[2025 Hunyuan Attraction] Travel guide for Zhenwu Temple (updated Dec)

Hidden Treasure Jinzhong Ancient Village with at Least 1,200 Years of History 📍Address: Dongzhao Township, Yuci District, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province 🎫Ticket: 60 RMB/person 🛏Accommodation: The scenic area has self-operated homestays (P18), about 260 RMB per night (affordable, and no extra ticket needed if you stay overnight) 📷Main Attractions: Guanyin Hall, Zhenwu Temple, Ancient Opera Stage, Cave Dwelling Residential Cluster, Agricultural Culture Museum 🚇Transportation: Self-driving is recommended; about 1 hour by car from downtown Taiyuan. Taxi fare is about 130 RMB one way including cross-district fee 🕐Suggested Visit Duration: 3-4 hours If Jinzhong land hides a key to history, then Hougou Ancient Village must be the gentlest tooth on that key. It quietly lies in the valley of Yuci, surrounded by mountains on three sides, with nine alleys and eighteen courtyards. The blue bricks and gray tiles gently bear the weight of hundreds of years—as if time chooses to slow down here. Entering the village entrance, you will find no noisy commercial stalls or crowds of tourists. Instead, you see elderly people sitting on small stools basking in the sun, smoke rising from the earthen rooftops, and dogs lazily rolling in the alleys. That feeling of “I, an outsider, have stepped into someone else’s daily life” instantly heals the soul. The cave dwellings with earthen kang beds are a highlight here. A real old kang bed is not for show; it’s a way of life to keep warm every winter. Sleeping on a kang bed, you will understand what it means to be “embraced by the warmth of the earth.” The ancient village is especially quiet at night; open the window, and the stars shine as if they don’t belong to the modern world. Walking around, you will encounter ancient ancestral halls, old opera stages, and wooden doors faded by the wind. You can feel the traces left by the Jin merchants’ era—a power that was once prosperous and now very tranquil. This place is especially suitable for: ✅People who want to escape the city for a day ✅Those who love old villages, stone-paved roads, and wooden window lattices ✅Those who want to experience cave kang beds and take vintage-style photos ✅Those who need to find some “quiet meaning” beyond everyday life If you also like places where “life doesn’t have to be fast,” Hougou Ancient Village will give you unexpectedly gentle warmth.

🏯 Jiexiu Taiheyan Archway Travel Guide ✨ Highlights of Taiheyan Archway Basic Information · Location: East of Beixinwu Village, Yi'an Town, Jiexiu City, Jinzhong, Shanxi Province. · Construction Date: 23rd year of Guangxu, Qing Dynasty (1897). · Status: Listed as a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit by the State Council in 2006 (sixth batch). · Architectural Style: Four pillars, three gates, three-story structure, built on a stone waist Xumi base, 5 meters wide, 4.5 meters high, with a hipped roof covered in yellow glazed tiles. · Features: Entirely constructed with yellow, green, and blue glazed components assembled together, representing a typical masterpiece of Chinese glazed art at its peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties. 🗺️ Itinerary and Route Planning Recommended Itinerary One-Day Highlights Tour · Morning: Head to Beixinwu Village and focus on visiting Taiheyan Archway (recommended stay 1-1.5 hours). · Noon: Return to Jiexiu city center to enjoy local cuisine. · Afternoon: Visit the Houtu Temple (known as the "Glazed Art Museum"), Xianshen Tower (the only surviving Zoroastrian building in China), and Jiexiu Museum (to learn about the history of glazed art and local culture). Two-Day In-Depth Tour · Day 1: Taiheyan Archway -> Houtu Temple -> City God Temple -> Xianshen Tower -> Jiexiu Museum. In the evening, stroll around Jiexiu Old Street. · Day 2: Visit Zhangbi Ancient Castle (Ming Dynasty fortress above ground + Sui-Tang military tunnels underground) or