone, mom marks them simply with a pen, and the child's task is to observe and describe features ("This intersection has a crooked jujube tree," "That house has red couplets at the door"). Collaborative drawing: After the adventure, back at the guesthouse, the whole family draws a "Lijiashan Adventure Map" on white paper based on memory and photos. This process greatly trains the child's observation skills, sense of direction, and memory. 🌄 Parent-child conversations combined with nature education: "Why are the houses built this way?": Guide the child to think: backed by mountains, facing the Yellow River (good lighting, wind protection), cave dwellings (warm in winter, cool in summer), compact layout (saving farmland, defense). "Look for signs of life": On the barren loess slope in winter, search together for resilient plants (wild jujube trees, dry grass), observe corn and chili peppers hanging under eaves, and talk about where food comes from. "Listen to the quiet sounds": Sitting on a high spot in the village, turn off all electronic devices, and listen with your child: the sound of wind passing through cave dwellings, the faint flow of the Yellow River in the distance, occasional barking dogs and crowing roosters. This is the "white noise therapy" money can't buy in the city. 🚙 Nearby linked activities (suitable for 2-3 days): Day 1: Arrive at Qikou Ancient Town at noon, check in, stroll the ancient town in the afternoon, watch the Yellow River sunset, visit Heilong Temple. Day 2: Explore Lijiashan Village in the morning, drive to the "Yellow River Hundred-Mile Gallery" area in the afternoon to see the Yellow River ice formations (depending on temperature) or the natural landform of the earth pillar forest. Day 3: Visit Xiwang Village (a Chen family bloodline village), compare its layout with Lijiashan Village, then return. 🏠 Accommodation upgrade options to enhance the experience: Lvliang Qikou Mengmen Yellow River Grand Hotel: If you have higher requirements for accommodation comfort, you can choose this hotel about half an hour's drive from Qikou, with good facilities, then drive to various attractions. High-end guesthouse inside Pingyao Ancient City: Make this Yellow River ancient village trip the "wild" part of your Shanxi journey, then drive 3 hours to Pingyao to enjoy exquisite service, creating a striking contrast experience. ❄️ Special winter safety and etiquette reminders: • Clothing and gear: warm inner layers + windproof and scratch-resistant outer layers (thorns). Gloves are essential because you will often need to hold onto earthen walls or railings. • Villager etiquette: If you need to enter courtyards for visits or photos, please smile or ask quietly. Many elderly have lived here all their lives; please respect their living space. • Trash disposal: Please take all your trash with you. This pure land needs everyone's care. • Vehicle preparation: Check tire pressure and antifreeze before departure. Keep hot water and blankets in the car just in case.

Shanxi, a city full of ancient charm and history, awaits your exploration. Here you can find attractions like the Yungang Grottoes, Pingyao Ancient City, and Hukou Waterfall. 📝 We've prepared a cost-effective seven days and six nights travel itinerary for you, take a look! 🌈【Shanxi Seven Days Six Nights Travel Guide】 ✔️D1 Linfen: Visit the Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River in Shanxi, feel the grandeur of the Mother River. ✔️D2 Lvliang: Go to Qikou Ancient Town to experience Jin merchant culture and Yellow River scenery. ✔️D3 Datong: Admire the exquisite stone carvings of the Yungang Grottoes and experience the Hanging Temple built on a cliff. ✔️D4 Shuozhou: Visit the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda to learn about ancient architectural techniques. ✔️D5 Taiyuan: Check in at Taiyuan Ancient City Wall, China Coal Museum, and Shanxi Museum. ✔️D6 Pingyao: Stroll through Pingyao Ancient City and Qiao Family Courtyard to feel the charm of historical culture. ✔️D7 Linfen: Explore the Hongtong Great Pagoda Tree Scenic Area and the ancestral migration footprints at Guangsheng Temple. 📸【Recommended Check-in Attractions】 📌Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River, Shanxi🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: West of Jixian County, Linfen City, open 7:00 - 19:00, visit 4 - 5 hours. "The Yellow River's water comes from the sky, rushing to the sea never to return," the waterfall roars like thunder. 📌Pingyao Ancient City🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, open all day, visit for a whole day. At night, with the lights just on, stroll the ancient alleys and feel the Jin merchant culture. 📌Hanging Temple🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Hunyuan County, Datong City, open 7:30 - 18:00, visit 3 - 4 hours. The ancient temple stands on a cliff, showcasing the wisdom of the ancients. 📌Yungang Grottoes🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: 16 km west of Datong City, open 8:30 - 17:00, visit half a day. The Buddha statues and reliefs combine multi-ethnic artistic features, displaying the essence of Northern Wei Buddhist art. 👔【Travel Preparation】 Hat, thermal underwear, thick cotton clothes, windbreaker, scarf, gloves, mask, earmuffs—essential for winter travel to keep warm and prevent cold. 🧳【Luggage Essentials List】 Tissues, skincare products, toothpaste and toothbrush, shampoo, body wash, cosmetics, makeup tools, conditioner to meet daily needs. 💡【Travel Tips】 🚘Transportation: Linfen is close to Taiyuan, accessible by train or bus; Datong is farther, recommended by plane or high-speed rail; other cities have buses and tourist lines. 🏨Accommodation: Wide range from budget hotels to five-star hotels. 🍽Food: Shanxi cuisine has unique flavors and rich varieties, such as knife-cut noodles and fried pork. If you're tempted, take action now👇! Click the card below to book in advance and avoid detours.

