6 Days Journey with Sun Wukong in Shanxi
Highlights
- A Complete Collection of Locations from 'Black Myth: Wukong' Exploring Ancient Shanxi Architectures and Retracing the Journey to the West
- Sacred Buddhist Site: Mount Wutai
- Artistic Treasure Trove: Yungang Grottoes
- Floating Temple in the Sky: Xuankong Temple
- First Gateway of China: Yanmen Pass
- One of the Three Most Miraculous Towers in the World: Ying County Wooden Pagoda
- Ancient Ming and Qing Dynasty Architecture: Pingyao Ancient City
- First Residential Mansion in China: Wang's Grand Courtyard
- Famous Scenic Spot in Shanxi: Jin Temple
- Unparalleled Suspended Sculptures: Little Western Heaven in Xi County
Quality Assurance
Throughout your trip, accommodation will be at local quasifourstar hotels, including one night at a folk inn in Pingyao and another night within the Mount Wutai scenic area.
Enjoy a hasslefree experience with our 24hour airport pickup service and dedicated butler service.
Professional Englishspeaking tour guides will eliminate any language barriers, and the tour will be led by experienced local drivers.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Taiyuan
FullDay Service in Taiyuan
24/7 Pickup Service:
Enjoy seamless airport or railway station pickup by a friendly driver, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure in Taiyuan, the capital of Shanxi Province. With over 2,500 years of history, Taiyuan is a city rich in culture and natural beauty, often described as "a strategic place connecting the four passes."
Recommended Activities During Free Time:
Shanxi Museum:
Explore innovative exhibits at this National FirstGrade Museum, showcasing the region's heritage.
China Coal Museum:
Discover the history of the coal industry through artifacts and documents at this national collection center. Taiyuan Food Street: Indulge in local snacks at this vibrant AAAlevel scenic area, perfect for culinary exploration.
Former Site of the Shanxi Military Governor's Mansion:
Step back in time at this historical site, now a museum dedicated to Shanxi's modern history.
Shuangta Temple:
Visit the impressive Twin Towers of Yongzhu Temple, the tallest ancient buildings in Taiyuan.
Fen River Park:
Stroll along the river and admire the HundredMeter Chinese Dragon, a symbol of Taiyuan and the Chinese nation.
Important Notes:
Activities during free time are selfarranged, and any issues are unrelated to the travel agency.
Clean rooms are typically available after 12:00 noon. Luggage storage is available if needed.
Guests will receive contact information for the tour guide and driver one day prior. Please ensure your phone is on and monitor for messages.
Dinner after arrival is selfarranged.
Get ready to explore the rich history and culture of Taiyuan!
Day 2: Explore the Sacred Beauty of Mount Wutai
Embark on an exhilarating 3.5hour drive (240 km) to Mount Wutai, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the five sacred Buddhist sites worldwide. Renowned as the premier among China's Four Great Buddhist Mountains, it promises a blend of spiritual depth and stunning scenery.
Highlights of Your Visit:
Nanshan Temple (30 min):
Marvel at its grand architecture and exquisite stone carvings. Unique among temples, Nanshan venerates not only the "Four Heavenly Kings" but also the "Two Guardians of Buddhism."
Youguo Temple (30 min):
Discover intricate carvings depicting Buddhist legends and Taoist motifs. Climb to the highest point for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Shuxiang Temple (30 min):
Immerse yourself in the dharma realm of Manjushri Bodhisattva and find peace at Wuyemiao (Wanfo Pavilion).
Xiantong Temple (1 hour):
Explore the oldest and largest temple on Mount Wutai, featuring the aweinspiring ThousandBowl Manjushri Bronze Statue and the heaviest bronze bell in the area.
Tayuan Temple (30 min):
Visit the iconic Great White Pagoda, a symbol of Mount Wutai, and
soak in the serene atmosphere of this sacred site. After a day of spiritual exploration and breathtaking vistas, check into your hotel for a welldeserved rest. Your journey through the heart of Buddhism awaits!
Day 3: A Journey Through Time Mount Wutai to Datong
Morning: Discover the Hanging Temple
After a delightful breakfast, set off on a scenic 2.5hour drive (150 km) to the Hanging Temple (Xuankong Temple), a breathtaking architectural wonder.
Explore the Hanging Temple (1.5 hours): Perched high on a cliff, this temple is over 1,500 years old and uniquely blends Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Its ingenious design and stunning views will leave you in awe.
Optional Boarding Fee: 100 yuan per person (at your own expense). Note: To preserve this ancient treasure, boarding is not recommended. If you wish to board, please secure tickets on the official Hanging Temple account. Tickets are released at 7:30 AM two days in advance, with a daily limit of 1,000.
Afternoon: Unveil the Mysteries of Yungang Grottoes
Next, continue to Datong (about 70 km, approximately 1.5 hours).
Yungang Grottoes Visit (1.5 hours): Step into a world of wonder at the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China’s Four Great Grottoes. Admire the exquisite carvings and sculptures that showcase the peak of Chinese Buddhist art from the 5th century.
