6 Days Shanxi World Heritage Tour - Yungang Grottoes, Wutaishan & Pingyao Ancient City

In the morning, upon arrival, your guide will meet you and escort you to Yungang Grottoes Temple before head to your hotel. You can explore on your own after visiting Yungang Grottoes. Feel free to seek travel ideas from your tour guide.

Welcome to Datong, a must-visit city located in the Shanxi province of China! Datong (大同), literally means Great Harmony, is the northernmost city of Shanxi. It shares borders with Inner Mongolia to the north and west, and Hebei to the east. Datong, once known as the "Coal Capital of China中国煤都" due to its abundant coal resources, is now not only one of China's earliest historical and cultural cities but also a national demonstration city for new energy, a summer resort city, and one of the top ten characteristic tourist cities on the Silk Road. Founded in 398 AD, Datong used to be called Pingcheng (平城), was once the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty (北魏), a secondary capital during the Liao & Jin Dynasties, and a key town in the Ming & Qing Dynasties. Positioned between the inner and outer Great Walls, Datong is a vital frontier region in the north, fostering a blend of multicultural influences and unique ancient architectural styles. Situated between Beijing (ancient capital of 5 dynasties) and Xi'an (ancient capital of 13 dynasties), Datong was once the capital of 3 dynasties. It was dubbed "Beijing's Back Garden" in the late Qing Dynasty due to Empress Dowager Cixi (慈禧). It is recorded that Marco Polo visited Datong in 1277.

Today you will visit Yungang Grottoes, a World Cultural Heritage site. The Yungang Grottoes Temple is one of the Four Great Grottoes of China, alongside the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, and the Maijishan Grottoes in Tianshui. Carved over 1,500 years ago during the Northern Wei dynasty (386-534 AD), the Yungang Grottoes were the first caves authorized by Chinese royalty and are considered the most magnificent among the four. Currently, they house 45 main caves and over 59,000 stone sculptures, with the tallest statue reaching 17 m and the smallest at 2 cm. Carved into the mountain, the grottoes stretch about 1 km from east to west, divided by natural terrain into the East Zone (Caves 1-4), the Central Zone (Caves 5-13), and the West Zone (Caves 14-45). Along this stretch, you can appreciate 3 types of caves: the Grand Buddha Caves (Caves 16-20), the Buddha Hall Caves (Twin Caves 5-6; 7-8; 9-10; 11-13), and the Stupa Temple Caves (Caves 1, 2, 6, 39). Moreover, you can observe 3 distinct styles of caves from different periods: early caves (Caves 16-20), middle caves (Caves 1-2; 5-6; 7-8; 9-10; 11-13; 3), and late caves (Caves 4, 14, 15, 20), showcasing the process of Buddhism's introduction to China and its evolution from Gandhara art to localized styles.

The most renowned ones are the early caves of the "Five Caves of Tan Yao" (昙曜五窟; Caves 16-20), which were commissioned by the Northern Wei monk Tan Yao (昙曜) under the decree of Emperor Tuoba Xun (拓跋濬; 440-465 AD). In these cases, not only can you see images of 4 Northern Wei Emperors and 1 Prince (Cave 17) on the five large Buddha statues, but you can also witness the Great Harmony (Datong世界大同) of major world civilizations in their carvings and murals, incorporating elements from Indian, Central Asian, Greek, and Roman, which are the traces left by Alexander's eastern campaign to India. You'll visit Cave 20, home to the iconic Open-air Buddha Statue (露天大佛), a striking blend of Han and Gandharan styles, unveiled by an ancient earthquake. You will find more stories behind Cave 18 which features a Buddha draped in a "Thousand Buddhas Robe" (千佛袈裟), believed to represent the Emperor Tuoba Tao (拓拔焘; 408-452 AD) who forbade Buddhism.

The middle period caves represent the peak of Yungang Grottoes' carving artistry, characterized by paired caves and two Buddhas seated in one Buddhist niche, reflecting the power struggle between the "Two Emperors" (二圣; the emperor and Empress Dowager Feng冯太后), renowned for their meticulous carving and ornate decorations. The late-period caves, constructed after the Northern Wei dynasty moved its capital from Datong to Luoyang in 494 AD, consist of many small caves built by locals (not royal family), signaling the decline of the dynasty. The figures in these caves are slender and elegant, with balanced proportions, marking the origin of China's "slender and clear" sculpture style (瘦骨清像). Take your time to explore the brilliant caves in close distance such as Cave 12 (Music Cave), Cave 5 (The Most Beautiful Smiling Buddha), Cave 3 (unfinished Cave), Cave 9 (World Architecture Museum), and more.

