2025 Jianping Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Hidden within the folds of the mountains of Lingyuan, Liaoning, lies a secret site that rewrote the history of Chinese civilization: the Niuheliang Ruins. Standing on this ridge at an altitude of 671 meters, every grain of loess beneath your feet bears the footprints of the Hongshan ancestors 5,000 years ago. The sound of the wind brushing against the stone walls seems to tell of a mysterious era when jade rituals were first established and shamanism merged with politics. 1. Touching the Concrete Code of Civilization In the "Floating Jade Box" building at the Goddess Temple site, the semi-subterranean earthenware structure still bears traces of fire. The walls feature a triangular pattern of ochre-red, yellow-and-white interwoven patterns, representing the earliest known prototypes of murals in China. The marked area to the west of the main chamber marks the unearthed site of the Hongshan Goddess's head. This life-size clay sculpture, with high cheekbones, shallow eye sockets, and thin lips, gazes back through time with pale green jade-inlaid eyes. Archaeologist Su Bingqi called it the "common ancestor of the Chinese nation." Her left ear is missing, her lower lip is detached, but the slightly upturned corners of her mouth still convey the astonishing realism of the craftsmen 5,000 years ago. The stone mounds resemble a starry sky built of stone. The inhabitants of the large central tombs wear ritual objects such as jade pigs, dragons, and phoenixes, while the smaller tombs on the periphery are almost entirely devoid of artifacts. This clearly defined burial system reveals that Hongshan society had entered the early state stage. As sunlight penetrates the glass dome of the Second Site Conservation Exhibition Hall, illuminating the hexagonal stone pillars of the triple concentric altars, you suddenly understand the concept of heaven, earth, and man embodied in the "North Temple, South Altar" layout. II. Immersive Time Travel The VR equipment at the site museum transports you back to the Hongshan tribe: virtual Hongshan ancestors carve jade with jade sand, and the zigzag patterns embossed on pottery jars crafted using the mud strip coiling method are identical to those found on real-life artifacts. During the archaeological experience, children used Luoyang shovels to excavate pottery fragments in a simulated excavation pit and pieced together a complete cylindrical vessel. The fun of this "archaeological blind box" experience makes life 5,000 years ago seem no longer distant. In spring and autumn, the surrounding pine forests of the site are lush and verdant, while the cosmos and lavender of the Jade Dragon Flower Sea form a colorful carpet. From the observation deck, the distant Zhushou Mountain, the Goddess Temple, and the pyramid-like buildings form a straight line, a spatial expression of the Hongshan ancestors' "round heaven and square earth" cosmological concept. III. From Jade to Hot Springs: A Dialogue Between Past and Present The jade craftsmanship of the Hongshan culture is astonishing: the jade pig dragon curls like a ring, its protruding snout requiring a magnifying glass to discern; the jade phoenix's feathers are meticulously detailed, as if poised to take flight. At the cultural and creative shop, you can make your own mini jade pig dragon or take home a 3D-printed jade model. As dusk falls, take a 20-minute drive to Reshuitang Hot Spring Town. In the private hot springs of the Shanyutang Hotel, amidst the mist, I recall the day's archaeological discoveries, the warmth of the hot springs and the warmth of the jade artifacts intertwined in my memories—perhaps this is Niuheliang's most unique charm: it's not just a museum exhibit, but a cultural gene that can be touched, experienced, and ingrained into your very being. When you leave, your trunk might be filled with handmade pottery, your phone might be filled with AR-recreated sacrificial scenes, and more importantly, a new understanding of the diverse origins of Chinese civilization will be planted in your heart. Niuheliang is not a cold ruin, but a living history. With the smile of a goddess, the luster of jade, and the sound of waves in the pine forest, it invites everyone to continue this dialogue spanning five thousand years. Niuheliang Ruins Museum

Go for it! A 600-yuan budget treasure guide for 2 days in Lingyuan, Liaoning ✨ Hey everyone! Lingyuan, Liaoning, this hidden gem in the northeast, is like a low-key pearl 💎, radiating unique charm and waiting for us to uncover its mysteries for an amazing 2-day trip 😍. Below is this carefully curated guide 📖. Lingyuan has relatively few attractions, so this 2-day itinerary focuses on its famous spots and nearby activities. **Day 1: Arrive in Lingyuan → Wanxiang Temple → Lingyuan Reshuitang Hot Spring Resort** 🌅 **Morning**: Arrive in Lingyuan. You can take a train 🚉 to Lingyuan Station, then take a local bus 🚌 or taxi to Wanxiang Temple (ticket: 10 yuan 💰). The temple is serene and solemn in the early morning, with its red walls and blue tiles exuding an ancient charm. Step into this historic temple and start a journey through time 🎈. 