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

In the southeast of Zhengzhuang Village, Wangzhuang Town, Yicheng County, Shanxi Province, lies a quaint temple called Xingfu Yuan. Its exact founding date remains unknown, but existing stone inscriptions clearly record its renovation in the sixth year of the Ming Dynasty's Longqing era (1572 AD). Since then, it has stood quietly for over 450 years. Guarding this ancient temple is an 82-year-old grandmother. Since marrying into the village over six decades ago, she has lived alone in the temple, treating it as her home and dedicating herself to its preservation. Her story bears striking resemblance to that of Grandma Wang, the guardian of Tiefo Temple, who gained widespread attention for her efforts. Yet, this grandmother’s tale carries an added layer of solitude and resilience. Her steadfastness is not just about protecting the temple—it’s a profound devotion to preserving cultural heritage. Her dedication is deeply moving. Like other temple guardians, she deserves more attention and respect. Across Shanxi, there are many such unsung heroes, quietly fading into obscurity, who also warrant the recognition and care they rightly deserve. However, time has not been kind to this ancient temple. For years, Xingfu Yuan has been left in disrepair, with its roof severely damaged and gaping holes visible in multiple places. Whenever it rains or the wind blows, the temple’s painted sculptures and murals are directly exposed to the elements, suffering relentless erosion. As early as 1987, Yicheng County designated Xingfu Yuan as a county-level cultural relic protection site, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. Yet, sadly, by 2014, bloggers had already posted photos online showcasing its dilapidated state, calling for public attention. A decade later, the temple remains in the same heartbreaking condition, seemingly forgotten by the world. One can’t help but wonder: Have local cultural heritage authorities truly turned a blind eye? The frustration and helplessness are beyond words.

In Wuchi Village, Yicheng County, Linfen, Shanxi Province, lies an ancient Yuan Dynasty theater known as the Qiaoze Temple Stage. Built over 700 years ago (in the first year of the Yuan Dynasty's Taiding era, 1324), it is one of the oldest existing theaters in the country and was designated a "national treasure" in 2006. Why is it called "Qiaoze Temple"❓️ This site was originally a temple dedicated to the "Water God." According to legend, during the Spring and Autumn Period, a general of the Jin State named Luan Cheng transformed into a spring after his death, nourishing the farmlands. Grateful villagers built a temple to honor him. During the Song and Yuan Dynasties, the temple became a bustling place of worship, and the theater was used to perform plays for the deities. What makes this ancient theater special❓️ 1️⃣ Three-sided viewing: The stage is open on the front, left, and right sides, allowing audiences to watch from all around, a stark contrast to modern theaters. 2️⃣ Wooden "sky dome": Four large pillars support a wooden framework, with an octagonal caisson ceiling crafted using interlocking wooden brackets without nails—an incredible testament to ancient craftsmanship. 3️⃣ Hidden Yuan Dynasty clues: Under the brackets in the northwest corner, craftsmen inscribed "Built in the first year of Taiding," providing definitive evidence of its Yuan Dynasty origins. 🌟 Theater as a grand event In ancient times, grand operas were performed here annually during temple fairs, both to honor the gods and entertain the people. In 2018, renowned Jin opera artists performed "A Thousand Autumns of Pear Garden Love" here, bringing the old stage back to life. Although it no longer hosts regular performances, standing before the stage, one can almost hear the drums and music of Yuan Dynasty operas. ⚠️ Travel tips Address: Wuchi Village, Nanliang Town, Yicheng County, Linfen, Shanxi Province 🚩 Status: National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit 📌 Highlights: Yuan Dynasty wooden caisson ceiling, three-sided viewing design, Water God temple legend ✨ Nearby attractions: Visit Foye Mountain in Yicheng and the Yugu Monk Stele inscribed by Zhao Mengfu.

