[2025 Datong Attraction] Travel Guide for Confucian Temple (Updated Oct)

Datong has been popular for a year because of Black Wukong, but it is also because of its profound historical heritage that it can catch this wave of traffic~ This city is very suitable for calming down and strolling slowly. I have compiled a 2-day and 1-night urban tourist route. Just follow this~- ♾️「Route Suggestions」 DAY1️⃣: Yungang Grottoes➠Datong City Museum➠Datong Ancient City Wall DAY2️⃣ (Ancient City Citywalk): Huayan Temple➠Bell Tower➠Sipailou➠Drum Tower➠Shanhua Temple➠Fuwen Temple➠Dijun Temple➠Guandi Temple➠Taiping Tower➠Fahua Temple - 🔆「Route Highlights and Features」 1️⃣ Yungang Grottoes 💰120 A world cultural heritage and one of the four major grottoes in China, there are many tourists, so go early. If you are interested in statue culture, it is strongly recommended to ask a tour guide for explanation, or make a plan in advance! Otherwise it's just a cursory look. 2️⃣Datong City Museum Free, reservation required The collections in Datong City Museum display many ethnic items, especially items from the Northern Wei, Liao, Jin and Yuan dynasties, which are worth seeing! The original Huayan Temple Chiwen is on display in the museum 3️⃣ Ancient City Wall Entrance from the West Gate and North Gate is free, and the East Gate and South Gate charge 💰10/person to climb the city wall Datong Ancient City Wall is well preserved, and it looks very beautiful when lit up in the evening, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the ancient city~ 4️⃣Huayan Temple 💰50 Huayan Temple is a relatively well-preserved Liao and Jin temple complex. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, but the murals, architectural structures, and Buddha statues are of great research value. The more famous ones are the Chiwen in the Main Hall, the double pavilion-style wall collection, the "Oriental Venus" Bodhisattva statue, the murals... 5️⃣ Shanhua Temple It is also a temple building from the Liao and Jin Dynasties, with the four heavenly kings becoming popular among the black monkeys. 6️⃣ Four Archways The landmark in the center of the ancient city, facing the four directions of east, west, south and north, very distinctive 7️⃣ Nine Dragon Wall One of the largest existing Nine Dragon Walls in China, built in the Ming Dynasty, ordinary mobile phones cannot take a full picture at 1x 8️⃣ Fahua Temple Close to the east gate of the city wall, built in the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty, there is a glazed Lama Tower inside, the red wall and white tower are very beautiful! - 🍜「Food and Beverage」 Datong also has a lot of carbohydrates, and must-eats include knife-cut noodles, mutton offal noodles, Shunyi jelly, fried pancakes, etc. - 🚌「Transportation」 You can take bus No. 3 to Yungang Grottoes. Most of the places can be reached by bus. It is recommended to walk in the ancient city. It is also convenient to take a taxi when you are tired.

In front of the vermilion gate of the Confucian Temple, that jacaranda tree has stood for who knows how many years✨ Every time I pass by the Confucian Temple, I can’t help but be stopped by that patch of purple-blue in front of the vermilion gate💜 This jacaranda seems like a messenger of the seasons Every May, it reliably dons its purple-blue coat A gentle breeze stirs, and the petals softly fall Like a dreamy shower of flower petals🌧️ 📸 Stunning at first sight: Standing at the stone steps of the Confucian Temple, looking up Instantly falling into a gentle sea of purple-blue Sunlight filters through layers of delicate petals Casting mottled shadows on the ground Every snap is wallpaper-worthy! 💬 According to longtime locals: This jacaranda has quietly stood watch for decades Witnessing countless students’ sincere worship And the hurried footsteps of numerous tourists Every blooming season, it becomes a popular photo spot School uniforms, cameras in hand... Everyone’s face reflects the color of the flowers 🌆 Best time to visit: Between 4 and 6 PM is perfect! The setting sun dyes the jacaranda a deeper purple The temple’s flying eaves appear faintly in the dusk You might catch children after school Carefully pressing petals into their textbooks And sweet couples whispering beneath the flowers Petals falling in their hair—utterly romantic～ 📍 Practical info: Address: No. 248 Minghu Road, Lixia District, Jinan, in front of the Confucian Temple Best bloom period: Mid-May to early June Admission: Free Recommended for photos: Pair with traditional Chinese architecture for a great vibe! This jacaranda has long surpassed the definition of a tree It is a scenic highlight of the city And a reunion we look forward to every year💕

Departing from Lijiashan Village, it is more than 70 kilometers and a one hour and forty minute drive to Suide Dang Family Manor. The scenery along the Shanxi Yanhuang Highway is quite nice. Passing through Wubu County, a small town built on a narrow strip of land between the Yellow River bank and the mountains behind. Wubu County has the Wubu Stone City, a defensive fortress built against the mountain on the Yellow River bank. It was originally planned to visit, but after reading the introduction and comparing it to the Fugu Fuzhou City and Jia County Ancient City previously visited, it is similar in nature but much smaller in scale, so the decision was made to skip it. Interested friends can go take a look. Crossing the Yellow River from Wubu County and taking National Highway 307, this self-driving tour of the Yellow River Jinshan-Shaanxi Gorge ends here. Dang Family Manor is just a small