[2025 Lin County Attraction] Travel Guide for Ancient Qikou Town (Updated Mar)

In the ancient land of Shanxi, time is like a gentle painter, leaving countless treasures behind. Authentic villages and ancient buildings are scattered like pearls across the land, having withstood the test of time for hundreds or even thousands of years. ✔️Qikou Ancient Town Located in Linxian County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province, Qikou Ancient Town is situated on the banks of the Yellow River and was once an important birthplace of Jin merchants. The ancient town is built along the mountains and rivers, with buildings arranged in an orderly manner, as if telling the story of its past prosperity. Strolling along the bluestone road, you can feel the simplicity and tranquility, as if you have traveled back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. ✔️Lijiashan Village Lijiashan Village, located next to Qikou Ancient Town, is an authentic Ming and Qing village. The residential buildings here vary in shape, from luxurious Qing dynasty residences to ordinary cave dwellings, and have existed silently on the land of Shanxi for hundreds of years. Standing at a high point and looking out, the mountains and buildings blend perfectly, with rows of cave dwellings stacked layer upon layer, creating a magnificent scene. This is also the "paradise" depicted by the painter Wu Guanzhong. Walking into Lijiashan Village is like stepping into an ink painting, making it hard to leave. ✔️Fencheng Ancient Architecture Complex "Golden Xiangling, Silver Taiping," the ancient buildings of Fencheng. Fencheng Town is located in Xiangfen County, Linfen City, and was formerly known as Taiping County, with a history dating back to the Tang dynasty. There are currently 12 sites and over 40 buildings from the Jin to Qing dynasties. The entire architectural complex is centered around the Drum Tower, with precious buildings such as the City God Temple, Confucian Temple, and Minglun Temple arranged in sequence. Here, you can stroll through the "cluster" of ancient buildings and encounter the accumulation of thousands of years of history. In Shanxi, time seems to slow down, and the traces of the years are particularly moving. When you slow down and take the time to appreciate the ancient architectural relics that have been gently treated by time, you will deeply understand the preciousness of Shanxi.

Here's a guide to QiKou Ancient Town: Attractions • Ancient Town Core Area: Starting from the visitor center, first visit the "QiKou Memory" Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. Then head to the Black Dragon Temple, a key attraction built during the Ming Dynasty, offering panoramic views of the ancient town and the Yellow River. Stroll along Ming and Qing Street, browsing the numerous shops and businesses, paying special attention to the "Pawn Shop" and "Shiyi Escort Agency." • Surrounding Ancient Villages: Xiwang Village, a Ming and Qing "mansion village" located near QiKou Ancient Town, features maze-like alleys, stone-paved roads, and layered cave dwellings. The cave dwellings of LiJiaShan are distributed in a "pyramid" shape, a spectacle described by Wu Guanzhong as a "Han Tomb," with panoramic views from the mountaintop. • Yellow River Experiences: At the QiKou Ancient Town pier, take a speedboat tour along the Yellow River or enjoy a camel ride and photo opportunity. Visit the Yellow River Gallery, take a boat tour to admire the natural rock paintings, or head to Qilin Beach to collect Yellow River stones, play in the water and sand, and enjoy the sunset silhouettes. Food Recommendations • Local Snacks: Bowl-held buckwheat noodles with minced pork, sour and spicy; QiKou meat-filled pancakes, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside; red date fermented rice, warm and sweet; and Hong Yin Yin biscuits, a traditional local pastry. • Yellow River Delicacies: Yellow River carp, a local specialty, is stewed with red dates and Yellow River water, resulting in tender and flavorful fish. Accommodation • Cave Dwellings: Experience traditional heated brick beds and stargazing windows at guesthouses like "Yellow River Inn," falling asleep to the sounds of the Yellow River. • Riverside Inns: Enjoy views of the Yellow River from your window and watch fishermen casting their nets in the morning. Activities • Folk Culture: Check out local folk performances, such as suona music and paper-cutting displays, to experience the local culture. • Cultural Experiences: Visit the Ancient Weapons Museum and the QiKou Folklore Museum to delve deeper into the town's history, culture, and folk customs.

#favouriteitinerary During a past visit to Qikou Ancient Town, located in Lin County, Shanxi Province, I was enchanted by its historical significance along the banks of the Yellow River. Once a significant hub for Shanxi merchants, Qikou offers free entry. The Heilong Temple Theater Stage, a Qing Dynasty stage, offers views of the Yellow River and Qingshui River. The Li Family Mountain Village, described by artist Wu Guanzhong, features Ming Dynasty cave dwellings arranged like pyramids. Following an old shepherd around 72 twists and turns, I sat under a jujube tree sketching while a local lady insisted on giving me freshly picked jujubes. Floating through the "Ten-mile Gallery" on a sheepskin raft, I marveled at cliff formations and spotted the iron ring used by the Red Army. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone paths. Qikou Ancient Town's historical charm and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination. 🌿😊

#favouriteitinerary 📍 Qikou Ancient Town: Located in Lin County, Shanxi Province, along the banks of the Yellow River, Qikou Ancient Town was once a significant hub for Shanxi merchants. 🎫 Tickets: Free entry 🏮Must-Visit Attractions: 🔹 Heilong Temple Theater Stage: Stand on the Qing Dynasty theater stage and overlook the confluence of the Yellow River and the Qingshui River. The name "Wohu Dragon Temple" suddenly makes sense. 🔹 Li Family Mountain Village: As described by artist Wu Guanzhong, this "Han Tomb" village features Ming Dynasty cave dwellings arranged like pyramids. Follow an old shepherd around 72 twists and turns, and sit under a jujube tree sketching. A local lady insists on giving you freshly picked jujubes: "They're sweet, more genuine than those with additives from the city!" 🔹 Yellow River Earth Forest: Float through the "Ten-mile Gallery" on a sheepskin raft, marveling at water-eroded cliff formations like "Dharma Facing the Wall" and "Peacock Spreading its Tail." Boatman Lao Chen suddenly points out: "Look! The iron ring used by the Red Army when they crossed eastward is still there!" Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone paths. Enjoy your journey through the historical charm and cultural richness of Qikou Ancient Town! 🏯🌿😊

