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The Ancestor of Guan Temple, the Crown of Martial Temples—A Must-Visit Guan Di Temple in Yuncheng — traveler post in Pinglu

The Ancestor of Guan Temple, the Crown of Martial Temples—A Must-Visit Guan Di Temple in Yuncheng

Yuncheng Jiexian Guan Di Temple, originally built during the Sui Dynasty, is the largest existing palace-style Taoist architectural complex and Guan Di temple. Jiexian is the hometown of Guan Yu, embodying profound loyalty, righteousness, and integrity. The temple’s architectural layout is meticulous, with elaborately carved beams and painted rafters, combining the architectural essence of the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, making it highly valuable for viewing. 🧭 Navigation: Yuncheng Guan Gong Hometown Cultural Scenic Area (about 30 minutes from Yuncheng city center) 🎫 Tickets: 60 RMB per person (buying an annual pass or a Black Wukong Card is more cost-effective) ‼️【Must-Check-In Spots at Guan Di Temple】‼️ 1️⃣ Zhi Gate (Theater Stage) This is the first main gate to enter the main temple. Below the gate is a passageway, and above it is an ancient theater stage. It cleverly combines the functions of a “gate” and a “stage.” In ancient times, only imperial palaces could have Zhi Gates and Noon Gates, highlighting Guan Di’s supreme status as the “Martial Saint.” Look up to see the exquisite wood carvings on the stage and imagine the grand operas performed here in honor of Guan Gong. 2️⃣ Imperial Calligraphy Pavilion (Bagua Pavilion) Located behind the Noon Gate, originally named “Bagua Pavilion,” it is named after the imperial plaques written by emperors Kangxi and Qianlong hanging there. The building is exquisitely crafted and serves as an important transitional pavilion within the temple. 3️⃣ Chongning Hall (Core Main Hall) The absolute core of the temple, enshrining a statue of Guan Yu in imperial attire. Outside the hall, the most striking features are 26 huge coiled dragon stone pillars with large, fierce dragon heads, unique to Guan Di temples in China. The massive bronze incense burner and the burning tower in front of the hall also emphasize its supreme status. Inside, a large plaque inscribed with “Divine Valor” by Emperor Qianlong hangs prominently. 4️⃣ Chunqiu Tower (The Tallest Building, the Highlight) The finishing touch of Guan Di Temple, named after the story of Guan Gong reading the “Spring and Autumn Annals” at night. The caisson ceiling is exquisitely carved: the top floor’s caisson ceiling is lavishly decorated and magnificent. No regrets for missing this marvel.

Who says Yuncheng is boring? A two-day, one-night historical tour left a lasting impression! — traveler post in Pinglu

Who says Yuncheng is boring? A two-day, one-night historical tour left a lasting impression!

Can you believe some people still say Yuncheng is boring?! I really have to speak up for this little city😭! As a serious ancient architecture enthusiast, this two-day, one-night historical tour of Yuncheng truly captivated my heart💓! This is the prefecture-level city with the most national key cultural relics protection units in China, known as the 'First City of National Treasures'! No excessive commercialization, just the authentic, millennia-old awe! Listen up! This 'hardcore two-day, one-night historical tour itinerary' that I painstakingly put together late at night is a must-save🔒, just copy it directly!👇 🏯 Day 1: Ancestor of Martial Temples ➕ The Louvre of the East ➕ Stunning Salt Lake Morning: Head straight to [Jiezhou Guandi Temple]! This is the largest Guandi Temple in the world. The red walls and glazed tiles, paired with ancient cypress trees, make for a stunning historical photo op📸 with just a casual shot! I highly recommend hiring a guide, otherwise, you'll truly miss out on many hidden historical details! Afternoon: Move on to [Yongle Palace]! The pinnacle of Yuan Dynasty murals, bar none! Stand in the Sanqing Hall and look up at the 'Chaoyuan Tu' – 286 deities with flowing robes, the kind of soul-stirring awe that truly gives you goosebumps😭! (⚠️Key point: No photos allowed inside the hall! Leave your reverence for the murals, and keep the awe in your heart!) Evening: You absolutely must visit [Yuncheng Salt Lake]! In summer, it's simply a colorful palette. 🏰 Day 2: Romance from Tang Poetry ➕ Southern Shanxi's Ancient Architecture Pinnacle Get up early on the second day and go to [Guangque Tower]! "To see a thousand miles, ascend yet another floor." The moment you climb the tower and gaze at the Yellow River, the lines from your Chinese textbooks suddenly come to life🌅! Next, check out [Feiyun Tower]! Legend has it that it was built by Lu Ban, hailed as the "First Tower of China." Its pure wooden structure is a marvel of craftsmanship. Standing beneath it, you'll be speechless at the wisdom of the ancients🪵! 💡 For advanced history buffs (add if you have ample time): If you're a serious ancient architecture enthusiast, you must visit [Qinglong Temple] and [Fusheng Temple]! The murals and painted sculptures here are as exquisite as those in Yongle Palace (and you can take photos📷)! Plus, there are very few tourists, so you can quietly appreciate the delicate brushstrokes from a thousand years ago🖌️. Also, [Qiufeng Tower] in Wanrong! The birthplace of Emperor Wu of Han's "Ode to the Autumn Wind," with its cross-hipped roof and 108 exquisite colorful glazed warrior figures. Stand by the Yellow River and feel the breeze, and the profound sense of history will wash over you🍂! 💡 Heartfelt Tips to Avoid Pitfalls: 1️⃣ The attractions are quite spread out, so I highly recommend driving or hiring a car. For public transport, you can look for the "Chengjingtong" free shuttle bus🚌. 2️⃣ Many ancient buildings have stairs and slopes, so be sure to wear comfortable flat shoes👟! 3️⃣ After floating in the salt lake, remember to rinse off promptly to avoid prolonged skin contact with saltwater🧴.