mountain village, a cave dwelling complex built gradually over nearly a hundred years by six generations of the Dang family, now more than 200 years old. The terraced cave houses built along the mountain are arranged in an orderly manner; the courtyard of the upper household is likely the roof of the cave house below, somewhat similar to the recently visited Lijiashan Village. This is a nationally protected cultural heritage site, with villagers still living there, maintaining its original state. There are very few tourists, and visitors are welcome; the villagers are very friendly and polite. Suide has no famous scenic spots. The "First Tower Under Heaven" is a stone archway, and along with the Stone Lion Square, both showcase the pride of Suide stone carving. The Suide Revolutionary Memorial Hall, located across the Wuding River opposite Stone Lion Square, is a red education base worth visiting. Erlang Temple is situated on a hilltop within Suide city and is very conspicuous but not an ancient site. The Confucian Temple is an ancient site, with only one hall remaining. What is worth seeing is the area called "Mingzhou Ancient City," which can be found on maps, located just behind the hotel where we stayed, only a few hundred meters away on foot, but locals do not seem to know about it. Perhaps asking at the Suide Museum or Fusu’s Tomb might help. The scenic area also includes an old city gate called "Yongle Gate" and the former headquarters of the 359th Brigade. This, opposite Erlang Temple, is another high point in Suide city, offering panoramic views of the city. Suide was formerly known as Mingzhou, once the seat of the prefecture governing several surrounding counties, and is now a county under Yulin City. The local Shaanbei saying "Mizhi women and Suide men" is heard often, though its origin is unclear; it may be represented by Prince Fusu, Qin general Meng Tian, and Southern Song general Han Shizhong. The next stop is Mizhi, to seek the other half of the answer. Suide · Yulin

【A Thousand-Year-Old Vinegar Aroma】Fen City, a Hidden Gem in Southern Shanxi Preserved by Time | Travel Blogger’s Private Guide I have always been fascinated by those “living” ancient cities. They are not just tourist attractions but vessels of time. Today, I want to take you to an extremely niche yet profoundly stunning place—Fen City in Linfen, Shanxi. Here, there are no crowds of tourists, only authentic ancient buildings, the aroma of vinegar flowing for a thousand years, and a profound sense of history that instantly calms the soul. If you are tired of commercialized ancient towns, this is your treasure. 1. First Encounter with Fen City: What is Fen City? First, a little knowledge to clarify: the “Fen City” we refer to usually means Fen City Town in Xiangfen County. It was once the old county seat of Taiping County, thus preserving a complete set of county-level ancient urban architectural complexes. It is not a recreated ancient park but a “living fossil” ancient city where residents still live, full of everyday life. · Ancient Architecture Museum: Buildings from the Jin Dynasty to the Republic of China stand side by side, walking among them feels like traveling through time. · Vinegar Aroma Everywhere: This is one of the core production areas of Shanxi aged vinegar, and the air is filled with a rich vinegar scent. · Absolute Tranquility: No hawking or neon lights, allowing you to quietly touch history. 2. Must-Experience Highlights: What to Do in Fen City to Make Your Visit Worthwhile? 1. Follow the Central Axis for a Time Travel Journey The ancient buildings of Fen City are mainly distributed along a traditional north-south central axis. It is recommended to visit in this order: · Confucian Temple (Dacheng Hall): The starting point. This is the place for worshiping Confucius. The existing Dacheng Hall is a Jin Dynasty relic and one of the very few Jin Dynasty Confucian temple buildings remaining in China. Touching the sturdy pillars and grand dougong brackets, you can truly feel what “a millennium in a moment” means. · City God Temple: Just next to the Confucian Temple, it is a classic example of official architecture with “front court and rear chamber.” The glazed components and wood carvings are exquisitely crafted. Light filtering through the window lattice onto the ancient floor tiles creates an excellent atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photos. · Drum Tower: The iconic building of Fen City. Passing through it feels like stepping through a time portal. Standing below and looking up, the plaques on all four sides tell stories of historical majesty. · County Government Hall: After the Drum Tower is the ancient power center. Although the existing buildings were mostly rebuilt in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the layout remains. You can imagine the county magistrate holding court here. · Sheji Temple & Hongji Bridge: The end of the route. This Jin Dynasty stone bridge is still sturdy. Standing on the bridge and looking back, the vicissitudes of the entire ancient city unfold before your eyes. 2. Immersive Experience: Smell, Taste, and Understand Vinegar · Visit Traditional Vinegar Workshops: In the alleys of the ancient city, many family-run vinegar workshops are hidden. Step inside, and you will be surrounded by a strong sour aroma. Watching the huge vinegar vats and chatting with the simple workshop owners about the five-step process of “steaming, fermenting, smoking, dripping, aging,” you will gain a new understanding of Shanxi aged vinegar. · Taste the “Soft, Sour, Fragrant, Sweet” Flavors: Be sure to try aged vinegar that is five or even ten years old! A drop on your tongue instantly releases complex flavors—more than just sourness, it has a profound mellow aroma and a sweet aftertaste. Buying a few bottles of handmade vinegar as souvenirs is more meaningful than any other keepsake. 