Optional：(If time permit)
1.Datong Yungang Grottoes Museum (大同云岗石窟博物馆): Inside Yungang Grottoes Temple scenic area. Closed on Mondays.
2.Datong Coal Museum (大同煤炭博物馆; Self-pay): Locates outside Yungang Grottoes by the other side of the river. About 10 min’s drive (6 km away). Double check if it closed on Mondays.

After the visit in Yungang Grottoes Temple, head back to Datong Ancient City for free time explore. You will find the Yu River (御河) gracefully winds its way through Datong from north to south. To its west lies the Datong Ancient City, a testament to over 1,600 years of rich history. On the east side, the Modern Datong City is rapidly emerging. The city planning of Datong embodies the design concept of "Twin Cities on One Axis一轴双城" by Liang Sicheng (梁思成), the father of modern Chinese architecture, harmoniously blending tradition with modernity and culture with ecology. As night falls and the city lights up, stroll from the ancient city to the banks of the Yu River, gazing at the 7 modern bridges that symbolize Datong City's transformation and offer breathtaking views for photography and chance encounters with locals.

Travel Tips:
Datong Lantern Festival: Held annually during Chinese New Year in the ancient city of Datong, this festival sees thousands of colorful lanterns lighting up the city walls and streets. Contact us for a Chinese New Year Tour in Datong to immerse in traditional performances, savor local delicacies, and explore unique handicrafts, creating a magical experience steeped in Chinese culture.

Free Time Ideas:
1.Datong City Walk Tour in Datong Ancient City (Half-day): Explore landmarks of Datong such as Datong Ancient City Wall, Huayan Temple, Nine Dragon Wall, Daiwang Palace (Little Forbidden City of Zhu Yuanzhang’s son), Liang Sicheng Memorial Hall...
2.Datong Evening Show (Peak Season Only; Self-pay; 天下大同). The performances at the Daiwang Palace are mainly based on the "Great Harmony in the World" series, you can immerse yourself in The Glory of the Ming Dynasty (over 600 years ago).

Arrival Ideas:
1.How to get to Datong By Air: Datong Yungang International Airport (大同云冈国际机场) is located about 18 km from city center and 36 km from Yungang Grottoes. Direct flights connect Datong with major cities in China, such as Beijing (1h), Shanghai (2.5h), Chengdu (2.5h), Xian (2h), Chongqing (2.5h), Wuhan (2h), etc. It's essential to check flight schedules in advance, as not all routes operate year-round.
2.How to get to Datong By High-speed Train: Datong can be reached by train through Datong South Railway Station & Datong Railway Station. Datong South Railway Station provides high-speed trains to Beijing (2-2.5h), Xi'an (6h), Taiyuan (2-2.5h), Pingyao (3-3.5h), etc. Contact us for ticket booking.

Today, you will visit two must-see places in Shanxi. One is the Hanging Temple at Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, and the other is the Wooden Pagoda at Fogong Temple in Yingxian County. Then, head to Wutaishan.

In the early morning, head to Hanging Temple (悬空寺) which is about 80 km (2 hour’s drive) away from Datong. The Hanging Temple of Mount Hengshan, built during the late Northern Wei Dynasty (491 AD), is a royal construction erected by Taoist followers and has a history of over 1,500 years. It was once renowned alongside the Yungang Grottoes and is now acclaimed as one of the world's ten most dangerous buildings. As the "First Marvel" among the Eighteen Wonders of Mount Hengshan, the Hanging Temple has always been a must-visit landmark in Shanxi. The renowned Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (李白) left the word "Magnificent壮观" here, while the Ming Dynasty explorer Xu Xiake (徐霞客) left the inked masterpiece "a wonder of the world天下奇观." Originally named "Xuankong Ge玄空阁," the Hanging Temple is a unique temple in China that integrates Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. "Xuan玄" is derived from Taoist principles, while "Kong空" originates from Buddhist teachings. The name "Hanging悬" was derived because the entire temple complex appears to hang on the cliff, with "Hanging" and "Xuan" being homophones in Chinese.

Approaching the Hanging Temple, the earliest and best-preserved wooden-structured cliffside ancient building in China, you can marvel at its "Perilous奇险" nature. The main architectural complex is supported by 30 prominent wooden pillars (work during earthquakes) and hidden horizontal wooden beams embedded in the rock face (bearing the weight), with the highest point, the Hall of the Three Religions (三教殿), standing about 90 meters above the ground, creating a millennium-old architectural marvel on the cliff. Stepping into the Hanging Temple, you can appreciate its "Compactness小巧." With a layout of "One Temple, Two Towers," covering an area of about 921 square meters, a total length of about 32 meters, and comprising 40 pavilions and halls, it houses over 80 bronze, iron, clay, and stone-carved Buddha statues. The aerial walkway connecting the north and south towers is the essence of the "Hanging悬" aspect of the Hanging Temple, with the existing structure being restored during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Climbing up involves slow queues on the narrow walkway, with wooden planks above and stone slabs below. The lotus patterns on the wooden stairs symbolize "ascending to auspiciousness" which is a unique feature of this temple. Standing at the Hanging Temple, you will marvel at the "Ingenious精妙" choice of location. The temple is built into the crevices of the precipice, shielded by massive cliffs above and stone walls on the sides, avoiding rainwater, sunlight (3 hours per day), and wind erosion on the temple buildings.

