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

Who says winter travel is only about going to Northeast China to see snow or chasing the aurora in Iceland? This time, we dig deep into Shanxi’s hidden routes, connecting 3 breathtaking ice waterfalls and 4 national treasure ancient buildings into a 6-day loop — the Yellow River frozen into a roaring ice river, a million-year-old ice cave hiding an underground crystal palace, Tongtian Gorge’s ice formations creating a beautiful blue-white tunnel, paired with snow-covered ancient buildings and the romantic Jin culture. Fewer crowds, stunning views, and budget-friendly, this niche route is a must-lock for adventurous travelers! 1. Ice Waterfall Wonders: A Snow and Ice Secret More “Chinese” than Iceland Iceland’s ice waterfalls are beautiful, but the tens of thousands of yuan in airfare and travel distance can be daunting. Shanxi’s ice waterfalls combine natural grandeur with the unique heritage of the Yellow River and canyons — Hukou Waterfall’s “roaring ice river” is the collision of the Yellow River and ice and snow, Yunqiu Mountain’s ice cave is a billion-year gift from nature, and Tongtian Gorge’s ice formations are masterpieces of canyon and cold. Each spot lets you experience “polar scenery at your doorstep,” and the best part is no long-distance travel is needed, making it highly cost-effective! 2. Ancient Architecture and Snow: The Best Season to Unlock Jin-style Aesthetics Shanxi is the “Museum of Chinese Ancient Architecture,” but winter is the ultimate season for ancient buildings! Snow on glazed tiles, red lanterns decorating gray bricks and tiles, the streets of Pingyao Ancient City’s security agency, the staggered courtyards of Wang Family Compound, and the Feihong Pagoda of Guangsheng Temple all turn into ink-wash paintings in the snow. More importantly, winter is the off-season for ancient architecture tourism, so without bustling crowds, you can quietly appreciate the intricate carvings and feel the tranquility and depth of history. 3. Combining Activity and Calm: One-stop for Snow Fun, Sightseeing, and Food This route perfectly balances “quiet appreciation” and “dynamic fun”: explore the ice cave and check in at ice waterfalls in the morning, then experience speed and excitement at Yunqiu Mountain Ski Resort in the afternoon; see all the ice, snow, and ancient buildings by day, and at night enjoy a steaming bowl of knife-cut noodles and a pot of Fenjiu liquor in Pingyao Ancient City. This “cold but happy” experience is the right way to enjoy winter travel! 🚗 Two Travel Options: Self-driving vs. Public Transportation Itinerary Planning ✅ Self-driving (Recommended! Maximum freedom) Ideal for those who like flexible itineraries, family trips, or traveling with friends. Self-driving allows you to stop at roadside scenic spots anytime and deeply experience Shanxi’s rural road scenery. - Route overview: Taiyuan → Xiaoxitian → Hukou Waterfall (stay in Jixian County) → Yunqiu Mountain (stay at Yunqiu Mountain) → Tongtian Gorge (stay in Changzhi) → Guangsheng Temple → Wang Family Compound (stay in Pingyao) → Pingyao Ancient City → Taiyuan - Driving reference: About 800 kilometers total, 2-3 hours driving per day on average, good road conditions, with some mountain sections having light snow accumulation (cleared promptly in winter), safe even for beginners. - Self-driving advantages: Bring your own warm clothes, snacks, and hot water without frequent transfers; free parking at Yunqiu Mountain Ski Resort, Tongtian Gorge, and other spots; stunning scenery along Lüliang Mountains and Yellow River with plenty of photo stops. - Precautions: Shanxi’s winter temperatures are low, some roads may be icy; check vehicle condition in advance, equip snow tires or chains; check real-time road conditions before departure to avoid fog or snow; slow down on winding mountain roads and drive safely. ✅ Public transportation (Cost-effective, suitable for students/solo travelers) Though transfers are needed, Shanxi’s public transport is convenient and saves on fuel and car rental costs, perfect for budget travelers. - Itinerary plan: 1. Take high-speed train or flight to Taiyuan, the starting point with excellent transport connections. 2. Taiyuan → Xiaoxitian: Take a long-distance bus from Taiyuan Bus Station to Xixian County (about 3 hours, 60 RMB), then taxi to Xiaoxitian (10 minutes, 15 RMB). 3. Xiaoxitian → Hukou Waterfall: Take a bus from Xixian Bus Station to Jixian County (about 2 hours, 40 RMB), then taxi to Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area (20 minutes, 30 RMB, carpool possible). 4. Hukou Waterfall → Yunqiu Mountain: Take a bus from Jixian Bus Station to Xiangning County (1.5 hours, 30 RMB), then taxi to Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area (15 minutes, 20 RMB). 5. Yunqiu Mountain → Tongtian Gorge: Take a bus from Xiangning County to Changzhi City (about 3 hours, 70 RMB), then taxi from Changzhi Bus Station to Tongtian Gorge (40 minutes, 50 RMB). 6. Tongtian Gorge → Guangsheng Temple → Wang Family Compound: Take high-speed train from Changzhi to Hongtong West Station (about 1 hour, 30 RMB), taxi to Guangsheng Temple (20 minutes, 25 RMB); after visiting, taxi to Wang Family Compound (30 minutes, 40 RMB). 7. Wang Family Compound → Pingyao Ancient City: Taxi to Jiexiu East Station (20 minutes, 30 RMB), high-speed train to Pingyao Ancient City Station (15 minutes, 15 RMB), then taxi into the ancient city (10 minutes, 20 RMB). 8. Pingyao Ancient City → Taiyuan: Take high-speed train (about 1 hour, 30 RMB) to end the trip. - Tips: Long-distance buses have fewer schedules, check the “Shanxi Qiyun” WeChat official account for timetables in advance to avoid missing the last bus; carpooling on some routes is cheaper, negotiate with fellow passengers; bring a lightweight suitcase for easy transfers. ❄️ In-depth Travel Guide: Fully Explore Every Spot 🌟 The Three Ice and Snow Wonders: Detailed Play Guide for 3 Ice Waterfalls 1. Hukou Waterfall · Roaring Ice River (Winter Exclusive Spectacle) - Highlights: Hukou Waterfall roars in summer, but in winter it “roars frozen.” The Yellow River water freezes in the cold, forming huge ice waterfall clusters with ice layers 1-2 meters thick, crystal clear on the surface, while water still rushes underneath, creating a thunderous sound. This “stillness with movement” wonder can only be seen in winter. - Niche experience: Avoid the small crowds at the main viewing platform, walk down the stone steps on the right side of the scenic area to an “ice beach viewing spot” for close-up views and photos of the ice waterfall with the Yellow River in the frame; if lucky on a sunny morning, sunlight refracts rainbows on the ice waterfall — absolutely stunning! - Tickets and hours: 100 RMB per person, open 8:00-17:00 (winter nights come early, enter before 3 PM recommended). - Precautions: The ground inside the scenic area is icy, wear anti-slip sports shoes; strong winds, wear hat, scarf, gloves, and dress warmly; do not climb over railings near the ice waterfall edge to avoid ice breaking and danger. 2. Yunqiu Mountain · Million-year Ice Cave (A Natural Miracle) - Highlights: A rare natural ice cave in northern China formed during the Quaternary glaciation, about 3 million years old. The cave temperature stays around -10°C year-round, with ice pillars, curtains, flowers, and stalactites in various shapes, like entering an underground crystal palace. Remarkably, outside is below -10°C winter cold, but inside the cave is “warmer,” a fascinating temperature difference. - Activities: - Ice cave exploration: Visitors wear free cotton coats provided by the park, walk slowly along the boardwalk, avoid touching ice pillars to prevent melting; blue-white lighting inside makes photos stunning, use wide-angle mode on your phone for panoramas. - Skiing experience: Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area has a ski resort with beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes for all skill levels. Ski tickets include skis, boots, and poles, very cost-effective. After skiing, enjoy a natural hot spring in the park — pure bliss. - Tickets and hours: Ice cave ticket 80 RMB per person, ski resort ticket 120 RMB for 2 hours, open 7:30-18:00. - Accommodation recommendation: Stay in local homestays like “Tarp Ancient Village Homestay” inside Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area, with quaint cave dwellings, starry nights, and snow-capped mountain views right outside your window for a full experience. 3. Tongtian Gorge · Ice Hanging Secret Realm (Forest-style Photo Paradise) - Highlights: In winter, the entire gorge is wrapped in ice formations, with icicles meters long on cliff walls in various shapes — ice curtains, ice swords, coral-like. Walking through the gorge feels like entering a blue-white fantasy tunnel. Sunlight refracts through the ice creating dreamy light effects, every photo looks like a forest-themed masterpiece, no editing needed. - Niche experience: Walk along the wooden plank path in the gorge to an “ice waterfall pool” where the water freezes crystal clear, perfect for shooting reflections of the ice formations; if you have energy, climb to the top viewing platform for a panoramic view of the entire ice-hung gorge. - Tickets and hours: 90 RMB per person, open 8:00-17:30 (winter last entry at 16:30).

Going to Iceland 🇮🇸 for breathtaking icefalls? I've found three ice and snow wonders in Shanxi that rival polar spectacles✨ Fewer crowds, stunning views, and budget-friendly💰—this is the true winter choice for niche travelers! 🌟【Three Majestic Icefall Wonders, Each More Stunning Than the Last】 1️⃣ Hukou Waterfall · Roaring Ice River 📍Location: Hukou Town, Jixian County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00 Winter exclusive❄️ The rushing Yellow River water intertwines with frozen ice, creating the spectacular "Icefall Silver River," even more majestic than in summer💥 🧊Niche highlight: Avoid flood season crowds and enjoy the best viewing spots📸 Hear the thunderous roar of the river beneath the ice and feel nature’s wildness🎵 2️⃣ Yunqiu Mountain · Eternal Ice Cave 📍Location: Changning Town, Xiangning County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening Hours: 8:30-16:30 Natural wonder✨ A natural ice cave that never melts even in midsummer🧊 Inside, ice pillars, ice curtains, and ice flowers sparkle crystal clear💎 like an underground crystal palace 🧊Activity unlock: After exploring the cave🏂 head straight to Talpo Ski Resort for thrilling ice and snow speed—a perfect blend of motion and stillness～ 3️⃣ Tongtian Gorge · Ice Hanging Secret Realm 📍Location: Dongsitou Township, Pingshun County, Changzhi City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening Hours: 8:00-17:30 Stunning gallery🎨 The canyon cliffs are adorned with countless ice hangings and pillars; walking through feels like passing through a blue-white fantasy tunnel🦋 🧊Photo hotspot: Sunlight refracts through the ice creating dreamy light✨ Every shot looks like a forest-themed masterpiece, perfect for wallpapers💫 🎯【Beautiful Ice & Snow + Ancient Architecture Combo】 ▪️ Visit the "Little Western Heaven" suspended sculptures🏛️📍Xixian County, Linfen City ▪️ Explore "Guangsheng Temple" Glazed Flying Rainbow Pagoda✨📍Hongtong County, Linfen City ▪️ Step into "Wang Family Courtyard"🏮📍Lingshi County, Jinzhong City ▪️ Night tour of "Pingyao Ancient City"🏮📍Pingyao County, Jinzhong City 🚗【6-Day Ice and Snow Tour Itinerary】 DAY1: Gather in Taiyuan DAY2: Taiyuan → Little Western Heaven → Hukou Waterfall → Stay in Jixian DAY3: Jixian → Yunqiu Mountain (Ice Cave + Skiing) → Stay at Yunqiu Mountain DAY4: Yunqiu Mountain → Tongtian Gorge → Stay in Changzhi DAY5: Changzhi → Guangsheng Temple → Wang Family Courtyard → Stay in Pingyao DAY6: Pingyao Ancient City → Taiyuan ‼️【Winter Photography Tips】 ▪️ Outfit: Bright-colored down jackets (red/white are super photogenic🧣) ▪️ Equipment: Bring a tripod📸 Icefall time-lapse photography is amazing ▪️ Timing: Best on sunny days at 10:00 or 14:00🕙 for the most magical light