3. Street Strolling and Cultural Photography Half of Fen City’s charm lies in its architecture, the other half in its life. · Capture Light and Shadow: Early morning or late afternoon, sunlight gilds the ancient buildings, the golden hour for photography. · Record Life: Elderly people sunbathing at their doorsteps, children chasing and playing in the alleys, residents riding tricycles through the Drum Tower… these vivid daily scenes form the most touching scenery of Fen City. Please remember to respect local residents and ask for permission before taking close-up portraits. 3. Travel Planning Suggestions · One-Day Highlights Tour (Recommended): · Morning: Arrive in Fen City, start from the Confucian Temple, then visit the City God Temple, Drum Tower, and County Government Hall in order. · Noon: Find a small local eatery in town to try authentic Xiangfen saozi noodles or lamb hotpot. · Afternoon: Visit vinegar workshops for tasting and shopping. Then stroll to Hongji Bridge and end the day at sunset. · Two-Day In-Depth Tour: · Day One: Take your time to savor the ancient architectural complex of Fen City, linger longer at each spot. Stay overnight in Linfen or Xiangfen County. · Day Two: Combine with nearby Ding Village residences (living fossils of Ming and Qing Dynasty houses) or Taosi Ruins (known as “the earliest China,” exploring the capital of Yao and Shun) for a deeper journey. 4. Practical Tips · Transportation: · Self-driving: The most recommended way. Navigate to “Fen City Town.” It is very convenient from Linfen city or Xiangfen County. · Public Transport: You can take a bus from Linfen or Xiangfen to “Fen City,” then walk a short distance. · Food: · Saozi Noodles: A Xiangfen specialty, chewy noodles with delicious minced meat sauce. · Lamb Hotpot: Perfect for warming up on cold days. · Youfen Rice: A unique local fermented food with a special taste, worth trying. · Accommodation: · Accommodation options in Fen City Town are limited. It is recommended to stay in Linfen city or Xiangfen County for more choices and better conditions. · Best Travel Time: · Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October): Cool and pleasant weather, ideal for strolling the ancient city. · Blogger’s Special Reminder: · Please come with a heart of reverence. The ancient buildings here are precious and original; do not touch or climb on cultural relics. · Be mentally prepared that tourism facilities here are not as developed as in Pingyao, but it is this “imperfection” that preserves its truest form. Conclusion: Fen City is like a thread-bound book lightly covered with dust. When you brush off the dust and open its pages, inside are the clang of swords and horses, the inheritance of culture, the bustling life of the marketplace, and above all, the pervasive, deeply ingrained aroma and sour charm of vinegar. It is not a place for a rushed visit but for quiet appreciation. If you, like me, are obsessed with the truly ancient, then come to Fen City.

When traveling to Datong, the top choice is Yungang Grottoes, followed by Huayan Temple, then Shanhuasi Temple, and fourth is the Confucian Temple. Compared to the crowded Yungang Grottoes and the bustling Huayan and Shanhuasi Temples, Datong Confucian Temple is less crowded, free to enter, and full of highlights. Datong Confucian Temple has a significant history; it is the earliest government-run Confucian academy in China. Its history dates back to the Northern Wei period, and in 1396 during the Ming Dynasty, the temple was relocated to its current site. The existing Dacheng Hall was built in the Ming Dynasty and has been repaired multiple times during the Qing Dynasty. The temple layout from front to back includes Yunlu Archway, Dacheng Archway, Lingxing Gate, Pan Pond, Ji Gate, Dacheng Hall, and Zunjing Pavilion. The Zunjing Pavilion is the library in the Confucian academy, with a white marble statue of Confucius standing in front. It must be said, the weather in Datong is indeed great; this kind of weather is perfect for photographing ancient buildings. The important thing is the feeling of having the place to yourself. With such beautiful weather and stunning architecture, quietly and slowly experiencing the ancient charm of Datong and the joy of travel is truly delightful. If you go to Datong, you must visit the Datong Confucian Temple.

Xihai Zi Park in Tongzhou is very large and beautiful, with scenery everywhere. The Grand Canal passes through Tongzhou towards Suzhou and Hangzhou. The past prosperity rivals that of Hangzhou, and there are many historical sites and relics. Scholars and poets, including Emperor Qianlong, once ascended Daguang Tower and composed poetry there! 1️⃣ Randon Lamp Pagoda, Yousheng Temple, Confucian Temple, and Ziqing Palace are all together. The Randon Lamp Pagoda is mysterious and magnificent! (National Protection) 2️⃣ Tongzhou Ancient City Wall Ruins, located behind the pagoda. 3️⃣ Tower Elm. An elm tree grew on top of the pagoda and was later transplanted behind it, flourishing for hundreds of years! 4️⃣ Daguang Tower (where Emperor Qianlong ascended and wrote poetry) 5️⃣ "Two waters converge" forming the "Five Rivers confluence" The park is built along the river, offering different scenery in each season. With the canal and cultural relics, Tongzhou is worth a visit!

