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

Want to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush of "walking on a bridge while your soul floats in the sky"? Or splash around in forest streams catching fish and shrimp? Shentan Grand Canyon in Yuncheng, Shanxi, delivers it all! Home to North China's longest glass suspension bridge spanning over a kilometer-high abyss, this place also hides a "water forest" with lush shade and babbling streams—so refreshing you won’t want to leave! Save this "scare-your-pants-off" + "play-till-you-drop" dual guide and challenge your adrenaline! 📍 Why does Shentan Grand Canyon make you "terrified yet obsessed"?—A thrilling mix of extremes! North China’s - Glass Suspension Bridge: 🔥 The star attraction! Nearly 1,000 meters long with a 200+ meter vertical drop! The fully transparent glass walkway lets you stare into the abyss below while clouds swirl around you (on clear days). Every step tests your courage—dare to try? Water Forest - Natural Aquatic Playground: Deep in the canyon, streams flow over the trails, creating unique "water paths." Walk barefoot or in sandals through the icy-clear water, splash around in shallow pools, or catch tiny fish (please release them!). Shaded by lush trees, it’s the perfect summer spot for kids! 💦 Thrilling High-Altitude Activities: Cliff Swing: Swing out over the edge and feel the weightless thrill of free-fall! (Screaming guaranteed!) Zipline: Soar across the canyon for a bird’s-eye view—pure flying sensation! Skywalk/Slide: More heart-pounding options! (Some activities may require extra fees.) Ecological Canyon Gallery: Walk the trails to admire cascading waterfalls (like Shentan Waterfall), emerald pools, bizarre rock formations, and pristine forests—loaded with negative ions! Legend of the "Divine Pool": Folklore says a sacred pool deep in the canyon was where deities bathed—its crystal-clear waters shrouded in mystery. 🚶‍♀ Must-See Spots & Itinerary (Thrills + Chill) Glass Suspension Bridge: 🔥 A must-do soul-shaking experience! Allow time for photos/videos (after conquering fear!). Clear days offer stunning views; cloudy days feel eerily magical (but scarier). Hold the railings—the middle section sways! Water Forest: 💧 The coolest spot! Located mid-canyon. Bring water shoes/non-slip sandals and a phone waterproof case! Enjoy wading and family fun. Shentan Waterfall: The canyon’s iconic falls crash into a deep pool—great for photos from the viewing deck. Cliff Swing & Zipline: 🎢 Scream machines! Thrill-seekers, don’t miss these. Check health/safety rules first. Hiking Trails: 🌿 An oxygen-rich escape! Easy-to-moderate paths connect attractions, passing forests, streams, and quirky rock formations. 📌 Pro Tips (Transport, Routes, Costs, Pitfalls) 📍 Address: Zhongtiao Mountains, southeast of Yongji City, Yuncheng, Shanxi (near Shuiyukou Village). 🚗 Transport: Drive: Navigate to "Yongji Shentan Grand Canyon." ~1.5-2 hrs from Yuncheng/Xi’an; ~4-5 hrs from Taiyuan. Large parking available. Train + Taxi: To "Yongji North Station," then taxi (~30-40 mins). Or transfer via Yuncheng. 🎫 Tickets/Fees: Entry: ~¥60-70 (peak season). Mandatory shuttle: ~¥20-30 round-trip (saves hiking to the core zone). Glass Bridge: ~¥80-100 (worth it!). Other activities: Cliff swing, zipline, etc., ~¥30-80 each. 🔥 Tip: Book online combos (entry + shuttle + bridge) for savings! ⏰ Duration: 5-7 hrs (full day ideal for thrill-seekers/water play). 🗺 Efficient Route: Entrance → Shuttle → Glass Bridge (tackle the scariest first!) → Cliff Swing/Zipline → Shuttle/hike down → Shentan Waterfall → Water Forest (relax) → Return via trail/shuttle. 🏠 Stay: Yongji City: More options, better amenities. Near Pujiu Temple/Stork Tower for next-day sightseeing. Canyon lodges: Rustic, nature-immersive—book early. 🍜 Eat: Yongji Hand-Pulled Noodles/Dumplings: Local specialty. Yuncheng Spicy Chicken: Hearty portions. On-site snacks: Try farmhouse dishes. 📝 Must-Know Tips: 1. Shuttle ticket = non-negotiable! The hike in is long. 2. Bridge prep: Wear grippy flats—no heels/flip-flops! Secure your phone/camera. Avoid if severely acrophobic. 3. Water gear: Water shoes only! Pack towels, dry clothes, waterproof phone case. 4. Safety first: Follow rules, check health (no high blood pressure/pregnancy). Listen to staff. 5. Bugs/sun: Bug spray! Sunscreen/hats for open areas. 6. Pack light: Water/snacks—vendors are pricey. 7. Cash: Some stalls/rentals cash-only. 8. Check weather: High-wind/rain closes bridges/activities! "Toes over the abyss, heart in the clouds!" The tremble on the glass bridge and the chill of mountain streams—Shentan Grand Canyon delivers both! Scream away stress or splash back to childhood—it’s all here! 🧡

Address: Yongle Palace Scenic Area, Ruicheng County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province Transportation: 🚌 Recommended route from Yuncheng: Take the "Yuncheng-Ruicheng" long-distance bus at Yuncheng Bus Station (about 1.5 hours, 20 yuan fare). Or take high-speed rail to Yuncheng North Station, then transfer to the bus station by public transport. From Ruicheng, it's a 10-minute taxi ride to the scenic area entrance🎫. Introduction: 🏯 Built in 1312 (Yuan Dynasty), Yongle Palace is one of China's largest surviving Taoist temple complexes. Its highlight is the Yuan Dynasty murals🎨, hailed as the "Treasure House of Oriental Art", depicting Taoist celestial realms with colors preserved for centuries. The well-preserved architectural complex including Sanqing Hall and Chunyang Hall showcases Yuan Dynasty wooden construction mastery. Travel Tips: 🎯 Must-sees: Sanqing Hall murals (grand "Chaoyuan Tu"), Chunyang Hall paintings (exquisite Taoist stories), Chongyang Hall (classic Yuan architecture). ✨ Personal insights: It took me 4 visits to truly appreciate it - first time rushed through details, second time learned history with a guide, third focused on mural lighting, fourth immersed in Taoist culture. Best route: Enter in morning, visit Sanqing Hall first (fewer crowds, better light), then explore other halls. Recommendations: 📅 Best seasons: Spring/Autumn (Apr-May or Sep-Oct), avoid summer crowds. 👟 Wear comfortable shoes - stone paths are tiring; no flash photography📸 in mural areas. ⏳ Allow at least 3 hours; bring water/snacks (limited dining options); book tickets online🎫 in peak season to skip lines. Local Food: 🍜 Authentic Shanxi cuisine in Ruicheng: Try "Jinxiang Noodle House" for knife-cut noodles (chewy with savory sauce) and lamb paomo (clear broth). Must-try snacks: Ruicheng oil tea (warming) and date cakes (sweet but not cloying), about 30 yuan per person. Accommodation: 🏨 Best value: Ruicheng Hotel (clean & safe, 15-min walk to site, ~200 yuan/night). Or try local B&Bs like "Yongle Homestay" (cultural atmosphere, family-friendly, budget prices). Nearby Attractions: 🌊 Yellow River Scenic Area (20-min drive, view Hukou Waterfall's grandeur). 🏯 Xiezhou Guandi Temple (1-hour drive from Yuncheng, ancient architecture with Guan Yu culture). ⛰️ Wulao Peak (Ruicheng outskirts, hiking with wildflowers in spring). Final Thoughts: My 4 visits transformed me from hurried tourist to cultural explorer✨. Yongle Palace isn't just a site - it's a time tunnel where every brushstroke reveals Yuan artisans' devotion. Don't rush; slow down to converse with history. Return visits will show you: the past isn't distant, but waiting in those weathered colors to be understood🎨.