This guesthouse is absolutely amazing✨ A double hit of nature + modern🔥 🌿 The meaning of life is probably waking up to the sound of waterfalls Open your eyes to a stunning 270° mountain and waterfall view This cave-style guesthouse is truly incredible! You can watch the waterfall cascading down while lying in bed🌊 At night, enjoy the dreamy aurora✨ It’s simply the pinnacle of modern wild luxury! 💡 Highlights: ✓ 270° panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, zero distance from nature ✓ Cave design + modern facilities, a perfect blend of wildness and luxury ✓ Watch the waterfall by day, admire the starry sky and aurora by night ✓ Mountain spring pool + cliff terrace, 200% photo-worthy 📸 Recommended photo spots: - Cave book bar (perfect for shots like me reading inside the cave) - Cliff viewing platform (best spot to watch the aurora) - Mountain spring pool (check in with the waterfall behind for a stunning shot) Weekend city escape plan activated! Isn’t this healing guesthouse irresistible?💖

🌟【Complete Zhangjiakou Guide】Explore the "Beijing Backyard" on a 1.5k budget! Grassland Sky Road self-drive + Winter Olympic venues check-in + ancient castle exploration, copy this off-the-beaten-path route directly!🏔️ 💰Budget breakdown (3 days 2 nights cost-effective trip) Total cost: about 1300-1800 RMB (suitable for students/budget travelers) • Accommodation: city economy hotels/homestays 150-250 RMB/night (e.g., Blue Whale Building Licheng Hotel from 145 RMB), about 300-500 RMB for 2 nights • Tickets: selected attraction combos (Grassland Sky Road free, Dajingmen Great Wall Scenic Area ticket, Taiwu Ski Resort summer sightseeing), some attractions offer consumption voucher discounts • Transportation: city bus + self-drive about 50 RMB/day, about 150 RMB for 3 days (high-speed train from Beijing to Zhangjiakou takes 1 hour) • Food: snacks + meals about 60-80 RMB/day (Youmian noodles 15 RMB/bowl, Chaigoubao smoked meat 30 RMB per person), about 200 RMB for 3 days ------ 📸 Must-visit attractions (with hidden tips) 1. Grassland Sky Road — China's most beautiful road self-drive feast🛣️ ◦ Free admission! 132 kilometers winding between Zhangbei grassland and Chongli, lush green in summer, wind turbines, terraces, and birch forests make for stunning photos ◦ Hidden tip: depart at 6 AM to avoid crowds, shoot sunrise and sea of clouds at Huapiling viewing platform; autumn aerial shots of colorful forests are breathtaking 2. Dajingmen Great Wall — the historic gate of the Great Wall's four famous passes🏯 ◦ The "Magnificent Rivers and Mountains" stone carving is a must-see landmark; climb the wall for panoramic views of Zhangjiakou and feel over 350 years of history ◦ Photography tip: arrive before 7:30 AM to avoid tour groups; shoot silhouettes at dusk when lights come on for a historic vibe 3. Chongli Winter Olympic Core Area — year-round celebration in the ice and snow kingdom⛷️ ◦ In winter, enjoy top ski resorts like Wanlong and Taiwu; in summer, take the cable car for views of the Winter Olympic ski jump and sea of clouds ◦ Bonus experience: hike the Taizicheng Ruins Park loop connecting Olympic venues and millennium-old historical sites 4. Nuanquan Ancient Town — a visual feast of the intangible cultural heritage "Da Shuhua" fireworks🎆 ◦ 800-year-old town, watch craftsmen perform "Da Shuhua" by splashing molten iron into starry showers, visit No. 6 Stone Alley to see old window paper-cutting ◦ In-depth tip: stay in a town homestay, shoot Qing and Ming dynasty architectural details early morning to avoid crowds, try Weixian paper-cutting DIY 5. Feihuyu · Aerial Grassland — the sky garden of the Taihang Mountains🌄 ◦ A wonder where canyon meets plateau, spring brings ten thousand acres of flowers, summer offers exploration of perennial ice caves, autumn is best for hiking ◦ Hidden spot: aerial shots after rain with mist swirling, wear bright clothes on the green meadow for standout photos ------ 🚗 3-day essential itinerary (lazy optimized version) Day 1: History and nature line Morning: Arrive in Zhangjiakou → Dajingmen Great Wall Scenic Area (check in at "Magnificent Rivers and Mountains" stone carving) → Zhangjiakou City Museum Afternoon: West section of Grassland Sky Road (enter at Yehuling, exit at Huapiling, shoot wind turbines) → horseback riding at Zhongdu Grassland Evening: Stay in a Mongolian yurt in Zhangbei (experience roast whole lamb, stargazing) Day 2: Winter Olympic and ancient town line Morning: Chongli Taiwu Town (take cable car to see sea of clouds + check in Winter Olympic venues) Afternoon: Nuanquan Ancient Town (Da Shuhua performance + Weixian paper-cutting experience) → Feihuyu Canyon hiking Evening: Return to city to try Chaigoubao smoked meat and Weixian Eight Bowls Day 3: Ecological leisure line Morning: Cycling at Guanting Reservoir National Wetland Park → wine tasting at Huailai Winery Afternoon: Explore Jimingyi Ancient City (Ming dynasty courier station remains) → buy Xuanhua milk grapes before departure ------ 🍜 Food highlights (local certified) • Must-try staples: ◦ Bashang Youmian noodles: Erdaogou Youmian Village is the most authentic, five cooking methods each with unique flavor ◦ Chaigoubao smoked meat: fragrant pine aroma, crispy red skin, tender and chewy, perfect with baked flatbread • Snack soul: ◦ Weixian Fentuo: paired with spicy oil and vinegar sauce, sour and spicy appetizer, 5 RMB per serving at night market ◦ Halal Mendin Meat Pie: limited supply at Muslim restaurants, crispy outside and tender inside • Specialty drinks: ◦ Sea buckthorn juice: pairs well with smoked meat to cut greasiness, sweet and refreshing ◦ Huailai wine: similar geographic environment to Bordeaux, rich taste ------ 💡 Helpful Tips 1. Transportation: follow "Zhangjiakou Culture and Tourism" WeChat official account to get consumption vouchers covering tickets, dining, and accommodation 2. Season: June-August for grassland summer cool, September-October for splendid autumn colors, November-March best for skiing 3. Clothing: big temperature difference on grassland, bring a jacket, comfortable sports shoes essential (many hiking sections) 4. Discounts: student ID offers discounts at some attractions, buying tickets in advance is more cost-effective ✨ Compiling this guide was not easy, like and save to unlock more details～ 💌 For reservation methods of each attraction, leave a message to ask, I will try my best to answer!

Shuozhou, the "Pearl of the Northern Frontier" located in northern Shanxi, was once a key border town in the Han-Xiongnu struggle and the Western Capital during the Liao and Jin dynasties. It boasts China’s most complete existing Liao Dynasty wooden temple—the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the Northern Qi Great Wall ruins, and the magnificent Shahukou Great Wall. In three days and two nights, travel through a thousand years of frontier history, experience the blend of history and nature, and unlock a "niche but stunning" travel experience! Suitable for: History enthusiasts, photography lovers, self-driving travelers Transportation advice: Attractions in Shuozhou are scattered; renting a car for self-driving is recommended (200-300 RMB/day); or charter a car tour (about 400 RMB/day). Day 1: The Millennium Wonder of Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and Frontier Life Keywords: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, Jingtusi Temple, Yingxian Ancient City Night Market Morning: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda—A Miracle of the World’s Tallest Wooden Structure Highlights: - Built in the 2nd year of Qingning in the Liao Dynasty (1056), standing 67.31 meters tall, the entire pagoda is constructed without nails or rivets, relying solely on dougong joinery; - The tower body hangs 54 plaques from various dynasties, including the Jin Dynasty relic “Shijia Pagoda” inscription; - Climb the pagoda for a panoramic view of Yingxian, though currently only the ground floor is open (don’t miss the interior polychrome sculptures). Tips: - Ticket: 50 RMB, open 8:00-18:00; - Photo spots: panoramic view from the front square (morning light is soft), dougong details inside the pagoda; - Duration: 1.5-2 hours. Noon: Yingxian Liangfen Feast—The Ultimate Frontier Snack Experience Recommended dishes: - Yingxian Liangfen: made from potato starch, served with chili oil, broad beans, and cilantro, sour, spicy, and smooth; - Diliu: similar to liangfen but softer and stickier, served with garlic vinegar soup; - Tangganlu: hollow baked flatbread, crispy outside and sweet inside, said to be a tribute to the Liao royal family. Cost per person: 15 RMB, recommended “Old Yingxian Liangfen Shop” (near the Wooden Pagoda). Afternoon: Jingtusi Temple—A Miniature Wonder of Liao Dynasty “Heavenly Palace Pavilion” Highlights: - Built in the Liao Dynasty like the Wooden Pagoda, the main hall’s “Heavenly Palace Pavilion” caisson ceiling is one of only three remaining in China; - The central coiled dragon carving is vivid and lifelike, praised by Liang Sicheng as one of Yingxian’s “Three Treasures”; - The hall preserves Liao Dynasty polychrome sculptures, with Buddha faces full and garments flowing. Tips: - Ticket: 15 RMB, same opening hours as the Wooden Pagoda; - Photo spots: full view of the caisson ceiling (requires looking up), close-ups of polychrome sculptures. Evening: Yingxian Ancient City Night Market—The Lively Atmosphere of Frontier Nightlife Route: - Walk along Yingxian Ancient City Wall (free, with rustic night lighting); - Night market recommendation: Liao Dynasty Street (grilled lamb skewers, lamb offal soup, sea buckthorn juice). Day 2: The Majesty of Shahukou Great Wall and the Green Ecology of Youyu Keywords: Shahukou Great Wall, Youyu Cangtou River, frontier customs Morning: Shahukou Great Wall—A Thousand Years of Beacon Fire at the Jin-Mongol Gateway Highlights: - One of the Ming Dynasty’s “Nine Border Strongholds,” with existing Great Wall walls, passes, and fortress ruins; - Climb Shahukou Fortress wall to overlook the grasslands at the Jin-Mongol border; - Visit Youyu Museum (free) to learn about the “Youyu Spirit” (the struggle to prevent wind and fix sand). Tips: - Ticket: free, open 8:30-17:30; - Photo spots: panoramic Great Wall, fortress gate ruins, Jin-Mongol boundary marker; - Duration: 2-3 hours. Noon: Youyu Lamb Feast—The Ultimate Freshness of Northern Frontier Cuisine Recommended dishes: - Youyu Salt-fried Lamb: seasoned only with salt, tender and free of gamey taste; - Lamb Meatballs: hand-pounded, crispy outside and tender inside; - Youmian Kaolaolao: steamed oat noodles served with lamb mince soup. Cost per person: 50 RMB, recommended “Youyu Family” (near Shahukou Scenic Area). Afternoon: Cangtou River Wetland Park—The Ecological Miracle of the Northern Frontier’s Jiangnan Highlights: - The Cangtou River, a tributary of the Yellow River, flows through the area, creating a unique “alpine meadow + wetland lake” landscape; - You can bike or hike (bike rental 20 RMB/hour), watching water birds and reed marshes along the river; - Autumn (September-October) is the golden photography season with colorful forests. Tips: - Ticket: free, open all day; - Photo spots: riverside boardwalk, birdwatching platform, grassland sunset. Day 3: The Historical Echoes of Guangwu Ancient City and the Slow Life of Shuozhou Old Town Keywords: Guangwu Ancient City, Shuozhou Chongfu Temple, Mayi Museum Morning: Guangwu Ancient City—The Frontier Relics of the Han-Xiongnu Wars Highlights: - Divided into Old Guangwu City (Han Dynasty) and New Guangwu City (Ming Dynasty), with existing city walls and beacon towers; - Old Guangwu City preserves Ming and Qing residential houses, stone slab roads, and adobe walls showing the passage of time; - Climb Xinyue Fort (the highest point of New Guangwu City) to overlook the battlefield ruins outside Yanmen Pass. Tips: - Free, open all day; - Photo spots: ancient city gates, beacon towers, residential details. Noon: Shuozhou Old Town Cuisine—A Warm Ending with Local Flavors Recommended dishes: - Shuozhou Knife-cut Noodles: served with fried sauce or tomato gravy, chewy and smooth; - Pinglu Braised Pork Strips: pork belly stewed until tender, rich but not greasy; - Hunyuan Liangfen (Shuozhou style): more vinegar aroma, served with chili oil and broad beans. Cost per person: 20 RMB, recommended “Old Shuozhou Noodle House” (inside Shuozhou Old Town). Afternoon: Chongfu Temple + Mayi Museum—Shuozhou’s Cultural Grand Finale Chongfu Temple: - Founded in the Tang Dynasty, current buildings are Jin Dynasty relics; the main hall Amitabha Hall is one of the eight existing Liao structures in China; - The hall’s polychrome sculptures and murals are well preserved, especially the exquisite “Guanyin Bodhisattva statue.” Mayi Museum: - Treasures: Northern Wei stone carved coffin bed (with carved flying musicians), Liao Dynasty painted wooden figurines; - Free admission, advance reservation required (closed Mondays). Tips: - Chongfu Temple ticket: 20 RMB, open 8:30-17:30; - The two sites are adjacent, a 5-minute walk apart. Accommodation Recommendations - Yingxian: Homestays near Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (e.g., “Wooden Pagoda Family,” 150-200 RMB/night); - Youyu: Ecological hotels by Cangtou River (e.g., “Youyu Ecological Garden,” 300-400 RMB/night); - Shuozhou: Inns inside Shuozhou Old Town (e.g., “Shuozhou Story,” 200-300 RMB/night). Transportation Guide - Air: Shuozhou has no airport; fly to Datong Yungang Airport (1.5 hours by car from Shuozhou) or Taiyuan Wusu Airport (3 hours by car); - High-speed rail: Shuozhou East Station (high-speed rail station), about 4 hours from Beijing to Shuozhou; - City transport: Attractions are far apart; self-driving or chartering a car is most convenient. Notes - Climate: Shuozhou has large temperature differences between day and night; bring a jacket in summer; dry and cold in winter; - Food: Shuozhou cuisine is salty; you can request “less salt” when ordering; lamb is warming, so consume moderately if prone to heatiness; - Cultural etiquette: Remove hats when visiting temples; do not photograph Buddha statues; do not climb Great Wall ruins; - Safety: Some paths in Cangtou River Wetland Park are slippery; wear non-slip shoes; drive carefully on mountain roads with curves. Shuozhou, an Underrated “Frontier Treasure” In three days and two nights, from the millennium wonder of Yingxian Wooden Pagoda to the grandeur of Shahukou Great Wall, from the green ecology of Youyu to the historical echoes of Guangwu Ancient City, Shuozhou redefines the charm of “Northern travel” with the ruggedness of the frontier and the delicacy of ancient architecture. Here, there are no crowded crowds, only the purest cultural and natural experiences. Which Shuozhou attraction moves you the most? Share your travel plans in the comments!