Mianshan Scenic Area (the reclusive place of Jie Zitui, combining natural and cultural landscapes). Transportation Guide · To Taiheyan Archway: The archway is located in Beixinwu Village. From Jiexiu city center, take a bus from Jiexiu Station, about a 1-hour ride, then walk about 1 kilometer to reach the site. If carrying luggage or traveling with friends, taking a taxi is a more convenient and time-saving option. · City Transportation: Major attractions in Jiexiu city center (such as Houtu Temple, Xianshen Tower, Jiexiu Museum) are relatively close and can be explored on foot. Shared electric scooters are also available within the city. 💎 Practical Visiting Information Opening and Fees · Admission: Free entry. · Opening Hours: Open all day (some attractions may close during noon hours, please plan accordingly). Best Time to Visit · Season: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best seasons to visit. · Time of Day: It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening. The soft light at these times better showcases the luster and colors of the glazed tiles, making for better photos. 🧭 In-Depth Guide to Ancient Architecture 1. Appreciation of Glazed Art The most stunning feature of Taiheyan Archway is its entire surface covered with glazed components. When appreciating it, focus on the following points: · Color Matching: Observe how the three main colors—yellow, green, and blue—harmoniously blend to create a luxurious yet tasteful visual effect. · Sculpting Techniques: The archway employs various techniques such as imitation line engraving, high relief, and openwork carving. Get close to examine the delicate carving of dragon scales, the layered petals, and feel the extraordinary craftsmanship of ancient artisans. · Subject Matter: Carefully appreciate the dragon patterns, auspicious beasts, flowers, birds, fish, insects, human stories, and Taoist symbols, which together form a visual world full of auspicious meanings and cultural connotations. 2. Architectural Structure and Details · Overall Layout: Observe from a distance to understand the "four pillars, three gates, three stories" layout and feel its solemn and elegant posture. · Roof and Dougong Brackets: Pay attention to the contour of the hipped roof and the gloss of the yellow glazed tiles. The main hall features seven-step three-curved dougong brackets with seven clusters, while the side halls have five-step single-curved single-angled dougong brackets with five clusters. These exquisite components not only serve decorative purposes but also embody wisdom in load-bearing and mechanics. · Plaques and Couplets: The plaques hanging on the archway, such as "Taiheyan" and "Ziji Tenghui," along with multiple couplets engraved on the pillars, are rich in Taoist philosophy and are key to interpreting the spiritual essence of the architecture. 3. Surrounding Glazed Art Attractions To gain a deeper understanding of the value of Taiheyan Archway, it is highly recommended to place it within the broader context of Jiexiu, the "Hometown of Glazed Art." The nearby Houtu Temple has a roof made entirely of glazed tiles; the Jiexiu Museum houses precious glazed components replaced from various ancient buildings, such as Ming Dynasty yellow, green, and blue glazed chiwen (mythical roof ornaments). Through these exhibits, you can systematically learn about the development and artistic achievements of Jiexiu glazed art. 💡 Visiting Tips 1. Confirm Opening Status in Advance: Although Taiheyan Archway itself may be open all day, it is best to check the specific opening hours of other city attractions (such as Houtu Temple and Xianshen Tower) before visiting, as some may close at noon. 2. Bring Your ID: Real-name registration may be required to enter the scenic area, so be sure to carry your ID. 3. Respect and Protect: Taiheyan Archway is a precious national cultural relic. Please do not touch the glazed components or carve on them. Let’s work together to protect this cultural heritage.