#postandearn #xian #shaanxi #hiddengems #travel #china Just a scenic two-hour drive from Xi’an, Yongle Palace invites you into a world of artistry and tranquility. Ornate eaves meet the azure sky, and 700-year-old murals whisper tales of devotion. Escape Xi’an’s city buzz and wander halls where history feels alive, not archived. 🌟 Why visit? • Art That Speaks: Stunning murals pulse with life—no guide needed, but local experts offer vivid storytelling (tip: ask for English-speaking guides!). • History You Can Feel: Touch sun-warmed walls where artists painted dreams centuries ago. • Hidden Sanctuary: Experience calm courtyards and intricate architecture—without the crowds of Xi’an’s hotspots. 📍Address Yongle Palace, 230 Yongle North Road, Ruicheng County, Shanxi Province (2.5 hours from Xi’an) ⏰ Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM daily 🎟️ Tickets: ¥50 (≈ $7 USD) 🏯 Perfect for: Curious adventurers | Culture seekers | Photography lovers | Peaceful explorers

Exploring Guanque Tower and Yongle Palace Yuncheng, Shanxi, a city steeped in history, is like a weighty tome with every page filled with stories. Today, let us embark on a unique travel route to experience the charm of Guanque Tower, Yongle Palace, Pujiu Temple, the Yellow River Iron Oxen, and Guangren King Temple. Guanque Tower: Majestic Elegance in Timeless Poetry Guanque Tower, one of China's four great historical cultural towers, stands on the eastern bank of the Yellow River in the ancient city of Puzhou, Yongji. Built during the Northern Zhou Dynasty by Yuwen Hu as a military watchtower, it was named after the storks that often perched there. In "Dream Pool Essays," Northern Song scholar Shen Kuo described it as "Three stories high, overlooking Zhongtiao Mountain and the Yellow River below." The famous poem "Climbing Guanque Tower" by Wang Zhihuan—"The sun sets behind the mountains, the Yellow River flows into the sea. To see a thousand miles further, climb another story higher"—brought it enduring fame. The original tower, which stood for over 700 years through the Tang and Song dynasties, was destroyed by war in the early Yuan Dynasty. The current Guanque Tower was reconstructed in 1997 and opened to the public in 2002. The rebuilt tower follows a Tang-style design, featuring four eaves and three external stories with six internal levels, standing 73.9 meters tall. Inside, it showcases Yellow River culture through reliefs, murals, and miniature landscapes. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Yellow River, evoking the grandeur and spirit of ancient times. Yongle Palace: A Brilliant Hall of Mural Art Originally named "Da Chunyang Wanshou Palace," Yongle Palace was built to honor Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals. Established in 1247 during the reign of Yuan Dingzong, it is the earliest, largest, and best-preserved Taoist temple in China, alongside Beijing's Baiyun Temple and Chongyang Palace in Hu County, Shaanxi. Originally located in Yongle Town, 20 kilometers southwest of Ruicheng County, the palace was relocated between 1957 and 1966 due to the construction of the Sanmenxia Reservoir, following instructions from Premier Zhou Enlai. Covering over 8,000 square meters, its central axis features ancient buildings such as the Mountain Gate, Dragon and Tiger Hall, Wuji Hall, Chunyang Hall, and Chongyang Hall. The most remarkable feature of Yongle Palace is its Yuan Dynasty murals, covering an area of 1,005.68 square meters. The "Chaoyuan Diagram" in Wuji Hall is particularly stunning, with its 402-square-meter depiction of lifelike figures arranged symmetrically, elegant colors, varied costumes, and grand scenes. Scholar Zheng Zhenduo praised it as "a large-scale display of Han palace grandeur and a collection of organized figure paintings." The narrative murals in Chunyang Hall and Chongyang Hall combine diverse scenes, offering valuable insights into the social life of the Tang, Song, Jin, and Yuan dynasties, making Yongle Palace a true artistic treasure. Pujiu Temple: A Romantic Sanctuary from "The Story of the Western Wing" Located 3 kilometers east of the ancient city of Puzhou in Yongji, Pujiu Temple is a national 4A-level tourist attraction and one of Shanxi's "Top Ten" scenic spots. This Buddhist temple is famous for the romantic tale in "The Story of the Western Wing," earning it the saying, "Temples across the land do not speak of love, except for Pujiu Temple in Shanxi." Every September and October, it hosts the "World Couples Month" event. The temple's Yingying Tower is particularly notable for its unique structure and exquisite craftsmanship, featuring a distinct echo effect. It is one of China's four major echoing buildings, alongside the Echo Wall of Beijing's Temple of Heaven, the Pagoda of Baolun Temple in Henan, and the "Stone Zither" of Dafu Temple in Tongnan County, Sichuan. The current Yingying Tower, rebuilt after an earthquake, stands 40 meters tall with a base length of 8.3 meters, designed as a square brick pagoda with dense eaves. Other structures, such as the Bell Tower and the tower courtyard corridors, also have their own charm, immersing visitors in the romantic story of Zhang Sheng and Yingying. Yellow River Iron Oxen: Tang Dynasty Wonders of River Control The Yellow River Iron Oxen are "river-controlling divine beasts" from the Tang Dynasty. Each iron ox weighs 60 tons, with intricate details like iron rings on their noses and lifelike pupils showcasing ancient craftsmanship. These iron oxen are located at the Pujindu Site, once a vital crossing point on the Yellow River. The site also houses artifacts like Kaiyuan Tongbao coins, reflecting its historical prosperity. Standing before the iron oxen, one can deeply appreciate the wisdom and strength of ancient laborers, as these oxen are not only witnesses to history but also outstanding examples of ancient engineering. Guangren King Temple: A Precious Relic of Tang Architecture Situated in Ruicheng County, Guangren King Temple is a Taoist temple from the Tang Dynasty and a fifth batch national key cultural relic protection unit. Though modest in scale, its architecture is simple yet elegant, retaining the characteristics of Tang-style buildings. The main hall, an original Tang structure, features a single-eave hip-and-gable roof with large dougong brackets and deep eaves, showcasing the grandeur and boldness of Tang architecture. At Guangren King Temple, visitors can closely experience the charm of Tang-style architecture and the passage of history. This travel route in Yuncheng offers a glimpse into historical and cultural relics from different periods and styles. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of ancient poets, admiring exquisite mural art, immersing yourself in romantic tales, or marveling at ancient engineering feats, you'll find it all here. Embark on this cultural journey and create unforgettable memories!