In the Hanging Temple, you can not only appreciate the beauty of Chinese ancient architecture through murals, colored sculptures, and carvings but also discover a world where three religions harmoniously coexist (Great Harmony/Datong). In the Pure Yang Palace (纯阳殿), you can witness the Taoist deity Lü Dongbin (吕洞宾); in the Hall of Thunderous Sounds (雷音殿), you can see the enshrined Buddhist Gautama Buddha (释迦牟尼); and in the Hall of Three Religions (三教殿), you will find offerings to Laozi, Buddha, and Confucius simultaneously. After visiting the Hanging Temple, you will undoubtedly be awed by the millennial wonder that integrates mechanics, aesthetics, art, religion, architecture, culture, and the wisdom of ancient people.

Travel Tips:
1.Due to the narrowness of the walkway at the Hanging Temple and the relatively steep stairs, not friendly to those who fear heights, elderly persons, and infants.
2.Due to the narrow walkway at the Hanging Temple, leading to potentially long waiting times during peak hours.
3.The Hanging Temple only receives sunlight for about 3 hours per day. For photography enthusiasts, it is recommended to visit in the morning for better lighting conditions.

Then, head to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda which is 55km (1 hour’s drive) away. Yingxian Pagoda, originally named the Sakyamuni Pagoda of Fogong Temple, was built in 1056 and is one of only eight surviving Liao Dynasty wooden structures in China. Standing at a height of 67.13 meters, equivalent to a modern 20-story building, it has been certified by the Guinness World Records as the "World's Tallest Wooden Pagoda." Ancient craftsmen constructed the wooden pagoda without using a single iron nail, relying entirely on the interlocking of thousands of wooden components (similar to Lego). Throughout a millennium, it has withstood more than 40 earthquakes and endured over 200 cannonball strikes during wartime, yet it remains standing tall, a true marvel. Additionally, the pagoda houses two relics of the Sakyamuni Buddha's tooth, making the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda an exemplary ancient architectural wonder and a center and sacred site of Buddhist culture.

The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Eiffel Tower are known as the "Three Great Pagodas of the World." Standing before the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, you may notice a slight tilt in the structure. This tilt was caused in the 1930s when local gentry dismantled internal braces and mud walls to improve the appearance and lighting, resulting in the lean. In 1933, Liang Sicheng measured the pagoda and proposed a restoration plan upon discovering the tilt. The pagoda continues to lean at a rate of 2 millimeters per year. Currently, for the safety of visitors and the ancient structure, climbing the pagoda is prohibited, and visitors can only admire it from the outside and visit the ground floor.

When visiting the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, be sure to appreciate its bracket sets. The pagoda features 54 types of brackets in 240 sets, making it the pagoda with the most diverse use of brackets in ancient Chinese architecture, earning it the title of the "Bracket Museum斗拱博物馆." You cannot miss the more than 50 inscribed plaques hanging on the pagoda—treasures of calligraphy. Among them, the plaque on the third level, "Sakyamuni Pagoda释迦塔," is the oldest (from the Jin Dynasty in 1195), while the fourth level's "Wonder of the World天下奇观" was inscribed by the Ming Emperor Zhu Houzhao in 1508, and the top level's "Ingenious Workmanship峻极神工" was inscribed by the Ming Emperor Zhu Di in 1406.

Interestingly, although the pagoda appears to have five levels from afar, it contains nine levels inside. Stepping into the first level of the pagoda, you can gaze up at the 11-meter-tall colored statue of Sakyamuni Buddha and witness the "nested tube structure" inside the pagoda. This structure consists of an outer cylinder formed by 24 external columns and an inner cylinder formed by 8 internal columns, connected by brackets and beams to create an incredibly robust architectural system. The inner layer houses Buddha statues, while the outer layer serves as a corridor, showcasing the unique style of Liao Dynasty architecture. This "nested tube structure" is commonly used in modern high-rise buildings. As the setting sun casts its glow on the pagoda, thousands of swallows return to nest within it, continuing to narrate the story of the pagoda through the ages. The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda has been patiently awaiting your visit.