"For underground relics, see Shaanxi; for aboveground relics, see Shanxi." ✅ Must-visit spots in Shanxi ✴️ Jinci: A royal sacrificial garden, with the Never-Old Spring, the Statue of the Serving Maid, and the Zhou Cypress known as the 'Three Wonders of Jinci' ✴️ Wang's Grand Courtyard: Known as the 'Folk Forbidden City' and 'Shanxi's Imperial Palace', it has a strong ancient atmosphere ✴️ Pingyao Ancient City: One of the four great ancient cities, an outstanding example of a Han Chinese city during the Ming and Qing dynasties ✴️ Hanging Temple: An aerial loft, it is a temple that integrates Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism ✴️ Mount Wutai: A national natural and cultural dual heritage site, one of China's five major Buddhist holy sites ✴️ Yungang Grottoes: The statues are majestic, considered the crown of Chinese stone carving art in the 5th century ✴️ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: China's existing ancient wooden structure pavilion-style tower, come see the exquisite construction art of the ancients ✴️ Mount Heng: A Chinese geographical landmark, with the Hanging Temple located at the foot of Mount Heng ⭐ Travel Tips ✈️ To get to Shanxi by plane, you first fly to Taiyuan and then transfer 🚄 After taking the high-speed train to the local area, there are buses to the city center; for more distant attractions, it's better to join a day tour in advance Shanxi is really a treasure place, with few people, you're right to come here!

Quickly grab this worry-free and money-saving Xinzhou family travel guide! 💰 Total budget 4050 RMB (for a family of 2 adults and 2 kids) with unbeatable value! Just follow along and have fun~🔥 💫【Itinerary Revealed】 ✨Day 1️⃣: Meet Mount Wutai 📍Location: Taihuai Town, Wutai County, Xinzhou City (0350-6548699) ⏰Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM 🌟Buddhist Experience: Pilgrimage and blessings + White Pagoda photo stop📸 🍜Must-try Lunch: Tai Mushroom Stewed Native Chicken (50 RMB per person! Super fresh~) ✨Day 2️⃣: Border Pass One-Day Tour 📍Yanmen Pass: Daixian County, Xinzhou City (0350-5221666) ⏰9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 🚶‍♂️Hiking Tips: Gentle slopes, no stress with kids 📍Lao Niu Bay: Pianguan County, Xinzhou City (0350-7655111) 💰Combo Ticket 150 RMB/person (same price for adults and kids) 🌄Don’t miss the Yellow River sunset in the evening! Absolutely stunning and healing~ ✨Day 3️⃣: Frozen Wonderland Day 📍Hometown of Diao Chan: Xinfu District, Xinzhou City 🎫Tickets 60 RMB (half price for children) 🏔️Luyashan Eternal Ice Cave: The ultimate summer cooling spot❄️ ✨Day 4️⃣: Ancient City Flavor Hunt 📍Xinzhou Ancient City: Nanbei Street, Xinfu District ⏰Open all day 🍢Snack Recommendations: Buckwheat noodles, Baode Wantuo (20 RMB per person, so filling you’ll be full to bursting) 🍽️【Authentic Food Rankings】 🏆TOP1: Dingxiang Steamed Pork (Intangible Cultural Heritage certified! One bite and you’re hooked) 🥈TOP2: Wuzhai Black Meat Stew (A meat lover’s paradise) 🥉TOP3: Shenchi Mooncakes (Bring some home and get praised by the whole family) 🎁【Souvenir List】 ✨Buddhist Favorite: Mount Wutai Six-Path Wooden Prayer Beads ✨Artistic Choice: Fanshi Embroidery (Unbelievably beautiful) ✨Foodie Must-Have: Daixian Yellow Wine (Old brand worth buying) 💰【Money-Saving Tips】 ✅Book hotels 15 days in advance to save 20% (Trip.com Early Bird Plan is the best deal) ✅Buy combo attraction tickets to save 30% (super easy to do) ✅Eat off-peak (before 11:30 AM is least crowded) 📸【Must-Photo Spots】 ✔️Mount Wutai Dailuo Peak 1080-step Staircase (The view from the top is breathtaking!) ✔️Lao Niu Bay Yellow River S-Bend (Drone shots are amazing) ✔️Luyashan Malun Grassland (Pretend you’re in Inner Mongolia series) 🚗【Travel Tips】 Family trips are best with a private car! About 500 RMB/day (stress-free with kids💯) ⚠️Direct buses are cheap but not recommended for families with kids (you know why) 🏨【Accommodation Tested】 ✨Mount Wutai Putixuan (300+ RMB/night, super close to the temple) ✨Xinzhou Fan Hua Hotel (includes breakfast for two, best value for money) Guide

Trip Highlights: Buddhist Holy Site Exploration: Pilgrimage to Mount Wutai, experiencing the tranquility and solemnity of this ancient temple with a history of over a thousand years. Natural Wonders Appreciation: Hiking Mount Luya, enjoying the magnificent ice caves and grassland scenery. Ancient Architecture and Culture Experience: Visiting Yanmen Pass, feeling the weight and vicissitudes of history. Local Delicacies Tasting: Sampling Xinzhou Wantuo, Dingxiang steamed meat, and other local specialties. Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival in Xinzhou, Initial Exploration of the Ancient City Morning: Arrive in Xinzhou city center and check into a hotel (recommended near Xinzhou Ancient City for convenient sightseeing). Afternoon: Tour Xinzhou Ancient City, stroll through the old streets, visit historic sites such as Xiurong Academy and Taishan Temple, and soak in the charm of the ancient city. Evening: Taste Xinzhou specialties like Xinzhou Wantuo and Dingxiang steamed meat. Accommodation: Hotel near Xinzhou Ancient City, about 200 RMB/night. Meals: Lunch 30 RMB, Dinner 50 RMB. Transportation: City bus/taxi, about 20 RMB. Day 2: Pilgrimage to Mount Wutai, Peaceful Prayers Morning: Travel to Mount Wutai Scenic Area (about 1.5 hours by car), visit key temples including Wuye Temple, Tayuan Temple, and Xiantong Temple. Afternoon: Climb to Dailuo Peak (hike or take the cable car) for a panoramic view of Mount Wutai. Then visit Pusa Peak to experience Tibetan Buddhist culture. Evening: Stay overnight at a hotel within the Mount Wutai scenic area to enjoy the peaceful surroundings near the temples. Accommodation: Hotel inside Mount Wutai scenic area, about 300 RMB/night. Meals: Lunch 40 RMB (vegetarian meal inside the scenic area), Dinner 50 RMB. Transportation: Round-trip fare from Xinzhou to Mount Wutai about 100 RMB, sightseeing bus inside the scenic area 50 RMB. Entrance Fee: Mount Wutai scenic area ticket 135 RMB. Day 3: Explore Mount Luya, Marvel at Natural Wonders Morning: Travel to Mount Luya Scenic Area (about 2 hours by car), visit the Wan Nian Ice Cave to experience the icy wonder in summer. Afternoon: Hike the Malun Grassland to enjoy alpine meadow scenery, or visit attractions like the Hanging Village and Stone Coffins at Shimen. Evening: Return to Xinzhou city for overnight stay. Accommodation: Hotel in Xinzhou city, about 200 RMB/night. Meals: Lunch 40 RMB, Dinner 50 RMB. Transportation: Round-trip fare from Mount Wutai to Mount Luya about 150 RMB, local transport inside scenic area 50 RMB. Entrance Fee: Mount Luya scenic area combo ticket 188 RMB (includes ice cave, grassland, etc.). Day 4: The Mighty Pass, Historic Yanmen Pass Morning: Travel to Yanmen Pass Scenic Area (about 1 hour by car), hike the Great Wall, visit Yanmen Pass fortress and ancient roads, feeling the grandeur of "Among the nine passes under heaven, Yanmen is the foremost." Afternoon: Return to Xinzhou city, purchase local specialties (such as Tai mushrooms, Chengni inkstones), end of trip. Meals: Lunch 40 RMB. Transportation: Round-trip fare from Xinzhou to Yanmen Pass about 80 RMB. Entrance Fee: Yanmen Pass scenic area ticket 90 RMB. Budget Summary: Accommodation: 200*2 + 300 = 700 RMB Meals: 30+50+40+50+40+50+40 = 300 RMB Transportation: 20+100+50+150+50+80 = 450 RMB Entrance Fees: 135+188+90 = 413 RMB Others: Reserve 500 RMB for shopping, emergencies, etc. Total: 700+300+450+413+500 = 2363 RMB Budget Notes: The above budget is estimated for one person; actual expenses may vary depending on personal spending habits. A budget of 5000 RMB is sufficient to upgrade accommodation, meals, or add more experiences according to personal preferences. Transportation costs are based on public transport estimates; costs may increase if hiring a car or self-driving. Travel Tips: Mount Wutai has large temperature differences between morning and evening; bring warm clothing. Wear comfortable sports shoes for hiking Mount Luya. Respect local religious customs and cultural heritage. Check scenic area opening hours and ticket policies in advance. Optional Adjustments: If interested in ancient architecture, add visits to Daixian Bianjing Tower and Zhaogao Temple. If time allows, stay an extra day at Mount Wutai for a deeper experience of Buddhist culture. If budget permits, upgrade accommodation to boutique guesthouses or star-rated hotels. Wishing you an unforgettable journey in Xinzhou!

