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

#discoverchina One of the three great towers of Shanxi, Qiufeng Tower is a hidden gem with deep historical roots and poetic charm. 📍Location: Like many iconic towers tied to poetry and history, Qiufeng Tower sits by the water — specifically at the junction of the Yellow River and Fen River. At sunset, the views are nothing short of breathtaking — think “long river and falling sun” vibes 🌅 🏯 Architectural Highlights: Qiufeng Tower is 32.6 meters tall, with three main levels, a cruciform roof, and glazed tile decorations — grand and elegant. Although its original construction date is unknown, it was rebuilt multiple times due to Yellow River floods. The current structure dates to the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty. Look out for: 28 finely carved hanging columns on the lower levels — rich in detail and symmetry. 36 overhanging corners, each adorned with colorful glazed statues of military generals — fierce and majestic. Unique projecting eaves with turtle-shaped bases and petal-like rooflines on the first two floors. Dense dougong (bracket sets) that showcase incredible craftsmanship. The grand platform foundation, running east to west — with the east gate inscribed “Zhan Lu” (Gaze at Lu) and the west gate “Wang Qin” (Look toward Qin), referencing ancient political pathways. #thingstodo #travel

Located in Yanjing Village, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, the Li Family Courtyard is the private residence of Li Zi Yong, a wealthy merchant in southern Shanxi. Built during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, it's open to the public for free on working days, yet sees few visitors. Though less famous than the Qiao Family Courtyard, it boasts a size equivalent to 10 Qiao Family Courtyards. Designed as a vertical shaft-style, wealth-accumulating courtyard, it incorporates Huizhou architectural elements, blending northern and southern Chinese styles. Its brick, stone, wood, and iron decorations are particularly noteworthy.

Planning a 4-day trip to Yuncheng for the Qingming Festival holiday? Don't miss this custom tour guide to make your Yuncheng trip even more exciting! / 🌟 Why choose a custom tour: - [Ultimate Experience]: Pure travel without compromise, no shopping interruptions, full concierge service, hotel and car arrangements are all up to you! - [Time-saving and Worry-free]: One-on-one custom trip planner service, say goodbye to late-night itinerary planning, and depart with ease! - [In-depth Travel]: No group tours, no rushing on independent trips, immerse yourself in the local culture, and refuse to just scratch the surface! Choosing a custom tour means choosing quality and freedom!🌈✨ / 🎉 Itinerary: Day 1: In-depth tour of Guandi Temple A pilgrimage to Guandi Temple, immerse yourself in the ocean of history and culture, and feel the majesty and justice of Guan Yu. Day 2: An exploration tour of Wanrong Dongyue Temple and Feiyun Tower Wander through the ancient halls of Wanrong Dongyue Temple, look up at the magnificent Feiyun Tower, listen to the echoes of history, and experience the charm of ancient architecture. Day 3: A legendary encounter with Stork Tower and Pujiu Temple Ascend Stork Tower and enjoy the magnificent view of the Yellow River; step into Pujiu Temple, explore the love story in *Romance of the Western Chamber*, and feel the intertwining of romance and legend. Day 4: A journey into the folk customs of Li Family Courtyard and the mystery of Houtu Temple Stroll through the ancient courtyards of Li Family Courtyard and appreciate the folk customs of southern Shanxi; visit Houtu Temple, feel the mystery and solemnity of the Earth Mother, and bring a perfect end to your journey.🎈 / Come to Yuncheng, start your custom tour, experience unique local customs, and make every trip an unforgettable memory!

1⃣The things over there were so good that I felt nothing at all when I saw Yuan Gou in the end, my heart was as calm as still water. 2⃣The places are really too remote. Sometimes you can only see one attraction after driving on the national highway for more than an hour. You need to have expectations for the intensity of the trip. 3⃣ If you don’t have enough time, you can either drive yourself or charter a car or join a tour group. Taking public transportation is too unrealistic. ⭕️We stayed in Yuncheng, Linfen for four days. I had planned to visit many places, but I was limited by my physical strength and time. For example, Hou Tu Temple (I still had time to go on the third day, but I felt I didn’t have the energy to go back to Yuncheng), Yongle Palace (I originally planned to go on the fourth day, but I didn’t want to move after lying in the hotel. Fortunately, I had visited it a year ago, so I don’t regret it) 🔥The entire journey takes four days (the fourth day can be basically ignored) 1⃣At 10:18, we arrived at Linfen West, picked up the car and headed straight for Xiaoxitian. Seeing that it would take more than 50 kilometers to take the highway, we took the Linyan Line. There were a lot of large trucks in the first half of this road, so we must pay attention to safety. We took this route back again, and visited the Dongyue Temple in Pu County (very worth it), and also went to Fenshang Village which I accidentally saw when passing by (a pleasant surprise on the self-driving trip). 2⃣At 9 o'clock, we went to Dayun Temple to see the Iron Buddha Head, and then to Guangsheng Temple (the stay time seriously exceeded expectations, and the original plan to stay in Jishan did not come true). After a simple fast food meal in Hongdong County at around 2 o'clock, we rushed to Xinjiang. It was almost 6 o'clock when we finished visiting Fusheng Temple and Longxing Temple. Considering physical strength and time, we stayed in Xinjiang. 3⃣ Give up other attractions in Xinjiang, start from Baitai Temple, Dafo Temple, Jishan Jiwang Temple, Fawang Temple, Macun Brick Sculpture, Qinglong Temple one by one, and finally go to Wanrong Jiwang Temple and stay in Jishan. The attractions on this day are very close and not far apart, but most of them are country roads and village roads, so the time on the road is not short. What we saw at the tourist spots that day were basically a group of tourists. From the high-spirited people at the beginning to the people holding their waists and beating their legs at the end, you can imagine how intense the exercise was. In fact, it was just past 4 o'clock when we finished visiting the Wanrong Jiwang Temple, and we were fully qualified to go to the Houtu Temple. However, our energy was only enough to go there, not to go back. The accommodation there seemed to be a little worse, so we gave up and went back to Yuncheng directly. 4⃣ We didn’t go to Yongle Palace as originally planned. We visited Chishen Temple and Guanwang Temple in Yuncheng and returned to Xi’an early. ✅The total mileage of this trip is about 600 kilometers, and I almost never took the highway (only 24 hours on the highway). The total time on the road is about 11 hours, which means an average of 4 hours and 200 kilometers per day. Those who have self-driving plans can refer to this. I feel that it is very sunny and windy there these days. It is cold if I take off my coat, and stuffy with my coat on. It is easy to catch a cold if I am not careful. If I catch a cold, it will greatly affect my travel condition (don’t ask me how I know). The road conditions are generally good, but some village roads may be too wide, so you need to pay attention. Although Gaode often directs you to unnamed roads, it is generally reliable and can be trusted.