Then, head to Taihuai Town of Wutaishan (about 190km; 4 hours' drive). Stay overnight in Wutaishan. Mount Wutai (五台山), also known as Qingliang Shan (cool in summer; 清凉山), is named for the flat mountaintops that resemble platforms of five major peaks within. Mount Wutai is the domain of Manjusri Bodhisattva (文殊菩萨道场), which is said to have 128 temples in total, with 47 remaining today. Notable ones include Pusa Ding, Xiantong Temple, Tayuan Temple, Wuye Temple, Shuxiang Temple, Dailuo Ding (菩萨顶, 显通寺, 塔院寺, 五爷庙, 殊像寺, 黛螺顶).

Today, you will enjoy a full-day exploration of Wutaishan, a World Heritage Site and one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains in China (the others being Mount Putuo in Zhejiang, Mount Emei in Sichuan, and Mount Jiuhua in Anhui). It is the only one among the four where Han and Tibetan Buddhism coexist. Wutaishan is renowned as the 'Capital of Chinese Buddhism,' a 'Microcosm of Chinese Buddhism,' and an 'International Center of Buddhist Culture,' with schools such as Yogacara, Pure Land, and Huayan thriving together. Home to 47 of China's most significant monasteries from 8 different dynasties (since 68), Mount Wutai houses a vast collection of Buddhist statues, plaques, murals, pagodas, and scriptures, offering a comprehensive testament to the nearly 2,000-year evolution of Buddhism in China and its dissemination throughout East Asia. Mount Wutai was once an ancient royal Buddhist retreat; today, it is a pilgrimage site for common people, a cool summer resort, a geological science education base, and a must-visit destination for travelers in Shanxi.

In the morning, you can visit the 5 most famous temples around Taihuai Town of Wutaishan (五台山台怀寺庙群), such as Pusa Ding, Xiantong Temple, Tayuan Temple, Wuye Temple, and Shuxiang Temple. You can choose to reach the top, then hike down. Pusa Ding (菩萨顶), located on Lingjiu Peak of Mount Wutai (五台山灵鹫峰), is believed to be the residence of Manjusri Bodhisattva (文殊菩萨居住处) and is a royal Tibetan-style temple. It was first constructed during the Northern Wei Dynasty and renamed "Great Manjusri Temple大文殊寺" during the Ming Dynasty, commonly known as Pusa Ding. It is one of the five major meditation sites on Mount Wutai. Emperors of the Qing Dynasty, Mongolian nobility, and Tibetan lamas visiting Mount Wutai for worship would typically stay at Pusa Ding. You will find that the architecture of Pusa Ding is adorned with yellow glazed tiles, a feature exclusive to royal constructions, showcasing its esteemed status. You can climb the 108 steps at Pusa Ding (菩萨顶108个台阶) symbolizes stepping on the 108 worldly troubles. Above the main entrance of the archway, a large plaque bears the four gilded characters "Ling Feng Sheng Jing灵峰胜境" inscribed by the Qing Emperor Kangxi (康熙) himself. The character "峰" (peak) is missing a stroke, said to reflect Kangxi's regret as he ascended Mount Wutai multiple times in search of his father, Emperor Shunzhi (顺治), but could not fulfill his wish. From this vantage point, one can overlook the central temple area of Mount Wutai, as well as the iconic structure, the "Great White Pagoda" of Tayuan Temple. The Manjusri Hall (文殊菩萨殿) at Pusa Ding is a place of worship where devout pilgrims visiting the mountain must pay their respects. (Travel Tips：Pusa Ding does not have a cable car. During peak seasons, you may need to queue to enter the halls.)

Then, walk down to Xiantong Temple (显通寺). It was founded in 69 AD, and is the largest and oldest temple on Mount Wutai, serving as the headquarters of the Mount Wutai Buddhist Association. Known as the "Cradle of Mount Wutai Buddhist Culture五台山佛教文化的摇篮," Xiantong Temple has a history of about 2,000 years, making it the second oldest temple in China. Alongside the White Horse Temple in Luoyang, Henan, it is one of the earliest Buddhist temples in China. Legend has it that during the Qing dynasty, Emperor Shunzhi (顺治皇) underwent monastic ordination here. All current temple structures were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Grand Hall, bronze bell, bronze pagoda, and bronze hall are all must-see attractions. The Bronze Hall, cast in the Ming Dynasty (1610), using 50,000 kg of bronze, is one of the best-preserved in China.