🔥 Lvliang 7-Day In-Depth Travel Guide! Explore the red revolutionary sites and breathtaking canyons, with food, fun, and entertainment all included! ⛰️🍜🔥--- Did you know? Lvliang, a treasure city in Shanxi full of red revolutionary history and stunning natural landscapes, is waiting for you to explore deeply! If you think Lvliang is only about red history, you are completely mistaken! Here, you’ll find not only magnificent natural scenery but also rustic countryside charm, authentic local cuisine, and rich cultural atmosphere. In 7 days, let’s dive into Lvliang together, feel its “tough yet tender” spirit, and gain abundant positive energy and surprises! 💪🌿--- Day 1｜Lvliang City + Red Culture Journey 🛤️ - Morning visit to the Lvliang Museum to comprehensively understand the red history of the revolutionary base area. - Lunch recommendation: try authentic Lvliang noodles and local side dishes to taste the warmth of Shanxi noodles. - Afternoon visit to the Liu Zhidan Memorial Hall for an immersive experience of the revolutionary martyrs’ struggles. - Evening stroll along Xinhua Road pedestrian street in the city center; don’t miss the snack street with hand-grabbed pancakes and stewed beef to your heart’s content!--- Day 2｜Lán County Hukou Waterfall Spectacular Tour 🌊🌪️ - Full day exploring Hukou Waterfall, the largest Yellow River waterfall in North China, feeling the thunderous water flow and dazzling lightning-like spray. - Taste the local specialty “Tofu Feast” near Hukou, authentic and nutritious. - Take photos and check in by the Yellow River bank to feel the power of China’s Mother River.--- Day 3｜Xing County Ancient Town Exploration + Beiwudang Mountain Zen Experience ⛩️🍃 - Morning tour of the historic Xing County Ancient Town, immersing in the lively atmosphere of a Shanxi ancient town. - Lunch with traditional Xing County noodles, fragrant but not greasy, leaving a lasting aftertaste. - Afternoon walk at Beiwudang Mountain for blessings and meditation, experiencing inner peace.--- Day 4｜Lishi District Yellow River Canyon Hiking and Riverside Photography 📸🗻 - Early morning hike in the Yellow River Canyon, feeling the deep and majestic gorge and breathing in negative oxygen ions. - Bring a light meal for a picnic to enjoy the great outdoors. - Capture sunset photos by the river in the evening—stunning shots perfect for sharing on social media!--- Day 5｜Liulin Dongzhai Mountain Colorful Stone Forest Wonder Exploration 🪨🌈 - Morning departure to Dongzhai Mountain Colorful Stone Forest, featuring various unique colorful rocks like a natural palette. - Lunch at a nearby farmhouse restaurant to savor authentic Shanxi home-style dishes. - Afternoon photo session of the colorful stone forest’s strange rocks, appreciating nature’s craftsmanship between mountains and waters.--- Day 6｜Fangshan Ancient Village Deep Experience 🍂🏡 - Full day touring Fangshan Ancient Village, with its quaint architecture and rich historical and cultural atmosphere. - Learn to make traditional Shanxi snacks with locals, experiencing authentic folk culture. - Stay overnight in a village guesthouse, listening to the countryside’s nighttime insect chorus and feeling the simple warmth of rural life.--- Day 7｜Lvliang Food Festival + Shopping and Reflection 🛍️🍜 - Morning visit to Lvliang’s specialty markets to bring back Shanxi products like aged vinegar, walnuts, and noodle gift boxes. - Lunch enjoying Lvliang’s signature dishes such as mutton stewed with vermicelli and large knife-cut meat—hardcore local delicacies. - Afternoon free time in the city to experience the local everyday life’s vibrant atmosphere, filling your journey with warmth.--- 🌟【Practical Tips】🌟 - **Best Travel Time**: April to October, with pleasant spring and autumn weather ideal for outdoor activities. - **Transportation Advice**: Convenient transport between Lvliang’s attractions; self-driving or chartered cars are the most efficient. - **Accommodation Recommendations**: Combination of city hotels and ancient village guesthouses to experience different lodging styles. - **Must-Try Foods**: “Lvliang Knife-Cut Noodles,” “Yellow River Carp,” “Tofu Feast,” “Mutton Stewed with Vermicelli”!--- Lvliang, a city combining red culture and natural beauty, is waiting for you to explore deeply! Save this 7-day guide to plan your perfect Lvliang trip. Like 👍, follow 🔔, and comment to tell me which stop you most want to check in at. Let’s experience a different kind of Shanxi beauty together!