Wanrong Dongyue Temple is located in Jiedian Town, Wanrong County, Shanxi Province, China. It was listed as the third batch of national key cultural relics protection units in 1988. Wanrong Dongyue Temple was first built in the Tang Dynasty and rebuilt from the 28th year of Yuan Dynasty to the first year of Dading (1291-1297). It was renovated many times during the Jingtai, Tianshun, Wanli and Qing dynasties of the Ming Dynasty. The main existing buildings include Feiyun Tower, Wumen, Xiandian, Xiangting, Dongyue Emperor Hall, Yama Hall, etc. The whole building complex faces north and south, covers an area of ​​10,600 square meters, and is arranged in front of the central axis according to the layout regulations of early Chinese temples. The overall layout of Dongyue Temple is spacious and orderly. Among them, Feiyun Tower is the most magnificent and majestic in the whole temple, reflecting the superb level of ancient Chinese architectural skills. Feiyun Tower is 23.19 meters high. The plan is square, with three floors, four eaves, and a cross-shaped hip roof. There are porches on the second and third floors, and a porch on each side, forming a cross in plan. The Feiyun Tower has an ingenious structure, with four golden pillars standing at the four corners of the inner groove, reaching from the bottom floor to the top floor. Between the four pillars, multiple layers of beams such as lintel beams, span beams, floor beams, and interlaced beams are connected to form a huge square cylindrical frame, which serves as the backbone of the entire pavilion. The brackets under the eaves are densely packed, with nearly three hundred sets in total. Depending on their positions, the structures are different, with five, six, and seven steps. The heads include grasshopper heads, hemp leaf-shaped single clouds, dragon head styles, etc., and the arms include elephant trunk arms, zither-face arms, etc., which are like clustered clouds and combined with the upturned wing corners, greatly enhancing the artistic shape of the building. Feiyun Tower is unique in construction technology, structural mechanics and modeling art, and occupies a unique position in Chinese wooden architecture.

Qingming Festival is the perfect time for a spring outing! Don't miss this 6-day tour of Xi'an, Yuncheng, and Luoyang to experience the profound history and enjoy the beautiful spring scenery. -------------------- 🏃Itinerary at a Glance: Day 1: Feiyun Tower Scenic Area in Wanrong County -> Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River in Shanxi Explore the ancient Feiyun Tower and immerse yourself in history. Then, head to the magnificent Hukou Waterfall to witness the majestic beauty of the Yellow River. Day 2: Ganquan Grand Canyon -> Muslim Quarter Delve into the Ganquan Grand Canyon and marvel at the wonders of nature. In the evening, stroll through the Muslim Quarter and savor authentic Xi'an snacks. Day 3: Qinglong Temple -> Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Army) -> Datang Everbright City Visit the serene Qinglong Temple, then journey to the Terracotta Army to experience the grandeur of the Qin Dynasty. Finally, wander through Datang Everbright City and relive the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. Day 4: Hangu Pass Historical and Cultural Tourism Zone Step into the Hangu Pass Historical and Cultural Tourism Zone, trace the footsteps of history, and listen to ancient legends. Day 5: Laojun Mountain Scenic Area -> Yuncheng Salt Lake Climb Laojun Mountain and appreciate the charm of the Taoist holy land. Afterward, head to Yuncheng Salt Lake and enjoy the gifts of nature. Day 6: Return to Guangzhou Conclude your delightful northwestern journey and embark on your return trip filled with wonderful memories. 🛫 -------------------- Handy Tips: - Photo Spots 📸: Xi'an City Wall, Yuncheng Salt Lake, and Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang. Don't miss the night views and unique photo opportunities! - Local Customs and Culture 🎭: Experience the Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, Puju Opera in Yuncheng, and Hanfu parades in Luoyang to immerse yourself in the local culture. - Food Recommendations 🍜: Try the Rou Jia Mo (meat sandwich) in Xi'an, Dao Xiao Mian (knife-cut noodles) in Yuncheng, and beef soup in Luoyang. Don't miss these delicacies! - Souvenir Prices 🛍️: Xi'an handicrafts, Yuncheng snacks, and Luoyang peony-themed cultural and creative products. Remember to compare prices before purchasing. -------------------- 🎉Don't forget to like and save this post. Have a fantastic trip to Xi'an, Yuncheng, and Luoyang, and create lasting memories!