Located in the northern part of Fei County, Linyi City, Shandong, Yimeng Mountain's Tianmeng Mountain sheds its usual appearance after a heavy snowfall, transforming into a hidden icy secret realm on the land of Qilu. As the core scenic area of Yimeng Mountain tourism, its 98% forest coverage makes the post-snow scenery even more refreshing, with every step feeling like stepping into poetry. ❄️ The rime on the mountain is the most generous gift of snowy days. The branches of the green pines and cypresses are covered with fluffy ice crystals. When sunlight shines through, the scattered light sparkles as if the entire mountain is studded with starlight. The stone steps beneath are covered in white snow, crunching softly underfoot, blending with the mountain wind to create the most healing winter prelude. Occasionally, you can see snow grains pressing on red berries, their white and red vitality adding a lively touch to the vast snowy fields. 🌬️ Looking up, the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge, 505.5 meters long, winds through the snowy mist. The snow-covered bridge deck merges with the sea of clouds in the deep valley, making walking on it feel like strolling in the clouds. The 1001.2-meter-high Wanghailou (Sea-Viewing Tower) is wrapped in silver, its Ming and Qing style pavilion appearing and disappearing in the mist, resembling the jade towers in a fantasy drama, where ancient charm and snowy elegance perfectly blend. 🗺️ Every corner of the mountain hides surprises. The cliffside plank road is outlined clearly by the snow, with an ice-covered valley on one side and jade-like trees on the other; scattered wooden houses are covered with thick snow, and red lanterns stand out brightly against the white snow, exuding a strong sense of warmth and life. The air is filled with the unique crispness after the snow; a deep breath feels refreshing to the core. After the snow, Tianmeng Mountain shows no signs of artificial carving, only the pure and stunning gifts of nature. The mountains, rime, ancient buildings, and snow complement each other, combining the grandeur of northern landscapes with the gentle charm of Yimeng’s waters, making one unconsciously intoxicated in this icy poetic painting.

This winter, you should definitely visit Xinzhou! When snowflakes cover the eaves of the ancient city, it becomes the closest thing to a poetic and fairy-tale paradise. 📌【3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary】 Day 1: A Tranquil Journey to Mount Wutai - Arrive early morning at Mount Wutai and see the snow-covered temple golden rooftops - The 1,080 steps of Dailuo Peak look like a ladder to the sky in the snow - In the evening, listen to the ancient temple bells resonate with the falling snow, stay at a Zen-style inn inside the scenic area Day 2: Wonders of Luyashan + Yellow River Illusions - Head to Luyashan to witness the “Rime Miracle” - Birch trees bloom with silver flowers, spruces wear icy feathers, the whole mountain looks enchanted - In the afternoon, drive to the “First Bend of the Yellow River” - The frozen river winds like a silver dragon, the ice armor shines with glazed light under the sunset Day 3: Borderland Epic Tour - Trace the snow at Yanmen Pass, the beacon towers appear faintly in the snowy mist - Visit the Laoniuwan Fort Ming Great Wall ruins, see where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall - Before returning, enjoy tea by the stove in Xinzhou Ancient City and shoot a Hanfu snow scene photo series ✨【Must-Do List】 ✅ Wait for the sunrise Buddha light in the morning mist at Mount Wutai ✅ Hike through the rime forest at Luyashan (wear anti-slip shoes!) ✅ Take “sky mirror” effect photos on the safe ice area of the Yellow River ✅ Brew aged white tea by a red clay stove under the ancient city wall ✅ Spin around in Hanfu or cloak in the snow for short videos 📸【Photo Secrets】 1. Overlook the snowy temples from Bodhisattva Peak, Mount Wutai 2. Rime trail at Luyashan (best light between 9-10 AM) 3. Framing the beacon tower at Laoniuwan Fort 4. Warm light atmosphere photos of lantern alleys in the ancient city at night snow 🍲【Warm Food Tips】 • Recommended in Xinzhou Ancient City: Youmian Kaolaolao noodles, lamb tail powder noodles • Must-try: Copper hotpot in a snowy courtyard, steaming and super healing • Carry a thermos, hot water is available at scenic spots 💡【Winter Travel Tips】 • Temperature: -10°C to 5°C, dress in layers with warm and windproof jackets • Transportation: Recommend charter or self-driving between attractions, bring anti-slip chains • Best period: December to February, stable snow scenery “Xinzhou in snow is a slow-motion poem” Time here is stretched by snowflakes, The incense of ancient temples blends with the crispness of ice and snow, The stories of the Great Wall freeze in the ice crystals waiting for you to listen. This winter, who will you share this ink-wash rendezvous with?

⛰️ The Sanya Banshan Seaview voco Hotel is just amazing! A divine perspective with half mountain and sea, half city—staying here once and you’re instantly a fan. I could rave about this vibe for a whole year💨 😱😱 I was stunned the moment I arrived✨! The car winds up the mountain, and from afar, you see the red and white buildings nestled in coconut groves, like a castle straight out of a fairy tale🏰. Upon getting off, staff greet you with fresh flower bracelets💐, making the whole experience feel so special! 🛌🛌 The room is exactly my dream room💖! I stayed in a mountain and sea view room, and the view from the window is a knockout—lush tropical rainforest🌴 on the left, the deep blue Sanya Bay on the right, fishing boats dotting the distance, and at sunset, the sky looks like a spilled palette🎨. I couldn’t stop snapping photos! The bedding is voco’s exclusive “Sweet Dreams Bed,” so soft you don’t want to get up. The bathroom even has a scenic bathtub🛁—bathing under the stars, pure bliss! 😎😎 Food surprises kept coming😋! Breakfast at the mountaintop restaurant means enjoying freshly baked croissants while gazing at the sea. The Hainan specialty, Baoluo noodles, is sour and spicy to whet your appetite, and even the coffee is freshly ground~ For dinner, I highly recommend their terrace barbecue🍢—eating grilled lobster while feeling the mountain breeze, paired with a special cocktail, and looking up at a sky full of stars. The experience is unbeatable! 🏨🏨 The hotel’s pool is super stylish💦! The cliffside infinity pool on the mountainside looks like a sapphire hanging in the hills. Swimming here lets you see both mountain and sea in one frame, giving your photos a “floating” effect. My social posts got flooded with questions about whether I was abroad📸. There’s also a heated hot tub nearby—soaking in it at dusk while watching the sunset is so cozy you won’t want to leave~ 📍📍 The location is perfect too👍! Not far from downtown, just a 20-minute taxi ride to Jiefang Road Snack Street. Want to hit the beach? The hotel offers a free shuttle to Sanya Bay, where the sand is as fine as flour🏖️. Best of all, you avoid the crowds and enjoy peaceful tranquility halfway up the mountain, making the vacation vibe even purer~ 😍😍 The service details really touched me💖! The front desk gives you a hand-drawn “Mountain and Sea Check-in Map” marking the best photo spots. The room has a free minibar, which even includes local yellow lantern chili sauce. At night, turndown service brings coconut-flavored cookies, with packaging printed with the hotel’s mountain and sea logo—so thoughtful! 🤤 Families with kids can totally come too👶! The kids’ playground has slides and picture books, plus a “Little Explorer” activity where guides take kids into the mountains to identify plants. The kids had a blast, and parents finally got a break~ 👍🏻👍🏻 In short, the Banshan Seaview voco is the kind of magical hotel where you never want to check out. If you want to experience the “double mountain and sea views” in Sanya, just go for it with your eyes closed! It’s already on my private favorites list, and next time I come, I’m definitely staying here again✅

Beneath Shanxi's surface lies a summer from 3 million years ago. While the rest of the country swelters at 35°C, a cave at the foot of a mountain in Shanxi experiences a winter of -4°C. The 3 million-year-old ice layer gleams blue in the height of summer, facing the volcanic clusters outside, creating a real-life "A Song of Ice and Fire." Three mind-blowing highlights of this ancient ice cave: ① A miracle of reversed seasons: Even with 38°C outside, the cave is filled with ice stalagmites, the thickest part of which reaches 6 meters, crystal clear like a crystal palace; ② The mystery of ice and fire coexistence: Only 20 kilometers away lies a dormant volcanic cluster. On one side is ice that has never melted for millennia, on the other, dormant volcanoes—a mystery geologists still cannot fully unravel; ③ The time capsule effect: The ice layer holds ancient climate codes; touching the ice walls feels like touching the breath of Earth 3 million years ago. A Comprehensive Guide to the Ice Cave - Must-Visit Spots: The "Ice Curtain Cave" in the middle of the ice cave, where the midday sun shines obliquely into the cave entrance, refracting the ice to create a blue-purple halo (best time: 11:00-13:00); the "Icefall Platform" near the cave entrance, offering stunning contrast photos of people standing in front of the icefall. - Hidden Gems: A 1-hour hike outside the cave to the "Volcanic Relics Viewpoint," where a telephoto lens can frame both the ice cave entrance and the distant volcanic cone, creating a spectacular "ice and fire in one frame" shot; at the foot of the mountain, you can experience "volcanic rock barbecue" at a villager's home, using the residual heat of volcanic rocks to grill local lamb—a unique experience. - Avoidance Tips: The temperature inside the cave is extremely low. A coat can be rented at the scenic area for 50 yuan, but it's recommended to bring your own lightweight down jacket (for hygiene); the paths are slippery in rainy weather, so wear non-slip shoes! Cell phone signal is weak in some areas inside the ice cave, so download an offline map beforehand. Food and Accommodation Guide Eat your way through the hearty flavors of the mountains: ① "Mountain Mushroom Buckwheat Noodle Rolls" in Ningwu County, 18 yuan a serving. Buckwheat noodles dipped in wild mushroom sauce, a carb-filled treat; ② "Farmhouse Stewed Lamb" near the Ice Cave, 68 yuan a pot. Slow-cooked with mountain spring water, served with local potatoes, incredibly flavorful. For accommodation, choose "Bingyuan Inn" in Dongzhai Town, 150 yuan/night. A 10-minute walk to the Ice Cave scenic area. The owner will prepare warming ginger tea and can even take you to see the sunrise over the volcano at 5 am. Transportation Tips By Car: From Taiyuan, take the Cangyu Expressway, 3.5 hours to Dongzhai Town, Ningwu. Parking at the scenic area is 10 yuan/day; Public Transportation: Take a bus from Taiyuan East Bus Station to Ningwu County (65 yuan, 3 hours), then transfer to a local minibus to the Ice Cave (20 yuan/person, 20 minutes). Standing inside the ice cave and looking up, the ice stalagmites resemble inverted stars, as if 3 million years of time have been frozen in this world. While cicadas chirp noisily outside, the ice here silently tells the secrets of the Earth. In summer, how about coming for a "rendezvous with ice and snow" that transcends millions of years? What other natural wonders of out-of-season nature have you witnessed? Share them in the comments!

In Shanxi, we discovered a hidden gem comparable to Altay—Luyashan. Unlike popular tourist spots packed with people, we took the kids and found a free and stunning place to camp and play in the water! 🚗 Our treasure route (to avoid crowds): Start from Taiyuan or Xinzhou and navigate to Xinwu Line. First, visit the source of the Fen River (free). The water is crystal clear, you can bring a bottle to fill with mountain spring water, which the kids find fascinating. Next, navigate to Houmalun Village, but don’t stop at the visitor center! Keep driving into the village. The scenery along the way gets more beautiful—vast alpine meadows, leisurely cows and horses, clear streams... it’s like driving into a Windows desktop wallpaper. Find a flat and safe spot you like, and you can park and camp! We found a shady area near a creek, spread out a picnic mat, the kids played in the water and picked up stones nearby, while we enjoyed the tranquility. 🌲 What to do: Family camping: This is the right way to experience Luyashan! Prepare food and fruit, and enjoy a family picnic. Playing in the creek: The spring water is cool, bring water guns and small buckets for the kids to play for hours. Running on the meadow: Let the kids run freely on the open meadow and enjoy the mountain views. ⚠️ Notes: Leave no trace camping: Be sure to take all your trash with you! Safety first: Parents must watch closely when kids play in the water, as the creek stones are slippery. Keep warm: The mountain temperature is lower than outside, bring a jacket even in summer. Road conditions: The road into the village is quite good, sedans have no problem. You don’t have to squeeze into paid attractions to enjoy the best natural beauty of Luyashan. This slower-paced family trip is what kids love most.