Taiyuan is located in the center of Shanxi Province. As the provincial capital, it is an important transportation hub for traveling in Shanxi. To the north is Datong, to the south is Yuncheng, with relatively balanced distances. Where can you go for a day trip in and around Taiyuan? ➢ One-day tours within Taiyuan ◽ Museum route: Shanxi Museum + Shanxi Merchants Museum + Northern Qi Murals Museum ◽ Cultural heritage: Jin Temple + Tianlongshan Grottoes + Mengshan Giant Buddha ◽ Ancient architecture route: Dou Dafu Ci + Duofu Temple + Jingyin Temple + Shuangta Temple ◽ Popular check-in spots: Taiyuan Ancient County Town + Taiyuan Botanical Garden + Bell Tower Street ➢ One-day tours around Taiyuan ◽ Pingyao Ancient City + Qiao Family Courtyard 1-day tour ◽ Foguang Temple + Nanchan Temple 1-day tour ◽ Qikou Ancient Town + Lijiashan 1-day tour ◽ Xiyang Dazhai 1-day tour ◽ Wutai Mountain 1-day tour ➢ Taiyuan high-speed rail one-day tours ◽ High-speed round trip to Datong: Hanging Temple + Yungang Grottoes 1-day tour ◽ High-speed round trip to Linfen: Hukou Waterfall + Xiaoxitian 1-day tour ◽ High-speed round trip to Yuncheng: Guan Di Temple + Yongle Palace 1-day tour ———————————————— ➢ About us ◽ A local licensed travel agency in Shanxi, supporting platform booking and contract signing ◽ Providing chartered car services for surrounding attractions departing from Taiyuan, with various vehicle options ◽ Local charter services also available in Datong, Xinzhou, Pingyao, Linfen, and Yuncheng ◽ Offering full or partial charter services, private customization, all-inclusive pricing

Looking for a winter destination full of New Year’s flavor, unique scenery, and deep cultural experiences? Qikou Ancient Town at the Shanxi-Shaanxi border, known as the "First Town of the Nine Bends of the Yellow River," is definitely a hidden gem! In winter, the Yellow River quiets down, revealing the town’s simple authenticity. Walk on the Yellow River ice with your kids, stay in century-old cave dwellings, and feel the truly magnificent yet warm Yellow River culture. ❄️ Winter in Qikou: A serene journey through time and space Stunning scenery: In winter, parts of the Yellow River freeze, creating magnificent ice formations. The “ice mountains” piled along the shore are a spectacular sight, unimaginable for children from southern regions. Authentic New Year’s vibe: As the year-end approaches, the ancient town lights up with lanterns and decorations, traditional noodles and pastries are made, and the market buzzes with lively, festive energy. Priceless experience: Stay in a genuine cave dwelling guesthouse by the Yellow River, gather around the kang bed-stove, taste the Yellow River carp, and listen to the innkeeper’s stories about the town’s past. 🚗 Itinerary plan: Three days and two nights of deep Yellow River cultural experience Day 1: Arrival and first impressions of the ancient town Afternoon: Drive from Lvliang Airport or Taiyuan to Qikou Ancient Town (about 2-2.5 hours). It’s recommended to book a rental car through Trip.com. Evening: Check into a distinctive cave dwelling guesthouse in the ancient town. Then stroll along Qikou’s old street, stepping on century-old stone slabs, watching the sunset cast golden light on the Heilong Temple and the Yellow River ice. Night: Enjoy a hearty farmhouse dinner at the inn and rest early to experience the cave dwelling’s magical warmth in winter and coolness in summer. Day 2: Yellow River ice and Jin merchants’ footprints Morning: With a professional guide or the innkeeper (safety first!), head to a safe area by the Yellow River shore to closely observe the ice formations and touch the pulse of history. Visit the Yellow River murals (natural bas-reliefs). Afternoon: Explore ancient sites like the town’s escort agency, draft bank, and warehouses to learn about the former prosperity of this “small water and land port city.” Take kids to find various old brand signs and interesting window carvings in the town. Evening: Climb Heilong Temple to overlook the winter Yellow River and the entire town, waiting quietly for the sunset. Day 3: Nearby ancient village and return trip Morning: Drive to the nearby “living ancient town” of Lijiashan Village. Praised by Mr. Wu Guanzhong as the “Han tomb,” this Ming and Qing dynasty residential complex is built on a mountain, layered and staggered like a huge three-dimensional maze, perfect for exploration. Afternoon: Afterward, choose to head to Lvliang or return to Taiyuan. On the way, you can visit the Fenjiu cultural scenic area to learn about Shanxi’s liquor culture. 🏮 Unique accommodations: Sleep inside Yellow River stories Qikou Inn: A landmark lodging in the ancient town, converted from old courtyards with multiple courtyards and distinctive kang bed-stove rooms, offering simple and sincere service. Yellow River Hotel: Excellent location, some rooms offer Yellow River views right from the window, perfect for photographing the Yellow River sunrise, with relatively complete facilities. Lijiashan Homestay (such as Li Yinlan Residence): For a deeper experience, stay with villagers in Lijiashan Village. The conditions are simple but exceptionally clean, allowing you to experience the most authentic rural life in western Shanxi. Lvliang Lavande Hotel (city option): If you prefer modern facilities, this can be your accommodation at the start or end of the trip, with convenient driving access to the ancient town. 👣 Family experiences and safety tips Cold protection is key: The wind chill by the Yellow River is significant. Be sure to prepare the thickest down jackets, waterproof and non-slip snow boots, thick gloves, hats, and ear protectors for your kids. Bring warm packs as backup. Safety warning: Absolutely no stepping onto the Yellow River ice without a guide or confirmed absolute safety! Ice viewing must be done from safe shore areas. Cultural experience: Let kids try cutting paper window decorations and making date-shaped dough figurines, and buy local red dates, walnuts, and other New Year goods at the town market. Diet adaptation: Mainly noodles with a salty taste; you can ask vendors to reduce salt in advance. Yellow River carp, bowl noodles, and saozi noodles are must-tries. Travel tips: Some parts of Shanxi may have snow in winter. It’s recommended to drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle, prepare snow chains, and drive cautiously and slowly. This is a journey that shocks both visually and spiritually. Amid the silence of the Yellow River and the bustle of the ancient town, let your children touch the roots of the Chinese nation. With the year-end approaching, it’s time to plan a unique reunion trip.