Located within the Dongyue Temple in Jiedian Town, Wanrong County, Feiyun Tower is an outstanding example of ancient Chinese pavilion-style architecture. Known as the "Southern Tower" alongside the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (the "Northern Pagoda"), it boasts a history spanning several centuries. Situated at the front of the central axis of Dongyue Temple, Feiyun Tower stands 23 meters tall, featuring a three-story, four-eaved exterior with a cross-hipped roof. Over 300 sets of densely arranged and beautifully shaped brackets adorn the tower, resembling clouds, hence the name "Feiyun" (Flying Cloud) Tower. Its vibrant red walls, yellow tiles, and upturned eaves, adorned with wind chimes, create a striking visual. Inside, exquisite wood carvings depict lifelike figures and mythical beasts. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, Feiyun Tower's construction technique is equally remarkable. Built without a single nail, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient craftsmen, remaining remarkably sturdy and resilient through the ages. ▫️▫️▫️▫️ ⓘ ⓝ ⓕ ⓞ ▫️▫️▫️▫️ 🧩Name: Wanrong Feiyun Tower Scenic Area (Dongyue Temple) 📍Address: Inside Dongyue Temple, Jiedian Town, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province 💰Tickets: 10 yuan 🈺️Hours: 8:00 am–5:30 pm

Known as the "First Wooden Tower of China," Wannianrong Feiyun Tower is a must-see historical landmark in Yuncheng, Shanxi. Located within the Dongyue Temple of Wanrong County, it was built during the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty and is one of the finest existing examples of pure wooden architecture in China. 🌟 Architectural Highlights Standing at 23.19 meters tall, Feiyun Tower features a unique "three visible, five hidden" layered structure, topped with a cross-hipped roof. Remarkably, the entire structure was built without a single nail, relying solely on intricate mortise and tenon joints. Four towering golden pillars rise from the base to the top floor, surrounded by densely packed brackets that resemble swirling clouds, giving the tower its name, "Feiyun" (Flying Cloud). 📷 Best Photo Spots Upon entering, the areas to the left and right offer the best vantage points for capturing panoramic views of Feiyun Tower. The roof, covered in yellow and green glazed tiles, shimmers brilliantly in the sunlight. The glazed warrior and animal figurines adorning the corners of the roof add a touch of unique charm. 🚌 Transportation • Bus: Take the 107 intercity bus to the Wanrong Tax Bureau stop, then walk 500 meters. • Car: Navigate to "Dongyue Temple, Wanrong County." Free parking is available at the site. ⏰ Hours: 08:00–17:30 💰 Tickets: CNY 10

The most eye-catching feature of Wanrong Dongyue Temple is the Feiyun Building. Known as the "First Wooden Building of China," this ancient structure, originally built during the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty, is one of the finest existing examples of pure wooden architecture in China. Standing 23.19m tall, Feiyun Building features a three-story exterior with a hidden two-story interior, topped with a cross-gabled hip-and-gable roof. Remarkably, the entire structure is built without a single nail, relying solely on intricate mortise and tenon joints. Inside, four towering golden pillars reach the top floor, surrounded by densely packed brackets shaped like clustered clouds, hence the name "Feiyun Building" (Flying Cloud Building). Its upturned eaves, glazed tile roof, and gleaming appearance under the sunlight make it a true masterpiece of ancient architecture. 📷 Photo Spots • Panoramic View: The best spots for capturing a panoramic view of Feiyun Building are on the left and right sides after entering the gate. The roof, covered in yellow and green glazed tiles, is truly magnificent in the sunlight. • Detailed Close-ups: The brackets and wood carvings of Feiyun Building are exquisite. Close-up shots of these details showcase the superb craftsmanship of this ancient structure. • Portrait Shots: With the ancient building as a backdrop, you can take stunning, atmospheric portraits that exude an ancient charm. P.S. Don't miss the free stamps at the cultural and creative store. They're gorgeous! 😭

Located in Ronghe Town, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, the Houtu Temple is nestled against the Emei Ridge and overlooks the Yellow River. It is the earliest sacrificial site for the "Earth God" in Chinese civilization and is known as the "Crown of Shrines within the Seas." Since the Yellow Emperor established an altar here for worship, nine emperors, including Emperor Wu of Han, Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, and Emperor Zhenzong of Song, have visited 24 times. Emperor Wu of Han even left behind the timeless masterpiece, "Autumn Wind Ode." The existing architectural complex covers an area of 25,000 square meters. A prominent feature is the Autumn Wind Tower, named after the stele inscribed with Emperor Wu of Han's "Autumn Wind Ode." This magnificent three-story, cross-shaped, hip-and-gable roofed structure houses the unique Pin-shaped Opera Stage. The "three carvings" art (wood carving/stone carving/colored glaze) is also exceptional. Along the central axis, you'll find the Mountain Gate → Five Tigers Hall → Offering Hall → Incense Pavilion → Main Hall. Cultural relics such as the Emperor Zhenzong Stele and the Yellow Emperor Sweeping the Ground Stele span thousands of years of history.