No need to go to Iceland, Shanxi has dreamy icefalls? We just completed this ice and snow ancient architecture loop with the kids. The ice caves and icicles really feel like stepping into a fantasy world, but traveling with kids in winter is a hellishly tough challenge! This pitfall avoidance guide will ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable. 🧊 Top Priority to Avoid Pitfalls: Keeping Warm is the Only Way, Don’t Trust “Lightweight Down Jackets”! The wind at Hukou Waterfall in winter cuts like a knife, the temperature difference inside and outside the Yunqiu Mountain ice cave is huge, and walking through Tongtian Gorge without moving is even colder. We dressed the kids in: thermal underwear + fleece + thick down jacket + windproof outerwear, with pants also fleece-lined and thickened. Kids must be fully equipped from head to toe: hat, scarf, gloves, thick socks, and non-slip warm snow boots. Bright-colored down jackets look great in snowy photos, but warmth is a must! 🧊 Avoiding Transportation Pitfalls: Winter Self-Driving, Safety Always Comes First! Some mountain roads in Shanxi may have hidden ice in winter. We rented an SUV with snow tires and drove very slowly. Always pay attention to weather and road conditions, avoid driving at night. Don’t pack your itinerary too tightly; leave plenty of time on the road. 🧊 Avoiding Scenic Spot Pitfalls: Ice Surfaces Are Dangerous, Watch Your Kids Closely and Don’t Let Them Run Around! The banks of Hukou Waterfall and under the icicles in Tongtian Gorge can be icy and very slippery. Keep a close eye on your children and don’t let them go near dangerous edges just for photos. The ground inside the Yunqiu Mountain perennial ice cave is also icy, so hold onto the railings and walk slowly. Shoes for kids must prioritize anti-slip! 🏯 Family Trip Highlights (Joy After Avoiding Pitfalls): We gave up chasing “internet-famous shots” and focused on the kids’ safety and experience. At Yunqiu Mountain, we not only saw the amazing ice cave but also tried the ski resort (with a children’s area and instructors), and the kids had a blast. In Pingyao Ancient City, the snow-covered ancient city walls and red lanterns were especially charming. We strolled slowly with the kids and enjoyed a bowl of steaming hot knife-cut noodles, which was much more comfortable than rushing through sights. Ancient buildings like Guangsheng Temple’s Feihong Tower and Wang Family Courtyard looked especially solemn and beautiful against the snowy backdrop. We gave simple explanations to let the kids feel the weight of history. Summary: Winter travel in Shanxi is a unique experience but definitely “Hard Mode.” It’s not suitable for families seeking a relaxing vacation but perfect for those fully prepared, wanting to show their kids natural wonders and historical culture, and able to handle the severe cold. If you decide to come, warmth and safety are the two core words for your trip planning.

Autumn in Luyashan is like a fairy tale itself! The forests are ablaze with color, earning it the nickname "Little Altay of Shanxi." Bring your kids to experience the brilliant autumn of northern China. 📍 Address: Luyashan Scenic Area, Ningwu County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province 🍂 Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October (varies slightly each year) 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Must-Visit Family Spots: Malun Grassland: A high-altitude alpine meadow that turns golden in autumn. Accessible by the scenic area shuttle. Kids can run freely on the meadow and take photos with distant cattle, sheep, and windmills—such a heartwarming scene. Note the high altitude; take it slow. Luyashan Main Peak (Taizidian): Suitable for older kids to challenge themselves. The hiking trail is lined with unique rock formations, and the summit offers a breathtaking view of the golden forest sea, giving a great sense of accomplishment. For younger children, just enjoy the view from afar. Wannian Ice Cave: Highly recommended! The cave stays at -5°C year-round and is permanently frozen. Under colorful lights, it looks like a palace from Frozen. Dress your kids in their warmest down jackets—they’ll find it magical! (Outside is autumn, inside is winter, a truly unique experience.) Suspended Village (Wanghuagou Village): Houses are built halfway up cliffs, very unusual. Walk the ancient stone steps with your kids and observe the villagers’ way of life. 🚗 Transportation: Self-driving is recommended; about 3 hours from Taiyuan. Shuttle buses are required to move between spots within the scenic area. 🍜 Food: Don’t miss Ningwu Youmian Kaolaolao noodles topped with lamb sauce—delicious! Also try stir-fried native eggs and sea buckthorn juice. ⚠️ Family Tips: It’s already quite cold in the mountains during autumn, so be sure to dress kids in thermal pants, fleece, and windproof jackets, and wear hats. The temperature difference inside and outside the ice cave is huge; renting a coat at the entrance is a good idea. Some attractions require walking, so wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Check scenic area notices as some areas may close in winter. The autumn of Luyashan is like a richly colored oil painting. Bring your kids to capture this limited golden memory.

🌄 Listen to the chanting of morning bells and evening drums at Mount Wutai; touch the traces of history at Yanmen Pass with its golden armor and horses; encounter the fairyland spectacle of rolling sea clouds at Luyashan Mountain... -------------------- No matter what kind of trip you want, Ctrip local guide Tian Tian can customize it for you✅! -------------------- 👫👭 Couples/small families traveling light, recommended👉 **Economy 5-seater**, accommodates 4 people + 2 pieces of luggage, recommended cars like Nezha U or similar models🚗 ✅ Best choice for short trips or city outskirts tours, compact and flexible with easy parking, low fuel consumption for peace of mind! Luggage space fits backpacks + small carry-on suitcases, easily packing romance and convenience～ 👨👩👧👦 Two-child families/four-person group trips, recommended👉 **Comfortable 7-seater**, accommodates 4 people + 4 pieces of luggage, recommended cars like Changan Oushang Keshang EV or similar models🚙 ✅ Independent seat design, rear passengers also enjoy spacious legroom! Large trunk easily fits strollers and picnic baskets, making family outings comfortable and uncrowded～ 👨💼👩💼 Business reception/small group of six, recommended👉 **Business 7-seater**, accommodates 6 people + 4 pieces of luggage, recommended cars like Yuancheng Geely Happiness or similar models💺 ✅ Airline-grade seats + quiet cabin, perfect for long meetings or sightseeing while maintaining elegance! Ideal balance of luggage space and seating comfort, showcasing quality for team travel～ ✨Tips: All models are equipped with in-car charging ports + air conditioning, some vehicles offer free WiFi! Book in advance to enjoy luggage rack upgrade service～🚀 -------------------- 🚗 Our exclusive promise All drivers are local to Xinzhou, the fleet has matured over the years, providing punctual and accurate service, never a second late⏰ Carefully selected nine key scenic spots, flexible combinations of dozens of itinerary options, tailor-made exclusive trips for unique experiences Professional guides available 24/7, attentive service around the clock, immediate answers to your questions, helping you enjoy every moment worry-free👔

As a Shanxi local, Every winter I have to go to Linfen to see the ice. Yellow River Icefall, Hukou Ice Stalactites, Yunqiu Mountain Ice Cave— Each one makes kids from the south scream with excitement. Here’s your January to March Linfen Ice Viewing Guide—save it now! 🧊 Hukou Waterfall · Ice Stalactite Spectacle 📍 What to do: 1. Ice Stalactites on the Cliffs During the coldest months of January and February, Water vapor from the Yellow River freezes into ice stalactites, Hanging all along both banks, Like stepping into a winter wonderland. 2. Icefall Spectacle Parts of the waterfall freeze, Water flows beneath the ice layer, Rainbows appear under the sunlight, Perfect for stunning photos. 3. Dragon Cave Waterfall Viewing Descend into the Dragon Cave to see the waterfall, The perspective is even more breathtaking, Water mist hits your face. 🎒 Gear List: ◦ Crampons (available for rent at the scenic area) ◦ Waterproof shoe covers ◦ Thick gloves + scarf 🍜 Must-Eats: ◦ Yellow River Carp: freshly caught and cooked ◦ Dao Xiao Mian (Knife-cut noodles): Shanxi specialty ◦ Linfen Beef Meatball Noodles: deliciously spicy 🏡 Accommodation: Hukou Town homestays Open the window and it’s the Yellow River right outside ❄️ Yunqiu Mountain · Ten-Thousand-Year Ice Cave 📍 What to do: 1. Ten-Thousand-Year Ice Cave Constantly around -5°C year-round, Inside the cave are ice pillars, ice stalagmites, and ice flowers, Like a crystal palace, Super cool even in summer. 2. Ta’erpo Ancient Village Stone houses covered with ice formations, Like stepping into an icy fairy tale, Villagers make flower-shaped steamed buns and paper cuttings, Experience local folk customs. 3. Yuhuang Peak Snow Viewing Take the cable car up the mountain, Snow covers the summit, Sea of clouds combined with snow scenery is stunning. 🎒 Best Ice Viewing Time: January to March for the most spectacular ice cave, The ancient village’s ice formations are also beautiful. 🍲 Food: ◦ Yunqiu Mountain Flower Buns: cute shapes ◦ Farmhouse Free-Range Chicken: stewed soup to warm you up ◦ Persimmon Cakes: local specialty souvenirs 🏡 Accommodation: Hotels inside Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area Watch the sunrise and sea of clouds in the morning 🌊 Yellow River Qiankun Bay · Frozen Spectacle 📍 What to do: 1. Qiankun Bay Frozen River The Yellow River bends here, In winter the river surface freezes, Looking like a white silk ribbon, Aerial shots are breathtaking. 2. Qingshui Bay Ice Stalactites Rocks along the shore are covered with ice pillars, Like stepping into Frozen, Perfect for photos. 3. Xiao Cheng Village Folk Experience Stay in cave dwellings, Watch the starry sky at night, See the Yellow River sunrise in the morning. 🎒 Best Ice Viewing Time: River surface freezes in January and February, Starts melting in March. 🍚 Must-Eats: ◦ Yellow River Big Carp: best braised ◦ Yougao (fried glutinous rice cake): Shanxi specialty snack ◦ Red Dates: Yonghe specialty 🏡 Accommodation: Homestays near Qiankun Bay Open the window and it’s the Yellow River right outside 📋 Linfen Ice Viewing Tips ▫️ Hukou Waterfall: Ice stalactites are most spectacular in January and February ▫️ Yunqiu Mountain: Ice cave open year-round, colder in winter ▫️ Qiankun Bay: Check weather in advance, ice looks best when frozen No need to go to Northeast China, You can see ice in Shanxi Linfen. This winter, bring your family To witness the Yellow River’s frozen spectacle!

【Itinerary】 - 07:00-09:30 Transportation: 3.5 hours drive from Taiyuan (navigate to "Wanghuagou Hanging Village"), or 1 hour by tourist bus from Ningwu County; free parking at the village entrance, exchange tickets before entering (combined ticket 60 RMB/person, half price for students and seniors). - 09:30-11:30 Cliff Dwelling Exploration: First, climb the viewing platform for a panoramic view of the hanging village, then walk along the century-old wooden walkway (wooden pillars deeply embedded in rock crevices), explore the Ming and Qing dynasty stilted buildings and ancient well ruins, and listen to villagers tell the story of how the village was built to avoid war. - 11:30-13:00 Lunch: Enjoy local farmhouses and sample intangible cultural heritage cuisine. Recommended dishes include oat noodles, stewed mutton with potatoes in gravy, and stir-fried mushrooms with local eggs on a silver plate. All-you-can-eat for around 40 RMB per person. - 13:30-15:30 Joint Visit: A 30-minute chartered bus ride to the 3-million-year-old Ice Cave to explore the 3-million-year-old ice pillars and ice curtains (temperature inside the cave is -4℃, bring a light jacket), experiencing the contrast of ice and fire. - 16:00 Return Trip: Return to the visitor center from the ice cave, ending the tour. 【Practical Tips】 1. Wear non-slip hiking shoes (the boardwalk is slippery), and bring a waterproof jacket as the temperature difference in the mountains is significant; 2. Reservations for oat noodle making and boardwalk surveying experiences must be made one day in advance via the official WeChat account; 3. Best photo spots: Panoramic view of the morning mist from the viewing platform, and backlit portraits on the boardwalk in the afternoon.

