Shanxi Tours

Customized & Private Tours | Explore the Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, the Pingyao Ancient Town and More

Shanxi

Shanxi Province, located in the North China region and bordering the Yellow River, is renowned as one of the cradles of Chinese civilization with a history spanning over 3,000 years. Recently, Shanxi has gained additional attention due to its connection with the popular action role-playing game (RPG) “Black Myth: Wukong.”

The game features 36 real-world locations across China, with an impressive 27 of these situated in Shanxi Province. Some of the notable sites in Shanxi that have been highlighted in “Black Myth: Wukong” include the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Buddhist art dating back to the North Wei Dynasty; the Hanging Temple, a remarkable architectural feat built into a cliff; and the ancient city of Pingyao, which is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China and also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Whether you’re a gamer seeking to walk in the footsteps of the Monkey King or a traveler eager to delve into China’s ancient history, Shanxi offers an unparalleled experience.

Classic Shanxi Tours

Check out our most popular Shanxi tour packages in 2024 and start an unforgettable journey of discovery and indulgence.

4 Days Datong & Pingyao Tour

4 Days

"Datong, Pingyao"

6 Days Datong + Pingyao + Wutaishan Tour

6 Days

"Datong, Pingyao, Wutaishan"

4 Days Datong & Pingyao Tour

4 Days

"Datong, Pingyao"

6 Days Datong + Pingyao + Wutaishan Tour

6 Days

"Datong, Pingyao, Wutaishan"

Shanxi Tour Highlights

1 A Time Capsule of Ming and Qing Dynasties

Pingyao Ancient City, one of China’s finest preserved ancient metropolises and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1997, stands as a vibrant museum, vividly showcasing the urban blueprints, architectural marvels, and rich cultural heritage of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its ancient walls, sacred temples, and historic residences offer a captivating glimpse into China’s illustrious past, rendering it an indispensable destination for avid history aficionados.

2 The Art of Ancient Buddhism

Situated in the city of Datong, the Yungang Grottoes stand as another remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for their vast collection of more than 45,000 exquisite Buddhist carvings and statues. These magnificent artworks trace their origins back to the Northern Wei Dynasty, spanning from the years 386 to 557. The Yungang Grottoes serve not only as a profound reflection of the region’s rich religious heritage but also as an extraordinary showcase of ancient Chinese artistic brilliance and meticulous craftsmanship. Each sculpture and carving within these grottoes encapsulates the spiritual devotion and aesthetic prowess of a bygone era, making them an invaluable treasure for historians.

3 Sacred Peaks and Spiritual Sanctuary

Mount Wutai, renowned as one of the Four Sacred Mountains of Buddhism in China, stands as a spiritual haven that draws in both devout pilgrims and nature enthusiasts worldwide. This revered mountain boasts amazing views, ancient temples steeped in history, and a profound Buddhist cultural heritage, providing an unparalleled experience for individuals in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment as well as those who yearn for the splendor of natural beauty. The air is filled with the scent of incense and the echoes of mantras, creating an atmosphere that is both calming and invigorating.

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Shanxi Travel FAQs

“Great Customized Service”, “Trip of A Lifetime”, “Exceed All Expectations”

1.How many days should I spend in Datong Shanxi?

When planning a trip to Datong, Shanxi, it’s important to consider the wealth of historical and cultural sites the city has to offer. Here’s a suggested duration for your visit:

1-2 Days for Core Attractions: If you’re short on time, you can still experience the essence of Datong by focusing on its most famous sites. A full day at the Yungang Grottoes, which is a must-see with its impressive Buddhist sculptures, and another day to explore the city’s other historical landmarks such as the Huayan Temple and the Nine-Dragon Screen would be ideal.
3-4 Days for a Thorough Exploration: For a more in-depth experience, allocate three to four days. This will allow you to not only visit the Yungang Grottoes but also take a day trip to the Hanging Temple in Hunyuan County, which is famous for its unique cliff-side construction. You can also include a visit to the Datong Ancient City Wall and explore the local cuisine and culture within the city.
5+ Days for Extended Experience: If you have over five days, consider extending your trip to include nearby attractions such as Mount Wutai or even a trip to Pingyao Ancient City. This extended stay will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

2.What recommendations do you have for the natural scenery in Shanxi?

Shanxi Province boasts a variety of natural attractions, including:

Mount Wutai: A sacred Buddhist site and a place of natural beauty with five peaks and lush landscapes.
Hukou Waterfall: The largest waterfall on the Yellow River, best viewed during April-May and September-November.

Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon: A national forest park with scenic views, green rivers, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities like boat rides and cableway trips.

Mount Hengshan: Part of China’s Five Great Mountains, known for its cliffside temples and breathtaking views.
Yuncheng Salt Lake: Referred to as the Dead Sea of China, it’s famous for its colorful waters and offers experiences like salt-making history and mud baths.

These sites showcase Shanxi’s spiritual significance and natural wonders.

3.When is the best season to view Hukou Waterfall?

The best viewing seasons for Hukou Waterfall are divided into two periods:

Spring (April to May): This period coincides with the third month of the lunar calendar, known as the “March Peach Blossom Flood”. At this time, mountain peach blossoms are in full bloom all over the mountains, the ice cliffs on the shore begin to melt, and the water volume of the Yellow River is relatively large, forming a magnificent waterfall landscape.
Autumn (September to November): Just after the rainy season, many mountain springs and streams along the river gather a large amount of clear water, and rainbows often appear when the autumn wind blows. This period is called the “Hukou Autumn Wind”. In these two seasons, the water volume is large and stable, and the width of the waterfall can reach about a kilometer, which is the best time to view the waterfall.

4.Are Shanxi and Shaanxi the same?

No, Shanxi and Shaanxi are not the same. They are two distinct provinces in China, each with its own unique culture, geography, and historical significance.

Shanxi Province:

Located in the North China region.
Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, including the ancient city of Pingyao, the Yungang Grottoes, and Mount Wutai.
The province is famous for its coal mining industry and is often referred to as the “sea of coal” due to its abundant coal reserves.
The capital city is Taiyuan.

Shaanxi Province:

Located in the northwest region of China.
Home to the ancient capital city of Xi’an, which is a significant historical and cultural center with attractions such as the Terracotta Army, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the ancient city wall.
Known for its diverse landscapes, including the Qinling Mountains and the Loess Plateau.

The province is also famous for the Terracotta Army and the Silk Road’s starting point.

Private Tailor-made Shanxi Tours

Want to tour Shanxi with a tailor-made itinerary? No problem! Plan your Shanxi itinerary with guidance from us for FREE and ensure a memorable Shanxi trip!