Located in Wanrong County, Shanxi Province, the Houtu Temple is the oldest shrine dedicated to the goddess Houtu, the Earth Mother, embodying the reverence and gratitude of the Chinese people for the earth. With its rich history and profound cultural heritage, it stands as a significant symbol of Yellow River culture and an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore Chinese civilization. Stepping into the Houtu Temple is like traveling through thousands of years. The most awe-inspiring structure is the Qiufeng Tower, soaring into the clouds, with the inscribed stele of "Ode to the Autumn Wind" hanging inside. Strolling along the temple grounds, ancient cypress trees reach for the sky, each whispering tales of bygone eras. The temple's architectural style is simple yet elegant, featuring flying eaves, carved beams, and painted rafters. Every detail showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Here, you can find tranquility and immerse yourself in the profound history and cultural charm.

Today, I'm sharing a treasure trove of history—Hou Tu Temple😎. Located in Wanrong County, Shanxi Province, it is the oldest temple dedicated to the goddess Hou Tu (Nuwa) in China, boasting titles such as "Crown of Temples" and "Origin of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing." Emperor Wu of Han visited and worshipped here six times, leaving behind many fascinating stories. Highlights abound✨. The Qiufeng Tower within the temple is unique in form and exquisite in structure. Inside, it houses a Yuan Dynasty-carved stele inscribed with Emperor Wu of Han's "Ode to the Autumn Wind," a truly precious artifact. The temple's architectural layout is meticulous, with imposing halls and superb craftsmanship in wood carving, stone carving, and glazed tiles. Every detail showcases the ancient artisans' exceptional skills. Exceptional photo opportunities📷. Shooting upwards from the front of Qiufeng Tower captures its majestic grandeur. The ancient cypress trees within the temple, with the mottled walls as a backdrop, offer instant vintage charm. Along the central axis of Hou Tu Temple, symmetrical compositions create breathtaking images.

Although the Qiufeng Tower is truly dazzling, and I initially visited the Houtu Temple to see it, I discovered that the Wanrong Houtu Temple itself is a remarkable place. It is the oldest temple in China dedicated to Houtu, the goddess of earth, and is known as the "Ancestral Shrine of China." Its history can be traced back 4,000 years, and from the Han Dynasty to the end of the Song Dynasty, eight emperors made 24 pilgrimages here. The temple is vast, covering an area of 25,335.62 square meters. It includes the main gate, a three-stage opera stage, the Hall of Offerings, the main hall, the Qiufeng Tower, and the East and West Five Tiger Halls, each with its own unique features. The S-shaped ceremonial path from the main gate to the temple gate is impressive. The 108 steps forming the yin and yang fish of the Taiji diagram are a bit of a climb, but considering the status of the Houtu Temple, it's like emulating the ancients by kowtowing 108 times to the goddess Houtu. The opera stage behind the temple gate has a rare "one front, two back" three-stage layout, the only remaining example of its kind in Chinese temples. It is said that during the temple fairs on March 18th and October 5th every year, the three stages host performances simultaneously, featuring Puju Opera, Qinqiang Opera, and Yuju Opera, respectively, catering to the theatrical needs of people from Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Henan provinces. On ordinary days, the area is exceptionally quiet, with the front stage serving as a passageway, demonstrating the stage's dual nature of activity and tranquility. The main hall is even more captivating. The four-tiered hollowed-out wood carvings above the main hall are not only rich in content but also exquisite in craftsmanship. It is said that the carpenters of southern Shanxi were highly skilled, traveling the world with their planes and ink rulers, working meticulously and never wasting a single piece of the employer's wood. After seeing the wood carvings in the main hall, I can only say that the ancients did not deceive us. Each tier features different content, yet the level of detail in the carvings remains consistent. The most spectacular is the first tier. It is said to be carved from a single piece of walnut wood, starting with twenty-four stories of filial piety, such as "Huang Xiang Warming the Bed," depicting harmonious family life and the peaceful existence of the people at that time. It is known as the wooden "Along the River During the Qingming Festival." The second tier depicts "Five Sons Achieving High Office" and "Many Children, Many Blessings." The third tier symbolizes "Joy on the Brows," while the fourth tier expresses "Good Fortune and Prosperity" through floral motifs. Although some parts have been damaged, the overall integrity remains remarkably good. In addition to the wood carvings, the Houtu Temple also boasts equally impressive brick carvings and ironwork. Just searching for these treasures within the temple is a delightful experience. For the craftsmen who built the Houtu Temple, this project was not just about the wages but also about respect for their faith. Perhaps we should thank the goddess Houtu, for it is thanks to her that such a rich collection of nationally protected cultural relics has been preserved. This is perhaps another way in which the goddess Houtu protects this land.

Wanrong Jiwang Temple, this mysterious and niche temple has a great origin. It is the only remaining Northern Song Dynasty hip-roofed building in China. Even Mr. Liang Sicheng tried to find it three times but missed it regretfully. It is definitely a "lost pearl in the ocean" in the architectural world😌. 👀Highlights ✅The main hall has a hip roof, single eaves and five ridges, which is solemn and majestic, with just the right slope, smooth lines, steady yet agile, and huge brackets stacked one on top of the other. They are not only the support of the building, but also show the superb skills and wisdom of the ancients. ✅ The Beamless Hall, the entire hall does not have a single beam, yet it has stood firmly for thousands of years. ✅A thousand-year-old bell, an ancient bell from the fourth year of Xuanhe in the Song Dynasty. Although it has gone through years, the sound of the bell is still loud. ✅Dragon Pillar: There is only one stone pillar with a dragon carved on it in the main hall, located on the left, and a wolfberry wood pillar on the right. Using relief techniques, the dragon's shape, expression, scales, claws, etc. are depicted in great detail, and the dragon's body is winding and lifelike.