Recently, my girlfriends and I took a trip to Rui Cheng for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, and the experience was absolutely amazing! I must share with you the fantastic hotel we stayed at—Rui Cheng Grand Hotel 🎉 **Hotel Location** The hotel is located in the bustling downtown area of Rui Cheng County, offering super convenient access! Nearby, you’ll find Yongle Square, the sports stadium, government buildings, and leisure plazas. Famous attractions like Yongle Palace, Dayu Ferry, Shengshou Temple, and Shengtian Lake are also close by, making it easy whether you want to visit scenic spots or explore the surrounding area. Across the street is a large shopping mall with KFC and various night markets—perfect for evening strolls and food adventures! 🛏 **Stay Experience - VIP Building·Deluxe King Room** We stayed in the Deluxe King Room in the VIP Building, which had super cool smart controls for lights, curtains, and more—super high-tech vibes 🤩 The bedding was exceptional, with a big, soft bed ensuring a great night’s sleep. The room was well-equipped with plenty of reading materials, making our stay incredibly cozy. 🌟 **Exceptional Service** The hotel’s service deserves special praise—the staff were warm and attentive. They not only introduced the hotel facilities in detail but also recommended nearby attractions and delicious local eats. Truly top-notch service 💯 🍱 **Dining Experience** We had dinner on the hotel’s second floor—the portions were generous, and the food was delicious. The server’s recommendations suited our tastes perfectly, featuring Shanxi specialties like fried mulberry leaves and fragrant toon with local eggs. The restaurant was spacious and comfortable, with reasonable prices. Breakfast was also great, offering a wide variety to cater to different tastes. Oh, and the hotel’s "Rui Cheng Yellow River Fish Banquet" is a must-try—the Yellow River carp is tender and incredibly tasty 😋 ♨️ **Leisure & Entertainment - Huiyang International Hot Spring City** The highlight? There’s a hot spring! After a long day of exploring, soaking in the hot spring washes away all fatigue. The hotel’s Huiyang International Hot Spring City is a must-visit! It’s a comprehensive leisure facility with bathing, sauna, swimming, a kids’ water play area, a movie theater, and beauty services. The mineral-rich hot spring water helps replenish essential trace elements, making it great for your health. 🎈 **Nearby Attractions Guide** ✅ **Yongle Palace**: The largest surviving Taoist temple from the Yuan Dynasty, renowned for its stunning murals. Just a few minutes’ drive or a quick taxi ride from the hotel. ✅ **Chenghuang Temple**: Built during the Song Dynasty’s Dazhong Xiangfu era, locally known as "South Temple." Outside the temple, the "Lanshan Root·Chenghuang Temple Market" offers a variety of Rui Cheng snacks like stone-baked flatbread, sesame slices, Rui Cheng braised meat, and farm-style fried buns—perfect for snacking while exploring! ✅ **Guangren King Temple**: One of only three well-preserved Tang Dynasty wooden structures in China, boasting immense historical value. Its unique architectural style makes it worth a visit. ✅ **Dayu Ferry Yellow River Scenic Area**: Here, you can hear the beautiful legends of Dayu taming the floods, see the 4,000-year-old "Dragon Head Sacred Cypress," experience the thrilling glass slide, and marvel at the large-scale "Pearl of the Yellow River" irrigation project. The area is vast, offering a full day of fun. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, don’t miss Rui Cheng—and definitely don’t miss Rui Cheng Grand Hotel 💕

| Stayed at Ruicheng Grand Hotel, Amazing Experience! Due to work, I traveled to Ruicheng, Shanxi, and after careful consideration online, I chose Ruicheng Grand Hotel. This stay was fantastic, and it’s now on my go-to list for business trips😃! 📍 Prime Location The hotel is located in the heart of Ruicheng, with excellent transportation access. Surrounded by numerous attractions, the murals of the Ming Dynasty’s Yongle Palace are renowned far and wide, while the former residence of Lü Dongbin, the founder of Quanzhen Taoism, is steeped in cultural heritage. The ancient Yellow River crossing at Dayu Ferry, with its thousand-year history, exudes unique historical charm. From the hotel, whether visiting these sites or handling errands in the city, it’s all convenient and hassle-free🚗. Plus, right across the street is a large shopping mall and a lively night market, offering everything from shopping and dining to leisure—full of vibrant local life~ 🛏 Super Comfortable Rooms Stepping into the room, the spacious and bright space instantly lifted my mood. The bedding was soft and cozy, making me feel like I was sleeping on a cloud, with sleep quality soaring💤. The room was fully equipped with smart devices for easy operation, meeting both work and daily needs. There were also plenty of reading materials, perfect for unwinding during downtime—a thoughtful touch that really stood out👍! 🍱 Delicious Dining The hotel’s second-floor restaurant was a delightful surprise! It served Ruicheng specialties like braised Yellow River carp, fragrant toon omelet, and fried cakes, along with authentic Shanxi dishes—all flavorful and reasonably priced. The portions were generous, so no worries about leaving hungry😜. The staff enthusiastically recommended dishes, and every one was a hit. Plus, the restaurant’s spacious, comfortable setting and locally inspired decor made for an outstanding dining experience~ 💆♀️ Abundant Leisure & Entertainment I didn’t expect the hotel to have such great leisure facilities! The Huiyang International Hot Spring Resort was a lifesaver for this weary worker. The geothermal water here is rich in minerals, and soaking in it effectively replenishes trace elements, washing away days of work fatigue. Beyond the hot springs, there’s a full range of services: bathing, sauna, swimming, a kids’ water play area, a movie lounge, and beauty treatments—everything you need for relaxation without leaving the hotel. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Ruicheng💖!

Hey everyone👨‍👩‍👧, I recently took my kids on a trip to Ruicheng, Shanxi, and our stay at Ruicheng Grand Hotel made the journey absolutely delightful! I just have to share this amazing experience with you all~ 📍 Prime Location Ruicheng Grand Hotel is right in the heart of the bustling county town, surrounded by attractions. It's just 2.85 km from Yongle Palace, making it super convenient to take the kids to admire the stunning mural art🚗. Chenghuang Temple is only 552 meters away—just a short walk! Other spots like Guangrenwang Temple and Shousheng Temple are also nearby, so you can easily explore all the sights. Across the street, there’s a shopping mall and supermarket for snacks and daily essentials—everything you need in one place. So thoughtful👍 🏨 Luxurious Suite Stay, Unforgettable Experience The VIP building is exquisitely decorated, and the spacious, bright rooms instantly lift your mood. The room is fully equipped with thoughtful touches like children's toiletries and tiny slippers—my little one couldn’t get enough of them😃. The beds are huge and soft, perfect for our family of three to sleep soundly. The linens are clean, cozy, and skin-friendly, with attention to every detail. 💁‍♀️ Warm, Attentive Service That Touches Your Heart The staff’s hospitality truly moved me🌹. With so much luggage and kids in tow, they helped carry our bags all the way and even prepared a fruit platter for us. The front desk ladies warmly shared local tips and helped plan kid-friendly itineraries. 🍱 Diverse, Delicious, and Great Value The hotel’s second-floor restaurant is a food paradise! We tried local specialties like Yellow River carp and fried mulberry leaves—huge portions, amazing flavors, and wallet-friendly prices. The dining area is spacious and comfortable, so the kids ate happily while we relaxed. The breakfast buffet is varied and nutritious, setting us up for an energetic day~ ♨️ Fun Family Time at the Hot Springs The hotel even has hot springs—what a surprise! The water is sourced from 3,169 meters underground, rich in minerals. The kids had a blast splashing around, and we adults got to unwind (just note: the hot springs close at 10 PM)~ 🚗 Super Convenient Parking The hotel has a large, well-managed parking lot—and it’s free🅿️. For families road-tripping with kids, this is a blessing—no stress about parking at all. 🌟 Nearby Attractions Guide 1️⃣ **Yongle Palace**: A must-visit in Ruicheng, built in the Yuan Dynasty, featuring four Yuan-era wooden structures and 1,000 sqm of breathtaking murals—masterpieces of art history. Highlights include the Yuan wooden architecture (Dragon-Tiger Hall, Sanqing Hall, etc.) and the murals, especially the awe-inspiring *Court of the Celestials* in Sanqing Hall. Just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel. 2️⃣ **Chenghuang Temple**: Only 552 meters away, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty and spanning four dynasties. The backyard houses historic steles and epitaphs—great for kids to learn about history, and it’s free to visit! 3️⃣ **Dayu Ferry Yellow River Scenic Area**: Explore the Yu King Hall, Yu Temple steps (with their magical dripping sound), the dynamic Guanyin statue that "blooms to reveal Buddha," the rebuilt Tang Dynasty Zhuangyuan Bridge, and the Yellow River Diversion Project. Don’t miss the Yellow River fish feast! About a 20-minute drive from the hotel (check with the site for ticket details and discounts). Whether for family trips or business leisure, Ruicheng Grand Hotel is a fantastic choice. The warm service, prime location, and delicious food left us fully satisfied👍—highly recommended💕!