🌄 6-Day, 5-Night In-Depth Taiyuan Trip Guide (Budget 15,000 RMB, Jinyun Luxury Edition) Great for: History buffs/foodies/slow-paced cultural travelers 📍 Key Highlights ✔️ Immersive Shanxi Merchant Culture Experience ✔️ Visit the Shanxi Museum and Jin Temple (Dual Heritage Sites) ✔️ A Day Trip to Pingyao Ancient City and the Qiao Family Courtyard ✔️ Customized "Private Dinner with a Noodle Master" 🏨 Accommodation (5-night total budget: 5,500 RMB) 4 Nights Taiyuan: InterContinental Hotel/Kempinski (Executive Room with breakfast, approximately ¥1,100/night) 1 Night Pingyao: Pingyao Jinzhai (Boutique Siheyuan, ¥1,500/night with afternoon tea) 🗓️ Daily Itinerary Day 1: First Encounter with Dragon City - Urban Context Morning ✈️ Arrive at Wusu Airport → Private transfer (budget included) → Hotel check-in Afternoon 🏛️ Shanxi Museum (Free/Reservations Required): Highlights include the "Jin Dynasty" and "Buddhist Heritage" exhibition halls. ☕ Check out the bird vase latte art at the "Bronze Coffee" next to the museum. Evening 🍜 Lao Taiyuan Restaurant (￥120/person): Braised pork, sweet and sour meatballs, and oat noodle soup. 🌃 Fenhe Park Night Cycling Tour (Twin Bikes ￥50/hour) Day 2: Jin Merchants' Story and Double Heritage Day Full-Day Chartered Car (￥800/day, including driver) 🏯 Jin Temple (￥80): Must-see attractions (Maidmaid Statue, Nanlao Spring, and Zhou Bai), with a guide (￥200/view). 🏮 Qiao Family Compound (￥115): Filming location for "The Red Lantern," highlight the Rhino Moon Mirror. Dinner 🥢 Xinghuatang (￥200/person): Special Shanxi merchant cuisine, recommending the sea buckthorn fermented glutinous rice soup and Pingyao beef. Day 3: Pingyao Time Travel Plan Morning 🚗 Private transfer to Pingyao (1.5 hours) → Check in at Jinzhai Hotel 🏮 Pingyao Ancient City Pass (￥125): Rishengchang Bank, County Yamen, and Confucian Temple Afternoon 🎭 Pingyao Again (￥238/person): Immersive walking tour (separate budget) Late-night snack 🍢 Ancient City BBQ stall: Bowl holders and Pingyao dried tofu with Bamboo Leaf Green Wine Day 4: Exploring the Secret Realm: Jinyang Twin Pagodas Morning 🚗 Return to Taiyuan → Jinyang Lake Park (free): Shanxi's version of "West Lake" Afternoon 🛕 Twin Pagodas Temple (￥30): Ming Dynasty peonies and ancient towers with glazed trimmings, perfect for photography 🧑🍳 Experience: Shanxi noodle chef teaches you how to make knife-cut noodles (¥198/person, includes ingredients) Dinner 🍲 Qingheyuan Brain Soup (¥60/person): A medicinal dish based on Fushan's recipe, served with plums Day 5: Buddhist Pure Land · Tianlongshan Secret Trail Full-day car charter (¥600) 🪷 Tianlongshan Grottoes (¥50): The site where the lost Buddha head was returned; cable car ride recommended (¥70 round-trip) 🌿 Longshan Taoist Grottoes (¥25): The only Taoist grotto complex in China Special Experiences 🎨 Shanxi Bronze Museum (free): Evening rubbing workshop (advance reservation required) Day 6: Cultural Ending · Taste Memories Morning 🛍️ Food Street Shopping: Ninghuafu Aged Vinegar/Liuweizhai Braised Pork/Taigu Cakes Afternoon ✈️ Airport transfer (two bottles of 20-year-old vinegar may be checked in) 💰 Budget Breakdown (2 people) Items Expenses Details Airfare ￥5000 Round-trip economy class from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen Accommodation ￥5500 5 nights in a high-end hotel + a unique B&B Food ￥2500 Includes 3 visits to boutique restaurants Transportation ￥3000 Full-time private transportation + chartered vehicle Ticket Experience ￥1500 Includes the "See Pingyao Again" performance Total ￥17500 Off-season budget can be reduced to ￥15,000 🌟 Advanced Tips Jin Merchant Code: Try to write the second line of the couplet "Studying is not enough to achieve fame, but one's character is refined" at the Qiao Family Courtyard Hidden Dish: Ask a local for the hidden menu of steamed lamb dumplings at "Ren Yili Dumpling Restaurant" Photography Bonus: Use a wide-angle lens to shoot the Twin Pagodas from above; rainy and foggy weather creates a better effect 📌 Things to note Please prepare throat moisturizers in autumn and winter (Shanxi's climate is dry). Flash photography is prohibited in all grottoes. You can wear Hanfu for photography in Pingyao Ancient City (rental fee is approximately ¥80/day). Unlock the true meaning of "See Shaanxi from the Underground, See Shanxi from the Above" with this guide! 🏮

Family! This ancient city in Shanxi, hidden under Yanmen Pass, is such a treasure! Take the high-speed train to Yanmen Pass Station, then a 15-minute shuttle bus ride takes you straight onto the bluestone-paved streets. After a full day of walking, your feet will be sore but it’s absolutely worth it! Before 9 AM, head straight to Bianjing Tower in the center of the ancient city. A 40 yuan combo ticket (including the Confucian Temple) is super cost-effective. This tower truly deserves the title "First Tower of the Great Wall." Standing below and looking up, the four big characters "Sound Heard in All Directions" are taller than a person. It’s said the plaque is the largest in Asia. Climb to the third floor and look out from the railing—the entire ancient city’s blue bricks and gray tiles stretch to the horizon. The tip of the Ashoka Pagoda appears