5 Days Exploring Ancient Shanxi: I Can't Believe I Couldn't Leave This Underrated Small City — traveler post in Pinglu

5 Days Exploring Ancient Shanxi: I Can't Believe I Couldn't Leave This Underrated Small City

A small city that holds half of China's history, with ancient national heritage buildings everywhere. Departing from Chengdu for 5 days and 4 nights, an immersive journey to unlock Hedong culture. A comfortable pace without rushing, packed with valuable insights! · Day1️⃣ Yuncheng Museum - Yuncheng Catholic Church - Guanwang Temple - Yanjie (Salt Street) - Chicheng Temple - Salt Lake No. 006 Lamppost Check-in Point - Yellow River Night Market Day2️⃣ Ruicheng Yongle Palace - Guangrenwang Temple - Xiezhou Guandi Temple Day3️⃣ Houtu Temple (Qiufeng Tower) - Dongyue Temple (Feiyun Tower) - Macun Brick Carving Tomb - Qinglong Temple Day4️⃣ Qiaosi Stele Tower - Xinjiang Longxing Temple - Xinjiang Catholic Church - Fusheng Temple · ▪️ Yuncheng Museum: Its collection is divine, boasting 7 national treasure-level cultural relics. Focus on photographing the 1:1 replica murals of Yongle Palace; the originals are not allowed to be photographed. ▫️ Guanwang Temple: A Ming Dynasty ancient building hidden in the city! The hall preserves numerous precious cultural relics. ▪️ Yanjie (Salt Street): A commercial street with Yuncheng's distinctive Ming and Qing dynasty style. ▫️ Chicheng Temple: The only Chicheng Temple in the country, built by the salt lake, a great place in Yuncheng for panoramic views. ▪️ No. 006 Lamppost Check-in Point: An internet-famous check-in spot with an extended view of Dayun Road. ▫️ Yongle Palace: The pinnacle of Yuan Dynasty murals‼️ The artistic value of "Chaoyuan Tu" is 💯. ▪️ Guangrenwang Temple: One of only three existing Tang Dynasty wooden structures in the country. ▫️ Xiezhou Guandi Temple: The ancestor of martial temples, the ancestral court for 30,000 Guandi Temples worldwide. ▪️ Houtu Temple (Qiufeng Tower): Famous worldwide for Emperor Wu of Han's "Ode to Autumn Wind." ▫️ Dongyue Temple (Feiyun Tower): China's first wooden tower! Pure wooden structure without a single iron nail, its mortise and tenon joints have amazed for a thousand years. ▪️ Macun Brick Carving Tomb: An immersive tomb experience, exquisite brick carvings recreate ancient life scenes. ▫️ Qinglong Temple: A lesser-known Yuan Dynasty ancient temple, another mural masterpiece by the artisans of Yongle Palace. ▪️ Qiaosi Stele Tower: A group of Ming Dynasty stone stele towers with exquisitely carved inscriptions. ▫️ Longxing Temple: A thousand-year-old temple with a majestic ancient pagoda. ▪️ Fusheng Temple: A Song and Yuan Dynasty ancient temple, preserving precious painted sculptures and murals. · 💫 Travel tips: ☑️ For Macun Brick Carving Tomb, it's recommended to hire a guide for a deeper understanding + courage 😎. ☑️ For Day 2-4, you'll need to charter a car or rent a car for self-driving, as public transportation is inconvenient. ☑️ For viewing murals, it's highly recommended to hire a guide; you'll miss many details if you look by yourself. ☑️ Don't miss Qiufeng Tower and Feiyun Tower, which, along with the Zoroastrian Temple Tower and Stork Tower, are known as the Four Famous Towers of Shanxi. ☑️ At Xiezhou Guandi Temple, definitely spend an extra ¥30 to go up to the second floor of Chunqiu Tower. Inside, there's a pair of unique chrysanthemum caisson ceilings in China and a side profile of Guan Yu's true likeness.