When planning a trip to Yongle Palace with my bestie, I discovered Ruicheng Grand Hotel online, and this stay completely blew me away! I just have to share the experience with everyone~ 🏨 Hotel Location: Ruicheng Grand Hotel is located at the southern foot of Zhongtiao Mountain in Shanxi, boasting an excellent location 👍. It faces the ancient Yellow River course of Dayu Ferry to the south, borders the picturesque Qinling Mountains to the west, and is close to the 5A-level scenic spots like Mount Hua, Tongguan Ancient City, and Hangu Pass. Situated in the heart of Ruicheng, the area is vibrant, with a commercial district right across the street featuring KFC and various night markets, making shopping and dining super convenient. 🚗 Transportation: We drove there, and the hotel has a huge parking lot at the entrance—free, well-managed, and incredibly convenient for self-drivers. We later found that getting to nearby attractions was easy too; it’s just a few minutes' drive to Yongle Palace, and taxi fares are affordable. There’s also a bus stop nearby, offering plenty of travel options. 🛏️ Stay Experience: The VIP building is exquisitely decorated, with well-equipped rooms meeting high standards. The beds are super spacious and comfortable—my bestie and I both slept soundly. The rooms even had plenty of reading materials, showing great attention to detail. The staff were warm, attentive, and provided excellent service. 🍱 Dining Experience: The second floor has 25 luxurious private dining rooms and five fully-equipped banquet halls. The restaurant is spacious and cozy, with reasonable prices. We dined there in the evening—the portions were generous, the food delicious, and the server’s recommendations were spot-on. Breakfast was also great, with a wide variety to suit different tastes. ♨️ Leisure & Entertainment: The hotel also features the fantastic Huiyang International Hot Spring City, offering a comprehensive range of services like bathing, sauna, swimming, kids' water play, a movie theater, and beauty treatments. The hot spring water is sourced from 3,169 meters underground, rich in minerals that replenish essential trace elements. With our room key, we could enjoy the hot springs on the first floor for free (though only until 10 PM—so watch the time!). 🎈 Nearby Attractions Guide: - Yongle Palace: A must-visit in Ruicheng, very close to the hotel. The murals here are breathtaking—a treasure of ancient Chinese mural art, absolutely worth seeing! - Chenghuang Temple: Just a short walk from the hotel. The newly revamped "Guofengli" market at the temple is unique, featuring intangible cultural heritage shows, clay sculpture art, and Hanfu garden tours (though these events might be seasonal). - Guangrenwang Temple: A Tang Dynasty-style building with distinctive charm—don’t miss it if you love ancient architecture. - Dayu Ferry Yellow River Scenic Area: Offers stunning views of the Yellow River and a chance to connect with nature, not too far from the hotel. Our stay at Ruicheng Grand Hotel was fantastic, and the nearby attractions left us enchanted. I’d definitely choose this hotel again for my next visit and highly recommend it to friends traveling to Ruicheng 💕

Taking advantage of the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, I chose nearby Yuncheng, Shanxi as my travel destination. Over two days, I visited some famous attractions. On the first day, I arrived at Yongji North Station around noon and took the tourist shuttle to Pujiu Temple. Although I've never read "The Romance of the Western Chamber," the saying "All temples avoid romance, except Pujiu in Shanxi" establishes its special status. For lunch, I tried Yingying Restaurant opposite the scenic area - their dumplings and marou soup are truly worth trying. In the afternoon, I continued by tourist shuttle to Stork Tower. The scenic area is small, with the tower itself being the main attraction. While visually impressive, it's unfortunate the original structure was destroyed long ago without even ruins remaining. In the evening, I took a high-speed train to Yuncheng North Station, then a bus to Galaxy Commercial Street for the famous Rock Fried Chicken. Be sure to find the original store in the alley - spicy but delicious, generous portions at reasonable prices, and don't miss the cold dishes at the entrance. After dinner, I checked into Lavande Hotel (Yuncheng Yongle Street High-Speed Rail Station Branch) where the front desk provided warm service and even offered local attraction postcards with stamps for collection. The next morning's hotel breakfast buffet offered wide variety and good taste. As the attractions were remote and scattered, I rented a car for my tour. First stop was Yuncheng Guan Gong's Hometown Cultural Tourism Area - my favorite site showcasing Guan Yu's life story and later generations' reverence, with exquisite architecture worth savoring. Next was Yongle Palace - don't miss the murals, cultural relics so precious the Japanese searched for seven years unsuccessfully, leaving me in awe of ancient artisans' skills. My third stop was Yuncheng Salt Lake, where I was lucky to see the giant Guan Yu statue en route. The salt lake is best appreciated via drone or with prior research on viewing spots - otherwise you might leave disappointed like us, though Salt Pond Avenue's No. 006 streetlight makes a great photo spot. For dinner, I tried local specialty Lamb Hubo, similar to lamb paomo but with shredded pancakes, offering rich flavor. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I missed Feiyun Tower in the city center and Wanrong County - a slight regret for next time.