The short holiday is coming! For those who want to visit Jinzhong and Linfen, pay attention! Here's a super practical 4-day tour guide that will take you to explore these two cities without missing any scenic spots or delicious food! Save it now and start your wonderful journey! 🏃Itinerary: Day 1: Shanxi Wang Family Courtyard On the first day, we will visit the magnificent Wang Family Courtyard, experience the atmosphere of the ancient Shanxi courtyard houses, and experience the blend of history and modernity. Day 2: Mianshan—Shuitaogou Scenic Area in Mianshan Scenic Spot On the second day, we will go deep into Mianshan Mountain to enjoy the natural scenery, and then go to Shuitaogou to enjoy the tranquility and serenity between the mountains and rivers. Day 3: Hukou Waterfall Scenic Spot of the Yellow River in Shanxi On the third day, we will go to Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River, listen to the roar of the waterfall, and feel the magnificence and power of the Yellow River. Day 4: Pingyao Ancient City--Return to Tianjin On the last day, stroll along the stone-paved roads of Pingyao Ancient City and savor the charm and history of this ancient city. After that, we will embark on our return journey to Tianjin, concluding this unforgettable trip.🌟 Some tips: - Food: Linfen's beef ball noodles and the special snacks near Hongtong Big Sophora Tree are super delicious and not to be missed!🍜😋 - Photo spots: Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River and Pingyao Ancient City are great for taking photos. Remember to wear beautiful clothes!📸🌉 - Local customs: Experience the Kaihua Diao (a local opera) and Bawangg Bian (a local folk dance) in Jinzhong, and feel the enthusiasm and vitality of the locals!💃🕺 - March climate: There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening. It is recommended to bring a thick coat and pay attention to moisturizing and sun protection.🧥🌞 Jinzhong-Linfen group tour is so easy and fun! Don't forget to like and save this post for your next trip~

Jiexiu Mianshan - A Severely Underrated 5A Scenic Area❗️❗️ Mianshan in Shanxi is also known as Jieshan, named after Jie Zitui, a minister of the Jin State during the Spring and Autumn Period, who lived in seclusion with his mother and was burned to death. It is located on the north bank of the Fen River, 20 km from Jiexiu City, and spans the borders of Jiexiu, Lingshi, and Qinyuan. It has a maximum altitude of 2,566.6 m and a relative height of over 1,000 m. It is a branch of the Taiyue Mountains (Huoshan) extending northward. Mianshan Scenic Area is a national 5A tourist attraction, a key scenic area in Shanxi Province, and the birthplace of the Qingming Festival (Cold Food Festival). The architectural complex of Mianshan Scenic Area includes religious buildings such as temples and palaces, garden buildings such as pavilions, terraces, towers, pavilions, corridors, and archways, and ancient relics such as ancient gates, cities, and camps, making it a museum (park) of ancient architecture. The scenic area also has 14 major attractions and more than 30 minor attractions, including cultural attractions such as Longtou Temple✨, Longji Ridge✨, Ligu Rock✨, Beehive Spring✨, Daluo Palace✨, Tianqiao✨, Yidou Spring✨, Zhuji'ao✨, Yunfeng Temple✨, Zhengguo Temple✨, and Jiegong Ridge✨; and natural attractions such as Qixian Valley✨, Guteng Valley✨, and Shuitaogou✨. In addition, Mianshan Scenic Area has many historical stories and figures. Baofu Rock is so large that it can accommodate more than 200 temples and pavilions and 10,000 tourists, as well as 2,000 years of historical civilization, making it the first rock in the world. Mianshan is a strategically important place and has always been a battleground for military strategists. In addition, Mianshan also records the deeds of Li Wugong and Li Shi, who led the righteous army to resist the invasion of the Jin army in the Southern Song Dynasty. 🇨🇳 At the end of the Ming Dynasty, the military commander of Taiyuan also relied on Mianshan to recover lost territory and plan for a comeback. 🇨🇳 At the beginning of the War of Resistance Against Japan, General Feng Yuxiang's Fang Zhenwu unit held an anti-Japanese oath-taking ceremony in Mianshan, which shocked the world. 🇨🇳 After that, Jiexiu County Magistrate Zhang Dehan and the special commissioner of the Ximeng Association, Li Zhimin, established an anti-Japanese democratic government in Mianshan and persisted in a long-term guerrilla war behind enemy lines. In general, Mianshan in Shanxi is a comprehensive 5A scenic area that integrates natural scenery, cultural attractions, and historical stories. It is also a severely underrated 5A scenic area.