faintly in the morning mist, and the painted wooden brackets still show traces of the Ming Dynasty. You must touch the steles at the Confucian Temple! Especially the Ming Dynasty glazed screen wall, where the five-clawed dragon scales even shine through. The guide said very few Confucian Temples in the country dare to use royal standards. The ancient cypress trees in the backyard are hundreds of years old, with trunks thicker than two people hugging—photos come with a built-in historical filter. At noon, you have to rush to Jiawu Braised Fish! A local uncle said if you arrive before 11 AM at Wufeng Hotel, there’s no queue. Sure enough, the big iron pot stews carp slowly until the bones are tender. The broth poured over yellow rice jelly is so fragrant it makes you stomp your feet. Remember to add some local pickled vegetables to cut the grease and go perfectly with the rice. In the afternoon, take the shuttle bus to Yanmen Pass, just 40 minutes to the "First Pass of China." Peak season tickets are 90 yuan, but student ID holders get half price, which is a great deal. Don’t squeeze with the tour groups at the main gate—climb the Great Wall along the west side trail, where the wind carries stories of the Yang family generals. The arrow slits in the ruined walls are even more impressive than what textbooks describe. When the sunset dyes the wall golden red, you don’t need any filters for your photos. In the evening, don’t rush to leave the ancient city. The lights of Bianjing Tower turn on and it looks super dreamy. If you stay in an ancient city inn, remember to bargain. The rooms are renovated Ming and Qing dynasty courtyards, and opening the window reveals stars and flying eaves. A reminder to the ladies: wear non-slip shoes because the bluestone roads get very slippery when it rains; don’t buy souvenirs blindly—wooden carvings can be bargained down by half. This trip costs less than 200 yuan per person. Walking from the Shanxi Merchants’ Courtyard to the Great Wall beacon tower, all the history textbook knowledge comes alive. Compared to crowded popular spots, this little city full of stories is a true treasure, perfect for bringing parents or history buffs to explore slowly~

🕌 Explore the Temples of Pingyao Ancient Town: Travel through a thousand years and feel the peace and power of the soul! ✨ **Are you looking for a sanctuary away from the noise, a spiritual home?** Pingyao Ancient Town is not only one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China but also home to many ancient temples quietly guarding this land, waiting for your arrival. Every temple here holds a story, and every incense offering carries hope. Today, let’s take you into the world of Pingyao’s temples and start a journey of spiritual cleansing! 🙏🌿 1. Why must you visit the temples in Pingyao Ancient Town? 🌟 Rich cultural heritage: These thousand-year-old temples have witnessed Pingyao’s prosperity and changes. Located in Jinzhong, Shanxi, Pingyao Ancient City was founded in the 14th century, personally designed and planned by Liu Bowen. It is known as one of the "Four Best-Preserved Ancient Cities" and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. In Pingyao, you can stroll through the streets and alleys, imagining the life and scenes of the Ming and Qing dynasties through the county government office, temples, banks, and escort agencies. If you haven’t been to Pingyao, you can’t say you’ve been to Shanxi! A tranquil haven for the soul: Find a moment of peace amid the hustle and bustle and feel the balance of your spirit. Architectural treasures: Ancient wood carvings, Buddha statues, and stone inscriptions—each detail is worth savoring. Experience traditional culture: Worship Buddha, pray for blessings, light lamps to make wishes, and copy sutras to feel the purest power of faith. 2. Practical Guide: How to explore Pingyao’s temples? 📝 1. Best time to visit: Spring and autumn 🌸🍁 Mild weather, lively incense offerings, perfect for peaceful worship. 2. Must-visit temples: Chenghuang Temple: One of Pingyao’s most famous ancient temples, bustling with incense, offering a strong folk belief atmosphere. Puzhao Temple: Large in scale with solemn Buddha statues, a great place for practice and reflection. Tianning Temple: Antique charm with a magnificent bell and drum tower, showcasing ancient architectural ingenuity. Confucian Temple: A sacred place for Confucius worship, rich in cultural atmosphere, ideal for understanding Confucian culture. 3. Special experiences: Lighting lamps for blessings: Light a lamp in the temple at night, make a wish, and pray for safety. Copying sutras: Experience ancient Buddhist culture, calming and nurturing the mind. Worship and pray: Sincerely pray to bring peace and strength to your soul. Join temple fairs: The temple fairs during festivals are lively and full of rich folk customs. 4. Transportation guide: How to get there: Pingyao Ancient City is conveniently accessible by train and high-speed rail. Temple locations: Most temples are concentrated within the ancient city and can be reached on foot. Suggestion: Visit in the morning or evening to avoid crowds and better enjoy the peaceful experience. 