After visiting the murals at Yongle Palace in Ruicheng, Shanxi, I've now completed the collection of China's three great murals. The other two are the Mogao Caves murals in Dunhuang, Gansu, and the Pilu Temple murals in Shijiazhuang, Hebei. During the May Day holiday, Yongle Palace saw more visitors than usual, but the crowds weren't overwhelming. In fact, I think having more visitors is a good thing because photography isn't allowed inside the main halls, and security is very strict. With more people around, you can sneak a few photos. Among the three main halls, the Wuji Hall had the most visitors, making it easier to discreetly take some pictures. The Chongyang Hall and Chunyang Hall had fewer visitors, so that wasn't an option. The water-and-land murals in the Wuji Hall are truly spectacular, with smooth and fluid brushstrokes. Although I have a high-definition album of Yongle Palace murals at home, it's nowhere near the visual impact of the original artwork. In my opinion, among the three great murals, the Wuji Hall murals at Yongle Palace are the largest in scale and the most awe-inspiring. This kind of beauty can only be fully appreciated in person. [Cute] Yongle Palace is a Taoist temple built in honor of Lü Dongbin. Its 1,000-square-meter Yuan Dynasty murals are among the world's treasured ancient mural art collections and one of China's first national key cultural relics protection units. Yongle Palace preserves four exquisitely crafted Yuan Dynasty wooden structures, with 1,000 square meters of Yuan Dynasty murals housed in the Dragon and Tiger Hall, Sanqing Hall, Chunyang Hall, and Chongyang Hall. Yongle Palace is a surviving masterpiece of Yuan Dynasty architecture, the largest Taoist temple in China, a model of ancient Chinese painting art, and one of the world's largest existing ancient mural art treasures. The *Court of the Celestial Realm* in the Sanqing Hall represents the pinnacle of group portrait composition in the history of world painting, a rare monumental work and a national treasure. The mural features 289 figures arranged in symmetrical ceremonial formations, with the Green Dragon and White Tiger deities on the south wall as the vanguard, followed by 28 main deities, including the Jade Emperor and the Queen Mother of the West. Surrounding them are the 28 Lunar Mansions, 12 Zodiac signs, and other celestial generals, unfolding across the mural. The warriors are brave and fierce, the guardians powerful and bold, and the jade maidens stand with heavenly grace. The entire composition is majestic in scale, with richly varied clothing and exquisitely flowing lines. [Awesome]

[Rose] In southern Shanxi, the winding Yellow River is like a flexible ribbon, winding and turning into the most gentle arc. In the gentle embrace of the Yellow River, a pavilion stands steadily, as if it had floated out of a poem or painting. When the steel jungle of modern society spreads like a tide and gradually swallows up the end of the horizon, this Tang-style building, proudly named after the stork, still stands firm on the loess plateau, maintaining its persistent gaze, like a watcher spanning thousands of years, turning the myriad emotions of the ancients who came here thousands of years ago into a touch of bright moonlight that never dissipates, sprinkling it in the hearts of everyone who comes to explore it. [Rose] Epic Scroll of Wood Structure [Rose] Each upright pillar is like a thick history book written vertically, quietly telling the story of the years. The rebuilt Stork Tower, with its majestic height of 73.9 meters, resolutely pierces the clouds, as if it wants to have a dialogue with the sky. The seven-layered eaves, stacked like wrinkles of time, hide the iron-blooded genes of the Northern Zhou Dynasty's guard towers, which are traces left by the turbulent years of war; they also hide the beautiful soul of the poetry of the prosperous Tang Dynasty, which was a romantic time when the talents of literati and poets burst out and poetry flowed. When you gently touch the dark brown mortise and tenon structure, your fingertips seem to be able to truly touch the exciting power of the trembling swords when Yuwen Hu built the city, and feel the rustling wind brought up by Wang Zhihuan's sleeves when he wrote. At the corner of the pavilion, a copper bell is hanging, swaying gently in the breeze. The clear sound of the bell seems to have traveled through the tunnel of time and space, and the majestic and powerful calls of the boatmen at the Yellow River ferry during the Kaiyuan period can still be heard today. The sounds are so pleasant to the ears that one feels as if they are at that bustling ancient ferry. [Rose] The Poetic Grammar of Mountains and Rivers [Rose] The undulating wrinkles of Zhongtiao Mountain are like rice paper that the earth has never had time to smooth out, carrying the vicissitudes and stories of the years. The surging Yellow River is freely writing its own cursive poems on the west side of the Stork Tower. Every day, many photographers bring their tripods and line up neatly on the four-story platform, waiting for the sunset with great anticipation. When the afterglow of the setting sun shines on the river, the entire river surface seems to be melted into liquid bronze, shining with golden light, which is magnificent. Five kilometers to the southeast, the Puzhindu Iron Ox stands quietly, and its mottled rust seems to hide countless unknown secrets. Once upon a time, they used their strong bodies to hold tight the floating bridge across the Yellow River, and witnessed countless Western merchant caravans with jingling camel bells passing by here in a hurry, embarking on the Silk Road full of unknowns and hopes. Today, they and the Guanjue Tower face each other from a distance, as if two old friends across time and space, together forming an important anchor point of the longitude and latitude of time and space, connecting the past and the present. [Rose] Poetic Dream Development [Rose] In the special exhibition of "Romance of the West Chamber" on the third floor, there seems to be a mysterious code of time and space hidden. The courtyard of Puji Temple, full of pear blossoms, is only seven miles away from here. The lingering love narrative in Yuan Zhen's works and the profound philosophical gaze in Wang Zhihuan's poems are wonderfully intertwined here, forming a strange and charming montage effect that makes people intoxicated. It is recommended to climb to the top of the Stork Tower at the time of Shen. At this time, dusk is slowly falling, and it is like a magical painter, outlining the ancient city wall of Puzhou, Kaiyuan Iron Ox, and Wulao Peak into an amber time capsule one by one. At this moment, all photographic equipment seems redundant, because only our pupils can truly contain this flowing epic beauty and let that gorgeous scene be engraved forever in the depths of our hearts. [Rose] A thoughtful guide to pilgrimage [Rose] If you also want to have an encounter with the Guanque Tower, you might as well take the high-speed rail to Yongji North Station and then transfer to the "Poetry Road Special Line" bus. In the scenery along the way, you can also appreciate the vast expanse of wheat waves and feel the vitality of nature. The afternoon of the Autumnal Equinox is a special moment, when the shadow of the building forms a perfect diagonal with the Puzhindu Ruins, creating a unique and wonderful picture. When you climb to the top observation deck, you can also see the "poetic telescope" there. Just scan the code, and the poems of literati and poets of all ages will float between the rivers and mountains, as if traveling through time and space to have a spiritual dialogue with the ancients. On the way back home, you may want to detour around the ancient city of Puzhou, and beside the collapsed city gate, listen quietly to the evening breeze and recite "He Yue Yingling Ji". Let the melodious wind and ancient poems draw a perfect end to your journey. [Rose] While modern elevators have gradually replaced the old wooden stairs, the obsession of "seeing from a thousand miles away" still runs hotly in our blood. This pavilion, which has been carefully resurrected in the 21st century, is by no means a simple concrete antique decoration. The sound of each climber's footsteps climbing the stairs seems like a beating note, completing a rhythmic antithesis that spans a thousand years, continuing the never-ending legendary poem of the Stork Tower.