| A thousand-year-old temple dedicated to Yao, Shun, Yu, and Tang. 💖 Yicheng Sisheng Palace, a treasure of history and culture Hey guys! Today we are at Sisheng Palace in Caogong Village, Xiyan Town, Yicheng County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province. 😎 Sisheng Palace is an ancient architectural complex with a long history, combining architectural styles from different periods of the Yuan and Qing dynasties. It is dedicated to the four ancient sages Yao, Shun, Yu, and Tang, hence the name. Walking into Sisheng Palace is like traveling back in time. The red walls and yellow tiles, the magnificent halls, and every building exude ancient artistic charm. Here, you can feel the strong historical atmosphere and learn about the cultural heritage of ancient times. Sisheng Palace is not only a religious sanctuary but also a palace of art. Come to Yicheng Sisheng Palace and feel the charm of history and culture! 💖

Hey guys 👋, today I want to share the Stone and Wood Archways in Yicheng, Linfen with you 👏. It's super convenient to get here, whether you drive or take the bus 🚗. You only need about 0.5–1 hour to visit. The Stone Archway was built to honor the imperial censor. It's made entirely of bluestone and features exquisite carvings with interesting themes 😉. The construction date of the Wood Archway is unknown, but it has a unique architectural style with complex brackets and plaques that encourage students 📚. These two archways complement each other and have stood for over 400 years. They're definitely worth a visit 💕.

Hey, guys! You can't miss this guide! The ultimate guide to a 4-day tour of Pingyao Ancient City and Mianshan is here! Don't take the long way around. All the surprises of the trip are here! -------- 🎉🎒Itinerary: Day 1: Wang Family Courtyard, Shanxi Say goodbye to the hustle and bustle of the city and be captivated by the simple elegance of the Wang Family Courtyard. The historical stories within await your exploration. Day 2: Mianshan—Shuitao Valley, Mianshan Scenic Area The Mianshan Scenic Area is suitable for all ages and will make you feel like you're traveling through history. You'll be immersed in the mountain peaks and green pines and bamboos, enjoying the journey. Day 3: Hukou Waterfall, Shanxi On this day, you'll be amazed by the magnificent scenery of Hukou Waterfall, as if you're in a grand and beautiful natural painting. Day 4: Pingyao Ancient City—Tianjin Enjoy the ancient charm and unique appeal of Pingyao Ancient City, then the modern and bustling Tianjin will be the perfect end to this trip. The fleeting alternation of ancient and modern times leaves a deep impression. -------- 🧣Travel Essentials: Check off your Pingyao Ancient City and Mianshan packing list ☃️First, dear friends, it's a bit cold in Pingyao Ancient City and Mianshan in December, so remember to bring warm clothes, down jackets, warmers, and scarves. Also, don't forget non-slip snow boots! 👝Next, let's talk about accessories. Don't forget hats and gloves, as wind and cold protection are important. You can bring an umbrella, although you may not need it, but it's always good to be prepared. 📝Of course, documents are also essential. ID cards, cash, and credit cards are all safety guarantees when you're out and about. You can also prepare a copy of your itinerary, accommodation booking information, and scenic area guide map in advance. 📷Let's talk about entertainment equipment. DSLR cameras, mobile phones, and power banks are all great helpers for taking photos and navigating. To prevent data loss, you can also prepare a spare memory card. 💊Finally, don't forget health-related items. First, you need a medicine box. Remember to bring antipyretics, painkillers, motion sickness medicine, and other common medicines. Also, dear friends, thermos cups and masks are essential for going out in winter. -------- 🏮The beauty of Pingyao Ancient City and Mianshan can only be truly felt by visiting in person! We look forward to your exploration and discovery!🏮

