Linfen, anciently known as “Pingyang”, is a city steeped in profound history and cultural heritage, serving as one of the crucial birthplaces of the Chinese nation and the cradle of Yellow River civilization. Beyond the majestic Hukou Waterfall along the Yellow River, it boasts numerous renowned cultural and historical sites such as the Hongtong Great Pagoda Tree, Guangsheng Temple, Xiaoxitian, and Yao Temple. For those who have visited Linfen, its national treasures will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
- Hukou Waterfall: The world’s largest yellow waterfall, renowned for its four wonders: smoke rising from the water, a colorful bridge reaching the heavens, thunder rumbling through ancient valleys, and dragons playing amidst the waves.
- Guangsheng Temple: Consisting of the Upper Temple, Lower Temple, and Water God Temple, it served as a filming location for the 1986 version of Journey to the West. The murals of the Water God Temple have even been incorporated into textbooks.
- Xiaoxitian: A tourist destination that integrates natural scenery with historical culture, particularly renowned for its Buddhist sculpture art. The grotto sculptures here are intricately crafted, colorful, and vividly showcase the artistic style of the mid-Ming Dynasty.
- Hongtong Great Pagoda Tree: Famous for its “immigration culture”, it is considered the ancestral roots of many overseas Chinese. The ancient pagoda tree, ancestral hall, and folk village within the park form a moving picture that showcases the Chinese nation’s sentiment of tracing their roots and ancestors.
- Su San Prison: The most intact ancient prison complex in China, it bears witness to the development of ancient Chinese judicial systems and provides a unique window for visitors to delve deeply into historical legal institutions.
- Jin State Museum: The first museum dedicated to Jin culture in China. The excavated chariot and horse pits are the largest discovered from the Shang and Zhou periods, containing 48 chariots and 105 horses, predating the chariot and horse pits of the Qin Shihuang Mausoleum by 600 years.
- Dingcun Site: A large human habitation site dating back to the late Neolithic Yangshao culture.
- Yunqiu Mountain: The ice caves of Yunqiu Mountain are considered one of the three frozen wonders of the world. The mountain also preserves 11 ancient villages with skillfully crafted caves, a rare sight.
- Yao Temple: The tomb of Emperor Yao of the Central States, it possesses immense historical value. Surrounded by exquisite natural scenery, it is an ideal destination for exploring the origins of Chinese civilization and commemorating ancient sages.
If you’re visiting Linfen, it is highly recommended to allocate three days for your exploration. On the first day, visit the Hukou Waterfall and Yunqiu Mountain. On the second day, explore the Guangsheng Temple, Xiaoxitian, and Dongyue Temple. And on the third day, immerse yourself in the Jin State Museum and Huangcheng Xiangfu. Remember, every journey begins with a departure, but in Linfen, it feels like coming home.