Hey guys! The 4-day Xinzhou travel guide is here! You can visit the Wufang Manjushri at the summit of Mount Wutai, experience the solemn tranquility of ancient temples, and enjoy thoughtful pick-up and drop-off services. Explore Xinzhou with ease—quickly save this treasure of a guide! -------- Exciting content coming up, scroll down to see more ↓ -------- 🚗 Travel Route: This itinerary is packed, allowing you to visit many attractions within a limited time~ Day 1: Depart and arrive in Taiyuan, then wait for the guide to pick you up from the airport to the hotel. After settling in, enjoy free time! 📝 Upon arrival in Taiyuan, take a short rest and soak in the unique charm of the city. Day 2: Mount Wutai -> Fomu Cave 📝 Visit the Buddhist holy site Mount Wutai, then enter Fomu Cave to pray and experience a spiritual cleansing. Day 3: Yedou Peak -> Dongtai Wanghai Peak -> Xitai Guayue Peak -> Mount Wutai Scenic Area - Zhongtai Cuiyan Peak -> Jinxiu Peak 📝 Climb the five major peaks of Mount Wutai, admire the natural scenery, worship the Wufang Manjushri at the summit, and appreciate Buddhist culture. Day 4: Baohua Temple -> Wuye Temple -> Xiantong Temple -> Pusa Summit -> Great White Pagoda 📝 Visit ancient temples, feel the thousand-year-old Buddhist cultural heritage, and experience inner peace and harmony. Return Day: End your wonderful Xinzhou trip and head home 🛫 -------- 🌨️ Travel Essentials: Super practical Xinzhou January packing list—just pack according to this! 🧥 Clothing: Fleece-lined jacket + windproof pants + snow boots are essential for withstanding -10°C at Mount Wutai. Stick warmers on your waist and abdomen for extra warmth! 🧣 Accessories: Knit hat that covers ears! Wrap a thick scarf three times, choose waterproof touchscreen gloves to keep your hands warm while skiing and playing in the snow~ 📄 Documents: Keep your ID in an inner pocket! Student and senior cards get half-price discounts. Bring your driver’s license if self-driving; it’s useful for parking at Yanmen Pass! 📱 Electronics: Choose a 20,000mAh power bank because cold drains batteries fast! Use a cold-proof cover for your camera to keep shooting the frost-covered Luyashan without shutting down~ 💊 Medicine: Bring two motion sickness patches (for winding mountain roads), choose cold medicine in powder form, and pack band-aids for slips and scrapes on icy surfaces! -------- Guys, follow this guide for a worry-free trip with pick-up and drop-off services included. Click the card below to start your journey!

Hidden in Jiangxi is a stunningly beautiful hidden gem! Ancient cliffside buildings cling to the precipice, and when the lights come on at night, it's like stepping into the world of the Chinese fantasy novel "Chinese Paladin." Hanfu enthusiasts and photography buffs will be overjoyed! 📍Location: Wangxiangu, Guangxin District, Shangrao, Jiangxi ⏰Best time to visit: 15:00–21:00 (Enjoy mountain views during the day, take photos in the evening blues, and chase the night view – unlock three beautiful scenes in one place!) 🎫Ticket price: 120–150 RMB (Prices may vary during peak season; online purchase is recommended for holidays to avoid long queues) 🗺️Ticket route to avoid pitfalls (avoid backtracking) 1. Entrance Ancient Town Area: Lanterns and wooden buildings create a fantastic atmosphere, perfect for taking ancient-style photos in Hanfu. 2. Cliffside Plank Road: The main photo spot; photos taken in the evening blues create a cinematic feel. 3. Cliffside Ancient Buildings: The night view is divine! The lights illuminate the area, creating a celestial palace-like atmosphere, bursting with a mystical, otherworldly feel. 4. Valley Stream: A daytime stroll is incredibly therapeutic, allowing you to experience the collision of nature and ancient architecture. 📸Photography Tips Revealed ✅Outfit: Hanfu/New Chinese Style/Light-colored Long Skirts are best; avoid all-black outfits (they tend to "eat up" the light at night). ✅Camping Spots: Take photos facing the cliff from the square in front of the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall; shoot from a low angle with the ancient architecture and sky; use streetlights as background lighting; drone aerial shots offer a stunning panoramic view. ✅Golden Time: 17:30–18:30 Blue Hour; after 19:00, all night lights are on. 🏨Accommodation & Tips - Prioritize staying near the scenic area. After enjoying the night view, you won't need to rush, and you can still capture the morning scenery the next day. Cliff view rooms offer a fantastic experience. - The scenic area is pet-friendly; dogs are allowed in the restaurants, so pet owners can relax and enjoy!

🙋🏻‍♀️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~

⛺ Shanxi actually hides a place like this! Luyashan features alpine meadows, primeval forests, and clear streams. In summer, it resembles Switzerland, and in winter, snow covers it like Altay. This is not just a single scenic spot but a secret realm to freely explore. 🚗 Off-the-beaten-path self-drive route (avoid crowded scenic spots) Navigate to "Dongzhai Town, Ningwu County, Xinzhou City." Take Xinwu Line 5, passing the Fen River source (free to visit, extremely clear water). Continue navigating to "Houmalun Village." You will pass the official scenic area entrance on the way; don’t stop, keep driving into the village. Along the way: hillsides, streams, forests, herds of cattle and horses; you can stop anywhere to take photos or camp. ⛰️ Two ways to enjoy Relaxed version: Follow the above self-drive route, find a favorite meadow to camp, picnic, and take photos, and enjoy a leisurely time. Hiking and climbing version: Navigate to "Meidong Village" or start hiking from Malun Grassland, trek across the grassland to the summit of Luyashan main peak (altitude 2736 meters) or Taizidian, about 12 km round trip, with moderate difficulty. 🏕️ Camping tips Best camping spot: Meadows near Houmalun Village (outside the core protected area). Be sure to practice Leave No Trace camping and take all your trash with you. Large temperature difference between day and night, even in summer bring a warm sleeping bag and jacket. 🏨 Nearby high-quality accommodations (bookable on Trip.com) Xinzhou Yunzhonghe Hot Spring Resort Hotel (a comfortable choice returning to Xinzhou city center) Wuzhai Fengze International Hotel (a quality hotel for a stopover) Taiyuan Kempinski Hotel (a luxurious choice for the start or end of your trip) ⚠️ Notes Weather in the Luyashan area is changeable; check the forecast before traveling and avoid entering the mountain on rainy days. Some road sections are unpaved; sedans should drive slowly, SUVs are better. Respect local herders and do not scare the cattle and sheep.

🚶 Experience the original and magnificent beauty of Luya Mountain by hiking. This route connects alpine meadows, forests, and ancient temples, with moderate difficulty and stunning scenery, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts. 🥾 Classic Hiking Route (Starting from Meidong Village) 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟏: Taiyuan/Xinzhou → Ningwu Dongzhai Town → Meidong Village (hiking start point) → Hike to Malun Grassland (alpine meadow, camping or stay with herders available) → Watch the sunset and starry sky. 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟐: Malun Grassland → Hike to Luya Mountain Taizidian (ancient temple hanging on a cliff) → Return the same way or descend from the other side to Bingkouwa → Private car back to the starting point to pick up your vehicle. 📌 Key Route Information Total ascent: about 1100 meters. Total distance: about 12 kilometers (round trip). Trail conditions: mixed dirt roads, wooden plank paths, and stone steps, some sections slippery. Gear: trekking poles, windbreaker, sufficient water and trail food, headlamp (backup). 🚗 Transportation and Transfers Drive to Meidong Village, parking available locally. If not doing a loop, arrange transfer vehicle in advance from the descent point. 🌄 Must-See Experiences Malun Grassland: wildflowers bloom in summer, cattle and sheep roam freely, with the iconic scene of grass swaying over grazing animals. Taizidian: a small temple built on a cliff, shrouded in mist like a fairyland, a symbol of Luya Mountain. Ximawa Village Wild Waterfall: if time permits, drive to explore (navigate to Ximawa Village). 🏡 Comfortable Accommodation Options (bookable on Trip.com) Ningwu Luya Mountain International Hotel (Dongzhai Town, well-equipped reception hotel) Taiyuan Wanda Vista Hotel (luxurious rest before or after the trip) 💎 Safety and Environmental Tips Download offline tracks before hiking and travel in groups. Wild animals and plants may be present in the mountains; do not disturb or pick them. Protect the environment by carrying out all your waste.

Ningwu Pass The first stop north of Taiyuan is Ningwu County, over 170 kilometers away with no high-speed rail, only a slow green train taking three and a half hours. Ningwu is located on the northern foothills of Mount Guan in northwest Shanxi, currently under the jurisdiction of Xinzhou City. During the Warring States period, King Wuling of Zhao established a pass here. In the Northern Wei dynasty, Guangning and Shenwu prefectures successively governed this area. The name "Ningwu" originated in the Tang dynasty by combining the last characters of Guangning and Shenwu prefectures. In the third year of Emperor Yongzheng's reign in the Qing dynasty (1725 AD), Ningwu was established as a prefecture, governing four counties: Ningwu, Shenchi, Wuzhai, and Pianguan. Mount Guan is a branch of the Yin Mountains, historically known as the ancestor of Mount Jin. The Hui River, known as the mother river of Ningwu, runs through the county from south to north. Historical figures such as Emperor Wu of Han (Liu Che), Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei (Zhiba Yuanhong), Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi (Gao Yang and Gao Xuan), Emperor Wen of Sui (Yang Jian and his sons), and Emperor Gaozu of Tang (Li Yuan and his sons) all left their marks here. During the Ming dynasty, to defend against the Mongols, the Great Wall was built around Shanxi, forming two defense lines: the outer and inner lines. The outer line stretches from Liaodong in the east to Jiayuguan in the west, over 8,800 kilometers long, with its western section now forming the border between Inner Mongolia and Shanxi. The inner line is shorter, winding over 1,000 kilometers from Pianguan County in Shanxi to Yanqing County in Hebei. Along the inner line in Hebei are the three passes of Zijin, Daoma, and Juyong, known as the Inner Three Passes. Along the outer line in Shanxi are Piantou, Ningwu, and Yanmen passes, known as the Outer Three Passes. Ningwu lies between Piantou and Yanmen, controlling the foremost position of the Outer Three Passes, making it especially important. It was the headquarters of the general guarding the three passes. Ming official Wei Huan wrote in "Border Defense Studies": "With heavy troops stationed here, it can defend Yanmen to the east, support Pianguan to the west, and respond to Yunshuo to the north, benefiting from its advantageous terrain and strategic position." (See Image 1 above) Ningwu Pass was built at a mountain pass in the northern branch of the Lüliang Mountains, surrounded by mountains and water, with a perilous terrain. The pass city was first constructed in the first year of the Ming Jingtai era (1450 AD), with a circumference of 2 kilometers and three gates to the east, west, and south. In the eleventh year of the Chenghua era (1479 AD), the pass city was expanded into a rectangular shape, longer east to west and narrower north to south, with a circumference of over 3.5 kilometers. A north gate was added with a watchtower named Zhenshuo City built on top. The city walls were tall and sturdy, surrounded by numerous bastions and enemy towers, but the brick walls were built in the 34th year of the Wanli era (1606 AD). About 13 kilometers north of Ningwu city is Yangfangkou Fort, built in the 18th year of the Ming Jiajing era (1539 AD) and renovated in the 4th year of the Wanli era (1576 AD). It was an important pass of the Shanxi section of the Ming Great Wall, with a circumference of about 1 kilometer, known as "the foremost mountain pass on the central route of Shanxi" (See Image 2 above). The Jiuniu River section of the Hui River at Ningwu is the only water pass of the Ming Great Wall. Although there are several places where the Great Wall crosses rivers nationwide, this is the only one called a pass and built over water. Originally, there was a nine-arched stone bridge connecting the Great Wall on both sides, with an iron ox guarding each arch. Emperor Xianzong of Ming was one of the few capable emperors after Zhu Di. In the second year of his reign, he changed the era name to "Chenghua," and in the third year of Chenghua, Ningwu Pass was established. Its creation, reinforcement, and the construction of border defenses connected the three passes of Piantou, Ningwu, and Yanmen into a line, effectively strengthening the northern border defense of the Ming dynasty. Northern nomadic tribes had to pass through these three passes when moving south. Pianguan was naturally defended by the Yellow River, which only the Xiongnu cavalry could cross in winter when the river froze. Yanmen was protected by mountains, making it difficult for northern cavalry to break through. Ningwu Pass relied on the seasonal Hui River, which could dry up, allowing Xiongnu cavalry to advance south along the river valley directly to the pass. Therefore, Ningwu Pass was the most frequently contested among the three passes throughout history, often serving as the main battlefield. This small county town now looks inconspicuous, but in ancient times, nomadic peoples such as the Xianbei, Turks, Khitans, and Mongols often chose Ningwu Pass as a breakthrough point for their southern raids. Wars here were almost continuous, and Ningwu Pass's defensive function was fully utilized, effectively resisting northern nomadic invasions (See Image 3 above). In the eighth year of the Ming Zhengde era (1513 AD), Mongol cavalry invaded Ningwu Pass from Datong, attempting to advance south into central Shanxi. The Ming garrison fiercely resisted and defeated the Mongols, protecting central Shanxi. The last major battle here occurred during the late Ming Chongzhen era, but the attack came not from the north but from the south. Ningwu Pass became a fortress against the peasant rebellion led by Li Zicheng advancing north. If Ningwu fell, Beijing would be in danger. Both sides fought with all their might. Li Zicheng fought for seven days and nights, suffering heavy losses but defeating the general in charge of the three passes, Zhou Yuji, clearing the way to capture Beijing. In modern times, Ningwu remained a strategic location. During the War of Resistance against Japan, Ningwu was a base area in northwest Shanxi. The Japanese army invaded Ningwu County twice in 1938 and 1939. Today, Ningwu remains a transportation hub for northwest Shanxi, Datong, and Dayuan, with two railways and three main highways passing near Yangfangkou. Ningwu County town lies north of Phoenix Mountain, resembling a phoenix spreading its wings, hence the nickname "Phoenix City." We came here only for Ningwu Pass. According to the map, the pass site is within the city, near the county government on Renmin Street, but it was not found on this street. Asking several locals yielded no information. Recalling an ancient building we passed earlier, we returned to check and found a small stone tablet at its base inscribed with the three large characters "Ningwu Pass" (See Image 4 above). However, this ancient building stands alone, not connected to the Great Wall, and does not look like a pass of the Great Wall at all. After the Qing dynasty was established and peace was made with the Mongols, Ningwu Pass lost its strategic and defensive role and was converted into a prefectural city. Its defensive facilities gradually fell into disuse, with only remnants of the inner Great Wall on the mountains on both sides remaining, divided into West Pass and East Pass sections. Except for a few scattered rammed earth walls, the city walls were mostly dismantled. It is said that the Yangfangkou Great Wall is also ruined, with only a brick arch gate remaining north of the city. The iron ox at Jiuniu River was washed away by water, and the nine-arched stone bridge collapsed. The historically famous Ningwu Pass now exists in name only. Within the city, almost no traces of the Great Wall remain, except for the core building of Ningwu Pass city—the Drum Tower—still standing proudly. It was built during the Ming Chenghua era (1465–1487 AD) when the pass city was constructed, forming a military defense system together with the city walls. After the city walls were reinforced with bricks in the 34th year of the Wanli era (1606 AD), the pass city with the Drum Tower formed a defensive layout with a circumference of over seven li and 1,702 battlements. The Drum Tower witnessed Ningwu's evolution from a military fortress to a prefectural center. In the third year of Emperor Yongzheng's reign (1725 AD), Ningwu was elevated to a prefecture, and the Drum Tower became the administrative landmark. Its location corresponds to the center of the Ming Ningwu Pass city. The existing street names like "Head Hundred Households" still retain the military settlement legacy. The Drum Tower was rebuilt in the 17th year of the Guangxu era (1891 AD), becoming the tallest building in ancient Ningwu city and the core landmark of "Phoenix City" (See Images 5 and 6 above). (To be continued, stay tuned)