Share a mysterious and niche treasure trove - Wanrong Jiwang Temple. The Jiwang Temple is located in Taizhao Village, Nanzhang Township, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province. The existing main hall was built in the first year of Tiansheng in the Northern Song Dynasty (1023) and is the only remaining Northern Song Dynasty hip-roofed building in China. This is an ancient building that Liang Sicheng missed despite searching for it three times. Now it exudes a unique historical charm in a low-key manner, and it is definitely worth a visit! The hip roof is one of the highest-level roof forms in traditional Chinese architecture. It is solemn and majestic. When you walk into the main hall, you will find that the main beams in the hall are divided into two sections, front and back, which are interlaced and hooked together. There is no usual main beam to support it. The locals call it the "beamless hall". This unique beam structure is ingenious and full of ancient wisdom. ▫️▫️▫️▫️ ⓘ ⓝ ⓕ ⓞ ▫️▫️▫️▫️ 📍Address: Taizhao Village, Nanzhang Township, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province 🚇Transportation: It is recommended to charter a car or drive by yourself🚗 💰Tickets: Free

How can I describe my first impression of Qiufeng Tower? I was speechless. It was so beautiful that I stared at it for a long time, reluctant to leave. I really envy those who can climb the tower! “Autumn winds rise, white clouds fly, grass and trees wither, geese fly south. Orchids are elegant, chrysanthemums are fragrant, I miss my beloved and can't forget her. Sailing boats on the Fen River, crossing the currents, raising white waves. Drums and flutes play, oarsmen sing, joy is extreme, sorrow abounds. Youth is fleeting, how can we resist old age?” Emperor Wu of Han wrote the famous "Autumn Wind Ode" after his only autumnal sacrifice to Houtu, while boating on the Fen River and feasting with his ministers. Perhaps the bleak autumn wind always evokes sadness. Even the revered Emperor Wu couldn't help but lament the fleeting nature of life and its regrets. But an emperor's regrets always carry more weight than those of ordinary people. Qiufeng Tower was built to preserve the two steles inscribed with the "Autumn Wind Ode." Qiufeng Tower is the centerpiece of the Wanrong Houtu Temple. The original construction date is unknown, but it first appeared in Ming Dynasty records. The existing structure is believed to have been relocated during the Qing Dynasty. Standing 32.6m tall, with three visible stories and five in total, it features a cross-gabled roof. From afar, its shape is intricate and complex, yet perfectly symmetrical, with a rare color scheme. Honestly, I can hardly believe that this ancient and vigorous structure was actually rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty. From its name to its structure, everything about this tower is intertwined with Emperor Wu of Han. The 28 hanging pillars represent the 28 generals of Emperor Wu's Yuntai. The 36 projecting eaves symbolize the 36 brothers of Wagang Village at the end of the Sui Dynasty. The 108 glazed warrior figures represent the 108 heroes of Liangshan. Like the Feiyun Tower, four central pillars reach the top of the tower, supporting the structure along with 32 wooden pillars arranged in a grid pattern. It also features intricate and varied brackets, but unlike the majestic Feiyun Tower, the upturned eaves of Qiufeng Tower feel lighter, as if suspended in mid-air by the wind. The wind-watching bird on the roof moves with the wind, perfectly complementing the Qiufeng Tower. If, at this moment, there were geese flying south, it would be a truly picturesque scene!

Li's Courtyard is known as the "Three Lotuses of Shanxi Merchants" together with Qiao's Courtyard and Wang's Courtyard. It is said that "Qiao's Courtyard is known for its reputation, Wang's Courtyard is known for its courtyard, and Li's Courtyard is known for its kindness." ‌ [Chin] What to see in Li Family Courtyard Li Family Courtyard has distinct characteristics, mainly reflected in its architectural style, sculpture art, cultural connotations and other aspects. [One] Unique architectural style Fusion of North and South: The overall building adopts a vertical shaft-type wealth-gathering courtyard design, which is a fusion of Shanxi traditional courtyard and Hui style architectural style. It has both the heaviness of northern dwellings and the delicacy of southern dwellings. For example, the simple and elegant white walls and tall horse-head walls draw on the architectural style of the Huizhou style, which complement the grandeur of the northern courtyards. Combination of Chinese and Western styles: Some courtyards adopt the Western "Gothic" architectural style, such as Li Daoxing's residence "Zimingtang" and "Yijinglou", which present the architectural features of "high", "pointed" and "straight". The building also restores Western-style furniture decorations such as European palace beds, Roman columns, fireplaces, etc., forming a unique combination of Chinese and Western styles. [Two] Exquisite carving craftsmanship The overall building is decorated with wood carvings, brick carvings, stone carvings and iron art. Among them, brick carving art is particularly worthy of mention. For example, the twelve-sided brick-carved screen wall and the Hundred Virtues Screen Wall are both very exquisite and outstanding works. [Three] Deep cultural connotations Jin Merchant Culture: Li Family Courtyard is an important representative of Jin Merchant Culture, recording the business history and rise and fall of the Li family. The Li family started from agriculture, gradually turned to business, and then to establishing industries. Its development process is a microcosm of the development of Shanxi merchants. By visiting various courtyards and ancestral halls, you can gain an in-depth understanding of the Shanxi merchants' business philosophy, management system, lifestyle, etc. Unique culture of kindness: Li Family Courtyard is famous for its culture of kindness, and the concept of kindness is reflected everywhere. From the huge "Good" character at the door, to the "Good" characters on the door couplets and plaques, to the Hundred Good Deeds Screen Wall and the Hall of Good Deeds, they all convey the Li family motto of "Goodness has no size, no amount, no end, goodness does not wait, and goodness does not seek rewards", and showcase the Li family's charitable deeds throughout the generations. [Chin] Tour Guide Static exhibitions are always boring, you can ask a guide to accompany you on the tour. The park is relatively large, but the best parts are in the south. Starting from the Merit Hall, you will enter various halls and have a good look at them. [Chin] Dining recommendations There are no places to eat in the area, so you can eat outside the scenic area. I recommend Wan Ke Yuan Restaurant. [Chin] About Trip Moments You can find Trip Moments after passing Baishan Screen Wall. There are many courtyards there, which is also the concentration point of Trip Moments.