Shanxi Yuncheng Travel Guide — traveler post in Pinglu

Shanxi Yuncheng Travel Guide

This is a 2-day 1-night travel guide for Yuncheng, Shanxi, with a budget of around 1000 RMB. It includes itinerary planning, recommended attractions, food, and accommodation suggestions. 2-Day 1-Night Yuncheng, Shanxi Travel Guide (Budget Around 1000 RMB) 1. Introduction to Yuncheng Yuncheng is located in the southern part of Shanxi Province and is one of the important birthplaces of Chinese civilization. It has a long history and rich cultural heritage. Here you can find famous historical and cultural sites such as the Salt Lake, Guandi Temple, and Shun Emperor's Mausoleum, along with a variety of local delicacies. Yuncheng has a mild climate, making it suitable for travel in spring and autumn. 2. Itinerary Day 1: Cultural and Historical Exploration Morning Arrive in Yuncheng and visit Guandi Temple (ticket about 30 RMB) Guandi Temple is dedicated to the famous Three Kingdoms general Guan Yu, featuring grand architecture and rich cultural atmosphere. Visit Yuncheng Salt Lake (ticket about 40 RMB) The largest salt lake in China with unique scenery, where you can experience the salt harvesting culture. Noon Enjoy a local Yuncheng lunch in the city (about 30 RMB per person) Recommended: Yuncheng knife-cut noodles, lamb offal soup, Yuncheng aged vinegar Afternoon Visit Shun Emperor's Mausoleum (ticket about 20 RMB) The mausoleum of Shun, one of the ancient Five Emperors of China, known for its tranquil environment and profound culture. Stroll around Yuncheng city to experience local life Evening Taste Yuncheng night market snacks (about 40 RMB) Recommended: Yuncheng street food, grilled skewers, cold noodles, etc. Stay at an economy hotel (about 150 RMB/night) Day 2: Natural Scenery and Folk Experience Morning After breakfast, head to Salt Lake National Wetland Park (ticket about 30 RMB) Enjoy the natural ecology of the salt lake and take photos of the beautiful scenery. Visit Yuncheng Museum (free) Learn about Yuncheng’s history and culture. Noon Lunch in the city (about 30 RMB) Recommended: Yuncheng lamb paomo, stir-fried cold noodles Afternoon Visit Yuncheng’s specialty handicraft market to buy souvenirs (budget about 50 RMB) Return to your departure point 3. Budget Breakdown (per person) Item Cost (RMB) Transportation (city bus/taxi) 100 Tickets 120 Meals 140 Accommodation 150 Shopping/Other 50 Reserve 40 Total 600 Note: The budget includes a sufficient reserve to allow adjustments based on personal needs; 1000 RMB is ample. 4. Tips Yuncheng can be quite hot in summer, so remember to use sunscreen and stay hydrated. Try to walk or use public transportation to save on travel costs. Choose economy hotels in the city center for convenient travel. Try local specialties to experience Yuncheng’s unique flavors. Check attraction opening hours and plan your itinerary accordingly. If you need more detailed transportation routes or accommodation recommendations, feel free to ask! Wishing you a pleasant trip in Yuncheng!

Yuncheng One-Day Tour Must-Visit: Cultural Tour of the Jiexian Guan Di Ancestral Temple — traveler post in Pinglu

Yuncheng One-Day Tour Must-Visit: Cultural Tour of the Jiexian Guan Di Ancestral Temple

If you want to explore the spiritual landmark of Chinese loyalty and righteousness culture, the Jiexian Guan Di Temple in Yuncheng, Shanxi is a must-visit. This temple is not an ordinary shrine; it is the "ancestral court" of all Guan temples in the world. Its architectural layout and the posthumous titles granted over the dynasties embody the complete journey of Guan Yu from a famous general to a Martial Emperor, from a human to a deity. Itinerary Planning · Location and Transportation: The temple is located in Jiexian Town, Yuncheng City. It takes about 40 minutes by car from Yuncheng North Station; there is also a dedicated tourist bus line from the city center, making transportation convenient. · Opening Hours and Tickets: Open year-round, with peak season tickets priced around 60 RMB. It is recommended to allocate about 3 hours for the visit to fully appreciate its cultural depth. · Best Season: Spring and autumn offer the most suitable climate, avoiding the summer heat and winter cold. · The entire temple is rigorously arranged along the north-south central axis, sequentially showcasing its noble status. 1. From the Mortal World to the Sacred Realm The entrance’s Duanmen Gate and the "Wandai Zhan Yang" stone archway mark the starting point of the pilgrimage. The subsequent Zhi Gate (main gate) has a unique design and also functions as a stage. In the past, operas praising Guan Gong were performed here, combining education with entertainment, vividly reflecting folk beliefs. 2. The Majesty of Chongning Hall Proceeding to the main hall, Chongning Hall, its double-eaved Xieshan roof and 26 coiled dragon stone pillars around the hall fully display imperial grandeur. Inside, the giant plaque "Wanshi Renji" was inscribed by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, symbolizing the supreme status of Guan Yu worship in official orthodoxy. This is the core place to appreciate Guan Gong’s divine status as the "Martial King." 3. The Philosophical Thought of Chunqiu Tower The final stop is the Chunqiu Tower, the tallest building in the temple. Its second floor features an ingenious "suspended column and hanging beam" structure, giving the impression of a floating pavilion. Inside, the statue of Guan Yu reading the "Spring and Autumn Annals" at night is a typical symbol of his "Saint of Culture" image, interpreting the profound Confucian roots of "loyalty and righteousness." Reminder: The second floor is currently under maintenance; please check the opening times accordingly.