After touring the Yongle Palace, the guide's explanation also included a visit to the Guangrenwang Temple and the City God Temple. The Guangrenwang Temple was originally built in 831 AD (the fifth year of the Taihe period of the Tang Dynasty). Facing south, it covers an area of 4,560 square meters. The temple includes a stage, side rooms, and a main hall, all enclosed within walls in a courtyard layout. The stage is three rooms wide and three rafters deep. The brackets on the column heads are simple in design. The central bracket features a dragon head emerging from the large bracket opening, with elephant trunks on either side. The brackets on the two adjacent rooms also have dragon heads emerging from the openings. The Guangrenwang Temple is small. Currently, only three Tang Dynasty wooden structures remain, all located in Shanxi Province. The Guangrenwang Temple is one of them, representing Tang Dynasty wooden architecture preserved to the present day. The Vanke Group generously funded seven million yuan to design and construct the surrounding area, adding historical exhibitions and intuitive models of the bracket structures. The enhanced surroundings make the Guangrenwang Temple even more appealing to modern young people. The Guangrenwang Temple is also known as the Five Dragon King Temple, dedicated to the Azure Dragon King. You can see iron nails on the outer walls, each shaped like a shrimp soldier or crab general, guarding and protecting their deity, similar to the crane-shaped nails at the Yongle Palace. The City God Temple, commonly known as the "South Temple," was built during the Dazhong Xiangfu period of the Song Dynasty (1008-1016). Its architecture epitomizes ancient Chinese architectural styles, showcasing grandeur, simplicity, and elegance, making it highly valuable for sightseeing. Here, you can appreciate the bold and unrestrained style of Yuan Dynasty architecture, the delicate beauty and decorative artistry of Song Dynasty architecture, the simple and powerful style of Ming Dynasty architecture, and the elaborate and ornate style of Qing Dynasty architecture. The murals in the City God Temple are also exquisite. The Four Heavenly Kings are depicted in dynamic poses, with flowing robes and powerful movements. The temple houses numerous stone inscriptions, including different versions of the Lanting Xu, which served as a key element in promoting moral education. The stone lions here are particularly elegant, reminiscent of Yuan Dynasty sculptures. I didn't have time to examine them closely, as I was quite hungry. Every year on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, the City God undergoes a ritual bathing and dressing ceremony before being paraded through the streets to bless the local people. This is a customary activity for the locals during the Lantern Festival.

| A Stunning Journey. From Taiyuan to Yuncheng | A Stunning Journey💕 Hey everyone👋, I've always been captivated by the ancient charm and modern vibe of Taiyuan, thinking it was the epitome of Shanxi's beauty. But when I set foot on Yuncheng, I realized Shanxi's beauty has another side, each frame captivating😍. 🌆City Impression: A Blend of History and Everyday Life Upon arriving in Yuncheng, the old town's streets felt like a time machine. Narrow alleys and ancient walls, weathered and worn, tell stories of millennia. Unlike Taiyuan's bustling skyscrapers, Yuncheng has a down-to-earth vibrancy. Street-side stalls with steaming local snacks, owners speaking in the local dialect, warmly greeting every passerby. This lively atmosphere instantly warmed my heart, taking me back to the familiar streets of my childhood. 🏞️Natural Beauty: A Masterpiece of Mountains and Rivers Yuncheng's natural scenery is a treasure trove. The murals of the Yongle Palace are renowned, but standing before them, the artistic impact is far beyond imagination. The painted deities seem ready to step out of the wall, their colors still vibrant after centuries. Compared to the painted sculptures of Jin Temple in Taiyuan, one painted, one sculpted, one ethereal, one solemn, each has its own unique charm. Then there's the Salt Lake, its palette-like surface shimmering under the sun. The wind creates ripples, and the salt crystals resemble winter frost, more unique than any waterscape I've seen in Taiyuan. Walking along the lake feels like stepping into a dream. 🍱A Culinary Feast: A Party for the Taste Buds Yuncheng also surprised me with its cuisine. Taiyuan is famous for its noodles, but Yuncheng's steamed buns are unique. Yuncheng baked buns, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, filled with braised meat and vegetables. One bite, and the flavors of wheat, meat, and vegetables blend perfectly, instantly surpassing ordinary fast food. And the Jiezhou mutton soup, with its rich broth and tender meat, paired with smooth vermicelli, warms you from the inside out. Compared to the rich and nourishing Taiyuan Tounao, it's a completely different but equally enticing flavor that I, a "foodie," couldn't resist. 🎉Yuncheng, you're like a book I can't put down, filled with both profound history and vibrant daily life. Coming from Taiyuan, I'm completely captivated. If you want to explore a different side of Shanxi's beauty, promise me you'll visit Yuncheng. It will surely exceed your expectations.

[Awesome] The Xihoudu site is the oldest Paleolithic site in China and also the earliest evidence of human use of fire in China. [Awesome] The Xihoudu site was discovered on an ancient terrace about 170 meters above the river level on the left bank of the middle reaches of the Yellow River. Cultural relics and animal fossils are concentrated in interlaced sand layers with an average thickness of about 1 meter. The animal fossils are mainly mammals, including giant beavers, saber-toothed elephants, flat-fronted elephants, and Bo's gazelles. Most of them are grassland animals, and there are also animals adapted to living in grasslands and forests, indicating that the Xihoudu area was a sparse forest-steppe environment at that time. [Chin] Game guide The Xihoudu ruins are not big and the ticket price is 30 yuan per person. There is a small museum on each side of the entrance, you can go and have a look. [Clapping] is a relatively small place, and most tourists come here to take photos. The general environment is khaki, and the photos taken make you feel like you are in Egypt. Friends who come to visit can bring beautiful clothes! [Clapping] The only place to eat nearby is Fenglingdu Town. There is a restaurant with big bowls of knife-cut noodles that I recommend. They taste very good.

In late autumn, when you walk into Yuncheng, the autumn colors and ancient buildings all over the city interweave to create a poetic picture. At dawn, I stepped into the Guandi Temple in Jiezhou. Between the red walls and black tiles, the statue of Guandi sat majestically, and the pine and cypress trees all over the hall added to the solemn and dignified atmosphere. Stroll to the Guangrenwang Temple, which stands quietly in the mountains, with golden ginkgo trees all over the courtyard and the thousand-year-old incense still lingering. When you come to Yongle Palace, the colors of the murals are still bright. The Taoist spirit has been flowing here for 800 years. The Taoist charm in the palace is so profound that people will stop and linger. Climb up the Feiyun Tower, feel the autumn breeze, and look into the distance to get a panoramic view of the outline of the ancient city. From the Stork Tower, the Yellow River meanders like a silk ribbon. At the Jiwang Temple, this ancient temple dedicated to the ancestor of farming appears peaceful and solemn in the autumn sun, and the weight of history is overwhelming. As the sun sets and the autumn breeze blows gently, Yuncheng's ancient charm blends with the autumn atmosphere, making people feel awe and recall the past and think about the present, which is unforgettable.

Family, this Yuncheng trip was so enjoyable, all thanks to this hotel! I have to recommend it to you all! 📍Amazing Location It's right in the bustling downtown area, surrounded by tons of great food. Just a short walk away, you can find authentic Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken), Yang Rou Pao Mo (mutton stew with bread), a carb lover's dream come true. It's also very close to attractions like the Jiezhou Guandi Temple and Yongle Palace, just a short taxi ride away, saving you time so you can visit more places. 🛏Super Comfortable Rooms The rooms are simple yet cozy, with soft, skin-friendly bedding that feels like lying on a cloud. The bathroom has a separate shower and the amenities are top-notch. The room has a fantastic view of Yuncheng's beautiful cityscape. In the morning, opening the curtains and letting the sunshine in is so relaxing. 💁‍♂️Excellent Service From the warm welcome at check-in to the helpful staff who assisted with planning our itinerary, everyone was incredibly patient. They also offer free luggage storage, so you can continue exploring even after checking out.