You may want to know about the Li Family Courtyard in Yuncheng, Shanxi. Here is a travel guide to the Li Family Courtyard: Preparation - Documents: Bring your ID card, student ID, senior citizen card, and other valid documents for ticket discounts or identity verification. - Clothing: Choose appropriate clothing according to the season. Pay attention to sun protection in summer and keep warm in winter. - Other items: Prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella or raincoat, comfortable sneakers, etc. Transportation Guide - Self-driving: You can directly search for "Li Family Courtyard" on the navigation software. The courtyard provides a free parking lot and two slow charging piles. - Public transportation: First, arrive at Yuncheng City, then take a bus to Wanrong County from Yuncheng Bus Station, get off at the entrance of Li Family Courtyard, and then transfer to local transportation to the scenic area. Attraction Introduction - Architectural style: The overall style is a vertical well-shaped courtyard with a wealth-gathering design, integrating the Hui-style architectural style. Some courtyards present a "Gothic style," which is a model of the combination of Chinese and Western styles. - Carving art: There are a large number of exquisite brick carvings, stone carvings, wood carvings, and iron art decorations, showing the auspicious meanings of many children and blessings, and the inheritance of farming and reading in southern Shanxi. - Cultural heritage: There are many intangible cultural heritages with a long history in the courtyard, such as Wanrong paper-cutting, woodblock New Year pictures, etc. Tour Route - Essence tour route: You can first visit the main courtyard, appreciate the unique architectural style and exquisite carving art, then go to the private school and library to feel the cultural heritage of the Li family, and finally go to the farm tool courtyard to learn about the past farming culture. - In-depth tour route: If you have enough time, you can visit all the open courtyards, including some rooms displaying the history and life scenes of the Li family, to gain an in-depth understanding of the rise and fall of the Li family and their charitable deeds. Food Recommendations - Yuncheng Big Plate Chicken: It combines local characteristics, with tender chicken, soft potatoes, and wide noodles, with a rich flavor. - Wanrong Cold Noodles: It has a smooth taste, rich seasoning, and a sour and spicy taste, which is a local specialty snack. - Wenxi Boiled Cake: It has a crispy outer skin, soft filling, and a sweet but not greasy taste, which is a traditional famous snack in Yuncheng. Accommodation Arrangement - Nearby hotels: There are some budget hotels and homestays nearby, such as farmhouses near the Li Family Courtyard, with a comfortable environment and affordable prices, where you can also experience local rural life. - County accommodation: If you want to choose more types of accommodation and facilities, you can go to Wanrong County, where there are various star-rated hotels and budget hotels to choose from.

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.

One-day tour of Wanrong, Shanxi. Visit the Temple of the Queen of the Earth, built in the Han Dynasty, and Qiufeng Tower, where Emperor Wu of Han wrote poems. Visit the mansion of the richest man in southern Shanxi, the Li Family Courtyard. The first stop is the Temple of the Queen of the Earth, built in the Han Dynasty. It is the oldest temple in China for worshiping the land, with a history of more than 4,000 years. The main building from the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty is still preserved. Covering an area of 23,000 square meters, the temple has a sacrificial road, a mountain gate, a Qing Dynasty theater, a sacrificial hall, a main hall, Qiufeng Tower, and other buildings. The second stop is Feiyun Tower. Feiyun Tower is located in the Dongyue Temple in Wanrong County, Shanxi. It was built in the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty. The hundred-year-old wooden tower is known as the "First Wooden Tower in China." Enter the Dongyue Temple, and Feiyun Tower is in the center of the main gate, facing south. It is square in shape, 23.19 meters high, and has five floors. The third stop is the Li Family Courtyard. The Li Family Courtyard is located in Wanrong County, Yuncheng, Shanxi. It was built in the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty and was the residence of Li Ziyong, the richest man in southern Shanxi. To this day, the Li Family Courtyard still retains more than 280 rooms, as well as ancestral halls, gardens, workshops, stables, and other buildings. It takes several hours to walk around the courtyard.