Underrated Yuncheng in Shanxi: 5 Hidden Gems That Shocked Me! — traveler post in Pinglu

Underrated Yuncheng in Shanxi: 5 Hidden Gems That Shocked Me!

“In Yuncheng, you might be stepping on the ridges once walked by Emperor Shun, feeling the Tang Dynasty breeze, and basking under the same sun as Yuan Dynasty painters.” 📷 This is Yuncheng, Shanxi, one of the prefecture-level cities with the highest concentration of national protected sites. ‼️ For those planning to visit, I highly recommend buying the Yuncheng Tourism Annual Card (128 RMB/person) or the Black Wukong Card (68 RMB/person). I drove from Xi’an to Yuncheng and here’s my itinerary: DAY 1️⃣ Xi’an 🚘 Tongguan 🚘 Pujindu Ruins (Yellow River Iron Ox) 🚘 Guanque Tower 🚘 Yuncheng City Center 1️⃣ Tongguan 🌟🌟🌟 (free admission), featuring an ancient city area and a museum with a distant view of the Yellow River. After Tongguan, there’s a street selling roujiamo (meat sandwiches) that tastes pretty good. 2️⃣ Pujindu Ruins (Yellow River Iron Ox) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟, free admission. This spot is truly underrated. You can see the national treasure up close in the open air, and the Pujindu Ruins Museum clearly explains the history and significance of the Yellow River Iron Ox. Highly recommended. 3️⃣ Guanque Tower 🌟🌟. I visited because it’s included in the Black Wukong Card combo ticket and because of the famous Tang poem “Ascending Guanque Tower.” I wanted to experience the ancient feeling of climbing the tower and seeing the sun setting behind the mountains and the Yellow River flowing into the sea, inspiring one to climb higher for a broader view. The stairs downstairs are great for photos, and there’s an elevator to the top. 4️⃣ It’s about a one-hour drive from Guanque Tower to Yuncheng city center. DAY 2️⃣ Yuncheng city center, Yongle Palace, Guangrenwang Temple, and in the afternoon, the Salt Lake and Swan Habitat 1️⃣ Yongle Palace 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. I strongly suggest visiting in the morning when sunlight streams through the windows into the main hall, illuminating the murals clearly—especially the 700-year-old Yuan Dynasty Taoist deity painting “Chaoyuan Tu” in the Wuji Hall. The murals are 5-6 meters tall and truly breathtaking. You’ll need 2-3 hours to fully appreciate it. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed. 2️⃣ Guangrenwang Temple 🌟🌟🌟🌟. One of the three and a half surviving Tang Dynasty wooden structures. Approaching it, you can feel the lingering grandeur of the High Tang era. It’s a great spot for photos. 3️⃣ Salt Lake Swan Habitat 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. I recommend arriving around 4:30 PM. The sunset combined with the swans on the salt lake is a perfect match! Navigation: Salt Lake Swan Habitat, then walk 1.5 km to Swan Lake, or take a shuttle bus for 5 RMB/person. DAY 3️⃣ Jiexiu Guandi Temple, Panzhou Zen Master Pagoda, Yuncheng Museum 1️⃣ Jiexiu Guandi Temple 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. The oldest Guandi Temple in China, over 1,400 years old. Many visit specifically to see the Qinglong mural and to take photos of the “Shenyong” plaque. The site is large, and the walk from the parking lot to the temple is a bit long. 2️⃣ Panzhou Zen Master Pagoda 🌟🌟🌟🌟, free admission. Located among residential houses, I personally think it’s worth a visit. This Tang Dynasty ancient pagoda is listed in “Famous Chinese Towers” and is the only circular pavilion-style brick pagoda from the Tang Dynasty in the country. 3️⃣ Yuncheng Museum 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. A national first-class museum! Worth taking your time to explore. It also makes up for the no-photography rule at Yongle Palace’s Chaoyuan Tu mural.