Winter in Shanxi is far more exciting than you imagine! Centered around Qikou Ancient Town, drawing a small circle connects the most magnificent winter wonders of the Loess Plateau. This self-driving loop features a frozen Yellow River, hanging ice waterfalls, iced-over terraced fields, and countless authentic ancient villages, offering families a vast, majestic, yet warmly lived-in winter visual feast. 🗺️ Core of the Loop: A three-dimensional winter landscape of the Loess Plateau This route avoids long-distance travel, with daily highlights, perfect for a 5-7 day in-depth family trip. The scenery is diverse and never repetitive. 📍 Daily Highlights and Activities Breakdown Day 1-2: Qikou Ancient Town & Lijiashan Village (Cultural Core) Activities: As previously described, immerse yourself in the Yellow River ancient town culture, stay in cave dwellings, stroll the old streets, and watch the icicles. The architectural wonders of Lijiashan Village are excellent subjects for photography and sketching. Day 3: Yellow River Gallery and Northward Journey (about 1.5 hours drive) Activities: Travel north along the Yellow River from Qikou to admire the more spectacular Yellow River Hundred-Mile Gallery (natural water erosion relief). Then head to Lin County to seek authentic northern Shaanxi snacks. Day 4: Stunning! Yunqiu Mountain Ice Waterfall Cluster & Taerpo Ancient Village (about 2.5 hours drive from Lin County to Xiangning) Activities: Yunqiu Mountain in winter is the kingdom of ice waterfalls! Huge ice pillars, ice curtains, and ice stalagmites hang from cliffs, crystal clear and like a dreamy crystal palace. Take the cable car up the mountain for an effortless view. At the foot of the mountain, Taerpo Ancient Village is a millennium-old village where stone houses, ancient trees, and ice formations create a charming scene. Day 5: Breathtaking Wonder! Xixian Loess National Geopark & Frozen Terraced Fields (about 2 hours drive from Xiangning) Activities: This area showcases the most typical loess landforms. In winter, the layered terraces are covered with snow or frozen into ice bands, with incredibly beautiful lines and stunning aerial views. You can teach children about the landforms of loess plateaus, ridges, and mounds. Day 6: Return Trip via Hukou Waterfall (Winter Edition) (about 1.5 hours drive from Xixian) Activities: Hukou Waterfall in winter experiences the peach blossom flood, with abundant water flow. Both banks are frozen, the river’s rapids roar, and the mist rising forms a huge rainbow in the sunlight—a rare and spectacular sight. Note that some areas of the scenic spot may be closed due to ice; be sure to check before traveling. Day 7: Relaxed return, with options to depart from Linfen or Taiyuan. 🍜 Taste the Loess Plateau Along the Way Qikou: Saotzi Bowl Tu (a local dish), Yellow River carp, red dates. Lin County/Lvliang: Chao’e (a potato noodle dish), Helengzi (potato balls). Xiangning/Yunqiu Mountain: Water banquet, oil cakes. Xixian: Saotzi noodles, cold noodles. Must-have for the trip: Thermos! Ensure hot water is always available. Stock enough snacks in the car as dining options are limited in some areas. 🏠 Recommended Accommodation Nodes on the Loop Accommodations are scattered; here are high-quality options in each area: Yunqiu Mountain Cave Courtyard (Kangjiaping Ancient Village Branch): Located within Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area, a luxurious cave dwelling homestay converted from an ancient village, exquisitely designed with modern facilities and ample floor heating, an excellent rest stop. Xiangning Mingzhu Hotel (Xiangning County Town): A local high-standard hotel with reliable service, suitable for stays before and after visiting Yunqiu Mountain. Xixian Hotel (Xixian County Town): A better local hotel, clean and comfortable, ideal as a base for exploring the Loess Geopark. Linfen Jindu Garden Hotel (Linfen City): The last stop before returning, offering city conveniences for easy access to flights or high-speed trains. 🚗 Self-Driving Safety and Practical Tips Vehicle Check: Thoroughly inspect your vehicle before departure, especially antifreeze, windshield washer fluid (use antifreeze type), tires, and battery. Four-wheel-drive SUVs are strongly recommended. Anti-Slip Equipment: Carry snow chains and learn basic installation. Mountain shaded roads often have hidden ice; drive cautiously and slowly. Information Check: Winter opening status of some mountain scenic spots may change; confirm opening information through official channels or by phone before departure and daily. Child Comfort: Prepare ample audiovisual entertainment (download cartoons, stories), picture books, snacks, and interactive games for long drives to keep children calm. Photography Gear: Bring cameras and drones (observe no-fly regulations in scenic areas). The scenery on this trip is definitely worth it. This loop perfectly combines Yellow River civilization, geological wonders, and snowy mountain villages, showcasing a rich and splendid winter in Shanxi. Save this exclusive route, start your engine, and embrace an incredibly expansive winter!