Taking kids to climb Beiyue Hengshan? This nanny-level family travel guide includes transportation, routes, photo check-in spots, saving time and effort, and lets kids experience the famous mountain culture. Save it now~ Tips (a must-read for families): 🎫 Tickets: 45 RMB, free for children under 1.2 meters, very cost-effective (about 90 RMB for two adults and one child). 📍 Location: Hengshan Visitor Center ground parking lot, navigate directly there, convenient parking (there are special family parking spots near the exit). 🚗 Shuttle Bus: 20 RMB/person (route: Visitor Center—Hanging Temple—Ticket Checkpoint [cable car available]—Trailhead), one ticket valid for both ways, no extra fees, a must for families with kids, saves energy (otherwise, you have to walk a lot uphill). ✅ Cable Car: 70 RMB/person (🕐08:00-16:00), recommended for families with kids to take the cable car, easy way up the mountain, avoid exhaustion (kids get cranky if they climb too long). Hengshan has traffic control; private cars and taxis cannot pass through and must park at the Visitor Center ground parking lot. Everyone takes the shuttle bus from there. Plan transportation ahead when bringing kids. Family-Friendly Routes (two options): 1️⃣ Full Hiking (suitable for older, more energetic kids, 6 years and above): Trailhead—Zhenwu Temple (show kids the "ancient small house," explain "this is a place for blessings")—Hengshan Temple Complex—Chongling Gate—Zhenyuan Hall—Jade Emperor Pavilion—Huixian Mansion—Tianfeng Ridge (highest peak, take a family photo with kids)—Kuixing Tower—Hengshan Temple Complex—Zhenwu Hall Typical hiking time is 4-5 hours; families who often hike may be faster. You can enjoy more scenery along the way, letting kids play and explore while experiencing Hengshan culture. 2️⃣ Time and Effort Saving Version (recommended for families with younger kids, 3-5 years old): Cable Car—Kuixing Tower—Tianfeng Ridge (show kids the "distant mountains")—Huixian Mansion—Jade Emperor Pavilion—Zhenyuan Hall—Chongling Gate—Hengshan Temple Complex—Kuixing Tower—Cable Car Easy and stress-free throughout, no heavy physical exertion, still check in at key spots, kids won’t feel tired (the cable car ride offers great views, kids will be very happy). Photo Check-in Spots (great for family photos): Hengshan is super photogenic! Tianfeng Ridge (for panoramic shots with many mountains visible), Huixian Mansion (ancient architecture background, have kids stand on the steps for photos), Kuixing Tower (iconic landmark, let kids touch the tower’s pillars), all are excellent check-in spots to capture beautiful family moments. Even phone cameras can take stunning photos✅. Accommodation Guide: Recommended **Hunyuan Kaide Hotel**, with family rooms and a children’s play area, 15 minutes by car from Hengshan Visitor Center, spacious and comfortable rooms, can prepare warm meals for kids at night, and free parking available. Summary: Beiyue Hengshan not only offers magnificent scenery but is also rich in cultural heritage. Bringing kids here lets them enjoy beautiful views and gain knowledge. Choose the right route and transportation to easily start a family mountain climbing trip~

Worry-free family trips to Beiyue Hengshan! This guide covers transportation, routes, photography, and accommodation, making it easy to explore with kids and experience the charm of this famous mountain. Save it now~ Tips (Family Focus): 🎫 Tickets: 45 RMB/person, free for children under 1.2 meters, low family travel cost (about 90 RMB for two adults and one child). 📍 Location: Hengshan Visitor Center ground parking lot, accurate navigation, convenient parking (free parking area near the shuttle bus entrance), no need to worry about directions with kids. 🚗 Shuttle Bus: 20 RMB/person, route covers Visitor Center—Hanging Temple—Ticket Checkpoint—Trailhead, valid both ways with no extra charge, a must for families to save walking time and energy (kids get tired if they walk too much). ✅ Cableway: 70 RMB/person, operating hours 08:00-16:00, the best choice for going up the mountain with kids to avoid long hikes that tire them out (about 10 minutes ride, kids won’t get bored). Hengshan enforces traffic control; private cars and taxis cannot go directly to the trailhead and must park at the Visitor Center and take the shuttle bus. Prepare snacks for kids to eat on the shuttle bus. Recommended Family Routes (choose as needed): 1️⃣ Hiking Route (suitable for kids over 6 years old with good stamina): Trailhead—Zhenwu Temple (show kids the “ancient architectural carvings”)—Hengshan Temple Complex (explain “this is where ancient people worshipped”)—Chongling Gate—Zhenyuan Hall—Yuhuang Pavilion—Huixian Mansion—Tianfeng Ridge (highest peak, let kids shout “I’m at the top!”)