5. Accommodation recommendations: Inns inside the ancient city: Experience the ancient city’s charm and hear the bell chimes in the morning. Specialty homestays: Feel the flavor of traditional culture. 3. Travel tips: Make your temple trip smoother 🧘‍♂️ Dress appropriately: Long sleeves and pants to respect religious sites. Bring incense: Some temples provide incense, but bringing your own adds to the ritual. Respect faith: Keep quiet and avoid noise. Photo etiquette: Respect Buddha statues and worshippers, avoid disrespectful behavior. Carry small change: For incense money, offerings, and other common expenses. 4. Interaction time! 🎉 Have you ever found peace of mind in a temple? Or do you have any unforgettable temple stories? Come and share in the comments! 👇 🔸 Which temple is your favorite? 🔸 Have you ever tried copying sutras or lighting lamps for blessings? 🔸 What other hidden cultural treasures does Pingyao have? 5. Summary: Feel with your heart, Pingyao’s temples are waiting to open the door to your soul! 🌈 The temples in Pingyao Ancient Town are not only symbols of faith but also havens for the soul. Here, you can escape restlessness and quietly listen to your inner voice. Bring your sincerity and curiosity for a spiritual cleansing! Don’t forget to like and share so more people can experience this peace and power! 💖 Are you ready? The mysterious veil of Pingyao’s temples awaits your unveiling! 🚪✨

🚘 Basic Information 🚘 Location: Opposite the Postal Savings Bank on Zijinshan Road, Jiexian, Yuncheng Attraction: Jiexian Confucian Temple Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Tickets: Free Transportation: No direct public transport; options include taxis, private cars, or ride-sharing services 🌈 Jiexian in Yuncheng boasts a rich history and is known as "The First County in the World." It is the hometown of Emperor Yao and the ancient capital of the Jin Kingdom, featuring numerous historical sites such as the tombs of Jin Xian Gong, Jin Wen Gong, Jin Ling Gong, and Chexiang City. These cultural relics narrate the glorious history of this ancient county. 🌄 Architectural Style 🌄 🌈 Jiexian Confucian Temple is a complex of buildings with a well-organized layout. The structures are aligned from south to north along a central axis. The southernmost part features the Dacheng Gate, flanked by side gates to the east and west. The temple spans 96 meters in length and 44 meters in width, covering an area of 4,224 square meters. It includes various structures such as Lingxing Gate, Dacheng Gate, Xiangxian Shrine, Mingxian Shrine, the passage hall, theater stage, Xian Hall, Dacheng Hall, Minglun Hall, Linjing Tower, Jingyi Pavilion, Chongsheng Shrine, Shepu Pavilion, and Wenchang Pavilion. Currently, only the Dacheng Hall and Minglun Hall remain. Dacheng Hall showcases Yuan Dynasty architectural style, while Minglun Hall is a relic from the Qing Dynasty. 🌈 The Dacheng Gate leads to the first courtyard, featuring an oval-shaped brick pond called the Lotus Pond. A bridge divides the pond into eastern and western halves. At the northern end of the pond, two stone-carved dragon heads spout water, fed by a stream from Chencunyu. The water is crystal clear. 🌈 The Lingxing Gate marks the entrance to the second courtyard, where the main buildings of the Confucian Temple are located. 🌈 The third courtyard features a wooden archway and the Minglun Hall, which served as the venue for local examinations for scholars. 🌈 The fourth courtyard houses key structures such as Jingyi Pavilion, East and West Dormitories, and Chongsheng Shrine. 🌈 The final courtyard includes the Shepu Pavilion and Wenchang Pavilion. The Wenchang Pavilion is built with blue bricks, spans five bays, and is divided into two levels, standing approximately 15 meters tall. 📜 Historical Background 📜 🌈 In the region where Jin Wen Gong Chong'er rose to prominence, surrounded by Zhongtiao Mountain, Mo River, Yi Mountain, and Fei River, lies an ancient city called "Old Pudu," now known as Yi County. In the southern part of the county, there is a Confucian Temple built during the Tang Dynasty. Confucian Temples were places for worshiping Confucius, teaching, training, and advancing in official ranks. In the 27th year of the Kaiyuan era (739 AD), Emperor Xuanzong of Tang conferred the title of "Wenxuan King" upon Confucius, and temples dedicated to him were henceforth called "Wenxuan King Temples." During the Ming Dynasty, they were simply referred to as "Confucian Temples" to distinguish them from martial temples. 🌈 It is said that before Yi County produced a top scholar, the main gate of the Confucian Temple remained closed, and only the side gates were used. A stone stele outside the west side gate bore the inscription: "Civil officials dismount from their sedan chairs, and military officials dismount from their horses." Iron cannon bases were embedded in the road for firing ceremonial salutes during grand rituals. Opposite the Dacheng Gate stood a glazed Nine-Dragon Wall, adorned with swirling clouds and nine dragons in dynamic poses. 🌸 A Closing Note 🌸 🌈 The temple houses statues of Confucius and his four major disciples. Legend has it that the main gate only opens for those who achieve the rank of top scholar.