▫️"Qi" refers to the dangerous rapids on the Yellow River. Qikou was born because of this second most dangerous rapid on the Yellow River. Merchant ships coming upstream must dock here and switch to land routes, making it the end point of Yellow River water transport and the starting point of the Jin merchants' camel caravans. Standing at Heilong Temple overlooking, in front is the rolling Yellow River, behind are the layered Ming and Qing dynasty cave dwellings. ▫️Walking up to Xiwang Village and Lijiashan Village on the mountainside, you will find the "three-dimensional integration" of Ming and Qing residences. These family settlements built by wealthy Jin merchants follow the mountain terrain, layer upon layer. The famous painter Wu Guanzhong found his "Han tomb"-like inspiration here. 📌Tips: Located in Lin County, Lvliang City, Shanxi Province, it is usually more convenient to drive from Yulin, Shaanxi or Lvliang, Shanxi (about 1.5-2 hours by car). Situated at the junction of Shanxi and Shaanxi, across the Yellow River is Shaanxi.

Standing tall are the strange peaks and rocks of Beiwudang Mountain⛰️; flowing are the babbling streams of Pangquangou💧; telling the thousand-year stories of Qikou Ancient Town; Luliang, a beautiful picture woven with nature and culture... -------------------- No matter what kind of trip you want, Ctrip local guide Li Tingting can customize it for you✅! -------------------- 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦For family trips/large group events, highly recommended👉 🚌38-seat bus, can accommodate 37 passengers, with ample luggage space for 18 pieces of luggage, using Yutong 38-seat or equivalent vehicles, spacious and comfortable, suitable for long-distance travel or large group outings, making the journey more relaxed and enjoyable!🌈🎉 -------------------- 🚗Our solemn promise Drivers are all from Luliang local area, the fleet has many years of operation experience, punctual and reliable⏱️ Carefully selected nine popular attractions, combined with diverse itinerary options, tailor-made exclusive routes, creating extraordinary special trips Professional guides accompany you throughout, providing 24-hour attentive butler-style service, answering any questions at any time, helping you travel worry-free👔

📜 Historical Background Qikou Ancient Town is located in Lin County, Lüliang City, Shanxi Province. It is named after the Datong Qikou on the Yellow River and is known as the "First Town of the Nine Bends of the Yellow River." From the Ming and Qing dynasties to the Republic of China period, it became a major commercial town in northern China thanks to Yellow River water transport and is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. The ancient town preserves a large number of well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, including warehouses, draft banks, pawnshops, and other commercial buildings, earning it the reputation of a "living ancient town." ⏰ Suggested Visiting Time One-day itinerary: Morning (8:00-12:00): Explore the core area of Qikou Ancient Town, visit Ming and Qing Street, and Heilong Temple Afternoon (13:00-17:00): Head to Lijiashan Village or Xiwang Village to experience the distinctive residential style of the Loess Plateau Evening (17:00-18:30): Watch the sunset by the Yellow River and enjoy the Yellow River scenery In-depth visit suggestion: Spend 2 days to leisurely explore the ancient town and surrounding attractions, including the Yellow River Gallery and Datong Qikou natural landscapes. 🍜 Food Recommendations Special snacks: Saozi Wantuo: Made from buckwheat flour, served with chili oil, sesame paste, aged vinegar, and topped with saozi (a mix of kelp, vermicelli, black beans, etc.), sticky but not mushy, thick and flavorful Hongyin Yinpianzi: Made mainly from white flour, sprinkled with sesame on the surface, stamped with a red seal symbolizing good luck Yellow River Catfish: Fresh and delicious, a high-quality edible fish Local specialties: Qikou Red Dates: Large size, small pit, thin skin, thick flesh, fine texture, sweet taste, rich in 18 amino acids and 14 trace elements Qikou Tofu: Smooth and tender, can be seasoned with chili 💡 Practical Information Admission: Qikou Ancient Town is free to enter; some attractions like Heilong Temple require tickets Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (April to June, September to October), pleasant climate and beautiful scenery Transportation: About 3 hours by car from Taiyuan, or take the high-speed train to Lüliang and then transfer to a bus