—Kuixing Tower—Return The whole hike takes about 4-5 hours, visiting multiple temples along the way, helping kids learn Hengshan’s history and culture, building their willpower, making it a meaningful play-and-learn experience. 2️⃣ Cableway Route (suitable for families with young kids or elderly): Cableway up—Kuixing Tower (take a “photo with the tower” with kids)—Tianfeng Ridge (Hengshan’s highest peak, enjoy the view and let kids point out “which mountain is the farthest”)—Huixian Mansion—Yuhuang Pavilion—Zhenyuan Hall—Hengshan Temple Complex—Cableway down Easy and stress-free, hitting all key spots, kids won’t feel tired and can fully enjoy Hengshan’s magnificent scenery (you can see the sea of clouds from the cableway, super beautiful). Photo Spots (Great for Family Photos): Hengshan has a high photo success rate! Panoramic views from Tianfeng Ridge (take photos of kids standing on the viewing platform), ancient architecture at Huixian Mansion (kids sitting on the steps), iconic Kuixing Tower (kids standing in front), all perfect for family photos with grand and spectacular backgrounds, capturing unforgettable parent-child hiking moments. Phone photos work great too✅. Accommodation Guide: Recommended **Hunyuan Jinlian Hotel**, offering family rooms and kids’ meals, clean and tidy rooms, close to Hengshan Visitor Center with convenient transportation, many dining options nearby (including noodle shops kids love), ideal for families. Summary: Beiyue Hengshan is an excellent family hiking destination with beautiful scenery and rich culture. Choose the right transportation and route to easily enjoy the trip with kids, appreciating natural beauty and historical culture, gaining a fulfilling experience~

‍️💨 August 14-18, 2025 Datong Self-Driving Tour Record 🌟Day 1 Departure from Beijing: ① Datong Coal Museum (Highlight: the largest coal block), also offers an underground mine experience with separate paid reservation. ② Yungang Grottoes in Datong (World Heritage Site). [○] Suggestion: Take a taxi from the hotel to Datong Ancient City, and taxis can also be used between attractions inside the ancient city. 🏠 Stay: Haohai International Hotel. 🌟Day 2 ① Huayan Temple (Liao and Jin dynasty temple, highlight: the "Bodhisattva with palms together and teeth showing" statue in the Vajrayana hall). ② Nine-Dragon Wall (the largest glazed dragon wall in China). ③ Shanhua Temple (Highlight: the "Golden Stele" also known as the "Zhubian Stele"). Backup attractions: Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Confucian Temple, Fahua Temple, City Wall, Ancient City Night View... 🏠 Stay: Haohai International Hotel. 🌟Day 3 ① Datong City Museum. ② Datong Earth Forest (a magical geological wonder). ③ Jingtusi Temple in Ying County, park here 🅿️. Highlights: the caisson ceiling in the Mahavira Hall, and the disheveled stone lions outside the mountain gate. ④ Walk to Ying County Wooden Pagoda (one of the world's three great wooden pagodas). ⑤ Yong'an Temple in Hunyuan (exceptional Yuan dynasty murals). ⑥ Hunyuan Prefecture Office. 🏠 Stay: Hengshan International Hotel, Hunyuan. 🌟Day 4 Tour Hengshan Scenic Area: ① Navigation: Hengshan Hanging Temple Scenic Area ground parking lot entrance (arrive before 8:00 for ample parking). Take a shuttle bus about 6 km from Beiyue Hengshan Visitor Center to the Hanging Temple boarding point, enter the Hanging Temple scenic area, queue for 40 minutes to climb (ticket reserved). ② From the Hanging Temple boarding point, take the shuttle bus to Yuemen Bay (Hengshan Scenic Area entrance), take the cable car up the mountain, then walk downhill to the core temple area. At Zhenwu Temple, take the shuttle bus back to the Hanging Temple boarding point, then take the shuttle bus back to Beiyue Hengshan Visitor Center to retrieve your car. [○] Shuttle bus ticket between Hanging Temple and Hengshan is 20 RMB/person, valid for both directions; entrance tickets are purchased separately. 🏠 Stay: Datong Hunyuan Tangtou Hot Spring Wanda Jinhua Hotel (cost-effective, with hot springs). 🌟Day 5 Pingxingguan Victory Scenic Area: ① Navigation: Pingxingguan Victory Military Experience Area 🅿️ parking, walk to Pingxingguan Victory Memorial Hall, after visiting you can return to the experience area to play. ② Laoye Temple. ③ Qiaogou Viewing Platform. Return to Beijing.