| These 6 places made me redefine shock. After traveling for so many years, I rarely use "shocking" to describe a place. These 6 places in 2024 let me see what is truly amazing. ✅ Dongyang Lu's House - Baogai Suoluolian Sanju Colorful Spike Sheep Horn Lamp Walking into Lu's House is like traveling back to the prosperous family of ancient times. The goat horn lamp is a treasure that protects the house. The lamp is 4.5 meters high and weighs 250 kilograms. There are three large lamps made of sheepskin, silk and goat horns connected in the middle. There are 6 strings of 24 small goat horn lamps and bead basket lamps hanging on the outside, which are made of 400,000 colorful glass beads. It was included in the Guinness World Records. ✅Xiaoxitian - Ceiling with hanging sculptures The hanging sculptures of Xiaoxitian are distributed in the main hall, making full use of the limited space to create a three-dimensional, multi-layered Buddhist world. The production of the hanging sculptures took 12 years, and more than 1,030 lifelike colored sculptures were carefully created in a space of 217 square meters. The characters are lifelike, with different postures, densely packed yet orderly. Each statue is the result of the painstaking efforts of ancient craftsmen, and one cannot help but marvel at the greatness of art. ✅Guangsheng Temple - Feihong Tower The most exquisite and best preserved glazed tower in existence, the tower is decorated with rich glazed components and patterns, with bright colors and fine workmanship, reflecting the superb glazed craftsmanship. Even on a cloudy day (it was raining heavily when I went there), the glazed tower is still dazzling. ✅Wanrong Feiyun Building Feiyun Building has three floors on the outside, but actually has five floors on the inside. The whole building does not use a single nail, and all components are connected with mortise and tenon structures to ensure the stability of the building. The brackets of Feiyun Tower are intricate and exquisite, layered one on top of the other, as light and floating as clouds, or like a bird spreading its wings about to fly. Looking up, one cannot help but admire the architectural wisdom of the ancients. ✅Yongle Palace The murals of Yongle Palace are famous for their grand scale, exquisite craftsmanship and profound historical and cultural connotations, especially the "Chao Yuan Tu" in the Sanqing Hall, which is colorful and lifelike, showing the Taoist immortal system and is known as the "Oriental Art Gallery". ‼ ️Since taking photos is prohibited inside the temple, the photos are replicas of the Yuncheng Museum ✅Jilue Huanggong Temple in Chaozhou - Woodcarving Walking into the Jilue Huanggong Temple is like walking into a temple of woodcarving art. Beams, brackets, brackets... everywhere is full of exquisite wood carvings, figures, flowers and birds, landscapes, dazzling and overwhelming - Each of these 6 places brought me unparalleled shock. If you also love traveling and exploring the unknown, you might as well go to these places. I believe you will be impressed by their charm.

Located on West Street in Wanrong County, Wanrong Dongyue Temple is a national key cultural relic protection unit. The most famous part of Dongyue Temple is the Feiyun Tower, which is as famous as the Wooden Pagoda in Ying County and is known as the "First Wooden Tower in China." The construction date of Feiyun Tower is unknown, but it already existed during the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty. The existing tower was rebuilt in the 11th year of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. There are no Buddha statues in Feiyun Tower, and it is made of pure wood with mortise and tenon joints. It has three visible floors and five hidden floors, with a height of 23.19 meters and a cross-shaped hip roof. Four pillars reach the top of the tower, surrounded by 32 protective pillars, forming a nine-square grid in the shape of a chessboard. The entire tower has 32 eaves, resembling blooming petals under the blue sky. Upon closer inspection, there is a square hole at the bottom of the pillars, which serves two purposes: ventilation to keep the wood dry and moving the pillars to the right position. Additionally, the bases of the four pillars are of different heights, mainly because the pillars are not of the same length. Feiyun Tower is unique in terms of construction technology, structural mechanics, and artistic design, and holds a special place in ancient Chinese wooden architecture. For architecture students and enthusiasts of ancient architecture, this is a must-visit place for learning and exploration. In addition to Feiyun Tower, Dongyue Temple also includes the Wumen Gate, Xiandian Hall, Xiangting Pavilion, Zhengdian Hall, and Yanwang Hall, with nine temple steles from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. All of them are unique in style. Address: No. 8, West Street, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: Summer 8:30-18:00, Winter 9:00-17:00 Tickets: CNY 10 Transportation: Take bus No. 107 in Yuncheng City to Dongyue Temple.

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Wenxi Dongyue Temple, also known as Dai Temple or Taishan Temple, was built in an unknown year. It was already there when Fenyang County was established during the Zhenguan period of the Tang dynasty (627–649). Feiyun Tower in Wenxi Dongyue Temple was built during the Zhengde period of the Ming dynasty. It is a representative of Chinese all-wooden tower architecture and is known as the "First Wooden Tower in China." Together with the Shakyamuni Pagoda of Fogong Temple (Yingxian Wooden Pagoda in Shanxi), it is known as the "Southern Tower and Northern Pagoda." Feiyun Tower is magnificent and varied, with unique features in terms of construction technology, structural mechanics, and modeling art. It occupies a unique position in Chinese wooden architecture, reflecting the level of ancient Chinese architectural skills and having important historical value. Kudos to our ancestors!

