Both Changzhi and Jincheng boast convenient high-speed rail connections to Taiyuan and Zhengzhou, facilitating seamless travel. Embarking on a journey through these ancient cities, one can immerse oneself in the grandeur of their architectural wonders.
Starting from Changzhi, one can explore the majestic Huaguan Taihangshan Grand Canyon and its Eight Springs Gorge. Meanwhile, Jincheng offers a captivating array of attractions, including the Lingchuan Wanglang Ridge, the fiery smithy displays of Situ Town, and the magnificent Ming and Qing era castles and fortresses such as Huangcheng Xiangfu, Tianguan Wangfu, Zhiji City, Dayang Ancient Town, and Xiangyu Castle.
Venturing further into the Taihang Mountains, one can encounter the awe-inspiring Hongqiqu Canal on the Henan side and the breathtaking Guoliang Hanging Wall Road. Additionally, Jiaozuo Yuntai Mountain offers another breathtaking destination.
Here’s a meticulously planned itinerary to help you navigate this fascinating journey:
Day 1: Departure from Jincheng
- Visit Qinglian Temple, Erxian Temple, Yuhuang Temple, and Xixi Erxian Temple, all boasting remarkable ancient architecture.
- Overnight in Gaoping.
Highlights include the excellent ancient architecture exhibition halls at Jincheng Museum, the life-size Yuan Dynasty 28 Constellations colorful sculptures at Yuhuang Temple, and the ever-bustling Xixi Erxian Temple.
Day 2: Departure from Gaoping
- Explore Xianweng Temple, Erlang Temple, Kaihua Temple, Chongqing Temple, Faxing Temple, Shangdang Gate, Chenghuang Temple, and Guanyintang.
- Overnight in Changzhi.
This day’s highlights include the Ming Dynasty murals at Xianweng Temple, the oldest known ancient stage (Jin Dynasty) at Erlang Temple, the Song Dynasty murals at Kaihua Temple, the exquisite Song Dynasty colored sculptures at Chongqing Temple, and the impressive 12 Bodhisattvas at Faxing Temple.
Day 3: Departure from Changzhi
- Visit Yuanqi Temple, Tiantai An, Dayun Chanyuan, Chunhua Temple, Fotou Temple, Huilong Temple, Longmen Temple, and return to Changzhi.
- Traverse the Zhuozhang River Valley, covering a roundtrip distance of 135 kilometers, and explore 8 ancient architectural sites.
Highlights of this day include the Song Dynasty Qinglong Tower and Tang Dynasty Sutra Pillars at Yuanqi Temple, the rare Tang Dynasty architecture at Tiantai An, the beautiful murals at Dayun Chanyuan, and the intriguing 24 Heavenly Kings murals at Fotou Temple.
Embark on this journey and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders of Shanxi, a province that offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking to delve into the past.