When the melody of "The First Snow in 2002" starts playing ❄️ Whose DNA is stirring? I won't say! 💥 Dao Lang's concert awaits you at Shanxi Sports Center on August 16-17, 2025 Explore Taiyuan with this guide and Lao Wang! 🎤【Concert Info】 📍Venue: Fenjiu Stadium, Shanxi Sports Center 🗓️Date: Aug 16-17 🕖Time: 19:00 🎟️Tickets: Official designated platform 🌞 Day1: Ancient Charm Walking Tour! ✨Shanxi Museum (Free! Reservation required!) - Must-see "Three Treasures": Houma Covenant Texts/Lacquer Painting on Wood/Bronze Ware - 📸Photo spots: Spring-Autumn Exhibition Rotating Staircase/Bronze Ware Hall 🕒Suggested duration: 3h 🍜 Top 3 Food Street Delicacies: 1️⃣ Hongxiang Honey Twist (Crispy outside, soft inside - absolutely divine) 2️⃣ Hao Ganggang Lamb Offal Soup (Taiyuan's ultimate breakfast) 3️⃣ Laoshuku Yuanxiao (Century-old brand - the GOAT) 🏯 Jinci Temple's Three Must-Sees: 👍Holy Mother Hall (Masterpiece of Song Dynasty architecture) 👍Nanlao Spring (No.1 Spring of Jinyang) 👍Zhou Cypress (3000-year-old ancient tree) 🌙 Night View Must-Dos: 🏮Zhonglou Street (Super photogenic lantern street) 🍲Tounao (Taiyuan's unique "dark cuisine") 🌞 Day2: Concert Day - Let's Go! 📸Taiyuan Ancient County Highlights: ✔️Ancient Yamen (Time-travel drama setting) ✔️Confucian Temple (Blessing sanctuary) ✔️City Wall (Panoramic views) 🍽️ Hedong Yixiangge Must-Orders: · Boiled Beef Tripe (Sesame sauce lovers' delight) · Guo You Rou (Signature Shanxi dish) · Youmian Kaolaolao (Carb-loaded happiness) 🎵 Concert Tips: 1️⃣ Arrive 2 hours early to avoid crowds 2️⃣ Bring power bank/throat lozenges 3️⃣ Prepare chorus song list 🌞 Day3: Perfect Ending! 🗼Yongzuo Temple Twin Pagodas: · Wenfeng Pagoda (Fengshui treasure) · Xuanwen Buddhist Pagoda (Sacred Buddhist site) ⏳Best photo time: 4-6pm 🥟Ren Yili Must-Eats: Steamed Dumpling Trio✔️Lamb✔️Three Delicacies✔️Vegetarian Perfect with hot & sour soup! 🏨 Accommodation: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟InterContinental Taiyuan · Floor-to-ceiling Fen River views · 10-min walk to MixC Mall 🌈

️ Travel Route (Save & Bookmark!) Day1 📍Taiyuan Jinci Museum → Taiyuan Ancient County Scenic Area → Zsmart Zhishang Hotel (Zhonglou Street Branch) → Night stroll at Food Street & Zhonglou Street → 🌟May First Square night view Jinci is truly worth visiting—consider hiring a guide. Taiyuan Ancient County is just average. Day2 ✨Datong Classic Tour Awe-inspiring! Yungang Grottoes → Shanhua Temple →🏰Walk along Datong Ancient City Wall Departed from the hotel at 7:30 AM, drove 4+ hours to Yungang. Had lunch nearby before entering the site in the afternoon. The sun wasn’t too harsh, and hiring an on-site guide was very helpful. After returning from Yungang, visited Shanhua Temple and took an evening stroll on Datong’s ancient city wall to soak in the night atmosphere. Day3 🏮Datong In-Depth Exploration Hanging Temple → Guandi Temple route → Fahua Temple (the first ancient temple beyond the Great Wall) → China’s oldest surviving Nine-Dragon Wall → Huayan Temple’s bronze underground palace → Sunset at Volcanic Geopark🌄 → Tulin landform (super photogenic!) The schedule looked packed, but it was manageable. Day4 ⛰️Legend of the Northern Sacred Mountain Hanging Temple (enter with the first batch at 8 AM!!) → Wooden Pagoda (world’s tallest wooden pagoda) → Overnight at hot spring homestay in Xinzhou Ancient Town♨️ The homestay was incredibly cozy, making the trip relaxing. Though we queued 2–3 hours to reach the top of Hanging Temple, it was absolutely worth it. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is a photographer’s dream! Day5 🏡Tour of Shanxi Merchant Mansions Qiao Family Compound (must hire a guide) → Zhenguo Temple’s Five Dynasties painted sculptures → 🎭Must-see immersive show *See You Again in Pingyao* Day6 🏮Pingyao Ancient City Explore old banks and escort bureaus → Shuanglin Temple’s "Oriental Treasure House of Painted Sculptures" → Stay in a traditional kang-bed homestay Day7 🏯Treasures of Jinzhong Pingyao Ancient City → Check into the century-old Shanxi Grand Hotel Afternoon visit to the Provincial Museum Day8 🎨Taiyuan Cultural Finale & Departure Chunyang Palace (Taoist architecture) → Shanxi Museum (book a guide in advance) 🔥Top 5 Must-Visit: 1️⃣Yungang Grottoes: UNESCO World Heritage, imperial project of the Northern Wei Dynasty 📍No. 1, Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong ⏰9:00-17:00 2️⃣Pingyao Ancient City: One of China’s best-preserved ancient cities 📍Gutao Town, Pingyao County ⏰Open all day 3️⃣Jinci Museum: China’s earliest surviving imperial garden 📍Jinci Town, Jinyuan District, Taiyuan ⏰8:30-18:00 4️⃣Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: One of the world’s three wonder pagodas 📍Liao Dynasty Cultural City, Yingxian County ⏰8:00-18:00 5️⃣Hanging Temple: Top 10 most dangerous buildings globally 📍Foot of Hengshan Mountain, Hunyuan County ⏰8:00-17:00 💡Tips: ✔️Visit Yungang Grottoes early to avoid crowds ✔️Pingyao Ancient City combo ticket valid for 3 days ✔️Hanging Temple has visitor limits—book ahead ✔️Bring sunscreen and a light jacket in July ✔️Share guide costs for merchant mansions 🚗Transport Tips: Rent a car in Taiyuan/Datong for self-driving Walk or use electric carts in Pingyao Ancient City 🏨Recommended Stays: ▫️Taiyuan: Zsmart Zhishang Hotel (prime location) ▫️Datong: Lavande Hotel (near ancient city) ▫️Pingyao: Yuse Zen Homestay (Shanxi merchant culture experience)

| A Journey Through Time at the Confucian Temple and Guan Di Temple. 🏰 Exploring Datong Ancient City | A Journey Through Time at the Confucian Temple and Guan Di Temple 🏰 🌟 Reservation Tips: At the threshold of the Confucian Temple, take out your phone and scan the QR code to easily make a reservation and start your cultural journey! ⏰ Opening Hours Revealed: - Peak Season (May 1 to October 15): 8 AM to 6 PM, reservations stop at 5:30 PM, don't miss the last moment! - Off Season (October 16 to April 30): 8:30 AM to 5 PM, reservations stop at 5 PM, remember to come early! 📜 In-depth Tour of the Confucian Temple: The Confucian Temple, a hall that has witnessed history, was built in 1396 and has withstood countless storms, still standing strong. From the Xuande to the Tianqi periods, there are traces of repairs and additions from various dynasties. Although time is ruthless, the restoration in 2008 brought it back to life. Here, you can not only see the solemn Dacheng Hall but also the stunning Five Dragon Wall, waiting for you to explore. 🏰 The Call of Guan Di Temple: 🎫 Reservation Method: In front of the Guan Di Temple, scan the QR code to make a reservation, simple and fast! 🕰 Opening Hours: - April 1 to October 31: 8:30 AM to 6 PM, ticket sales stop at 5:30 PM, don't miss an exciting day! - November 1 to March 31: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, ticket sales stop at 5 PM, the winter sun awaits you! 🌿 The Charm of Guan Di Temple: Entering Guan Di Temple feels like traveling back to the Yuan Dynasty. The main hall is the only surviving Yuan Dynasty building in the ancient city, and although the other buildings were rebuilt in 2008, they still retain their ancient simplicity and solemnity. Don't forget, the stage in front of Guan Di Temple is also a rare historical relic, witnessing countless stories since the Qing Shunzhi period. 🌈 Come to Datong Ancient City, and travel through time with me to feel the beauty of these ancient buildings carved by time! 🏮🌟