After that, visit Tayuan Temple (塔院寺), the landmark of Wutaishan, for its highlights such as the Sakyamuni Relics Stupa (Great White Pagoda), the Stone Tablet of the Buddha's Footprints, and the Manjusri Pagoda. The temple was named after its Great White Pagoda within its premises. The pagoda (75.3m), built in 1302, was designed and constructed by the Nepalese Architect Anigo (who also designed the White Pagoda at Beihai Park in Beijing). Inside the stone cave at the base of the Great White Pagoda, there is a stone tablet engraved with the footprints of Sakyamuni Buddha (佛足碑). It is said that before his passing, the Buddha left his footprints on the stone, telling Ananda, "I leave these footprints here to show all living beings." Later, when Tang Monk Xuanzang journeyed to the West to obtain Buddhist scriptures, he brought back rubbings of the Buddha's footprints to China. During the Ming dynasty, the temple monks carved these footprints here. To the east of the Great White Pagoda is the Manjusri Pagoda (文殊发塔), where legend has it that it houses a strand of Manjusri Bodhisattva's hair. You can also visit the Wuye Temple (五爷庙), also known as the Five Dragon Kings Hall (五龙王殿), or the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas (万佛阁), to learn about who Wuye is, why the incense here is the most prosperous, wishes are the most effective, and why the roof is the Han-Tibetan styles. You can also visit the Shuxiang Temple (殊像寺), renowned as the "Ancestral Home of Manjusri文殊祖庭". The Manjusri Hall houses a statue of Manjusri riding a lion, the largest Manjusri statue on Mount Wutai, standing at 9.87 meters tall.

<If time permits, you can visit Dailuo Ding (黛螺顶; 1080 steps; requires physical effort; currently cable cars are not available)  which is famous as Small Pilgrimage (小朝台) of Wutaishan. To personally ascend the five peaks of Mount Wutai, pay homage to Mañjuśrī in five directions, known as the "Grand Pilgrimage" (大朝台). For those unable to visit the five peaks to pay homage, worshipping at Dailuo Ding is referred to as the "Small Pilgrimage." According to legend, Qing Dynasty Emperor Qianlong (乾隆) ascended Mount Wutai several times but was unable to complete the Grand Pilgrimage. Therefore, the abbot Qingyun (青云) at Dailuo Peak ingeniously combined the five Mañjuśrī statues into one hall, creating Dailuo Ding (Small Pilgrimage). Visiting Dailuo Ding is equivalent to ascending the five peaks, allowing one to pay homage to all five Mañjuśrī Bodhisattvas at once. Without climbing Dailuo Ding, visiting Mount Wutai would be in vain (不登黛螺顶，不算台山客). The challenge of Dailuo Ding involves climbing 1,080 steps. Are you ready? The Dazhi Road (大智路) is the only way to reach Dailuo Ding, paved with stones, totaling 1,080 steps. In Buddhism, Buddhas and sentient beings are divided into ten categories, collectively known as the Ten Realms, each with "108." Climbing 1,080 steps can enhance wisdom and dispel troubles. Dailuo Ding (Green Conch Shell Peak), originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1465-1487), stands at an altitude of 1,940 meters. Initially named Daluo Ding (Big Conch Shell Peak大螺顶), it was renamed by Qianlong due to its resemblance to an inverted large conch shell (a Buddhist ritual object). In summer, the mountain is covered with lush greenery, hence its name. From Dailuo Ding, you can overlook the core area of the temple complex in Taihuai Town/ Mount Wutai, and on clear days, you can even see the South, Central, and North Peaks of Mount Wutai.>

Travel Tips:
1. Cable Car (at your own expense): The cable car often suspends operations due to weather conditions (double-check), remains closed during the off-season, and has long queues during peak times.
2. Hiking Trail: 1080 steps; ascending via the Dazhi Road takes over half an hour (requires physical effort), so it's best to allocate at least half a day for this excursion.

Optional for Wutaishan Show:
Encore Mount Wutai Show (《又见五台山》; Peak-season Only). The show is the first large-scale dramatic production in China with a Buddhist theme. During the 90-minute performance, 180 actors narrate a story about a worldly individual burdened with troubles who ascends the mountain seeking answers from the Buddha and ultimately achieving enlightenment. Double-check the show timings.

Among the four remaining Tang Dynasty buildings in China, two of them are in Shanxi Province, which are the Foguang Temple and Nanchan Temple. In the early morning, follow the footsteps of architects Liang Sicheng & Lin Huiyin via exploring Foguang Temple of Mount Wutai. Then visit China’s Oldest Wooden Building - Nanchan Temple of Mount Wutai. After that, head to Taiyuan for Jinci Temple. It is about 230 km (5 hours’ drive) from Wutaishan to Taiyuan.

You will visit Foguang Temple (Buddha Light Temple佛光寺) first which is about 50 km away (2 hour’s drive). Built in 857 AD (Tang Dynasty), Foguang Temple is about 1,700 years old and is not only one of the filming locations for the popular game "Black Myth: Wukong《黑神话:悟空》" but also a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts of ancient architecture. In 1937, Liang Sicheng, Lin Huiyin, and other members of the Chinese Architectural Society (中国营造学社) discovered the Foguang Temple, breaking the assertion by Japanese scholars that there were no pre-Tang Dynasty wooden structures in China. Interestingly, Liang Sicheng was inspired by the painting "Mount Wutai《五台山图》" in Cave 61 of the Mogao Caves to find the Foguang Temple.