"I stepped into the Yongle Palace, and my mind was rippling among the murals." - This poem expresses that after the poet stepped into the Yongle Palace, he was deeply attracted by the exquisite murals, and his mind seemed to be rippling in the ocean of art. [Clapping] The murals of Yongle Palace are masterpieces of ancient Chinese murals. Located in Ruicheng, Shanxi Province, the Yongle Palace (also known as the Great Chunyang Wanshou Palace) has the highest artistic value in terms of its exquisite large-scale murals. It is not only an important masterpiece in the history of Chinese painting, but also a rare masterpiece in the history of world painting. The murals in Yongle Palace are a treasure of ancient Chinese painting art. [Clapping] The most famous mural, "Zhao Yuan Tu", was created by Ma Qi, the son of Ma Junxiang in the Yuan Dynasty, and others. The "Chao Yuan Tu" mural in the Sanqing Hall was painted by Ma Junxiang and others in the third year of Taiding (1325). It depicts the story of the gods paying homage to Yuanshi Tianzun. It is centered on the eight main statues of emperors and empresses, surrounded by 286 statues of golden boys, jade girls, stars, and strong men. The scene is broad and magnificent. The lines in the painting are round, powerful, bold and free, with a solid brushstroke and tight joints. The clothes, utensils and clouds of various textures are drawn without any sluggishness. The brushstrokes are done in one go, and there is no trace of starting or ending when the brush is hidden or turned. It shows the high achievement of traditional pure drawing art. It has become one of the must-copy models for learning traditional Chinese figure painting. [Clapping] Travel Tips 1. Be sure to hire a guide, it is really worth it, otherwise you won’t understand anything. The guide ticket is also purchased at the entrance for 80 yuan. 2. You are not allowed to take photos of the murals. In addition to the murals, the caisson in the Sanqing Hall is also very beautiful, so don't miss it.

Shanxi is known for its historical relics, and Yuncheng boasts "big names" like Yongle Palace and Guan Di Temple. But beyond these ancient structures, the Yuncheng Museum is also worth a visit 👀. The Yuncheng Museum houses a rich collection that vividly showcases Yuncheng's long history and profound cultural heritage. The museum also features a special exhibition on Hedong culture, offering an in-depth interpretation of the region's historical and cultural characteristics, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the area. Visiting the Yuncheng Museum not only allows you to admire a wealth of artifacts but also to experience the charm of history more directly through modern technology such as multimedia interactive devices and VR experiences. 💁🏻‍♀️P.S. There are also tons of free, beautiful stamps to collect. Remember to bring a notebook, or you can buy one at the gift shop ✌️. ▫️▫️▫️▫️ ⓘ ⓝ ⓕ ⓞ ▫️▫️▫️▫️ 🧩Name: Yuncheng Museum 📍Address: No. 1080 Weifeng Street, Yanhu District, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province 🈺️Hours: 9:00 am–5:00 pm, closed on Mondays

The Guandi Temple in Jiezhou, Yuncheng, is located to the north of the Salt Lake and faces the Zhongtiao Mountains. Founded in 589 AD, the ninth year of the Kaihuang reign of the Sui Dynasty, it is the largest existing palace-style Taoist building complex and martial arts temple, and is known as the "ancestor of Guan temples" and the "crown of martial arts temples." Guandi Temple is very big, with many attractions👀 👉Must-see contents include ✅ Qianlong's "Divine Bravery" ✅ Meridian Gate: a building with a hip roof, usually only the imperial palace has a Meridian Gate ✅ Bagua Caisson: carved with two dragons playing with a pearl, in the Imperial Library ✅ Chrysanthemum Caisson: the only one in the country, in the Spring and Autumn Building ✅ The only real statue of Guan Erye, on the second floor of the Spring and Autumn Building ps. It costs an additional 30 yuan to climb to the second floor of the Spring and Autumn Building. Cold light flashlights, amulets, and shoe covers will be distributed on site, which can be taken back. ▫️▫️▫️▫️ ⓘ ⓝ ⓕ ⓞ ▫️▫️▫️▫️ 🧩Name: Jiezhou Guandi Temple 📍Address: No. 145, Wuyi Road, Jiezhou Town, Yuncheng, Shanxi 🈺️Time: 08:00-18:00 (peak season 4/1-10/31) 09:00-17:00 (off-season 11/1-3/31) 💰Tickets: 60 yuan in peak season, 50 yuan in off-season

Located on Woyungang on the north bank of the Salt Lake, Chi God Temple in Yuncheng is backed by the Zhongtiao Mountains and overlooks the "Dead Sea of China." It is the only imperial temple in China dedicated to the god of the salt lake.​ Originally built in the Tang Dynasty, it was granted imperial seals and renovated by successive emperors due to the flourishing salt industry. The existing three main halls, Zouyan Tower, and other buildings are mostly relics of the Ming Dynasty, with 1,300 years of salt transportation history precipitated among the blue bricks and black tiles.​ 
The three main halls stand side by side in the temple. The middle hall enshrines the salt god "Lingqing Gong," while the left and right halls enshrine the sun god and the wind god, respectively, implicitly reflecting the natural wisdom that salt production requires "sunlight evaporation and wind regulation."​ The stone lions in front of the hall are naive and cute, and the carvings on the railings tell the story of the rise and fall of salt merchants. 
Climb the Haiguang Tower for a panoramic view of the salt lake👍.
The stele forest houses the Ming Dynasty stone inscription "Map of Hedong Salt Lake." You can also visit the Hedong Salt Lake Museum to unlock 4,000 years of salt-making technology.​ ▫️▫️▫️▫️ ⓘ ⓝ ⓕ ⓞ ▫️▫️▫️▫️ 🈺️Hours: 8:30am–5:30pm 🚇Transportation: Navigate to "Chi God Temple" by car, or take bus No. 21/88 to "Chi God Temple" station🚌 🎫Tickets: Free with a tourism annual pass🆓; currently half price during the off-season. Combined ticket for Chi God Temple + Chi Salt Museum + City Wall: CNY 39.9 for adults, CNY 19.9 for students

​[Fu] Guangrenwang Temple is one of the four existing Tang Dynasty wooden structures in China. The other three are Nanchan Temple, Foguang Temple, and the bell tower of Zhengding Kaiyuan Temple. It was built in 831, the fifth year of the Tang Dynasty's Dahe period. It enshrines the water god Guangrenwang and is also known as the Five Dragons Temple. ​🇨🇳Experience the five thousand years of China and inherit Chinese civilization.