🌈Attraction Highlights: • Qikou Ancient Town: Known as the "First Town on the Nine-Bend Yellow River," it was a commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Every brick and tile exudes a sense of history, especially the rope marks on the hitching posts, which seem to tell the glorious stories of the Jin merchants' camel caravans. • Black Dragon Temple: Located next to the ancient town, its towering stage offers a panoramic view of the confluence of the Yellow River and the Qiushui River, showcasing the magnificent scenery of the "Crouching Tiger Dragon Temple." • Li Family Mountain Village: Known as the "Tomb of the Han Dynasty" village depicted by Wu Guanzhong, the Ming Dynasty cave dwellings are scattered in a picturesque manner, resembling a magnificent pyramid. • Yellow River Gallery: Take a sheepskin raft down the river and admire the water-eroded cliff wonders such as "Bodhidharma Facing the Wall" and "Peacock Spreading its Tail," experiencing the grandeur and mystery of the Yellow River. • Zhaizi Mountain Earth Forest: The unique earth forest landscape, shrouded in mist at dawn, resembles an alien world and is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 🚗Transportation: • Self-driving: It takes about 3 hours to drive from Taiyuan to Qikou Ancient Town. The scenery along the way is picturesque, making it an ideal choice for a road trip. • Public transportation: You can also take a long-distance bus or train to Lüliang City, and then transfer to local transportation to reach the ancient town. 🚩Queues: • The attractions in the ancient town are scattered, and there are relatively few tourists, so there is no need to worry about queuing. However, it is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance and arrange your time reasonably. 👍️Recommended Reasons: • Qikou Ancient Town is an excellent place to experience Jin merchant culture and the charm of the Yellow River. The ancient town is well-preserved and has a rich historical atmosphere. • The cave dwellings of Li Family Mountain Village and the unique landforms of the Yellow River Gallery make you feel like you are in a vivid historical scroll. • The food is rich and diverse, with local specialties such as saozi wantuo, Yellow River catfish, and red date fermented rice wine leaving a lasting impression. 📅Tour Guide: Day 1: • Morning: Arrive at Qikou Ancient Town, check in to Qikou Inn, and experience the tranquility and simplicity of the ancient town. • Afternoon: Visit the Black Dragon Temple, overlooking the confluence of the Yellow River and the Qiushui River, and admire the magnificent scenery. Then head to West Bay Village to explore the maze-like alleys and experience the charm of the ancient village. Day 2: • Morning: Go to Li Family Mountain Village, follow the footsteps of the shepherd, visit the Ming Dynasty cave dwellings, and experience the tranquility and beauty of rural life. • Afternoon: Take a sheepskin raft down the Yellow River Gallery and admire the unique landforms and magnificent scenery along the way. In the evening, go to Qilintan to pick up Yellow River stones and experience the wonders of nature. Day 3: • Morning: Climb Zhaizi Mountain Earth Forest and admire the unique earth forest landscape and the mist-shrouded scenery at dawn. • Afternoon: Visit the Qikou Folk Customs Museum to learn about the history and culture of the ancient town. Stroll through the ancient town in the evening and admire the moment when hundreds of paper lanterns light up, experiencing the tranquility and warmth of the ancient town. 🍜Food Guide: • Saozi Wantuo: Taste the authentic saozi wantuo at the century-old restaurant "Xiang Yuan Long." It is sour, spicy, and refreshing, leaving a lasting impression. • Yellow River Catfish: Freshly caught and cooked iron pot stewed Yellow River catfish, the fish is tender and the soup is rich, paired with golden fried oil cakes, it is incredibly delicious. • Red Date Fermented Rice Wine: The secret recipe of the old man carrying a pole at the ancient ferry crossing, the aroma of fermented wine mixed with the sweetness of Yellow River beach dates, warms the stomach and the heart. 🏨Accommodation Guide: • Qikou Inn: Located in the ancient town, with a simple and elegant environment and attentive service, it is an excellent choice for experiencing the charm of the ancient town. 💗Other Tips: • There are many bluestone roads in the ancient town, which may not be convenient for rolling suitcases. It is recommended to pack light. • During the Jujube Flower Festival in May, the town is filled with sweet fragrance, making it one of the best times to visit. In October, the red dates hanging on the branches like lanterns are also a must-see.