| A hidden gem of a 5A scenic spot. 🎉Did you know? There is a picturesque yet little-known 5A tourist attraction in Shanxi - Mianshan. It may be off the beaten path, but the scenery is no less stunning than other well-known spots😎. 🚶[Recommended Route] Qixian Valley ➠ Zhengguo Temple ➠ Yunfeng Temple ➠ Tiansheng Bridge ➠ Daluo Palace 📚[Attraction Introduction] • Qixian Valley, a thrilling and dangerous place where you can climb iron chain ladders for a unique experience. • Zhengguo Temple, home to twelve bone-encased true face statues and a seven-story Lingying Pagoda, is mysterious and solemn. • Yunfeng Temple, with its many temples, crisp wind chimes on the mountain wall, and thrilling zigzag cliff plank road. • Daluo Palace, known as the Little Potala Palace, is a majestic and spectacular thirteen-story building stacked layer upon layer according to the mountain. 🔖[Practical Information] 🚄Take the high-speed train to Lingshi East Station, then take a taxi for 10 kilometers to get there. 🕙Opening hours are 08:00-17:30, the last bus is at 18:30, and the last 302 bus back to the city is around 18:00. 🗺️The nearby Wang Family Courtyard, Zhangbi Ancient Castle, Houtu Temple, and Xianshen Tower are also worth checking out.

Scenic spots with both mountains and water are not common, Mianshan is considered a very classic one. Revisiting Mianshan still excites me. Take the sightseeing bus to the last stop, Shuitaogou, then walk back from each station to avoid the crowds and easily check in. Recommended Zhengguo Temple, with twelve flesh-and-blood statues. Recommended Yunfeng Temple, with three flesh-and-blood statues. Recommended Da Luo Palace, a six-story Taoist pagoda. Recommended Qixian Valley, where you can trace the stream amidst the mountains and water for a wild and thrilling adventure, not to be missed by friends who like hiking.

Niangziguan Pass is a famous pass of the Great Wall of China, located at the foot of Mianshan Mountain in the northeast of Pingding County, Yangquan City, Shanxi Province. The ancient castle is built by the mountain and near the water, overlooking from a high position, with two gates. The castle is divided into the upper and lower passes, the east is the upper pass, engraved with the horizontal inscription 'Niangziguan'; The west is the lower pass, with a pavilion on it, titled 'The Place Where Princess Pingyang of Tang Stationed Troops', and the door plaque reads 'Qin Jin Shield'. It was rebuilt during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. The east gate of the castle is a common brick arch gate, with the title 'Zhili Niangziguan', and there are platform battlements on it; The south gate is made of limestone arch, with the title 'Jingji Fan Screen', and 'Sujiang Building' is built on it. There are two famous couplets engraved on the stone pillars: 'Who is the best among the 102 strong passes, and this is also famous among the 3000 main roads'; 'The ancient fortress is next to the tower, the green mountains outside the city and the river under the city'. On the southeast side of the castle, there is only a 45-degree stone slope ancient road in front of the gate.

Shanxi is a must-visit 😂 It is hidden in the deep mountains, an underestimated 5A level scenic area. The buildings and roads are all standing on the cliffs, and it is also the birthplace of the Qingming Festival (Cold Food Festival)! Mianshan Scenic Area in Jinzhong City, Shanxi 155 yuan/person (including 50 yuan/person for the ticket) 8:00-19:00(1-3 days) There are many cliff guesthouses in the scenic area to choose from 200~400 yuan or so 🚘Self-driving (parking fee 20 yuan/vehicle) 2 High-speed train/train Jiexiu East Station-Jiexiu Bus Station-Bus 302 to Mianshan (bus 5 yuan/person) Mianshan tourist special train directly to the top of the scenic area 3 Outside the scenic area: Yunlou Lane Dan Dan Noodles (be sure to order runny egg 2 Kaiyuan Royal Banquet★ Guan stuffing sugar★ 4 Buckwheat Straws: Must-visit attractions: The scenic area has 14 major attractions and more than 360 minor attractions 2 Daxiugong Tourist Area (Taoist attraction, feels like a small Potala Palace) 3 Yunfeng Temple Tourist Area (Buddhist attraction) 4 Zhengguo Temple Tourist Area (take the elevator for 15 yuan to go up, there are more than a dozen meat bodhisattvas to see) Shuitao Gorge Tourist Area (8 kilometers long, it is recommended to walk a short distance) Wear flat shoes, bring a raincoat, no smoking (confiscate lighters), speak softly (the food in the scenic area is more expensive, it is recommended to eat outside) ✌️Overall, it is a very good experience for two days and one night