*Exploring Shanxi: A Deep Dive into Taiyuan, Jinzhong, and Lüliang* Hey travelers! 👋 Are you tired of the same old popular tourist destinations and yearning for a deeper, more culturally rich journey? Today, join me as we explore Taiyuan, Jinzhong, and Lüliang in Shanxi, uncovering hidden gems behind the famous attractions, savoring authentic local cuisine, and embarking on an unforgettable trip to Shanxi! 😍 Preparations ● Documents: Bring your ID card, student ID (if applicable), etc. Student discounts are available at some attractions. ● Clothing: Shanxi experiences significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, it's best to bring a light jacket. In winter, be sure to bring a thick coat, scarf, gloves, and other warm clothing. ● Other: Prepare your camera, charger, and essential medications. Itinerary First Stop: Taiyuan City ● Famous Attractions ○ Jinci Temple: Ticket price 75 RMB 💰 This is the oldest existing royal sacrificial garden in China, containing dozens of ancient buildings showcasing traditional Chinese cultural characteristics. The Holy Mother Hall, the Fish Pond Flying Bridge, and the Offering Hall are known as the "Three Wonders of Jinci," well worth a visit. ○ Shanxi Museum: Free admission. Its rich and diverse collection of cultural relics, from ancient stone tools to bronzes from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, and then to porcelain and calligraphy from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, allows you to appreciate the profound historical and cultural heritage of Shanxi. ● Lesser-known attractions ○ Chunyang Palace: Admission 20 yuan. A famous Taoist temple, its architecture is rigorous, with pavilions and towers arranged in a harmonious and orderly manner. The palace also houses numerous Taoist statues and inscriptions, making it a good place to learn about Taoist culture. ○ Taiyuan Ancient County Town: Free admission. This county town, founded in the Ming Dynasty, boasts tall and majestic city walls, and its ancient streets and alleys are crisscrossed with shops. At night, when the lights come on, the ancient town is even more beautiful. ● Historical Sites ○ Tianlongshan Grottoes: Admission 30 yuan. The grottoes were first carved during the Eastern Wei Dynasty and continued to be excavated during the Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang Dynasties, reaching their current scale. Although some Buddha statues were damaged in history, the superb craftsmanship of the ancient artisans can still be appreciated. ● Food Recommendations ○ Tou Nao (Head Soup): This is a soup made from mutton, lotus root, and Chinese yam, among other ingredients. It has a unique flavor and is rich in nutrients. A bowl of Tou Nao paired with Shaomai (steamed dumplings) is a traditional breakfast combination for old Taiyuan residents. ○ Guo You Rou (Stir-fried Pork): A traditional Shanxi dish, it has a bright golden color and a savory, slightly vinegary flavor. It is made with carefully selected lean pork that has been marinated, deep-fried, and then stir-fried with natural black fungus, winter bamboo shoots, garlic slices, and other ingredients. ● Accommodation Reference ○ Hotels: Hotel prices in Taiyuan city vary widely. Budget hotels cost 150-300 yuan per night, mid-range hotels 300-600 yuan, and high-end hotels 600 yuan and above. ○ Guesthouses: Guesthouses are relatively affordable, generally costing around 100-250 yuan. ● Transportation Costs ○ Public Transportation: Taiyuan has extensive public transportation network, with fares generally costing 1-2 yuan. ○ Taxi: The starting fare is 8 yuan, with additional charges based on distance. Second Stop: Jinzhong City ● Famous Attractions ○ Pingyao Ancient City: Entrance fee 125 yuan (all-inclusive ticket, includes 22 attractions). It is one of the four best-preserved ancient cities in China. Strolling along the cobblestone streets of the ancient city feels like stepping back into the Ming and Qing dynasties. Attractions within the ancient city, such as the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, the Pingyao County Government Office, and the Confucian Temple, are worth visiting. ○ Qiao Family Compound: Admission 115 yuan. This is an ancient residence with traditional northern Chinese architectural style, magnificent in architecture and exquisite in decoration. Many films and television series have been filmed here, making the Qiao Family Compound famous. ● Lesser-known Attractions ○ Qu Family Compound: Admission 40 