Winter vacation is coming! Want to travel around Shanxi and Shaanxi? This 12-day travel guide to Mount Wutai will take you to both places, so don’t miss it! 🎉 -------------------- 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Shanghai and arrive in Sanmenxia or Luoyang. Day 2-3: In Sanmenxia, ​​then go to Yuncheng to visit Puji Temple, Guanque Tower and Jiezhou Guandi Temple. Then head to Yunqiu Mountain and Hukou Waterfall. Day 4-5: Depart from Hukou Waterfall, visit Yucha Grand Canyon, then go to Jingbian, and then to Qikou Ancient Town. Day 6-7: After visiting the ancient town of Qikou, go to Wang Family Courtyard and Pingyao, then to Daixian and Datong. Day 8: Visit the Hanging Temple in Datong, then head to Mount Wutai and arrive in Xinzhou in the evening. Day 9-10: Depart from Xinzhou, visit Wuxiang and Pingshun, then head to Taihang Mountains and finally arrive in Jincheng. Day 11: After visiting Jincheng, head to Yangcheng and finally arrive in Zhengzhou. Day 12: End the pleasant journey and return to Shanghai. -------------------- Must-visit attractions: 🌟 Yungang Grottoes 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍Address: No. 1, Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: November 1, 2024-June 16, 2025 08:30-16:30 🕰️Visiting time: 3-4 hours Yungang Grottoes integrates the artistic characteristics of ancient seals, the Western Regions and the Central Plains, and is a close combination of history and art. 🌟 Pingyao Ancient City 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍Address: Kangning Road, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: open all day 🕰️Visit duration: 1-2 days Pingyao Ancient City has a strong Shanxi merchant culture. The ancient city at night is even more charming, as if traveling through time and space back to the bustling ancient market. 🌟 Hukou Waterfall Tourist Area of ​​the Yellow River in Shanxi 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍Address: Yanhu Road, Hukou Town, Ji County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: November 1, 2024-March 31, 2025 08:00-17:00 🕰️Visit duration: 2-3 hours Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River, the rolling river water falls from the sky, the sound of the slapping is like thunder, shocking the heart. 🌟 Jinci Museum 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 ??Address: At the foot of Hengshan Mountain, southeast of Hunyuan County, Datong City ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-17:00, January 29-March 31 🕰️Visiting time: 2-4 hours Jinci Museum houses the three treasures of the Jin Dynasty ancestral temple, among which the four-beam and eight-pillar maid statues are particularly exquisite and should not be missed. 🌟 Hanging Temple 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 ??Address: At the foot of Hengshan Mountain, southeast suburb of Hunyuan County, Datong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00-16:00, January 24-February 28 🕰️Visiting time: 1-2 hours The Hanging Temple, a thousand-year-old temple, stands on the cliff, with well-arranged buildings and is extremely spectacular. It is a close combination of Buddhist architecture and nature. -------------------- Travel preparation: 👕 **Clothing**: Shanxi and Shaanxi have a big temperature difference between morning and evening, and Mount Wutai is even colder. Remember to bring down jackets, thermal underwear, and windproof jackets to keep you warm in the cold wind. 👟 **Shoe selection**: Travel shoes and hiking shoes are preferred. Mount Wutai has many steps, and good shoes will allow you to easily reach the top and enjoy the beautiful scenery. 🎒 **Carry-on backpack**: A must-have for hiking in Mount Wutai. It can easily carry your water bottle, snacks and camera to record beautiful moments at any time. 📙 **Have complete documents**: Don’t forget to bring your ID card, student ID and other special documents, you can save a lot of money on tickets! 💊 **Always-prepared medicines**: Carry cold medicine and gastrointestinal medicine with you. The climate in Wutai Mountain is changeable, so be prepared. 🕶️ **Sunscreen and rain protection**: Whether it is sunny or rainy, sunscreen and umbrella are essential, so you can have fun without fear of the scorching sun and raindrops! -------------------- The trip to Mount Wutai was filled with Buddha’s light, which cleansed my soul. I look forward to the next pilgrimage! 🙏✨

"When the ferry swirled through the muddy waves, the cave dwellings on the opposite bank looked like beehives growing out of the mountain - I knew I had really entered a time capsule this time!" Qikou Ancient Town, known as the "First Town of the Yellow River" during the Ming and Qing dynasties, even has horse hitching posts with rope marks that tell the glorious memories of Shanxi merchants' camel caravans. 🗺️Time travel route: Day 1: Check in at Qikou Inn → Listen to the waves at Heilong Temple → Explore the maze alleys of Xiwancun Village Day 2: Sketch at Lijiashan Village → Take a boat ride on the Yellow River Gallery → Collect Yellow River stones at Qilintan Beach Day 3: Visit the Zhaizishan Earth Forest → Qikou Folk Museum → Stargaze at the ancient town at night 🏯Living history books: ▫️Heilong Temple Stage: Standing on the Qing Dynasty stage overlooking the passionate embrace of the Yellow River and Jiushui River, I suddenly understood the deep meaning of "Wohu Longmiao" (Crouching Tiger Dragon Temple). The temple keeper handed me a telescope: "Look at Shaanxi on the other side, no need for a microphone to sing opera!" I tried shouting in the Shanxi dialect, and there was an echo bouncing back to my chest🎤. ▫️Lijiashan Village: The "Han Tomb" village depicted by Wu Guanzhong. Following an old shepherd around 72 bends, the Ming Dynasty cave dwellings were scattered like pyramids. While sketching under a jujube tree, an auntie insisted on giving me freshly picked crispy jujubes: "They're sweet, more real than the additives in your city!" ▫️Yellow River Earth Forest: Floating into the ten-mile gallery on a sheepskin raft, the water-eroded cliffs revealed wonders like "Bodhidharma Facing the Wall" and "Peacock Spreading Its Tail." Boatman Lao Chen suddenly pointed somewhere: "Look! The iron ring for tying boats from when the Red Army crossed east is still there!" 🍜Shanxi flavors: ▫️Saozi Wantuo: At the century-old shop "Xiangyuanlong," I watched the boss lady spin out buckwheat jelly with an iron sheet, topped with aged vinegar, spicy lamb offal, and saozi, the sour and spicy taste hit me right in the head! ▫️Yellow River Catfish: Freshly caught and cooked in an iron pot stew, the fish wrapped in thick millet porridge, paired with golden fried oil cakes, made me exclaim "It's so beautiful!" ▫️Red Date Fermented Rice: The secret recipe of an old man carrying a load at the ancient ferry, the fermented wine aroma mixed with the sweetness of Yellow River beach dates, warming the stomach like a down jacket❄️. 📸Film filter spots: 1️⃣Xiwancun Village archway alley (light and shadow magic at 4 pm) 2️⃣Qilintan Beach sunset (Yellow River water dyes pebbles into golden amber) 3️⃣Ancient town lantern night (the moment hundreds of paper lanterns light up🏮) 4️⃣Earth forest dawn (like alien terrain in the mist) 💡TIPS: · 3-hour drive from Taiyuan, the ancient town's bluestone roads will make your suitcase cry · May's jujube flower festival fills the city with sweet fragrance, October's red dates hang like lanterns · Learn this Shanxi phrase "Chi lie me" (Have you eaten?), unlock hidden smiles At dusk by the Jiushui River, an old craftsman was hammering Yellow River stone paintings. Amidst the clanging, I suddenly saw that the natural water patterns on the stone slab coincided with the Ming and Qing merchant road map - it turns out time has never left, it just hides in the folds of the cave dwellings, waiting to meet those with a heart.