| A low-key 5A scenic spot. 🌟Highlights: 🌈🌈Mianshan Scenic Area is a national AAAAA level tourist attraction, a key scenic spot in Shanxi Province, the birthplace of the Qingming Festival (Hanshi Festival) in China, the Research Center of Hanshi Qingming Culture in China, and the Museum of Hanshi Qingming Culture in China. Mianshan Scenic Area spans Jiezhou, Lingshi, and Qinyuan three cities and counties, with the highest altitude of 2560 meters. 🌈🌈It is said that during the Spring and Autumn Period, Jie Zitui, a nobleman of the Jin State, followed the Jin prince Chong'er in exile for more than ten years, and once cut off his own thigh meat to feed Chong'er when he was hungry. After Jin Wengong returned to the country as a monarch, Jie Zitui took his mother to live in seclusion in Mianshan. Jin Wengong sent people to find him, and in order to force Jie Zitui to come out of the mountain, he set fire to the mountain, but burned Jie Zitui and his mother to death. When Wengong learned of this, he was filled with grief and indignation. He ordered Mianshan to be renamed Jieshan, and Yang County to be renamed Jiexiu County. He also 'encircled Mianshan and sealed it as Jietui's field' to commemorate him. And on the day before the Qingming Festival, the day when Jie Zitui was burned, no fire was allowed, and every household could only eat cold rice, which is called 'Hanshi Festival'. 🌈🌈Jie Zitui is the only historical figure in ancient and modern times at home and abroad who is remembered by mountains, counties, festivals, and customs. 'The mountain is not high, if there are immortals, it is famous'. Jie Gongling is the place where the ancient sage Jie Zi lived in seclusion, was burned to death, and was worshipped. ❤Recommended reasons: 🌈🌈Mianshan Scenic Area has 14 major scenic spots and more than 360 minor scenic spots: 🌈🌈Natural landscape: Qixian Valley, Ancient Vine Valley, Shuitao Gully. 🌈🌈Cultural landscape: Longtou Temple, Longji Ridge, Liguyan, Fengfang Spring, Dalo Palace, Tianqiao, Yidou Spring, Zhu Jia Ao, Yunfeng Temple, Zhengguo Temple, Jie Gongling; 🌈🌈Mianshan is beautiful, and Shuitao Xiangou is the first choice. The preaching platform in front of the gully is verdant like ink, standing between the two mountains, surrounded by mountain streams. In summer and autumn, rainbows often rise, and the scenery is beautiful, like poetry and painting. 📍Detailed address: Nanhuaizhi Village, Mianshan Town, Jiexiu City, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province