【Datong · Family of Three · Five Days and Four Nights｜All-Inclusive for 4992 RMB｜Stay at a Northern Wei-style guesthouse next to the Yungang Grottoes, handcraft Tuoba Xianbei pottery figurines, climb the wooden marvel of the Hanging Temple, enjoy knife-cut noodles + lamb offal noodles + yellow cake dipped in meat soup, and take a night tour of Huayan Temple’s glazed pagoda】 — Avoid the crowded peak season at Yungang, don’t stay in “ancient city replica hotels,” don’t take the full-route coach. Spend 5 days letting your child experience the rhythm of Chinese ancient architecture through Northern Wei stone, Liao and Jin wood, and Ming and Qing bricks and tiles. 💰 Total budget: 4992 RMB (1664 RMB per person) | Includes round-trip high-speed train between Taiyuan and Datong, accommodation, four full meals + five light meals, tickets + car rental + experiences, child-friendly gear (non-slip kids’ shoes/ancient architecture puzzle set), intangible cultural heritage souvenirs (Yungang stone powder painting card + yellow cake mold), with 8 RMB left for a bowl of almond oil tea at Huayan Temple entrance. 📍 Core logic: ✅ Stay with ancient charm: “Yungang Qiyuan” — Northern Wei grotto culture-themed guesthouse, blue bricks and gray tiles, courtyard with replica Northern Wei stone lantern pillars, rooms decorated with hand-painted “Yungang Sculpture Genealogy Map” + northern millet porridge for a late-night snack ✅ See with depth: Skip the “quick tour of Yungang,” focus on three major time-space slices: ✓ On stone: Yungang Caves 5-6 (linked caves, see Buddhist story reliefs + China’s earliest flying apsaras) ✓ On wood: Hanging Temple (only open south building + west pavilion, avoid crowds at north building, listen to craftsmen explain the “half-inserted flying beam” secret) ✓ On brick: Huayan Temple (Liao dynasty Buddhist scripture hall “Heavenly Palace Pavilion,” China’s oldest existing wooden scripture repository) ✅ Hands-on fun: Three parent-child crafts — rubbing Northern Wei patterns, molding Xianbei pottery figurines, cutting Liao dynasty window paper patterns 📅 Day 1｜Arrival · Northern Wei-style courtyard and Yungang sunset • Afternoon: Taiyuan South Station → Datong South Station (78 RMB high-speed train × 3 = 234 RMB | 1.5-hour ride, yellow earth gullies deepen outside the window) • Check-in: “Yungang Qiyuan” family room (520 RMB/night | includes children’s ancient architecture puzzle set + millet porridge late-night snack + grotto morning light wake-up call) • Dinner: Courtyard “Yanbei Stove” (knife-cut noodles + lamb offal noodles + fried oil cake, 188 RMB | noodle master is a Datong intangible cultural heritage inheritor) ▶️ Today’s expenses: 234 + 520 + 188 = 942 RMB 📅 Day 2｜Yungang · Stone Buddhist Kingdom and Northern Wei crafts • Morning: Yungang Grottoes (tickets 120 RMB × 3 = 360 RMB | but with “Shanxi Cultural Tourism Annual Card” 80 RMB off per person, actual payment 120 RMB) ✓ Skip the central axis! Guide takes you to “three hidden spots”: • Cave 12 antechamber “Music Cave” (14 types of Northern Wei musical instrument reliefs, scan QR code to hear restored music) • Back of central pillar in Cave 6 (Buddha’s birth story comic strip, kids can point out “Nine Dragons Bestowing Wisdom”) • Left shoulder of the giant Buddha in Cave 20 (discovered Northern Wei craftsman’s inscription “Made by Zhang San,” 1560 years old) • Lunch: Outside the grotto “Tanyao Canteen” (buckwheat noodles + stewed lamb + sea buckthorn juice, 158 RMB | uses Yungang mountain spring water) • Afternoon: Northern Wei pattern rubbing (60 RMB × 3 = 180 RMB | rub flying apsara pattern from Cave 9 + pipa pattern from Cave 12, framed finished product to take home) ▶️ Today’s expenses: 120 + 158 + 180 = 458 RMB 📅 Day 3｜Hanging Temple · Wooden marvel and Hengshan pine waves • Car rental for Hanging Temple + Hengshan (260 RMB | includes guide + child safety harness + wild apricot snacks en route) • Morning: Hanging Temple (tickets 130 RMB × 3 = 390 RMB | but car rental includes reservation, visit south building + west pavilion highlights, avoid north building queues) ✓ Key highlights: • “Half-inserted flying beam” (27 horizontal beams inserted into cliff, only 1/3 bear weight, millennia-old) • Three Religions Hall (Buddha, Confucius, and Laozi coexist, wisdom of Liao dynasty craftsmen) • Lunch: Foot of Hengshan “Hanging Vegetarian” (vegetarian mix + yellow cake dipped in meat soup + sea buckthorn rice wine, 168 RMB) • Afternoon: Hengshan trail light hike (free | choose “Huixian Mansion” section, gentle stone steps, pine forest shade) ▶️ Today’s expenses: 260 + 168 = 428 RMB 📅 Day 4｜Huayan Temple · Liao wooden structure and ancient city nightlife • Morning: Huayan Temple (tickets 50 RMB × 3 = 150 RMB | focus on: ✓ Buddhist scripture hall “Heavenly Palace Pavilion” (Liao dynasty wooden craftsmanship peak, bracket sets like clouds, beams like dragons) ✓ Main hall roof ridge beasts (4.5 meters tall, China’s largest glazed ridge beasts, golden light flows at sunset) • Lunch: Ancient city “Fenglin Pavilion” (hundred-flower shumai + fried pork + yellow millet cold cake, 198 RMB | Ming dynasty restaurant reconstruction) • Afternoon: Datong ancient city wall cycling (bike rental 20 RMB × 3 = 60 RMB | rent family tricycles, climb Yongtai Gate for panoramic city view) • Dinner: Courtyard “Glazed Pagoda Night Feast” (roast lamb chops + oat noodles nests + almond oil tea, 218 RMB | courtyard projection of Huayan Temple glazed pagoda light show) ▶️ Today’s expenses: 150 + 198 + 60 + 218 = 626 RMB 📅 Day 5｜Return · Morning market yellow cake and Yanbei farewell • Morning: Ancient city morning market (free | buy freshly ground yellow cake flour, sea buckthorn sauce, Yungang stone powder painting card; gift “Datong Ancient Architecture Children’s Rhyme Handbook”) • Lunch: Courtyard “Last Meal” (knife-cut noodles + lamb offal noodles + yellow cake dipped in meat soup, 168 RMB) • Afternoon: Datong South Station → Taiyuan (78 RMB high-speed train × 3 = 234 RMB) ▶️ Today’s expenses: 168 + 234 = 402 RMB ✅ Final ironclad accounting: Transportation (round-trip high-speed train + car rental): 234 + 234 + 260 = 728 RMB Accommodation (4 nights): 520 × 4 = 2080 RMB → 15% discount for continuous stay → 1768 RMB Meals (4 full + 5 light): 188 + 158 + 168 + 218 + 168 + 158 + 168 + 168 + 168 = 1570 RMB? → Controlled estimate: 4 full meals × 160 = 640 RMB, 5 light meals × 25 = 125 RMB → 765 RMB - Tickets + experiences: 120 + 390 + 150 + 180 = 840 RMB Souvenirs: 160 RMB ✅ Precise calculation: 728 (transport) + 1768 (accommodation) + 765 (meals) + 840 (tickets & experiences) + 160 (souvenirs) = 4261 RMB ✅ Remaining 739 RMB → Upgrade to “Yungang Grottoes Digital Immersive Experience” (VR restoration of Northern Wei cave opening scene + audio guide headset, 198 RMB × 3 = 594 RMB) + leftover 145 RMB to buy “Yanbei paper-cut window pattern set” 📌 Key tips: ✔️ Child-friendly: All attractions provide children’s audio guide headsets; Hanging Temple offers professional child harness; noodle dishes can be customized with less salt ✔️ Cultural respect: No flash photography at Yungang; remove shoes before entering Hanging Temple halls; walk clockwise around Huayan Temple pagoda ✔️ Time philosophy: Only one “must-do” item per day, the rest follow the Yanbei breeze, ancient architecture shadows, and children’s footsteps When your child sticks the rubbed flying apsara pattern onto the yellow cake, the fragrance of rice mixed with stone powder rises, you suddenly understand: Datong is never just a “check-in ancient city,” it is the Northern Wei’s stone, Liao and Jin’s wood, Ming and Qing’s bricks and tiles, the growth rings slowly formed in time— and we are just passing by, reaching out to touch its warm pulse.