Winter is coming! Winter vacation is just around the corner, and we've prepared an 8-day tour of Pingyao Ancient City and more for you. It's a great deal and will save you time and effort! This guide is packed with information and has a great itinerary. It's all you need! Check it out! -------- 🌟🎒Itinerary:🎒🌟 Day 1: Qujing->Kunming->Lvliang Today, we'll travel through Qujing and Kunming in Yunnan, and then arrive in Lvliang, Shanxi. The scenery along the way is picturesque. Day 2: Lijiashan Village->Qikou Ancient Town We'll experience the rural charm of Shanxi in Lijiashan Village, and then explore the ancient charm of Qikou Ancient Town. Day 3: Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River in Shanxi->Guanque Tower The shock of seeing Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River in Shanxi and the ancient charm of Guanque Tower will be the highlights of the day. Day 4: Wulaofeng->Wang Family Courtyard in Shanxi We'll enjoy the magnificent scenery of Wulaofeng, and then experience the cultural heritage of Shanxi at the Wang Family Courtyard. Day 5: Pingyao Ancient City->Jinci Museum Today, we'll explore the traces of time, from the historical buildings of Pingyao Ancient City to the precious cultural relics of Jinci Museum. Day 6: Mount Wutai->Hanging Temple We'll experience the grandeur of nature at Mount Wutai, and then visit the Hanging Temple to marvel at the incredible architectural wonder. Day 7: Yungang Grottoes->Yingxian Wooden Pagoda Today, we'll admire Buddhist art at the Yungang Grottoes, and then visit the world's oldest wooden building, the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. Day 8: Taiyuan->Pinliang->Kunming We'll end our journey in Shanxi, departing from Taiyuan and returning to Kunming. Goodbye, beautiful mountains and rivers. -------- Some tips: 1️⃣ Photo spots: There are many corners in Pingyao Ancient City that are perfect for taking photos, such as the city wall and Ming and Qing Street, which have a particularly ancient charm. 2️⃣ Customs: The residents of Pingyao Ancient City are very warm and friendly, but please respect local customs, such as not making loud noises in scenic areas. 3️⃣ Food: You can't miss Pingyao beef when you visit Pingyao. The rich texture and unique recipe are worth treating your taste buds to. 4️⃣ January weather: January is winter, and the temperature difference between day and night in Pingyao Ancient City is large. Please dress warmly and keep warm💼, and also pay attention to sun protection⛱️ to prevent sunburn. 5️⃣ Commercial inducement: During your trip, you may encounter some commercial inducement or various advertisements. Be sure to keep a clear head and don't be easily induced. -------- The meaning of travel lies in discovery and experience. Walking through every ancient street and building in Pingyao Ancient City is like reading a vivid history book. We look forward to your journey of exploration!

Qikou Ancient Town is located at the western foot of Luliang Mountain in western Shanxi, on the bank of the Yellow River. In the past, this was an important commercial port on the Yellow River, and the busy scene of the flood and drought wharf was very prosperous. It connects Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia and Inner Mongolia to the west, and connects Taiyuan, Beijing and Tianjin to the east. Boats and rafts shuttle there every day, and merchants gather here. There are many shops in the ancient streets, including inns, ticket offices, and pawn shops. Strolling along the stone road, you can see the cave-style buildings scattered in an orderly manner, and the mottled walls tell the story of the past glory. The Black Dragon Temple is located on Crouching Tiger Mountain, overlooking the Yellow River. It is majestic and majestic. The temple has exquisite architecture, exquisite murals and strong incense. Nowadays, although Qikou is no longer prosperous, its simplicity and tranquility are more charming. The Yellow River has turned a corner here, and the sound of the waves is still there. The tracker stones on the shore bear witness to the traces of time. When night falls, the waves of the Yellow River and the lights of the ancient town complement each other, as if going back in time. Qikou Ancient Town is like a living history book, quietly waiting for people to read and savor the Shanxi merchant legends and Yellow River customs that have accumulated for hundreds of years.