yuan. The Qu family were famous commercial and financial capitalists during the Qing Dynasty. The Qu Family Compound's architectural style blends northern and southern characteristics, and its stone carvings, wood carvings, and brick carvings are considered masterpieces. ○ Chang Family Manor: Admission 60 yuan. It is the largest Shanxi merchant compound, known as a "Confucian merchant family." The manor's garden landscape is uniquely designed, with pavilions, terraces, bridges, and flowing water, full of the charm of a Jiangnan water town. ● Historical Sites ○ Mianshan Mountain: Admission 110 yuan (excluding transportation within the scenic area). This is the place where Jie Zitui lived in seclusion. There are many ancient temples and Taoist temples in the mountain, such as Baofu Rock and Yunfeng Temple. Mianshan Mountain boasts stunning natural scenery, with different views in each season. ● Food Recommendations ○ Pingyao Beef: Tender, reddish-brown, and delicious, it's a specialty of Pingyao. You can buy some vacuum-packed to take home as gifts for friends and family. ○ Taigu Cake: Sweet but not greasy, crisp but not crumbly, fragrant and delicious, it keeps well for a long time. It's a traditional Shanxi delicacy and an important part of Jin merchant culture. ● Accommodation Recommendations ○ There are many guesthouses to choose from in Pingyao Ancient City, with prices ranging from 100 to 500 yuan. Staying in the ancient city allows for a better experience of its atmosphere. ○ Hotel prices in Jinzhong city are similar to those in Taiyuan city. ● Transportation Costs ○ From Taiyuan to Jinzhong, you can take a high-speed train or a long-distance bus. High-speed train tickets cost 10-20 yuan, and long-distance bus tickets cost 15-30 yuan. ○ Public transportation fares in Jinzhong city are generally 1-2 yuan, while taxi fares start at 6-8 yuan. Third Stop: Lüliang City ● Famous Attractions ○ Beiwudang Mountain: Entrance fee 72 yuan. It is one of the sacred sites of Taoism in northern China, with its main peak reaching 1983 meters above sea level. The mountain is steep and the scenery is magnificent. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and villages, allowing you to appreciate the grandeur of nature. ○ Qikou Ancient Town: Free. This ancient town flourished due to the Yellow River waterway and preserves many ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Yellow River Gallery and Lijia Mountain Cave Dwellings near the town are also unique. ● Lesser-Known Attractions ○ Xuanzhong Temple: Entrance fee 25 yuan. It is one of the birthplaces of the Pure Land School of Buddhism. The temple contains numerous ancient buildings and inscriptions, offering a tranquil environment ideal for self-cultivation. ○ Pangquangou Nature Reserve: Entrance fee 20 yuan. This is a paradise for wildlife, home to many rare birds and mammals. Visitors can enjoy hiking and natural scenery. ● Historical Sites ○ Wu Zetian Memorial Hall: Admission 25 yuan. The hall mainly displays Wu Zetian's life and related artifacts, giving you a deeper understanding of this only female emperor in Chinese history. ● Food Recommendations ○ Xiaoyi Huoshao (Flatbread): Available in sweet and savory flavors, with a crispy outer layer and a soft, chewy filling, and an irresistible aroma. ○ Liulin Wantuan (Buckwheat Noodles): Made with buckwheat flour, these noodles have a chewy texture and are served with chili oil, aged vinegar, and other seasonings for a delicious spicy and sour taste. ● Accommodation Reference ○ Hotel prices in Lüliang city are relatively low. Budget hotels cost 100-200 yuan per night, while mid-range hotels cost 200-400 yuan per night. ○ There are some farmhouses and guesthouses in Qikou Ancient Town, with relatively affordable prices, generally around 80-200 yuan. ● Transportation Costs ○ You can take a long-distance bus from Jinzhong to Lüliang, with tickets costing 30-50 yuan. ○ Within Lüliang city, bus fares are 1-2 yuan, and taxi fares start at 6-8 yuan. Summary This in-depth tour of Taiyuan-Jinzhong-Lüliang allowed us to appreciate the rich history and culture of Shanxi and its unique natural scenery, and to taste authentic Shanxi cuisine. I believe this will be an unforgettable travel experience! My darlings, pack your bags and embark on this journey of exploration in Shanxi! 💪 The prices in the above guide are for reference only. Actual prices may fluctuate due to seasonal and market factors. I hope everyone has a pleasant trip! 😘 Please like and follow so you don't get lost!

