Shanxi Discovery With Mount Wutai

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival, Datong

  When you arrive in Datong, an ancient city that served as a strategic military and economic center throughout various dynasties in Chinese history, your dedicated guide will greet you and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to prepare for the exploration awaiting.

  • Datong

• Day 2: Datong, Yungang Grottoes & Datong Ancient City Wall

  Your tour in Datong begins at the stunning Yungang Grottoes, a rock-cut architectural masterpiece housing over 50,000 well-preserved statues and sculptures from the 5th century.

  After appreciating this impressive labyrinth of Buddhist artistry, you will be enveloped in a sense of serenity temporarily at Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple, both with rich histories spanning over a millennium.

  Finally, approach the Datong Ancient City Wall, greeted by towering ramparts adorned with weathered battlements and watchtowers, bearing the scars of time like a badge of honor.

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  • Datong

• Day 3: Datong - Wutaishan, Mt. Hengshan & the Hanging Temple

  Depart Datong and drive southward for the famed Mount Hengshan, one of China's holiest Buddhist mountains featuring ancient temples, lush forests, and fantastic vistas.

  Ascending its majestic peaks, you'll be enchanted by a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Stop by the 1,500-year-old Hanging Temple, a marvel of engineering perched precariously on the cliffside. Marvel at its intricate architecture, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient builders.

  Another wonder beckon to you is the Wooden Pagoda in Yingxian County, the 67-meter architecture constructed entirely of wood without the use of any nails. After sightseeing, drive forward to your hotel close to Wutaishan (Mount Wutai) for the night.

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  • Wutaishan

• Day 4: Wutaishan - Taiyuan, Mount Wutai

  Start fresh in the morning to explore Mount Wutai, one of the Four Sacred Mountains in Chinese Buddhism. As you approach the mountain, you're greeted by lush forests blanketing its slopes. The mountain's serene ambiance is heightened by the chanting of monks and the fragrance of incense wafting through the air. Among the numerous highlights of the mountain is its rich tapestry of ancient temples and monasteries. You will not miss the masterpieces of Xiantong Temple, Pusading (Bodhisattva Summit) Temple, the Great White Pagoda in Tayuan Temple, and Wanfu Temple (Wuye Temple). Late in the day, about 4 hour's road journey will take you to Taiyuan. Check into your hotel and have a well-deserved rest.

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  • Taiyuan

• Day 5: Taiyuan - Pingyao, Jinci Temple & Qiao Family Compound

  This morning, explore the highlights of Taiyuan including Jinci Temple and Twin Pagoda Temple. The former is dedicated to the worship of the ancestors of the ancient Jin State, while the latter is famous for its twin pagodas, which are among the oldest surviving brick pagodas in China.

  Later, head south to Pingyao Ancient City and visit the Qiao Family Compound, a magnificent architectural complex that served as the ancestral home and stronghold of the Qiao clan, prominent merchants, and influential figures during the ancient Qing Dynasty.

  To find the stories behind and marvel at the complex’s grand courtyards, elegant halls, intricately carved wooden structures, and beautiful gardens.

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  • Pingyao

• Day 6: Pingyao Ancient City, Departure

  Stepping back in time to China's past at Pingyao Ancient City. Here, transport to the 19th century, when Rishengchang Exchange Shop stood as the first draft bank in Chinese history. Stroll along the Ming and Qing streets lined with traditional buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, and vendors there beckon with their wares, from handcrafted souvenirs to savory delicacies. Bid farewell to Pingyao, and then be transferred to the railway station for the train to your next destination.

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