Evening: Relax and Reflect
After a day filled with aweinspiring sights and rich cultural experiences, head to your hotel for checkin. Unwind and reflect on the incredible journey through history you’ve just embarked on!
Day 4: From Datong to Pingyao Exploring Historic Wonders
Morning: Visit the Majestic Ying County Wooden Pagoda
After a delicious breakfast, embark on a scenic 1hour drive (80 km) to
Ying County.
Ying County Wooden Pagoda Visit (1 hour): Discover the Sakyamuni Pagoda in Fogong Temple, one of the Three WorldFamous Towers alongside the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This architectural marvel is the oldest and tallest pure wooden pavilionstyle building in the world, housing revered Buddha tooth relics. In 2016, it was recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest wooden tower globally.
Midday: Journey to Yanmen Pass
Next, travel to Dai County (about 100 km, approximately 1.5 hours).
Explore Yanmen Pass (1 hour): Known as the "First of the Nine Important Passes," Yanmen Pass is a vital military defense point on the Great Wall and a historic battlefield. Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of this ancient site.
Afternoon: Arrival in Pingyao
Continue your journey to Pingyao (about 280 km, approximately 3 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind in this beautifully preserved ancient city, where history comes alive. Get ready for an enchanting exploration of China's past!
Day 5: Journey Through History in Pingyao
Morning: Xiaoxitian Temple Departure:
After breakfast, set off by car to Xiaoxitian Temple (200 km, approx. 2.5 hours).
Highlights:
Explore the remarkable Xiaoxitian Temple, renowned for its stunning overhanging sculptures.
Discover nearly 2,000 painted sculptures in the Great Buddha Hall, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Ming Dynasty. Afternoon: Wang's Grand Courtyard Next Stop: Travel to Wang's Grand Courtyard in Lingshi County (150 km, approx. 2 hours).
Experience:
Marvel at this Qing Dynasty residential masterpiece, often referred to as the Forbidden City of Shanxi.
Appreciate the intricate design featuring five alleys, five forts, and five ancestral halls, symbolizing auspicious animals.
Evening: Explore Pingyao Ancient City
Final Destination: Head to Pingyao Ancient City (50 km, approx. 1 hour) and check into your Ming and Qing dynastystyle guesthouse.
Evening Activities:
Wander the enchanting streets of Pingyao, beautifully lit at night. Discover unique shops and hidden gems, each with its own story.
Enjoy a drink and engage in lively conversations, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that feels like a journey through time.
Day 6: Exploring Pingyao and Jin Temple
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Morning: Discover Pingyao Ancient City
Visit Pingyao Ancient City (approx. 2.5 hours):
City Wall: Explore one of the bestpreserved ancient city walls in China, dating back to the Western Zhou Dynasty. Marvel at its construction techniques and craftsmanship.
Pingyao County Yamen: Discover the bestpreserved county yamen in China, showcasing ancient governance.
Rishengchang Draft Bank: Learn about the birthplace of the national banking industry and its innovative remittance system.
Mingqing Street: Stroll through this historical thoroughfare, where you can admire ancient residential houses and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere reminiscent of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Afternoon: Journey to Jin Temple
Travel back to Taiyuan (approx. 120 km, 2 hours).
Visit Jin Temple (approx. 1.5 hours):
Known as the "Little Jiangnan of Shanxi," this site features the Zhou Dynasty Cypress, Eternal Youth Spring, and Maidens Statues—the "Three Wonders of Jin Temple."
Explore the earliest existing royal sacrificial garden and ancestral temple of the Jin State, showcasing a rich architectural lineage from the Song to the Republic of China.
Admire painted sculptures, murals, and steles that exemplify Shanxi's cultural heritage.
Departure: After your visit, head to the airport or highspeed rail station based on your travel schedule (recommended departure after 18:00). If your timing is tight, consider extending your stay for one more night.
As you conclude your delightful journey through Shanxi, take with you the rich history and unforgettable experiences of this remarkable region!
Travel Tips:
Packing: Layered clothing, as weather can vary between cities and mountains.
Transport: Hire a local guide or driver for remote areas; public transport might not be reliable in rural Shanxi.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially at religious sites.
Souvenirs: Look for unique items like Pingyao paper-cuts or Shanxi vinegar.
Inclusions
Accommodation:
5 nights in standard 3-star or 4-star hotels (twin sharing).
Daily breakfast included.
Transportation:
Private vehicle for local sightseeing and transfers.
Airport or train station pick-up and drop-off services.
Meals:
Daily breakfast at hotels.
Tour Guide:
English-speaking local guide for all major sightseeing locations.
Exclusions
Meals:
Lunches and dinners (unless specified).
Snacks, beverages, and personal dining expenses.
Travel Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance for accidents, health, or loss.
Personal Expenses:
Souvenirs, laundry, and additional services at hotels.
Tips:
Gratuities for guides and drivers (optional, but appreciated).
Additional Activities:
Any optional tours or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary.
Flights:
International and domestic flights to and from Shanxi (unless requested as an add-on).
Visa Fees:
Cost for a Chinese tourist visa, if applicable.
Unscheduled Transport:
Additional transport beyond the planned itinerary
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