Given the scattered nature of Shanxi’s attractions, it is advisable to commence with a two-day independent trip in Taiyuan, followed by a guided tour to neighboring cities departing from Taiyuan for greater convenience. Lodging in the vicinity of Yingze Hotel is recommended, as it is situated conveniently close to the railway station, tour departure points, and culinary hotspots.
It is worth noting that Shanxi’s afternoon sun can be intense, and thus, it is preferable to venture out after 4 pm, as most attractions close by 6 pm. Therefore, it is advisable to explore until noon, returning to the hotel or visiting indoor museums during the afternoon, and resuming exploration from 4 to 6 pm.
Day 1 could be spent arriving in Taiyuan via train, exploring the Shanxi Museum in the afternoon, and ending the day with a stroll through Zhonglou Street and Liu Alley.
On Day 2, one could visit Tianlong Mountain and Mengshan Mountain (if energy permits), followed by the Bronze Museum in the afternoon. The Jin Temple could be a stop at 4 pm, culminating in a visit to the Ancient City of Taiyuan.
Day 3 offers a choice of guided tours to neighboring cities, including a two-day trip to Wutai Mountain in Xinzhou, a one-day visit to Hukou Waterfall in Linfen, a one-day excursion to Yungang Grottoes in Datong, or a two-day adventure to Taihangshan Grand Canyon in Changzhi. Notably, the food at the Grand Canyon tour groups is exceptional, including a barbecue plaza, and the scenery at Qinglong Gorge is particularly stunning. However, visitors must choose between exploring Qinglong Gorge and engaging in river rafting as they cannot be done consecutively.
Visiting Hukou Waterfall, whether departing from Linfen or Taiyuan, tends to occur during the hottest and most sunny hours, making transportation via public means challenging. It is also worth mentioning that queuing for the悬空寺 (Hanging Temple) can take at least two hours, but crowds tend to be thinner around noon.
From the depths of Shanxi’s rich history and culture to its captivating natural landscapes, this tailored itinerary promises an enriching and memorable experience. #ShanxiTravel #TaiyuanTravel