Yuncheng | A Must-Visit: Yongle Palace Yongle Palace, an artistic treasure trove hidden in Yuncheng, Shanxi, is renowned for its world-famous Yuan Dynasty murals and ancient architectural style, attracting countless art and history enthusiasts. It is a sacred site of Taoist culture and a pinnacle of ancient Chinese mural art. 🌟 Stunning Murals 💁🏻‍♀️ Sanqing Hall Murals: The treasure of Yongle Palace, these murals depict a grand scene of nearly 300 Taoist deities paying homage to the Yuan. The characters have diverse expressions, their robes fluttering, and the colors remain vibrant even after a thousand years, making it a pinnacle of Yuan Dynasty mural art. 💁🏻‍♀️ Chunyang Hall Murals: The murals, themed around the life story of Lü Dongbin, use a comic strip format to depict the legend of "Lü Zu's Manifestation." The style is delicate, and the story is vivid, resembling ancient comic strips. 💁🏻‍♀️ Chongyang Hall Murals: These murals depict the missionary experiences of Wang Chongyang, the founder of the Quanzhen School. The murals are rich in content and exquisite in detail, showcasing the superb skills of Yuan Dynasty painters. The architectural layout of Yongle Palace is rigorous, with upturned eaves and carved beams, showcasing the unique style of Yuan Dynasty architecture, especially the glazed tiles on the roof, which shine brilliantly in the sunlight.

If you are interested in historical culture and art treasures, Yongle Palace in Yuncheng is a must-see place✨! 👀Admire the beauty of architecture Yongle Palace is a typical Yuan dynasty architectural style, with a spacious layout and magnificent momentum. The palace gate, Wuji Gate, Sanqing Hall, Chunyang Hall, and Chongyang Hall are arranged along the central axis in an orderly manner, and the simple and elegant appearance of the buildings shows the charm of time. 👀Enjoy the mural feast This is the essence of Yongle Palace👍. The "Chaoyuan Tu" in Sanqing Hall, with a total area of more than 400 square meters, depicts a grand scene of nearly 300 gods worshiping Yuanshi Tianzun. The murals in Chunyang Hall and Chongyang Hall are also wonderful. 👀Appreciate the cultural heritage As a Taoist holy place, Yongle Palace contains profound Taoist culture. Here, you can learn about the development history of Taoism, the system of gods, and related religious rituals and cultural connotations. ⚠️Notes for visiting: 1. Photography is strictly prohibited in the three halls📷, but there is a painting room with printed versions of Yongle Palace, where you can take a "substitute" photo😁. 2. Visitors need to wear shoe covers👢 when entering the halls to keep the floor clean and tidy and prevent damage to the floor.

Yuncheng is truly a treasure trove of a city, worthy of being the first city of national treasures. You can't see it all in one visit. You have to take your time to savor the details left behind by our ancestors. I went for two days this time and only visited Jishan, Wanrong, Ruicheng, and Jiezhou, leaving the other places for another time. ✅3-day, 2-night itinerary Day 1 Yuncheng Airport ➡️ Wanrong Feiyun Tower ➡️ Houtu Temple ➡️ Qiufeng Tower ➡️ Beixin Relic Pagoda ➡️ Li Family Courtyard ➡️ Yuncheng City Day 2 Yuncheng ➡️ Yongle Palace ➡️ Guangrenwang Temple ➡️ Ruicheng City God Temple ➡️ Yuncheng Day 3 Yuncheng ➡️ Jiezhou Guan Yu Temple ➡️ Chi God Temple ➡️ Yuncheng Museum ➡️ Yuncheng Airport The cultural relics in Yuncheng are a bit far apart, so if you're short on time, driving is the most convenient option. Picking up and returning a car at the airport is relatively convenient. There are now flights to Yuncheng from all over the country, and the tickets are not expensive. I highly recommend everyone to go and see it. Every ancient building is beautiful, and each one leaves you wanting more. I'll share a detailed guide for each spot later.

|Guangrenwang Temple, Forgotten by Time. Let me share a hidden gem in Shanxi that is both niche and charming—Guangrenwang Temple. 🌟 Highlights: 1. The beauty of Tang Dynasty architecture: Guangrenwang Temple is one of only four remaining wooden structures from the Tang Dynasty in China. The architectural style is simple and grand, with large dougong brackets and deep eaves. Every detail exudes the unique charm of Tang Dynasty architecture, as if transporting you back to the prosperous Tang era. 2. Historical and cultural heritage: The temple houses precious stone tablets from the Tang Dynasty, recording the history of the temple's construction. Through these inscriptions, you can gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural background of that time. 3. Tranquil atmosphere: This place is relatively niche, with few tourists and no hustle and bustle. Strolling through the temple, you can quietly feel the weight of history and enjoy a rare moment of tranquility and leisure. 📍 Address: Located within the ancient Wei City wall ruins, 4 km north of Ruicheng County, Shanxi Province. 🚗 Transportation: If you choose public transportation, you can first reach Ruicheng County and then take a taxi to Guangrenwang Temple. Self-driving is more recommended, as navigation is accurate, and there are parking spaces nearby, making it convenient and free.

| Guangrenwang Temple, a Hidden Ancient Building. If you are interested in ancient buildings, you must visit Guangrenwang Temple in Yuncheng! This low-key but extremely precious Tang Dynasty building hides the secrets of time. 📍 Address: Located in the ruins of the ancient Wei city wall, 4 km north of Ruicheng County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province. 🚗 Transportation: If you are driving, just navigate to "Guangrenwang Temple" directly, there is a parking lot nearby. If you are taking public transportation, you can go to Ruicheng County first, and then take a taxi. The distance from the county to Guangrenwang Temple is short, and it is also very convenient to take a taxi. 🕙 Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 🎫 Tickets: Free 🌟 Highlights: ✅ Tang Dynasty style: Guangrenwang Temple is one of the only four remaining wooden buildings of the Tang Dynasty in China. The main hall is simple and unadorned, with large brackets and deep eaves, full of Tang Dynasty architectural style, as if traveling back to a thousand years ago. ✅ Architectural details: The beam structure, door and window decorations of the main hall have a unique charm, and the carvings on the building are still exquisite despite the passage of time. ✅ Surrounding environment: The environment around the temple is quiet, and the historical atmosphere of the ancient Wei city ruins is strong, allowing you to feel the precipitation of history.

😜 Guys, the Yongle Palace is amazing! It was originally called the Great Chunyang Longevity Palace and is one of the first national key cultural relics protection units in China! 😲 It was built in 1247 AD and has a long history. From 1959 to 1965, the original Yongle Palace was moved from Yongle Town to the site of the ancient capital of the Western Zhou Dynasty, 2 km north of the county seat, for preservation. In addition to the famous murals, the architecture and stone carvings are also worth seeing, and the dragons next to the dougong are very distinctive! 🤩

Fu Shuo Sage Temple is located on a hill in the northeast of the county. To the north, you can overlook the remaining veins of Zhongtiao, and to the south, you can overlook the entire county, the Yellow River, and the Sanmen Gorge on the other side. Fengkou Mountain National Forest Health Base is located next to the 10,000-acre Pinus tabulaeformis forest in Fengkou Village, Zhangdian Town. There are large campsites among the jungle at the base. Standing on the observation deck next to the wind turbine, you can overlook the scenery of Yuncheng Salt Lake. It was rainy when we went, but it will definitely look particularly beautiful on a sunny day. You can also go to the nearby mountain along the wooden plank road, but because of the rain, the plank road was slippery, so I didn't go there. 🚗When going there, go to Zhongtiao Mountain in Buguan Town, and then follow the road on the top of the mountain to "Fengkou Liangdu". The return trip from Zhangdian takes the expressway, and the toll is 8 yuan.