The main remaining buildings in the temple include the grand hall from the late Tang Dynasty, the Manjushri Hall from the Jin Dynasty, the tomb pagoda of the Tang Dynasty, and two stone sutra pillars. The grand hall is located to the east of the temple, hence known as the East Grand Hall (东大殿), ranking as the second oldest existing wooden structure in China after the Nanchan Temple. The East Grand Hall, acclaimed by Liang Sicheng as "China's first national treasure中国第一国宝," features the highest ranking surviving bracket set (seven layers) and is a unique example combining Tang Dynasty architecture, polychrome sculpture, murals, inscriptions, and sutra pillars in one hall, deserving careful appreciation.

Foguang Temple is famous for its polychrome sculptures of the Tang Dynasty. Currently, there are about 70 extant Tang Dynasty temple polychrome sculptures nationwide, with over 30 found in the East Grand Hall. Remember to seek out the polychrome sculptures dedicated by the patron Ning Gongyu (宁公遇) and the inscriptions related to her. The inscription discovered by Lin Huiyin (林徽因) provides evidence for dating the Foguang Temple. May you experience the splendor of the Tang Dynasty at the Foguang Temple.

Then, head to Nanchan Temple (南禅寺) which is about 50 km away (about 1.5 hours drive). Nanchan Temple, built in 782 AD, over 1,200 years ago, is the oldest wooden structure in China. Facing north, the temple covers an area of 3,078 square meters, designed with a courtyard layout. Apart from the main structure, the Great Buddha Hall, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty, and the "Dragon King Hall" inside the mountain gate, a relic from the Ming Dynasty, the other buildings were constructed during the Qing Dynasty.

The main hall of Nanchan Temple features a single-eaved hip-and-gable roof with grey tiles. Decorated with ornamental ridges at both ends, the hall stands tall, grand, and gracefully ancient. Inside the hall, there are no ceilings or columns. The beam structure is exceptionally concise, with walls bearing no load, serving merely as partitions and weather barriers. The overall structure of the hall is simple, robust, dignified, and grand, showcasing the characteristics of large-scale wooden architecture from the middle Tang Dynasty in China.

Within the hall, there are 17 Tang Dynasty statues, regarded as precious artworks of Tang sculpture, worthy of your contemplative admiration. The central Buddha, Shakyamuni, sits in the posture of "earth-touching mudra" on a waist-bound pedestal. Flanking him are his two disciples, Ananda and Kasyapa, and two attendant bodhisattvas, Manjushri and Samantabhadra, riding a lion and an elephant respectively on the left and right. Bodhisattvas and heavenly kings stand in front of the altar, along with figures of lions, elephants, and youthful attendants. Nanchan Temple, secluded in a tranquil environment, stands as the final witness of the "Golden Age of the Great Tang Dynasty."

Then, head to Taiyuan (130km; about 2.5 hours), the city most adept at consuming vinegar & the biggist city in Shanxi. Taiyuan, the capital city of Shanxi province, has over 2,500 years of city-building history and is an important historical and cultural city in northern China. Taiyuan's vinegar culture, noodle culture, and more are unique cultural symbols of the city. You can taste authentic Shanxi noodles and vinegar-based delicacies in Taiyuan, such as knife-cut noodles, ear-shaped noodles, fried millet noodles, and more. As a transportation hub of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan has a well-developed transportation network, with easy access to and from the city.

In Taiyuan, you can hike 1 km through Jinci Park (sightseeing bus; Self-pay) to reach Jinci Temple to get close to the relics remaining by time. Jinci is not only the earliest and largest imperial sacrificial classical garden in China, but also the only existing imperial ancestral temple, and a national first-class museum, renowned as the Museum of Ancient Chinese Architecture. At Jinci, you can see ancient buildings from the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties coexist in harmony with the 3,000 years old tree from the Zhou Dynasty, with over a hundred structures such as halls, pavilions, towers, pavilions, platforms, bridges, and belvederes, blending ancient architectural art and garden aesthetics.

"Not visiting Jinci is a wasted trip to Taiyuan." Jinci, the only temple named after a state, was built to commemorate Tang Shuyu (唐叔虞), the founding ancestor of the Jin state (晋国). Tang Shuyu, the brother of Emperor Zhou Chengwang (周成王) of the Western Zhou Dynasty, was enfeoffed in Tang (剪桐封弟), and his son Xie (燮) later changed the state name from Tang to Jin, becoming one of the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BC - 476 BC). Tang Shuyu's father was the renowned Emperor Zhou Wuwang (周武王) of the Zhou Dynasty. Today, the main hall of Jinci, the Hall of the Holy Mother, commemorates Tang Shuyu's mother, Yi Jiang (邑姜), who was also the queen of Emperor Zhou Wuwang & the daughter of Jiang Ziya (姜子牙).