🏞️Qikou Ancient Town, the first town on the Yellow River, is waiting for you to explore! Attraction address: Qikou Town, Lin County, Lvliang City, Shanxi Province Reservation guide: No reservation is required, just go directly. It is recommended to check the weather and the number of visitors in advance and choose a suitable time to go. Transportation guide: • Self-driving: Depart from downtown Lvliang, drive along G309 National Highway or G20 Qingyin Expressway, and follow the navigation instructions to reach Qikou Ancient Town. • Public transportation: You can take a long-distance bus from Lvliang City to Lin County, and then transfer to local transportation to reach Qikou Ancient Town. Attraction features: • Commercial town: Qikou Ancient Town became a commercial town because of the "Qikou" in the Yellow River, and it is a microcosm of the Jin merchants in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The ticket numbers, escort agencies, pawnshops, and warehouses in the ancient town witnessed the prosperity of the past. • Historical buildings: The highest point of the ancient town is the Heilong Temple, which overlooks the panoramic view of Qikou. The Xicai Courtyard in Lijia Mountain also adopts the road in the shape of an ingot, which is quaint and full of historical charm. • Special food: There are many vinegar workshops in the ancient town, selling red date vinegar and sour date vinegar and other special foods, which are good places to taste local flavors. Ticket information: • Tickets are generally not required for Qikou Ancient Town, but some attractions or special exhibitions may require additional fees. • It is recommended to check the scenic spot announcement in advance to learn about the latest ticket information. Opening hours: • Qikou Ancient Town is generally open all year round, but the specific opening hours may be adjusted due to seasonal and weather changes. • It is recommended to check the scenic spot announcement in advance to learn about the latest opening hours. Travel tips: • The roads in the ancient town are narrow, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and pay attention to safety. • Some buildings in the ancient town are old, so please keep quiet when visiting and respect cultural relics and exhibits. • When tasting local food, pay attention to food safety and hygiene. Come to Qikou Ancient Town and feel the unique charm of the first town on the Yellow River! 🏞️🏰🎉

We visited Qikou Ancient Town, known as the first town of the Yellow River, a few days ago. We saw the Yellow River, and Shaanxi Province was on the other side of the river. We felt the enthusiasm of the local people in this town full of life. There are many special products, such as red dates, red date wine, and various handicrafts sewn by hand. We also bought a tiger pillow and pendant, which are small and exquisite. There are also carved gourds, which are lifelike. In this place, we feel that our body and mind have become quiet. It is a place with good scenery and pleasing to the eye. We tasted the local special food, such as bean noodles, red cotton, etc. Welcome to taste.

Hidden in the bend of the Yellow River is Qikou, a historic and charming ancient town. This is a land gently touched by time, a dreamland where the ancient and modern intertwine. Every brick and tile tells a thousand-year-old story, and every alley hides the prosperity and tranquility of the past. Recalling the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the ancient style still exists Stepping into Qikou is like traveling through a time tunnel, back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties when merchants gathered and sails swayed. The ancient town is close to the mountains and nestled by the Yellow River, cleverly integrating the magnificence of the Yellow River with the gentleness of the ancient town. The old streets paved with bluestone are lined with well-arranged Ming and Qing buildings. The exquisite brick carvings, wood carvings, and stone carvings all highlight the wisdom and dedication of the craftsmen. Walking among them, people are immersed in this simplicity and elegance. The soul of the Yellow River, natural scenery Standing at the commanding heights of this place, overlooking the Yellow River, its magnificent and majestic scenery is shocking. Take a boat and go downstream to experience the heroic feelings of "the water of the Yellow River comes from the sky". When the sun sets, the golden light is sprinkled on the river, and it is interesting with the lights of the ancient town, forming a moving picture, which makes people feel relaxed and happy, and they are reluctant to leave for a long time. Cultural feast, folk customs Qikou is not only a commercial ancient town, but also a cultural treasure house. It preserves a wealth of intangible cultural heritage, including traditional handicrafts, local operas, and holiday customs. Each item is a treasure of Chinese culture. Participate in a local traditional event, taste the characteristic Yellow River fish feast, feel the simplicity and enthusiasm, and purify the soul. Photographer's paradise, the palace of art For photographers and art creators, Qikou is undoubtedly a source of inspiration. Whether it is the old street in the early morning sun, the beautiful scenery of the Yellow River at dusk, or the brightly lit town at night, they are all excellent shooting materials. Here, every work can become an eternal memory, recording your unique story with Qikou. Go on a journey through time and explore the spiritual home Qikou Ancient Town is not just a geographical location, but also a cultural heritage and a philosophy of life. Here, you can slow down, listen to the whispers of history, and feel the tenderness of time. Invite you to walk into Qikou together, start a journey to find inner peace, and let this ancient and beautiful memory become an unforgettable chapter in your life.

This is the first stop of our ancient visit to Shanxi during last year's National Day—Qikou Ancient Town in Shanxi. After seeing the flamboyant ancient towns with vermilion colors in the south, we wanted to come to the north to see the ancient villages with blue bricks and yellow earth. In addition to the ancient town itself, the nearby Lijiashan Village is the place we most wanted to visit this time. The famous painter Wu Guanzhong visited Lijiashan Village twice in the last century to sketch and paint. It is said that he made sketches here, one of which sold for 27 million yuan. As soon as you enter the village, a row of cave-style buildings comes into view. On a high mountain slope of about 40 degrees and several hundred meters, as many as nine layers of 98 courtyards were built, layer upon layer, following the mountain's contour. Seeing such architectural style for the first time was very impressive. There are still villagers living here today. We went early in the morning and even encountered locals having breakfast at home. The history of Lijiashan Village can be traced back to the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty and gradually prospered until the mid-Qing Dynasty. Later, due to the continuous construction and competition between two wealthy families, Lijiashan Village became a dazzling place on the yellow earth. Qikou Ancient Town is known as the 'First Town of the Nine Bends of the Yellow River.' Across the Yellow River is Shaanxi. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties to the Republic of China, the Yellow River water transport here became a famous commercial town in northern China. Currently, the ancient town still retains many buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. You can go to the highest point, Heilong Temple, to overlook the ancient town. ✈️Travel Guide: ❶ Other cities → Lvliang: Qikou Ancient Town is in Lvliang, Shanxi. Lvliang has an airport, and there are direct flights from Chengdu, which are not expensive, generally around 500 yuan. Last year's National Day only cost 450 yuan, with one flight per day by Sichuan Airlines. Lvliang also has a high-speed rail station. ❷ Lvliang → Qikou: 1. If you take the train, get off at the train station and take bus 110 to the 'Jinianpai' stop. After getting off, walk to 'Hengdele Weimin Supermarket,' where there are red minibuses to Qikou, 15 yuan per person (leaves when full). If in a hurry, you can share a ride (about 20 yuan) or charter a car for about 200 yuan; 2. If you take a plane, there is a free airport bus to the city. Get off at 'Dawanyuan' (tell the driver in advance), then take a taxi to 'Hengdele Weimin Supermarket' (follow the same steps as the train arrival guide). ❸ Qikou → Lijiashan Village: Take a taxi or charter a car, 50 yuan round trip (near Qilin Bridge). Driving takes about 10 minutes. If you want to walk slowly, it takes about an hour to walk from the ancient town to Lijiashan Village. 🎫Ticket Information: There are no entrance fees for Qikou and Lijiashan Village. Some residences may charge a sanitation fee of about 2 yuan to enter. Most roads in the village are stone-paved and sloped, so it's best to wear non-slip shoes. If you want a guide, official guides in Qikou and Lijiashan Village charge 50 yuan, and local villagers charge about 30 yuan (negotiable).