Four Days and Three Nights in Yuncheng in November, Exploring the Treasure House of Chinese Ancient Civilization! — traveler post in Pinglu

Four Days and Three Nights in Yuncheng in November, Exploring the Treasure House of Chinese Ancient Civilization!

Yuncheng, Shanxi in November, The autumn chill rises but warm sunshine often accompanies, Millennium-old buildings appear even more majestic under the clear sky, The colorful Salt Lake lies quietly on the earth like a palette, This is the "Hometown of Guan Yu" and also the "Cradle of Chinese Civilization." Few tourists, a relaxed pace, It is the best season to slowly appreciate the culture of southern Shanxi. This in-depth four days and three nights travel guide under 3000 RMB will take you through a 5,000-year historical corridor! 🗓 Itinerary (4 days 3 nights) Day 1: Arrive in Yuncheng → Visit Guan Di Temple + Salt Lake Sunset Take the high-speed train to [Yuncheng North Station], taxi to the city Check in at a boutique guesthouse near the ancient city 💰600/night × 3 = 1800 In the afternoon, visit [Jiexiu Guan Di Temple] (ticket ¥60), the world's largest ancestral temple of Guan Yu, grand and magnificent ⛩️ In the evening, go to [Yuncheng Salt Lake] (free), capture the pink and green "Mirror of the Sky" and sunset silhouettes 🌅 Day 2: Yongle Palace Murals + Ruicheng Ancient Architecture Exploration ✅ Morning drive to Ruicheng (about 1.5h), visit [Yongle Palace] (ticket ¥50) Be amazed by the Yuan Dynasty mural "Chaoyuan Tu," with lines that have not faded for a thousand years, a treasure of Eastern art 🎨 ✅ Afternoon climb [Guangren King Temple] (free), one of the four surviving Tang Dynasty wooden structures, simple and vigorous Day 3: Sima Wen Gong Shrine + Fushou Temple Twin Towers ✅ Morning visit [Sima Guang Tomb · Wen Gong Shrine] (ticket ¥30), feel the spirit of the historian 📚 ✅ Afternoon head to [Wanrong County], check in at [Feiyun Tower] (ticket ¥35) and [Ji King Temple], the exquisite dougong brackets are astonishing Return to Yuncheng city at night, enjoy a bowl of steaming lamb and radish soup or Wenxi boiled cake 🍲 Day 4: Museum Finale + Return ✅ Morning visit [Yuncheng Museum] (free, reservation required), systematically understand the Hedong civilization Return in the afternoon, full of historical charm 💰 Budget Details: Major transportation: round-trip high-speed train ¥600 (depending on departure city) Accommodation: 1800 (three nights in quality guesthouse, prime location) Meals + tickets + local transport: about ¥500 ✅ Total: about 2900 RMB! Culture lovers rejoice, excellent cost performance Yuncheng in November, No noisy crowds, only the millennium whispers told by bricks and stones. When you stand under the eaves of the Tang Dynasty and look up at the dougong brackets, At that moment, you understand Shanxi, and you understand China.

Here, I found the origin of the culture of loyalty and righteousness among the people of Shanxi — traveler post in Pinglu

Here, I found the origin of the culture of loyalty and righteousness among the people of Shanxi

There are 30,000 Guan Di temples worldwide, and in Shanxi, the hometown of Guan Yu, worshiping Guan Di is very common. According to the elderly, it used to be said that 'every county has a Confucian temple, and every village has a martial temple.' ◾You can even find a Guan Wang Temple, built in the Yuan Dynasty, on Beida Street in the bustling downtown area of Yuncheng. One of its unique features is its east-facing west layout. It is said that when the Guan Wang Temple was built, people considered that Guan Gong's hometown was not far to the west in Changping Village, Jiezhou. By choosing an east-facing west layout, Guan Di could always gaze at his hometown and protect the local people. ◾Another unique feature is that the Guan Wang Temple faces a Qing Dynasty Catholic church across the street, with Guan Er Ye and Jesus separated by just one road, representing two different beliefs. 💡The Guan Wang Temple was built in the Yuan Dynasty and expanded during the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty. It faces east and has two courtyards. Along the central axis are a wooden archway, the main gate, the offering hall, the main hall, the Spring and Autumn Pavilion, and the sleeping palace. On both sides are the White Horse Shrine, the General's Shrine, the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower, and corridors. Originally covering more than ten acres, it was a grand and magnificent building, the largest Guan Di temple in the city. ✅Must-see guide: 1⃣️The Guan Wang Temple was rebuilt by Ming Dynasty Salt Inspector Wu Kai and wealthy salt merchants as a temple of the God of Wealth and Righteousness. 2⃣️It preserves the 'Great View of the Holy Work' stele written by Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty, Zhao Ji. 3⃣️Above the main hall is a gilded plaque from the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, inscribed with 'Righteousness of Heaven and Earth.' 4⃣️On both sides of the offering hall are stone carvings of the 'Guan Di Signature Book.' 5⃣️The offering hall also preserves a stele with the 'Four Good' admonitions by Song Dynasty Neo-Confucian master Zhu Wengong (Zhu Xi). 6⃣️The offering hall preserves a large square bronze mirror from the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. 7⃣️The traditional morning bell and evening drum rituals have been restored. 8⃣️It breaks the old custom by facing east. 📍Address: No. 61, Hongqi West Street, Zhongcheng Street, Yanhu District, Yuncheng City. 💴Ticket: Free 🚗Tour time: 1~2 hours 🇨🇳Five thousand years is far away, but ancient buildings are close. ✔️Follow the author to explore meaningful ancient buildings and touch the warm history.