When visiting Jinci, you cannot miss its "Three Uniques三绝," "Three Treasures三宝," and "Three Plaques三匾." The "Three Uniques" refer to the cypress tree from the Zhou Dynasty (3,000 years old)周柏, the Song Dynasty colored sculptures in the Hall of the Holy Mother (over 1,000 years old)圣母殿宋代彩塑, and the Nanyao Spring (the source of Jinci's water)难老泉. The "Three Treasures" include the Fish Pond Flying Bridge (China's earliest water-land interchange bridge)鱼沼飞梁, the Xian Hall献殿, and the Hall of the Holy Mother (dedicated to Yi Jiang)圣母殿. The "Three Plaques" are the Shuijingtai, Duiyue, and Nanyao (水镜台、对越、难老). You will notice that the highlights of Jinci are mostly aligned along irregular axes, allowing you to experience the sense of order crafted by ancient artisans in a limited space, and the deep romantic ambiance of Chinese classical gardens.

Upon entering Jinci, you will see the Shuijingtai水镜台, a building famous for being the prototype of the small temple transformed in the 1961 animated film "Havoc in Heaven大闹天宫" where Sun Wukong and Erlang Shen compete. At the Jinrentai金人台, you can admire the iron figures representing the highest level of iron casting technology in the Song Dynasty, and perhaps spot one of the figures recast in 1913. In the Xian Hall献殿, you can experience Jin Dynasty architecture (over 800 years old), where offerings were displayed during sacrifices, uniquely combining a hall and a pavilion. Its wooden structure makes it bear weight on beams instead of walls, surrounded by lattice walls for ventilation, resembling an ancient refrigerator. Walking on the Fish Pond Flying Bridge is like walking on one of China's earliest cross-shaped ancient bridges (1,500 years old). In the Hall of the Holy Mother, the main hall of Jinci, you can admire a masterpiece of Song Dynasty architecture (over 1,000 years old), with eight wooden carved dragons in the front corridor, the earliest surviving in China. The 43 colored sculptures inside are treasures, with the main statue being the Holy Mother surrounded by 42 attendant figures. Find the statue observed by Mei Lanfang (梅兰芳, a legendary Chinese Peking opera artist) for three months, and describe it as "expressing a lifetime with every frown and smile." Remember to ask your guide to show you a photographing spot that transcends three millennia, framing the cypress from the Zhou Dynasty, the cypress from the Northern Wei Dynasty, the Hall of the Holy Mother from the Song Dynasty, and the Nanyao Spring Pavilion from the Ming Dynasty all in your view. Additionally, if you are a fan of the 1986 TV series "Journey to the West," you will discover that many scenes from the 18th episode were filmed in Jinci, Taiyuan.

Then, head to Pingyao for overnight.

Today, you will enjoy a full-day exploration at Pingyao Ancient City, one of the “Four Best Preserved Ancient Cities in China”.Pingyao is an outstanding example of a Han Chinese city of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

In the morning, you will enjoy a city walk in Pingyao Ancient City, a world cultural heritage site. With a history of over 2,700 years, the construction of Pingyao resembles a tortoise shell, symbolizing auspiciousness. With its six major city gates and towering city walls, it stands as a stronghold akin to an impregnable fortress. The city has four main streets, eight small streets, 72 winding alleys, and countless narrow lanes, resembling the patterns on a tortoise's back. You can climb the city wall from the Yingxun Gate (迎薰门) to explore this northern Chinese city that combines defensive and cultural functions.

In the 19th to early 20th centuries, Pingyao was the financial center of the entire Chinese banking industry, earning it the nickname "Little Beijing." Stepping into Pingyao, you can wander among the gray brick walls, touch the sturdy wooden doors, feel the imprints of cart tracks underfoot, and imagine the bustling activities of the Shanxi merchants who influenced the world over 100 years ago, seeking their former glory in the buildings they left behind. You can visit the County Government Office (县衙) and witness a 20-minute performance of the county magistrate presiding over a court session (free; please verify the performance schedule). As China's largest surviving county office, it houses a vast collection of cultural relics from ancient officialdom, allowing you to glimpse into the appearance of ancient government offices.