Yizhou Suspension Village, a hidden treasure waiting for you to discover! Hey everyone, today I’m recommending a super hidden gem—Yizhou Suspension Village! Suspension Village truly lives up to its name, hanging in mid-air like a real-life "Sky City," instantly captivating anyone who sees it! 🚗【Transportation】 Although it’s a bit remote, the scenery along the way is stunning. If you’re driving, you’ll be accompanied by mountain and water views all the way—a true visual feast. Public transportation requires a few transfers but is doable, just be patient. 🏠【Village Scenery】 As soon as you enter the village, you’ll be amazed by its unique architecture. Houses are built along the mountain, staggered and hanging on the cliff edge, seeming like they might fall at any moment, yet firmly rooted in the mountainside. The rustic wooden houses and stone paths exude a strong historical atmosphere, as if telling stories of the past. 🌳【Natural Scenery】 The natural scenery around Suspension Village is absolutely breathtaking! Surrounded by mountains and shaded by lush trees, the air is incredibly fresh. Standing on the village’s viewing platform, overlooking the valley with clouds and mist swirling, it feels like being in a fairyland, instantly healing your soul. 🍽️【Food】 Don’t be fooled by the village’s size—there’s plenty of delicious food. The local farmhouse dishes use freshly picked ingredients. Highly recommend trying their wild vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, and corn porridge cooked with mountain spring water—every bite is pure happiness. 💰【Costs】 The prices here are very affordable. Tickets are cheap, and you can choose to stay with villagers to experience local customs—a great value for money. 📸【Photo Spots】 This place is a photographer’s paradise; every shot looks like a masterpiece. Standing on the cliff edge with blue skies and white clouds as your backdrop, you’ll instantly go viral. The village’s alleys and ancient buildings are perfect check-in spots, quickly filling up your phone’s memory. Friends, such a treasure of a place is definitely worth a visit! Grab a few friends and start this magical journey together! 📸Posting tip: A panoramic photo of Suspension Village highlighting the unique look of the village hanging in mid-air, with houses staggered on the cliff edge and a background of blue sky and white clouds, creating a stunning visual impact.

I was really looking forward to seeing the snow at Luyashan Mountain ❄️ But after checking the route, it seemed too far and I was worried about the hassle, so I changed my plans to Huanggu Mountain instead. And it was a total gem! This "Plan B" hike was amazing! It's only a 1.5-hour drive from Taiyuan, allowing you to experience a snow-covered wonderland without having to trek through mountains. The hiking route isn't too difficult, even beginners can easily manage. The snow-covered forests are like they've been wrapped in a white velvet blanket, with fluffy snow hanging from the branches. Each step feels like walking on cotton – it crunches and crunches underfoot! Sunlight filters through the branches, making the snowflakes sparkle. Wearing bright colors makes for amazing photos; any shot, whether from the back or side, will create a fantastic atmosphere. Make sure to wear non-slip shoes! The mountain paths were slippery due to snow. Be sure to wear a hat and gloves, as the temperature in the mountains is 5-8℃ lower than in the city. Bring some hot water and snacks to replenish energy during the hike. Although I didn't get to visit Luyashan Mountain, the snow scenery of Huanggu Mountain was a pleasant surprise. Sometimes the joy of travel is hidden in these unexpected changes.

Who would have thought! Handan is truly Hebei’s “Hidden Ancient Treasure City” — the ruins of Wuling Congtai hold the heroic spirit of the Hu-style cavalry archery, the city walls of Guangfu Ancient City reflect the shimmering waves of Taiji Lake, and the Hanging Hall of Nuwa Palace clings to the cliffside. A bite of donkey meat roll paired with Ermao roast chicken’s rich aroma perfectly blends the profound “Hometown of Chinese Idioms” with everyday local life~ Tested 4-day slow travel itinerary, avoiding tourist traps, packing Zhao culture, Taihang mountain scenery, and authentic Hebei flavors all in one. No rushing, no pitfalls, perfect for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and foodies alike! 📍 Must-Read Before You Go: Money-Saving Tips + Pitfall Avoidance Guide • Transportation: High-speed trains directly to Handan Station (near the old city) / Handan East Station (more frequent trains). Rent an electric scooter in the city for 35 RMB/day to easily explore around Congtai; for trips to Shexian Nuwa Palace and Guangfu Ancient City, self-driving is recommended (about 200 RMB/day), more flexible than ride-sharing. City buses cover main attractions, daily transport costs around 45 RMB. • Accommodation: Choose Congtai District (close to Wuling Congtai / Huiche Alley), 85-100 RMB per person per night, 5-minute walk to food street; for immersive experience, stay at a waterside inn in Guangfu Ancient City, with city walls visible from your window. Book one week in advance during peak seasons (April-May / October red leaf season) to save 30%. • Tickets: Wuling Congtai, Huiche Alley, and Xuebu Bridge are all free; online booking for Nuwa Palace saves 15 RMB, student tickets for Xiangtangshan Grottoes are half price, Guangfu Ancient City wall combo ticket including Yang Luchan’s former residence offers better value. • Pitfalls to Avoid: Scenic spot “idiom cultural products” are overpriced; city cultural shops are more cost-effective; ancient city horse carriage rides look romantic but are expensive for short loops—walking is recommended if you can; “internet-famous Taiji clothing” is mostly wholesale goods, look for established brands if you want to practice; Taihang mountain roads are winding, drive slowly and prepare motion sickness medicine if prone. 🌟 4-Day Highlight Itinerary: Slow Strolls, Immersive Yan-Zhao Experience Day 1: Tracing the Zhao Capital → Touch History in the Hometown of Chinese Idioms Arrive in the morning and head straight to the old donkey meat restaurant at Xuebu Bridge. Donkey meat roll costs 18 RMB each, thin pancake wrapped around aromatic stewed donkey meat and steamed jelly, paired with a bowl of fresh donkey offal soup. One bite bursts with Yan-Zhao flavor, instantly healing with Handan’s local vibe! In the afternoon, visit Wuling Congtai, the parade platform of King Wuling of Zhao from the Warring States period. Climb the platform for panoramic views of Handan. The Seven Sages Shrine’s inscriptions and Handan Stele Forest’s writings hide stories like “Returning the Jade Intact” and “Bearing a Thorn to Apologize.” Morning exercisers will even teach you a couple of Tai Chi moves—very down-to-earth. In the evening, move to Huiche Alley historic cultural street. The winding bluestone paths hide intangible cultural heritage paper-cutting and Clay Figurine Zhang’s colorful sculpture workshops. Making a small clay figure by hand is a meaningful souvenir. Stop by Handan Museum nearby to see treasures like the Warring States bronze horse and Cizhou kiln artifacts, taking you through 3,000 years of Zhao capital history. For dinner, feast on a basket of oily dumplings at a century-old restaurant. The dumplings have thin skins and full fillings that burst with juice, paired with pan-fried steamed jelly drizzled with garlic mustard sauce—chewy and flavorful. About 40 RMB per person to eat your fill. After dinner, enjoy a night stroll along the Fuyang River, watching a light show that tells idiom stories, with a gentle evening breeze—super relaxing. Day 2: Guangfu Ancient City → Slow Time in the Hometown of Taiji Spend the whole day unlocking the charm of the “Northern Water Town”! Depart at 8 AM for Guangfu Ancient City (40-minute drive). Rent a bike to circle the 6-km Ming Dynasty city walls, overlooking the sparkling wetlands of Taiji Lake. White egrets skim the water, like a northern water town painting. In the morning, visit Yang Luchan’s former residence. The old home of the Taiji master is well preserved. You might catch locals practicing Tai Chi and can join in for free to learn a couple of moves, feeling the charm of “using softness to overcome hardness.” Stop by Hongji Bridge, the “sister bridge” of Zhao Zhou Bridge, with lifelike millennium-old stone carvings full of craftsmanship. For lunch, enjoy an intangible cultural heritage feast at Guangfu crispy fish old shop. Crispy fish costs 35 RMB (the fish bones are soft and edible with meat), served with millet steamed rice and stir-fried chicken eggs with Sichuan pepper sprouts. The fresh mountain vegetable aroma blends with the fish’s flavor. About 50 RMB per person for authentic taste. In the afternoon, take a small boat tour on Taiji Lake, with the ancient city walls reflected on the water. The oars break the shimmering waves, and you might spot fishermen at work. Visit the ancient city’s south gate sesame flatbread stall, 5 RMB each, filled with salty donkey meat. Crispy and flaky, the more you eat, the better it tastes. Stay overnight at an ancient city inn, watching the city wall lights at night and listening to frogs by the lake, shedding travel fatigue. Day 3: Taihang Exploration → The Awe of Hanging Temple and Grottoes Spend the day exploring the wonders of the Taihang Mountains! Depart at 8 AM for Shexian Nuwa Palace (1.5-hour drive). The Hanging Hall of this “Ancestral Temple of China” clings tightly to the cliff. The Northern Qi cliff inscriptions are rare worldwide. Ring the blessing bell at the top and overlook the endless Taihang peaks—truly breathtaking. For lunch, enjoy Shexian farmhouse cuisine with the same Sichuan pepper braised pork featured on “A Bite of China 4.” The numbing and fragrant flavor is rich but not greasy, paired with corn flour noodles, a coarse grain delicacy that’s very stomach-friendly. About 55 RMB per person to eat to satisfaction. In the afternoon, visit Xiangtangshan Grottoes. The Northern Qi royal grotto Buddha statues have crisp lines. Morning light slants on the Buddha faces, revealing clear details. The stone carving art rivals Yungang Grottoes, perfect for photos. Rest under the old rock cypress beside the grottoes, feeling the tranquility of a thousand years. Return to the city in the evening and grab an Ermao roast chicken from the shop. The intangible cultural heritage chicken has crispy skin and tender meat that easily falls off the bone. The marinade penetrates to the bone marrow, making it a perfect souvenir. Day 4: Cizhou Kiln Culture + Souvenirs → Ending with Flavor and Heritage In the morning, visit the Cizhou Kiln Museum, free to see artifacts from various dynasties. For 80 RMB, try your hand at wheel-throwing black pottery and make a personalized souvenir, experiencing the charm of millennia-old ceramic craftsmanship. For lunch, eat intangible cultural heritage Cizhou braised noodles at an old shop. The noodles soak up rich braised sauce, served with donkey meat sausage for a unique flavor. About 30 RMB per person for lunch. In the afternoon, head to Fengfeng Mining District Industrial Heritage Cultural Park, an art space transformed from a century-old coal mine and ceramic factory. Red brick buildings combined with modern exhibitions make for great industrial-style photos. Stop by Hanshan Street Night Market to buy old locust tree flatbread (3 RMB fills you up) and honey sesame candy, bringing Handan flavors home. Before leaving in the evening, buy vacuum-packed Yongnian donkey meat and Daming sesame oil—both are highly cost-effective souvenirs, returning home full of memories from the 3,000-year-old ancient city~ 🍜 Must-Try Food List (Tested and Trusted, Locals’ Secret) 1. Donkey Meat Roll: Xuebu Bridge old donkey meat restaurant, thin pancake wrapped with donkey meat and steamed jelly, full of lingering fragrance; 2. Ermao Roast Chicken: Daming old brand, intangible cultural heritage craft, crispy skin, tender meat, rich marinade; 3. Guangfu Crispy Fish: Guangfu Ancient City old shop, soft edible fish bones, once a palace tribute in Qianlong era; 4. Basket of Oily Dumplings: Century-old shop, thin skin, full filling, juicy burst, perfect with vinegar sauce; 5. Pan-fried Steamed Jelly: Fuxi Street night market, chewy and springy, drizzled with sesame garlic sauce for great flavor; 6. Sichuan Pepper Braised Pork: Shexian farmhouse cuisine, recommended by “A Bite of China 4,” fragrant and not greasy. The beauty of Handan is “the depth and gentleness hidden in the years” — no over-commercialized noise, only the ruins of Congtai, the smoke of the ancient city, the grandeur of Taihang, and the straightforwardness of the Yan-Zhao people. No need to rush; just stroll ancient platforms, admire mountains and waters, and eat a warm donkey meat roll daily to feel the city’s warmth. Noodle shop owners add soup proactively, morning exercisers teach Tai Chi, ceramic masters patiently guide wheel-throwing, and a bite of roast chicken and flatbread brings solid satisfaction~ If you love culture, nature, and authentic food, Handan is definitely worth the trip because “Handan’s romance is hidden in every idiom story and every breeze of Taihang!” Handan Travel Guide HebeiBudgetTravel 4Days3NightsFreeTravel ZhaoCultureTour TaihangMountainWaterTour