If there's a scenic spot in Shanxi that exceeded my expectations and gave me a big surprise, it must be Mian Mountain Scenic Area, and the colorful autumn adds a few more points to the scenic area. 🍁About Mian Mountain A branch of Taiyue Mountain, the highest peak is 2560 meters above sea level. Mian Mountain, also known as Jie Mountain, is the place where Jie Zitui, a famous minister of the Jin State during the Spring and Autumn Period, lived in seclusion with his mother and was burned. Mian Mountain is also the birthplace of the Qingming Festival (Cold Food Festival). Mian Mountain Scenic Area is mainly divided into cultural landscapes and natural scenery, and it takes at least 1-2 days to fully enjoy. There are sightseeing buses in the scenic area, stopping at each station. The temples and Taoist temples that need to climb before Zhengguo Temple, and the last two stations, Qixian Valley and Shuitao Gully, are natural scenery. Bus stops: Starting station-Longtou Temple-Daluogong-Tianqiao-Zhujiaao-Yunfeng Temple-Zhengguo Temple-Qixian Valley-Shuitao Gully. 🍁Autumn and Winter Travel Tips 1️⃣If time is limited, you can choose to get off at the attractions you are interested in. It is recommended to play from the inside out. Some attractions are actually very close, and walking may be faster. 2️⃣The autumn colors are beautiful, and rime is easy to see in winter. 3️⃣Some footpaths and driveways are together, be sure to pay attention to the passing sightseeing buses, the mountain roads are rugged, and the turns are very sharp. 4️⃣Zhengguo Temple and Daluogong both have elevators Zhengguo Temple: 15 yuan for one way Daluogong: 5 yuan for one way, but the elevator cannot reach the top, and a section of steps needs to be climbed. 5️⃣There are not so many tourists in the off-season, and the sightseeing bus stays at the starting station for a long time, please arrange your time. 6️⃣It is recommended to sit on the right side of the direction of the sightseeing bus, look at the canyon scenery when going up the mountain, and look at the temple buildings when going down the mountain. 7️⃣The temperature on the mountain is slightly lower, it is recommended to wear more. 8️⃣Yunfeng Temple is the largest station, with more snacks and two hotels. The autumn colors on Yunfeng Temple Mountain are rich, and the photos are beautiful. Daluogong is also very photogenic. 9️⃣If you don't mind it being too heavy, the aerial view of Mian Mountain buildings may be more shocking. 🍁My Favorite Spots Zhengguo Temple: There are fifteen real body relics in the temple, known as the "world miracle", and the glass tower. Yunfeng Temple: The iconic landscape of Mian Mountain, in addition to the cliff caves and temples built on Baofu Rock, there is also a zigzag suspended staircase plank road. Daluogong: Known as the "first Taoist temple in the world", it has thirteen floors and a total building area of more than 30,000 square meters, with carved beams and painted buildings, and it is magnificent. 🍁Mian Mountain Scenic Area Address: 20 kilometers southeast of Jiexiu City, Nanhuazhi Opening hours: 8:00-17:30 (summer) /8:30-17:00 (winter) Tickets: 110 yuan (peak season), 90 yuan at the lowest (off-season) Parking fee: 20 yuan/vehicle (the parking lot is very large)

Today I'm going to take you to explore Mianshan in Shanxi, this trip is really worth it! Are you ready to experience an unforgettable journey with me?🌈 Mianshan is located in Linfen area, very close to Lingshi East Station, with very convenient transportation. Remember to bring enough cash, wear non-slip shoes, and bring a raincoat!💦👢👛 First, we start from Longtou Temple. The local guide here will explain in detail the local culture and the origin of the surrounding buildings, as well as the related matters of Longji Ridge and the surrounding cable cars. Don't forget to get a paper ticket for a souvenir.📚🌳🚡 Then we go to Daluo Palace, each floor has different views, especially the view from the top, which is very spectacular. If the weather is good, you will definitely see beautiful scenery.🌟🌇🏰 Next, we go to Shuitao Gully. The slope here is not big, and the whole journey is relatively flat. The Shuilian Cave at the end is very cool, no matter how hot the weather is, it can make you feel cool and comfortable.💦💦💦 There are small stalls selling water and various locks nearby, but there is no signal here, so remember to bring cash to buy.💰📶🔒 Next we go to Qixian Valley, the legendary internet-famous bridge is here. Although it's a bit difficult to walk, it definitely tests your courage. If you bring children, I suggest not taking this path.🌉🦸‍♂👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Then we go to Yunfeng Temple. From the stone steps up, you can watch one by one. After passing Tiesuoling, to the Z ladder, Yunfeng Temple is really shocking, strongly recommend everyone to go!🌟🪜🛤 Finally we return to Longtou Temple, if you have the strength and time, you can climb Longji Ridge again. We went to Longtou Temple first, and then we could sit for a while before climbing Longji Ridge. Every stage of the journey offers different views. After we reached the position where Li Shimin had camped, we didn't continue to climb. We were a bit tired, and it was raining all the time, and it was not early.⛏🌧💭💡 This is our Mianshan travel guide! If you also want to have an unforgettable travel experience, why not try this itinerary! Now pack your bags, let's explore the beauty of Mianshan together!🎒🌟🌈