|Explore the history of Lvliang Qikou Ancient Town. Shanxi Travel | Explore the history of Lvliang Qikou Ancient Town Uncover the glorious history of Shanxi merchants! Lvliang Qikou Ancient Town in Shanxi was once the starting point for Ming and Qing Dynasty Shanxi merchants to go global. Do you know its ancient and modern legends? Stepping into Qikou Ancient Town is like traveling back to a prosperous era where merchants gathered. The well-preserved Shanxi merchant buildings reveal business wisdom and management philosophy in every brick and tile. The narrow and winding streets were once a testament to the bustling merchant caravans, and today you can still feel the prosperity of the past in the tranquility. There are also traditional customs and handicrafts, such as the unique crafts of artisans, which allow Shanxi merchant culture to flow at your fingertips, showing the cultural charm of the Loess Plateau. Qikou Ancient Town, where the whispers of history and modern tranquility intertwine, is a rare treasure for experiencing Shanxi merchant culture. When traveling to Shanxi, why not visit Lvliang and experience its unique historical charm and cultural customs. Don't forget to share your ancient town trip in the comments section, let's relive the glorious history of the merchant gang together!

On the banks of the Yellow River between Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces, there is a hidden, stunning ancient town that is free to visit but little known to tourists! Curious friends might ask, where exactly is this beautiful ancient town hidden on the banks of the Yellow River between Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces? What unique scenery does it offer? With these questions and curiosity, let's talk about the ancient town of Qikou today. Qikou (pronounced qi) is located in the middle of the canyon of the Yellow River between Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces, 48 kilometers south of Lin County. It is named after the Datong Shoal of the Yellow River and is adjacent to the ancient town of Mengmen to the south. The Yellow River flows from the north, and the Jiu River comes from the east. Wohu Mountain stretches across the north of the town, and Heilong Temple stands majestically to the east of the river. The mountains and rivers form a magnificent landscape where the mountain's grandeur and the river's majesty converge, creating the spectacular scene of 'Tiger Roaring at the Yellow River, Dragon Singing at Qikou.' From the Ming and Qing dynasties to the Republic of China, it became a major commercial town in the north, thanks to the water transportation of the Yellow River, earning the reputation of 'the first town on the Nine Bends of the Yellow River.' It is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. Qikou Town is a town under the jurisdiction of Lin County, Lüliang City, Shanxi Province, with a total area of 108.45 square kilometers. It is located on the western slope of Lüliang Mountain, 48 kilometers south of Lin County, adjacent to Mengmen Town, a famous Yellow River town in Liulin County to the south, and connected to Linjiaping Town to the east.

| Qikou Ancient Town. The most indispensable domestic attractions should be various ancient towns. This time I saw the most different thing in Shanxi Qikou, an ancient town without excessive commercialization · 🏯Historical and cultural background: Qikou Ancient Town is located in the middle of the Shanxi-Shaanxi Gorge of the Yellow River, adjacent to the Yellow River and Luliang Mountain. Qikou once became an important trading town in the north thanks to the Yellow River water transportation, and is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. 🛖Architectural features: The buildings in the ancient town are built on the mountain and are well-proportioned. Cave-style houses are combined with courtyard houses, which are simple and practical. The businesses and shops from the Ming and Qing Dynasties can vaguely show the prosperity of that year. · 🏠Heilong Cave, the tallest building Its architectural style is unique, and its masonry structure and wood carving craftsmanship are exquisite. The Black Dragon Cave is dedicated to the Black Dragon God and entrusts the local people with their best wishes for good weather. · 👉Tickets: Free. 🕙Business hours: Open all day. 🚗Address: Lin County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province, navigate to 🔍"Qikou Ancient Town"

Shanxi Lüliang is most famous for its Qikou Ancient Town, but I recommend the Li Jia Mountain Village, which is four kilometers away from Qikou Ancient Town even more. This is the paradise that Wu Guanzhong painted, with the entire village nestled among the loess highlands, scattered in a picturesque disorder. The village architecture is dominated by cave dwellings and quadrangle courtyards, each with a flat courtyard carved out of the hillside and caves dug into the mountain, said to be warm in winter and cool in summer. Due to inconvenient transportation and backward conditions, the young people have all gone out to work, leaving almost only the elderly behind. There are not many tourists in the village, some of whom are art teachers and students coming to sketch. It also happened to be the season when the village's jujube trees were ripe, and you could reach out and pick the jujubes. It is said that Lin County, where the village is located, is also known as the hometown of red dates, with many ancient jujube trees that are over a thousand years old. 【Transportation】The nearest train station is not Lüliang Station but Liulin South Station. I took a taxi from Liulin South Station and negotiated a price of 80 yuan to get here. 【Admission】Free It is recommended to visit in the afternoon. The village is small and can be toured in one or two hours, and then you can go to Qikou Ancient Town. However, it is difficult to hail a taxi during the off-season, so I had to spend 30 yuan to take a villager's car to Qikou Ancient Town (actually only 4km away) PS: The Yellow River flows through Lüliang, Shanxi, turning into a peculiar nearly 'O'-shaped big bend, known as 'the first bend of the Yellow River in the world'. On one side of the Yellow River is Shanxi, while the other side is Shaanxi.