🍜 **Noon**: Have lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try Lingyuan's lamb soup and pancakes to kick off a culinary adventure 🤤. The steaming lamb soup paired with crispy pancakes is both delicious and filling. 🌆 **Afternoon**: Head to Lingyuan Reshuitang Hot Spring Resort. The hot springs here are rich in minerals. Tickets cost around 100–200 yuan 💰, depending on the spa. Relax in the hot springs and enjoy a soothing time ♨️. 🥰 **Evening**: Have dinner at the resort or nearby. Try Lingyuan roasted chicken for a taste of local flavor. Then, check into Fuyuan Hot Spring Hotel, conveniently located within the resort for a comfortable stay ✨. **Day 2: Jinhua Mountain → Lingyuan City Museum → Return Trip** 🌅 **Morning**: Take a taxi to Jinhua Mountain (free 🆓). The morning air is fresh—take a stroll along the mountain trails, enjoy the scenery, and breathe in nature 🌳. 🍜 **Noon**: Have lunch near Jinhua Mountain. Try Lingyuan’s "lüdagun" (glutinous rice rolls) and sour porridge for unique local flavors 🥘. 🌆 **Afternoon**: Visit Lingyuan City Museum (free 🆓). The museum houses many cultural relics, offering insights into Lingyuan’s history. Then, prepare for your return trip, taking home wonderful memories 💕. **6 Must-Visit Attractions & Highlights** 1. **Wanxiang Temple** 🛕 - Features: Historic, ancient architecture, serene Buddhist atmosphere 🎊 - Activities: Explore the temple, experience Buddhist culture, listen to temple bells 🎈 2. **Lingyuan Reshuitang Hot Spring Resort** ♨️ - Features: Relaxing hot springs, soothing for body and mind 🎇 - Activities: Soak in the springs, try different spa treatments 🧐 3. **Jinhua Mountain** 🌳 - Features: Free, beautiful natural scenery, fresh air 🎊 - Activities: Hike, enjoy flora and fauna, connect with nature 🌱 4. **Lingyuan City Museum** 📚 - Features: Free, rich collection, learn about Lingyuan’s history 🎇 - Activities: View exhibits, listen to guided tours, gain knowledge 🌈 5. **Niuheliang National Archaeological Park** (nearby, optional) 🛕 - Features: Prehistoric ruins, significant historical value 🎊 - Activities: Explore the site, learn about Hongshan culture 🎈 6. **Longfeng Mountain** (nearby, optional) 🌄 - Features: Unique peaks, stunning natural landscapes 🎇 - Activities: Hike, admire rock formations, take photos 📿 **Pitfalls to Avoid** 1. **Wanxiang Temple**: - Respect religious customs—keep quiet and avoid loud noises ⚠️. - Some areas may prohibit photography; check signs. Be mindful of prices for incense to avoid overspending 💰. 2. **Lingyuan Reshuitang Hot Spring Resort**: - Research spa prices and facilities beforehand. Check operating hours to plan your visit. - Stay hydrated while soaking. Secure valuables—some spas offer lockers. 3. **Jinhua Mountain**: - Wear proper shoes for hiking; some trails are steep or slippery. Bring water and snacks. - Protect the environment—no littering or picking plants. 4. **Lingyuan City Museum**: - Check opening hours to avoid disappointment. Follow rules—no touching exhibits. - Preview exhibits online for a more focused visit. 5. **Niuheliang National Archaeological Park (optional)**: - The site is large—plan your route. Consider renting an audio guide. - Preserve the ruins—stay in designated areas. 6. **Longfeng Mountain (optional)**: - Hike safely—stick to marked trails. - Food options may be limited; bring snacks and water. **Preparations & Tips** ⚠️ - **Tickets**: Wanxiang Temple tickets can be bought on-site. Check the museum’s official site for free reservations. For optional sites, research ticket prices and discounts 💰. - **Clothing**: Pack according to the season 👚. Summer: light, breathable clothes, sunscreen, hats. Spring/autumn: bring a jacket. Winter: heavy coats, gloves, scarves. - **Essentials**: Power bank, basic meds (cold/upset stomach), swimwear/towels for hot springs. - **Transport**: Public transport is limited—use ride-hailing apps 🚕. For optional sites, check shuttle services or carpooling. - **Safety**: Prioritize safety during hikes and hot springs. Secure belongings 🧑‍🤝‍🧑. - **Etiquette**: Teach kids to respect nature and culture—no littering or loud noises 🌳. **Hotels** 1. **Fuyuan Hot Spring Hotel** 🌟 - Features: In-resort hot springs, convenient and comfy 💁‍♀️ - Why stay? Easy spa access, good facilities, great service 🤗 - Budget: 200–400 yuan/night for 3 (varies by room/season). 2. **Lingyuan Hotel** 🌟 - Features: Central location, great transport 🍃 - Why stay? Easy access to dining/shopping 😌 - Budget: 150–350 yuan/night for 3. 3. **Xingang Hotel** 🌟 - Features: Affordable, clean rooms, good service 🏨 - Why stay? Budget-friendly, meets basic needs 🥰 - Budget: 100–300 yuan/night for 3. **Transport Tips** 🚌 From Lingyuan Station, buses 🚌 to attractions are infrequent. Ride-hailing 🚕 is better. For optional sites, check shuttles or carpooling. **Local Specialties** 1. **Lingyuan Lilies** 🌼: Large, fragrant blooms—great for viewing. 2. **Jianping Bitter Ginseng** 🌿: High medicinal value—good for health. 3. **Lingyuan Paper-Cutting** 🎨: Vibrant folk art. 4. **Sanshijiazi Scallions** 🧅: Plump, tasty, nutritious. **Must-Try Foods** 1. **Lingyuan Lamb Soup** 😍: Rich broth, tender meat—super tasty! 2. **Lingyuan Roasted Chicken** 🥰: Firm, flavorful—a must-eat! 3. **Lüdagun (Glutinous Rice Rolls)** 😋: Soft, sweet, bean-filled—yum! 🤤 **Personal Take** Folks, this 2-day trip felt like a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure 🎉. Wanxiang Temple’s peace, the hot springs’ comfort, Jinhua Mountain’s freshness, and the museum’s depth left a lasting impression 🌈. The local food was a highlight 😎. For 600 yuan, the memories were priceless. You’ll love Lingyuan’s charm too 💕. Come to Lingyuan for a different kind of beauty! #LingyuanTravelGuide #2DaysInLingyuan #LingyuanSpots #LingyuanFood