Shanxi Yuncheng | You always have to come to Jiezhou to pay your respects to Lord Guan — traveler post in Pinglu

Shanxi Yuncheng | You always have to come to Jiezhou to pay your respects to Lord Guan

| You always have to come to Jiezhou to pay your respects to Lord Guan. Jiezhou, where the character '解' is pronounced 'hai', was historically known as 'Jieliang'. In ancient times, the city of Jieliang was like an eye in the midst of the ocean, surrounded by large bodies of water such as salt ponds, Wu Lake, and Sushui River. This is the origin of the pronunciation 'hai' (亥) for 'Jiezhou', 'Jiexian', and 'Jiechi'. The earliest, largest, most regulated, and best-preserved temple of Guandi in our country is located right here! ⏰ Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00 Ticket🎫: 60 yuan 📍: Jiezhou Town, Yuncheng, Shanxi 🤏: Third batch of national protected units The Jiezhou Guandi Temple was founded in the ninth year of the Sui Kaihuang era (589 AD) and is known as the 'Ancestor of Guan Temples' and the 'Crown of Martial Temples', with a history of over 1400 years. The temple's layout adopts a 'front court and rear sleeping quarters' and a symmetrical palace-style arrangement. The main buildings include the End Gate, the Zhi Gate, the Wu Gate, the Imperial Book Tower, the Chongning Hall, and the Spring and Autumn Tower, etc.