You won't want to miss visiting Rishengchang (日昇昌; 1823-1923), the first draft bank in China and the pioneer of modern Chinese banking. Its name contains four "日" characters, symbolizing business flourishing like the rising sun, witnessing the glory of Shanxi Merchant Culture. Rishengchang once had 35 branches nationwide, conducting business as far as Europe, America, Southeast Asia, and other countries, earning the reputation of "Connecting the World汇通天下." Today, Rishengchang has transformed into the Chinese Draft Bank Museum (中国票号博物馆), facing south and comprising two courtyards, the Central and Eastern yards. It is a mixed-style quadrangle courtyard, representing the most comprehensive, grand, and typical structure among Ming and Qing Dynasty Shanxi draft banks. The museum houses a wealth of material artifacts from Rishengchang, serving as sources for studying Chinese financial history. If time allows, you can also visit Xietongqing (协同庆; 1856-1913), known as the Chinese Money Shop Museum (中国钱庄博物馆), to explore what was once the largest underground treasury in China. You can walk leisurely to the Armed Escort Company Museum (中国镖局博物馆) to learn about the protection of the tangible currency and the top 10 escort companies and top 10 guards. After that, have a nice stroll on the most prosperous traditional Ming and Qing Dynasties Street, which used to be the “Wall Street of China”, taking you back to the former bustle bazaar in the old days.

Optional Show of Pingyao:
Seeing Pingyao (19:00~20:30; Closed on Mondays；《又见平遥》), a large-scale historical drama directed by Wang Chaoge王潮歌, tells the story of the late Qing Dynasty. In the ancient city of Pingyao, the boss of the Pingyao ancient draft bank, Zhao Yishuo赵易硕, spends all his money to hire 232 Armed Escorts to rescue the branch manager Wang of the Russian branch. It takes you on a journey to appreciate the richness of Shanxi merchant culture and the depth of history.

Today, you will visit Wang Family Compound (50 km away) to get more ideas about the famous Shanxi Merchants. Then, head back to Pingyao via a stop at the Zhangbi Ancient Castle, a unique village hidden deep in the mountains. 

The Wang Family Compound is the former residence of the Wang Family & the filming location for Zhang Yimou's "Full River Red《满江红》". It is a "Folk Forbidden City民间故宫" constructed over more than 300 years during the Ming and Qing dynasties. As the largest of the Shanxi Courtyard Houses, you will see "the home is a courtyard, the courtyard is a city家是一座院，院是一座城," during its peak its size reaches 250,000 square meters, equivalent to 1.6 times the size of the Beijing Forbidden City. As the members of the Wang family were involved in both business and politics, you will see there are official and civilian residences within the compound. The structure of the compound embodied the different statues of men and women, masters and servants.

Situated in an area that endured nearly 150 years of war and turmoil, you will understand the architectural layout of the Wang Family Courtyard exhibits defensive characteristics, with buildings strategically positioned on elevated ground and by the surrounding mountains. Stepping into the Wang Family Compound, you will encounter intricately arranged courtyards and towering structures, each brick and tile engraved with the past splendor of the Shanxi merchants, every beam and pillar narrating the prosperity of the family lineage. Another highlight of the Wang Family Courtyard is the "brick, wood, and stone" carving artistry, showcasing a unique style and charm in ancient Chinese architectural decoration. Here, you can sense the profound thoughts, worldly wisdom, and strict family values of the Shanxi merchants of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Then, head to visit Zhangbi Ancient Castle (张壁古堡), the "Number One Astrology Village in the World天下第一星象村". It is named after two constellations: Zhang and Bi (张宿和壁宿). It is said that entering Zhangbi Ancient Castle is like stepping into the midst of a constellation. Zhangbi Ancient Castle is hailed as "It is a city both above ground & below ground (地上一座城，地下一座城)," and is one of the best-preserved ancient miniature castles in China, integrating military, residential, production, astrology, and religious activities, covering an area of only 0.12 square kilometers. It was built 1,600 years ago as a military fortress and features an extensive underground tunnel system (about 10 km) to escape warfare. The tunnels are equipped with traps, communication passages, observation holes, ambush routes, drainage outlets, and more.

The numerous temples within Zhangbi Ancient Castle are also a major highlight. There are 16 temples, including the Zhenwu Hall, Erlang Temple, Guandi Temple, and more, most of which are built on the city walls, adding to their unique charm. Located in Jiexiu, known as the "Hometown of Colored Glaze Art琉璃艺术之乡," the roofs of Zhangbi Ancient Castle display stunning colored glaze ridge animals, with flying dragons, dancing phoenixes, running beasts, blooming peonies, and stoic warriors, shining brightly after centuries of history.

At last, it is time to end your 6 Days Shanxi Tour. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your China Tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!

Extension Ideas:
1.If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlighted parts of Shanxi, such as Yanmen Pass, Hukou Water Fall, and more, we can help you with the arrangements.
2.If you plan to continue your exploration to other cities in China, such as Beijing, Luoyang, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing and Shanghai, please feel free to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist you with travel arrangements.