🏮Feiyun Tower, known as the "First Wooden Building in China," is a twin gem of Chinese wooden architecture along with the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, known as the "Southern Tower and Northern Pagoda." It was born in the Tang Dynasty and has taken root in the Dongyue Temple in Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, like an immortal lighthouse in the long river of history.✨ 🏢The tower is about 23.19 meters high, making it a large-scale building among ancient towers. The entire structure is made of wood, with an astonishing 3,452 wooden components. The dougong (bracket sets) are ingeniously arranged, with 152 sets in three styles, distributed closely and in an orderly manner. They support each other to ensure the stability of the tower, while also resembling clouds, giving the tower a sense of dynamic beauty. This unique design perfectly embodies the fusion of traditional architectural mechanics and aesthetics.😮The three-story, four-eaved, cross-gabled roof structure is solemn and majestic, with the first and second floors extending outwards, creating a rich sense of layers and a strong sense of space, showcasing the exquisite architectural structure.🌟 🪵In terms of construction techniques, the mortise and tenon technique is used, without a single nail or rivet, skillfully joining numerous wooden components together, making it exceptionally sturdy. This technique is considered the pinnacle of ancient Chinese woodworking, fully demonstrating the ancient people's profound understanding and application of mechanical principles. Despite enduring thousands of years of wind, rain, earthquakes, and other natural disasters, it still stands tall, showcasing its exquisite craftsmanship and solid structure. It is an excellent physical example for studying ancient architectural techniques and structural mechanics, with extraordinary significance for inheriting and promoting traditional Chinese architectural culture.👏 🎭The tower's decoration is a masterpiece, with wooden carvings everywhere, covering a wide range of themes, including myths, historical stories, rare birds and animals, flowers, and plants. The carvings are finely detailed, with lifelike figures and vivid depictions of flowers, birds, fish, and insects. Each carving seems to tell ancient legends and cultural stories, carrying profound cultural connotations. The paintings are brightly colored, with red, yellow, and blue as the main colors, still vibrant after years, complementing the wooden carvings, making Feiyun Tower a cultural treasure that combines architectural, carving, and painting arts.🌈 👁️When you stand in front of Feiyun Tower, you will be amazed by its grandeur and exquisite craftsmanship. It is not just a building, but a three-dimensional history book, silently telling the story of a thousand years of historical changes and cultural inheritance.🤩

| The Ancestor of Agriculture. Ji King Temple was built to commemorate Hou Ji, the ancestor of agriculture. Hou Ji is the symbol of the God of Grains and the guardian of ancient agriculture. The history of Ji King Temple can be traced back to the Northern Song Dynasty, and the Wudian-style main hall is unique in China. The chiwen on both sides of the roof ridge is in the shape of a whole dragon, and the ridge in the middle is Lingxiao Hall, the residence of the Jade Emperor. The main hall is not supported by beams, so it is called the Beamless Hall. The stage was rebuilt during the Republic of China period, and its roof is a combination of various styles, with rough columns and paintings in the style of the Yuan Dynasty, and exquisite wood carvings. There is a big bell from the fourth year of the Xuanhe period of the Song Dynasty at the entrance of Wanrong, but it is not the original bell of Ji King Temple. The original bell was destroyed in 1958 during the Great Leap Forward. Wanrong Ji King Temple is not only the guardian of the God of Agriculture, but also a witness to history. Address: Taizhao Village, Wanrong County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Admission is free, but registration is required. Parking is available on the roadside in the village, which is very convenient.

|The source of Chinese ancestral culture. Wanrong Houtu Temple, located in Wanrong County, Shanxi Province, is the oldest temple in China that worships Houtu (Mother of the Earth). Its history can be traced back to the fourth year of Yuanding in the Han Dynasty (113 BC). Our Lady of Houtu is known as the oldest ancestor of China and the most respected god of the land. According to the inscription "Records of Temples Built in the Past Dynasties" and the "Puzhou Prefecture Chronicles" preserved in the temple, the ritual of offering sacrifices to Houtu existed during the Xuanyuan clan, and it was further established in the Han Dynasty. The emperor would come here to hold a big sacrifice every three years. . Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty visited the Wanrong Houtu Temple six times to offer sacrifices, and left behind the popular "Autumn Wind Ci". It was not until the Ming Dynasty that the rituals were moved to the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. The architecture in the temple is exquisite, and the main hall, dedication hall and stage are all of high quality. In particular, the unique "pin"-shaped stage layout and the inscription "Fenyin Two Saints Pei Fang Inscription" written by Emperor Zhenzong of the Song Dynasty personally demonstrate its profound historical heritage. The Autumn Wind Tower is located behind the main hall and is named after the inscription "Autumn Wind Ci" written by Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty. The building is 32.6 meters high. The lower part is a tall platform and a sweeping altar, which connects the east and west. The building has three floors and is surrounded by corridors. The brackets under the eaves have a simple and exquisite structure and a majestic shape. They are rare treasures among existing ancient buildings. Today, Houtu Temple has become the source of Chinese ancestral culture, and its profound historical and cultural connotations are gradually being discovered and cherished by the world. Tickets: 20 (free on the first and fifteenth day of the lunar month every month) Transportation: There are buses from Wanrong West Bus Station to Miaoqian Village where Houtu Temple is located, and some buses only go to Ronghe Town. If you drive by yourself, there is a large parking lot at the entrance of the scenic spot.

| This southern wooden tower is very special. In Wanrong County, Yuncheng, Shanxi, stands an ancient tower called Feiyun Tower. Built in the Tang Dynasty, this building is famous for its unique architectural style and long history. Feiyun Tower is a Yuan and Ming style building, with dense dougong and exquisite design, and is known as the "Southern Tower and Northern Pagoda" along with the Wooden Pagoda in Ying County. As a representative of the architectural complex in Dongyue Temple in Jiedian Town, Feiyun Tower is known as "Wanrong has a Jiedian Tower, half of which is inserted into the sky." The uniqueness of Feiyun Tower lies in its use of mortise and tenon structure, with the wood itself not covered with paint, showing the most authentic color. There are three layers of alternating light and dark inside the building, with four pillars reaching the top of the building, and 32 cypress trees around it supporting the entire building in a checkerboard pattern. When you come to Yuncheng, don't miss Feiyun Tower. This ancient building will bring you an unforgettable cultural journey, allowing you to appreciate the charm of ancient Chinese architecture and the weight of history. Tickets: 🎫 CNY 10 Address: Dongyue Temple, Wanrong County, Shanxi