3-day Pinglu County travel guide — traveler post in Pinglu

3-day Pinglu County travel guide

Pinglu's attractions are authentic and mostly free. With cross-province buses to Sanmenxia costing only CNY 2, you can easily combine Yellow River scenery with leisure in nearby cities. The pace is relaxed, and it offers great value. 🗓️ 3-day itinerary suggestion: Yellow River scenery and slow cross-province travel Day 1: Pinglu east route – ancient Yellow River ferry and sunken cave dwellings Morning: Visit Zhoucang Cultural Park (free). This is the only AAA-rated scenic spot in Pinglu. The pure wooden Zhoucang Hall and Guangong Hall are impressive, and Zhongyong Square is also worth a visit. Lunch: Have a bowl of Zhangdian lamb soup in the county town. It is made by simmering year-old goat meat and bones for over 10 hours, resulting in a milky white broth. Pair it with oil-wowo bread for a hearty and warming meal. Afternoon: Head to Dongpingtou Village in Duma Township. This is a cluster of sunken cave dwellings known as "underground courtyards," where you can't see houses when entering the village and can't hear people when listening. They are warm in winter and cool in summer. You can stay one night in a unique sunken cave dwelling at the Yellow River Folk Culture Park and watch the Yellow River sunset from the viewing platform in the evening. Day 2: Cross-province to Sanmenxia – Swan Lake and Shanzhou ancient city Morning: Take the cross-province bus 20 from Pinglu to Sanmenxia. It costs only CNY 2 one way, takes 20 minutes, and the last bus from Pinglu departs at 6:30 PM. First, visit Swan Lake Urban Wetland Park (free). With thousands of acres of water, it is a wintering ground for swans, and walking along the wooden boardwalks offers expansive views. Lunch: Enjoy Sanmenxia specialties in the Hubin District, such as Daying twisted dough paired with Guanyintang beef. Afternoon: Explore the Shanzhou Ancient City Ruins (free), located within Shanzhou Park, where you can still see parts of the city walls and the bell and drum tower ruins. Take the bus back to Pinglu in the evening. Dinner: Try Pinglu oil-splashed noodles in the county town. The handmade noodles are freshly made and splashed with hot oil, making them incredibly fragrant. Day 3: Pinglu west route – red earth forest and Maojin Ferry, relaxed departure Morning: Visit Mitangou Red Earth Forest (free). This is a Danxia landform on the Loess Plateau with layered red soil pillars. The colors are especially vivid after rain, earning it the name "earth oil painting." Lunch: Return to the county town for Changle stir-fried jelly. The jelly is stir-fried in an iron wok until golden brown and served with chili and garlic sauce, making it smooth and chewy. Afternoon: Go to Maojin Ferry (free). It is one of the three ancient ferries on the Yellow River, with a history dating back to the Shang Dynasty. The "Maojin sunset" in the evening is one of the eight ancient scenes of Pinglu. Sit by the ferry for a while, watch the Yellow River flow slowly, then buy some water-processed persimmon cakes as souvenirs before heading home. 💰 Budget breakdown (total approx. CNY 1,350–1,450) · Transport (approx. CNY 100): The cross-province bus from Pinglu to Sanmenxia is CNY 2 one way. Taxi starting fares in the county are low. For township attractions like Dongpingtou and Mitangou, carpooling or chartering a car is recommended; budget about CNY 80. · Accommodation (approx. CNY 300): Economy hotels in Pinglu county town are about CNY 100–130/night (such as Shenxianju Express Hotel, Hanting Hotel Taiyang Road Branch, etc.); sunken cave dwelling homestays in Dongpingtou are about CNY 100–150/night. Two nights total about CNY 300. · Tickets (approx. CNY 50): Zhoucang Cultural Park, Dongpingtou sunken cave dwellings, Mitangou Red Earth Forest, Maojin Ferry, and Swan Lake are all free. Only a few individual experience projects may have minor costs; budgeting CNY 50 is sufficient. · Dining (approx. CNY 400): Prices in Pinglu are affordable. Zhangdian lamb soup is CNY 20–30 per person, and oil-splashed noodles are over CNY 10 a bowl. You can eat very well for CNY 400 over three days. 🍜 Local specialties · Zhangdian lamb soup: The "signature" of Pinglu cuisine. Made by simmering fresh year-old goat meat and bones for over 10 hours. The broth is milky white, the meat is tender, and it is best enjoyed with oil-wowo bread. · Pinglu oil-splashed noodles: Created in the 1980s by local Hui chefs, these handmade noodles are topped with beef and red chili powder, then splashed with hot oil for a fragrant finish. · Changle stir-fried jelly: Jelly is cut into pieces and stir-fried in an iron wok until golden, then seasoned with chili and garlic sauce for an enticing color and a smooth, chewy texture. · Water-processed persimmon cakes: Maquangou has a 1,350-year history of cultivating water-processed persimmons. The resulting persimmon cakes are sweet, sticky, and not astringent, making them perfect as souvenirs. 💡 Practical tips · Transport: The cross-province bus 20 from Pinglu to Sanmenxia is the most convenient way to cross the province. It costs CNY 2 one way; remember to check the last bus time (6:30 PM from Pinglu). Driving or carpooling is recommended for Dongpingtou and Mitangou, as public transport is limited. · Accommodation: For a unique experience, stay in a Dongpingtou sunken cave dwelling—warm in winter, cool in summer, and right by the Yellow River. For shopping convenience, stay in Pinglu county town, where there are many economy hotel options. · Best season: November to February is the swan wintering season, when Swan Lake is at its liveliest. In autumn, the red leaves in Maquangou cover the mountains, offering the best color layers. · Clothing: Both Dongpingtou sunken cave dwellings and Mitangou Red Earth Forest require walking, so wear non-slip, comfortable sports shoes. It is windy by the Yellow River, so bring a windbreaker. Three days is just enough to connect the ancient Yellow River ferry, sunken cave dwellings, red earth forest, and the lake and city scenery of Sanmenxia. It is an affordable, authentic, and solid short trip~

What people are saying about Pinglu

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Guandi Temple in Sitou

Brought the kids there, the cultural relics and ancient buildings were really shocking. We asked for a guide and learned some history. It's really worth a visit. Not many people there, so it's worth it. The only thing is that the incense and worship items in the main hall are quite expensive. We went to the Temple of the God of Wealth at the back, where the incense prices are more affordable.

W~一抹微笑W~一抹微笑

Shanzhou Silo-cave

This is a cluster of traditional houses with a very distinctive local flavor. You enter the village but see no one, yet every household seems to be filled with voices. During the visit, there are occasional folk performances that incorporate local customs, which are quite interesting. The entire scenic area has a well-planned route, and you won't feel tired after walking through it all. There's a courtyard inside that sells huge steamed buns, especially the red date and sweet potato ones, which are particularly delicious.

M63***07M63***07

Swan Lake National Urban Wetland Park

Sanmenxia Swan Lake Wetland So many swans! Swans that migrate from Siberia and Mongolia to spend the winter! It's so beautiful!!! Swans fly overhead every now and then! You can see swans taking off and landing just like in documentaries! You can buy noodles/beans from the swans, and they love it! But please be a respectful birdwatcher! Hopefully, the environment will become more beautiful and there will be more and more swans! Such beautiful scenery can actually be seen for free! (So I feel that Sanmenxia City has a tough time... The historically famous Hangu Pass and Shanzhou, although attracting many tourists to see the swans, actually spend very little, just buying some bird food...) Actually, Sanmenxia also has the Guo State Museum worth visiting, with many delicious foods (Guo State mutton soup, beef soup, various noodles, etc.), and good accessibility facilities. The overpass at Wanda Plaza has elevators, and there are even water dispensers inside! This is the first time I've ever seen a Wanda Plaza that provides hot water!