⛰Touch the ethereal charm shrouded in mist at Beiwudang Mountain; listen to the millennia-old whispers of the Yellow River crashing against the shore at Qikou Ancient Town; let the lush greenery of Pangquangou soothe the noise of the world... -- No matter what kind of trip you want, Trip.com's local guide Li Tingting can customize it for you✅! -- 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦For large family outings or big group trips, choose👉 🚌38-seat bus, accommodates 37 people, no worries about luggage🧳! Providing Yutong 38-seat or equivalent vehicles, extra spacious for a more comfortable long-distance trip, whether it's a family reunion or company team building, it can easily accommodate all people and luggage👏! -- 🚗Our solemn promise All drivers are experienced local drivers from Lüliang, with years of fleet operation experience, ensuring every minute of the trip is on time, departing and arriving punctually⏱️ Carefully selected nine major highlights, combined with various itinerary options, supporting personalized customization to create a unique and special travel experience Exclusive guides provide 24/7 attentive service, responding promptly to any questions, ensuring a worry-free journey👔

Want to avoid crowds and explore an authentic ancient village in Shanxi? Don't just focus on Pingyao and Qikou! Shang'an Village in Taigu, Jinzhong, is nestled in the ravines of the Loess Plateau, built against the mountains and facing cliffs on three sides. Its Ming and Qing dynasty fortress layout is perfectly preserved. A stroll through it feels like traveling back a hundred years. The best part is, there are very few tourists, allowing you to quietly soak in the village's charm~ 🚗 Transportation & Navigation Guide ✅ Self-driving (the only recommended method!) - Navigation: Search directly for "Taigu Shang'an Village" (Houcheng Township, Taigu District, Jinzhong City). It's about a 20-minute drive from Taigu urban area, or 1.5 hours from Taiyuan urban area (take Jingkun Expressway → exit at Taigu Toll Station). - Road conditions: The road from the urban area to the village is asphalt, and the last 1 kilometer is a smooth concrete road. Regular family cars can easily drive in, so even new drivers don't need to worry. - Parking: There's free open-space parking at the village entrance. Just park outside the fortress gate; it's super close to the main scenic area. ✅ Public Transportation (not very convenient, suitable for budget travelers) - Take a long-distance bus from Taiyuan Jiannan Bus Station to Taigu Bus Station (approx. 1 hour, fare 20 RMB), then take a taxi to Shang'an Village (approx. 30 RMB, 20-minute drive). There's no public bus in the village, so you'll need to contact a driver in advance for your return trip. 📅 Highlights & Itinerary (approx. 2 hours total) 1. Village Entrance Fortress Gate + Ancient Post Road Upon entering the village, first see the three fortress gates at the north entrance. These were the "security defense lines" against bandits and thieves during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The stone walls are mottled and heavy, and touching them reveals the traces of time. The ancient post road outside the fortress gate still bears wheel ruts; it's said that Jin merchants passed through here on their journeys to the west~ 2. General's Residence + Wulue General's Mansion The two most magnificent old houses in the village! The General's Residence was the former home of a Qing dynasty military general, featuring a quadrangle courtyard layout with exquisitely carved wooden window lattices and brick-carved shadow walls. The auspicious beast carvings under the eaves are lifelike. The Wulue General's Mansion is more understated, with a small courtyard gate, but once inside, the carved beams and painted rafters reveal the family's former prominence. - Tip: Villagers still live in these old houses. Please be quiet and gentle when visiting, don't disturb their lives, and ask for permission before taking photos~ 3. Sanyi Tower + Street-spanning Stage The Sanyi Tower in the village center is a Ming and Qing dynasty street-spanning stage. Pedestrians walk below, and Jin opera is performed above. This "pedestrian-vehicle separation" design was incredibly advanced for ancient times! The wooden architraves of the stage are carved with opera stories, full of intricate details. Standing below and looking up, you can almost hear the gongs and drums from a hundred years ago. 4. Menlou (Hidden Tower) + Guandi Temple Menlou is the highest point in the village. Climbing up offers a panoramic view of the entire ancient village layout – the layered cave dwellings on the loess plateau, integrated with the fortress walls, are highly characteristic of the Loess Plateau. The Guandi Temple is hidden at the end of the village; it's not large but has strong incense. The ancient pagoda tree at the entrance is over a hundred years old, providing dense shade in summer. 💡 Practical Tips (avoiding pitfalls & thoughtful reminders) 1. Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn (April-May, September-October), when the weather is cool and the vegetation on the loess plateau is beautiful. Avoid visiting at noon in summer, it's too hot! The village is quiet in winter, but the cold wind can be biting, so remember to wear a thick coat. 2. Outfit suggestions: Wear plain cotton and linen clothes, denim jackets, or Hanfu, which perfectly match the loess walls and old brick houses. Choose flat sports shoes, as there are many stone slab paths in the village, making walking stable. 3. Food and drink supplies: There are no restaurants in the village, only a small convenience store at the entrance selling water and snacks. It's recommended to bring your own dry food and thermos (if you want hot water, you can ask villagers, they are very hospitable). 4. Photo spots: ① Take a panoramic shot from the fortress walls; ② Take portraits in front of Sanyi Tower; ③ Overlook and photograph the ancient village layout from Menlou; ④ Take close-ups of the carved window lattices of the old houses. 5. Nearby attractions: After visiting Shang'an Village, you can drive 20 minutes to Cao Family Courtyard (Sanduotang) in Taigu to see the grand residences of Jin merchants. Visiting two attractions in one day makes for a very fulfilling itinerary. 🌟 Why is it worth visiting? Shang'an Village was selected as a "Chinese Historical and Cultural Village" and "Chinese Traditional Village" as early as 2019. However, because it's less known, it hasn't been commercialized – there are no trendy shops, no tour guide loudspeakers, only elderly people basking in the sun, children playing, and authentic Loess Plateau life. Walking on the stone slab paths in the village, time slows down. This "living ancient village" has more character than many commercialized ancient towns~