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

The Niuheliang Site is located at the junction of Lingyuan City and Jianping County, Chaoyang City, Liaoning Province. It is an important site of the late Hongshan Culture and has been rated as one of the "100 Great Archaeological Discoveries of the 20th Century in China". It dates back to 5500-5000 years ago. The Niuheliang Site is a representative of the first stage of the ancient state period in the Project of Tracing the Origins of Chinese Civilization. The site was discovered in 1981 and excavated in 1983. The discovery of the Hongshan Culture altars, temples, tombs and precious jade artifacts at Niuheliang provides solid and abundant archaeological evidence that as early as 5000 years ago, during the late Hongshan Culture period, social morphology had already developed to the ancient state stage of primitive civilization, providing strong material evidence for the five-thousand-year civilization history of the Chinese nation. •Transportation: oFrom outside the province: It is recommended to take a high-speed train to Jianping Station or Niuheliang Station. oLocal transportation: You can take a shuttle bus from the park to Jianping Station and Niuheliang Station. Buses run every hour, but may be cancelled if there are few passengers. You can also take a taxi from the high-speed train station, but it is difficult to get a taxi near the scenic area. You can ask the taxi driver if they can pick you up on the way back. oScenic area transportation: It is recommended to purchase a scenic area ticket (20 yuan/person), as the distance from the museum to the scenic area is quite long. •Tour route: The entire scenic area has four main attractions, with a tour duration of approximately two hours. oNiuheliang Culture Exhibition Center: This center features a special exhibition in memory of Mr. Su Bingqi, a leading figure in Chinese archaeology. oNiuheliang Site Museum: The goddess head (replica) is a very important exhibit, made of yellow mud mixed with grass and chaff. The sculpture is highly realistic. The museum also displays numerous jade artifacts, reflecting the craftsmanship and aesthetic level of the ancient people. The originals are kept in the Liaoning Archaeological Museum and are not on display. oNiuheliang Site No. 1: A large platform complex consisting of 9 platforms. The Goddess Temple is located on platform No. 9, which is the earliest prehistoric temple site discovered in China. The temple unearthed a goddess head, which is considered the "common ancestor of the Chinese nation". The tour guide explained that due to current protection limitations, the Goddess Temple has not been fully excavated. oNiuheliang Site No. 2: A large number of stone mounds are distributed here, and precious jade artifacts such as the Jade Pig Dragon have been unearthed. The central tomb in Tomb No. 2 is one of the highest-ranking tombs discovered at Niuheliang so far. Altar No. 3: Surrounded by standing stones, the three circles of standing stones rise in height from inside to outside. The Hongshan Culture, centered on the large-scale altar, temple and tomb complex at Niuheliang, is a symbol of the five-thousand-year civilization of China and also provides concrete evidence for the "direct root system" of ancient Chinese culture. •Entrance fee: 60 yuan, half price for students. •Opening hours: 09:00-16:00, last entry at 16:00. •Note: There is no food available in the entire scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own.

Taoism's Quanzhen Lvzu Penglai Sect resides here, with Pusuan Palace located 100 meters east of Changlong Street in Jianping County, Chaoyang City. Covering nearly a hundred acres, the temple complex is majestic, with intricately carved beams and painted rafters, exuding a grand atmosphere. It is the largest Taoist temple in the Northeast region and serves as a religious activity center integrating Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. It is also an important cultural tourism attraction in Jianping. Pusuan Palace is a spectacular ancient-style Taoist architectural complex, resembling a sizeable ancient city replica. It rises from the vast countryside and stands as a unique landscape in the northern part of Jianping. Every year on the 16th day of the first lunar month, the temple fair at Pusuan Palace is grand in scale and bustling with visitors. People flock here for sightseeing, blessings, health preservation, and medical treatment, creating a bustling atmosphere. Taoism is China's traditional state religion, not an import but originating from the local culture. Taoist philosophy, health-preserving practices, Chinese medicine acupuncture, and internal martial arts have their influence among the people.