M52***87M52***87

Sanmenxia Swan Lake Resort

Traveling during the Qingming Festival holiday wasn't too crowded. Buying tickets in advance on the platform according to your itinerary is more convenient and won't delay your trip! Because when we boarded, there were passengers next to us who had just bought tickets on-site and couldn't board immediately; they had to wait for the next departure. In the warm spring season, the scenery of the Yellow River from the boat is still very beautiful!

M47***46M47***46

Guo State Museum

The Guo State Museum is well worth a visit. Built on the site of the Western Zhou Dynasty Guo State cemetery, it offers an immersive experience of Zhou Dynasty history from 3,000 years ago. The chariot and horse pit site is truly awe-inspiring, and the museum's prized possession, the "Number One Sword of China," along with exquisite jade and bronze artifacts, are breathtaking. The exhibition layout is clear, and the exhibits are abundant, allowing visitors to genuinely appreciate the ritual and music culture of the Zhou Dynasty. The ticket price is reasonable, offering excellent value for money. History buffs shouldn't miss it.

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Sanmenxia Dam Scenic Area

The Sanmenxia Dam spans Henan and Shanxi provinces. Standing on the viewing platform, one can see the Yellow River sometimes roaring and sometimes flowing calmly, with the Pillar Stone standing tall in the middle of the rapids, showcasing the grandeur of "the Yellow River's waters coming from the sky." If the dam is being released during flood season, the spray rises into the sky, sometimes creating rainbows, maximizing the visual impact. The Yellow River Exhibition Hall within the scenic area houses a large collection of old photos and artifacts, recreating the construction scenes of that time. The elderly will find it relatable, while children can intuitively understand the hardships of the project. Dayu Park, themed around water management culture, is shaded by trees and features sculptures, allowing visitors to experience the profound cultural heritage while relaxing.

富得🥑油富得🥑油

Yellow River Swan Cruise

There were so many people during the Chinese New Year that we were practically pushed onto the boat. The management was so-so. Fortunately, the beautiful sunset at 5 pm and the cute red-billed gulls made up for it. I recommend going around 4 pm, but there are still so many people, hahaha!

正在乘凉的挖掘机正在乘凉的挖掘机

Yuncheng Salt Lake

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

trvelonetrvelone

Sanmenxia Miaodigou Museum

After exiting the Lianhuo Expressway, we took Yingbin Avenue and followed the navigation to the vicinity of the Miaodigou Museum. Due to road construction, the museum entrance was difficult to find; we circled around twice before finally locating it. There is a dedicated parking lot. From the outside, the museum consists of three interconnected buildings. We walked along a passageway to the sunken entrance. Admission to the museum is free (as usual, it is closed on Mondays). Upon entering, we were immediately drawn to the high, white, petal-shaped dome. Sculptures adorned the front and sides of the main hall. Having researched beforehand, we headed straight to the "Flowers Bloom in China" and "Memories of Miaodigou" exhibition halls to learn about the Miaodigou culture from over 6,000 years ago. The excavation of the Miaodigou site is one of the major discoveries of 20th-century China, a significant representative of the Yangshao culture, and proof of humanity's journey towards civilization and the conscious creation of artistic beauty. The exhibition halls displayed thousands of painted pottery artifacts, none of which were duplicates. Some were restored, while fragments of the original painted pottery were embedded in various jars, bowls, plates, basins, and pots. Some were simply irreparable fragments displayed in showcases. One exhibit, a painted pottery piece resembling a hot pot, tells us that the people of Miaodigou already knew how to cook and enjoy life. The cowrie shells indicate that they had currency to buy things. The Jiahu bone flute, with its seven notes, testifies that Chinese music predates that of other countries. The exhibition also features a model of the semi-subterranean dwellings of the Miaodigou people, which visitors enthusiastically photograph. Although the exhibition hall is small, it is well worth a visit.

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Scenic Area

The main urban area of ​​Sanmenxia is the old urban area, followed by Shanzhou. So when you come to Sanmenxia for tourism, you must visit the old city of Shanzhou, which is the Shanzhou Scenic Area. There may be fewer natural landscapes here, but the cultural landscape can bring you many historical memories and stories from the past.

山在穷游山在穷游

Pinglu FAQ

What currency is used in Pinglu?

The standard currency in Pinglu is CNY

How do I exchange currency in Pinglu?

Current exchange rate approx.: THB ≈0.2CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.

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