It really has that authentic feel, just like the ancient village on the Loess Plateau that one imagines. Settlements began during the Ming and Qing dynasties, with seven layers of cave dwellings that are staggered in a visually pleasing manner. Plus, it hasn't been much developed yet, and although many cave dwellings are no longer inhabited, you can still see the remnants of life there. However, development is underway, and with the addition of Wu Guanzhong's famous paintings, it's likely that these uninhabited old houses will soon be rented out to outsiders. There will definitely be commercial activity, so friends who want to visit should do so soon. Transportation: Chartering a car in Luliang costs 200, (there are buses, but they are infrequent), 5 hours is enough—2.5 hours for a round trip, visiting Qikou Ancient Town + Lijia Mountain Village for 2.5 hours.

Shanxi Lüliang Qikou Ancient Town A small town that flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Although it has lost its former function, it is a very nice place for travel. Located by the Yellow River, the scenery is fantastic, with some old houses that have a very Shanxi style. Inside the ancient temples, there are many murals. The town is bustling with people, mostly middle-aged and elderly. The cost of living is very cheap, with cakes costing 1-2 yuan and cold noodles 4 yuan.

🌲 The water towns in the south of the Yangtze River are lively, the ancient towns in the southwest are romantic, and the ancient towns in the Central Plains mostly carry a sense of vicissitudes and steadiness. 🌳 Qikou Ancient Town is just like that, as if time has always stopped somewhere, reluctant to move forward; the Yellow River winds around, each brick and tile patiently composes the song of the years. . 🐫 If you want to experience the 'ancient town with a sense of the era by the Yellow River,' how can you miss Ancient Town Located in Lüliang City, Shanxi Province, it is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. From the Ming and Qing Dynasties to the Republic of China, it was a major commercial town in the north and is known as 'the first town of the nine curves of the Yellow River.' . 🎋 It is not far from Taiyuan, suitable for weekend or short holiday trips; if you have a holiday of 5 days or more, you can also plan a trip together with Hukou Waterfall, Wannian Ice Cave, Datong, Shaanxi Yulin, etc.; or take a route from Shanxi to Ulanqab, Hohhot, Baotou, Ordos; . 🌸 Don't miss these features: 【Accommodation Experience】: Cave-style hotel and homestay 【Dining Experience】: Restaurants on boats by the Yellow River, and restaurants near the parking lot, both are very characteristic 【Food Recommendations】: Various strangely named noodles. (As a girl from the south, I ordered all the dishes with strange names; personally recommend Kao Lao Lao 💕; San Pian Wa is just three big pieces of tofu, personally not very fond of it) . 🌈 Public transportation information (taking Taiyuan as an example) -Whether by ✈️🚄, first get to Taiyuan Railway Station, then to Lüliang Railway Station -From the train station, take a taxi to the monument (tell the driver 'monument down,' to take a bus to Qikou Ancient Town; the drivers generally know); -At the monument bus stop, take the minibus with 'Qikou' written on it to directly reach the ancient town. 💰Ticket Price: Free 🕰Tour Duration: It takes about half a day to stroll around; personally, I think staying for at least one or two nights can better experience the essence of the ancient town. 🏕Nearby Attractions: Lijiashan Village (similar style to Qikou)

Continuing our journey through the cultural wonders of China, let's explore Qikou Ancient Town, located at the western foot of Luliang Mountain in western Shanxi, on the bank of the Yellow River. 🏞️ This historic town, nestled at the southern tip of Linxian, has a rich heritage dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, and the Republic of China. 💫 Qikou Ancient Town flourished as a bustling trade center in the north, earning it the esteemed title of "the first town of the Yellow River," thanks to its strategic location along the Yellow River water transportation route. 🚢 It served as one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants, playing a pivotal role in the region's economic development. Today, Qikou Ancient Town boasts an abundance of well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, including warehouses, ticket offices, pawnshops, temples, residential houses, and docks. 🏛️ These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into the town's prosperous past and its significance as a hub of commerce and culture. What sets Qikou Ancient Town apart is its preservation of primitive and simple residents' life forms, earning it the endearing nickname "living ancient town." Visitors can immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of a bygone era, experiencing the timeless charm of traditional Chinese life. 🏘️🌾 Explore the winding alleys, visit ancient temples, and marvel at the historic buildings that tell the story of Qikou Ancient Town's illustrious past. It's a journey through time that promises to captivate and inspire. ✨ #QikouAncientTown #ShanxiMerchants #YellowRiver #CulturalHeritage #TravelChina 🇨🇳

|Start your trip to Shanxi and Shaanxi from the first town along the winding Yellow River. Qikou | Start your trip to Shanxi and Shaanxi from the first town of the Nine-bend Yellow River 🏯Qikou Ancient Town is located in Lin County, Lüliang City, Shanxi Province. Qi refers to the stones on the shallows of a river. Qikou is named after the second largest Qiong of the Yellow River, "Datong Qiong", and enjoys the reputation of "the first town of the Nine-bend Yellow River". The Yellow River and the Qiushui River meet here. Thanks to the Yellow River water transportation, Qikou became an important commercial center in the north and is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. The once prosperous business carries the historical imprint of Shanxi merchant civilization and also leaves a wealth of architectural remains here ⛩Heilong Temple The commanding height of the ancient town, climb the drum tower and bell tower, and overlook the panoramic view of the ancient town. The stage in the temple is also quite interesting. ⛩Qikou Inn The core location of the ancient town, with the pier outside the door. 🏨Yellow River Hotel Next to the Qikou Inn, there is a cave with a big kang, overlooking the river from a high place, leading to the back mountain, and walking all the way to the Black Dragon Temple. Address: Qikou Town, Lin County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province Tickets: None Public transportation: Buses go to Luliang (the flight from Beijing to Luliang is very cheap), and there are buses from Lishi to Qikou. 🗽 Around Qikou Xiwan Village Famous for its residential houses, 1 km away from Qikou Town, within walking distance (see subsequent notes for details) 🧗🏻‍♀️Lijiashan A famous scenic village, more than 10 minutes' drive from Qikou (see subsequent notes for details) Qikou is separated from Shaanxi by a river, and can be used as the starting point for the Shanxi-Shaanxi Yellow River Cultural Tour. On the other side of the Yellow River is Wubao County, Shaanxi Province, where there is the very unpopular Wubao Stone City. From there you can go to Mizhi, Suide, Yan'an, and Hukou Waterfall (Shaanxi side). If you don't drive yourself, you can complete the journey by public transportation and short-distance chartered vehicles.

For the sake of Qikou Ancient Town, I made a special trip to Shanxi. Across the Yellow River is Shaanxi. The traffic in Lijiashan Village is controlled. We walked for two hours back and forth, but it's still worth it. Almost no one lives in the cave dwellings, they are almost abandoned.

As a fan of ancient towns, I have traveled through more than twenty large and small ancient towns across the country, and I didn't have much expectation before coming to Qikou. The biggest difference from the ancient towns I have visited before might be that it is located by the Yellow River! The most surprising part of this trip was Lijiashan Village. The cave dwellings on the loess plateau layer by layer, showing a unique Northwestern charm.

Near the well-known Pingyao, there is a hidden ancient town that surprised me, that is Qikou Ancient Town. Here, there are paddle sounds and lantern shadows, and the world's fireworks, which simply satisfy my fantasy of all ancient towns. If you can only go to one ancient town this year, then I strongly recommend you to come here. After the Spring Festival, the number of tourists gradually decreases, and the ancient town has been permanently opened for free, you can come here to play at any time! I suggest you stay in the ancient town for one more night, because only in the evening and early morning, after the tourists have dispersed, can you deeply feel the poetic and picturesque fireworks here. Ancient town name: Qikou Ancient Town Attraction location: Qikou Town, Lin County, Lvliang City Transportation: It is more convenient to drive by yourself, or you can take a taxi from the high-speed rail station. Travel strategy: My travel route is: Heilong Temple-West Bay Village-Lijia Mountain Village-Ancient Town History Museum-Chairman Mao's East Crossing of the Yellow River Monument-Qikou Ancient Ferry. Heilong Temple is the commanding height of the ancient town, overlooking the Yellow River; West Bay Village is famous for its unique houses; Lijia Mountain Village is one of the three major discoveries in the life of the famous painter Wu Guanzhong; the Ancient Town History Museum shows the history and culture of Qikou Ancient Town; Chairman Mao's East Crossing of the Yellow River Monument is a place of commemorative significance; Qikou Ancient Ferry is an important ferry on the Yellow River. Recommended food in Lvliang: Wrist rest Wipe tadpoles Hehe Lengzi Accommodation strategy: It is recommended to live in the ancient town, living by the water, in the early morning and night, this is the most fireworks-like place.

🎈In this beautiful season, I had the privilege of witnessing the magnificent scene of ice drift at the mouth of the Yellow River, as if nature was migrating like the rotation of the stars. The scenery here is poetic and picturesque, intoxicating. 🎈First, I used the Dji Air3 drone to shoot the floating ice from above 100 meters high, capturing their unique texture, giving a sense of déjà vu of the Antarctic continent. From Shanxi, you can overlook the Xuejia Tower in Yulin, Shaanxi, which together with the ice drift forms a beautiful picture. 🎈Next, I'll share a guide to the route to the mouth of the Yellow River. First, you can take a plane to Lvliang Dawu Airport, which takes just over an hour from Beijing. This is one of the shortest flights I've ever taken, and they even provide a bottle of water for passengers during the flight. 🎈Then, rent a car from Lvliang Airport to the mouth of the river, which takes about 70 minutes. Please note that the whole journey is on national roads, so drive carefully as there are many large coal trucks driving nearby. Also, local drivers in Lvliang don't follow the rules very well, and running red lights is common. 🎈Shopping options near the mouth of the river are relatively limited, and convenience stores are rare. It's recommended to find a small convenience store to buy some necessities before dark, to avoid difficulty finding a shopping location after dark. 🎈For accommodation, I recommend Fushunde Inn at the mouth of the river, which costs about 450 yuan per day. The environment of this inn is very good, only 3 minutes walk from the Yellow River, and you can see the spectacular view of the three rivers converging at the mouth of the river. The design of Fushunde Inn is also great, incorporating the style of cave dwellings and modern elements, warm and design-conscious. 🎈In the ancient town of the river mouth, you can try local food. Mutton and noodles are good choices, but I personally didn't try the big carp. There are many types of dishes here, and although the prices are not cheap, they are not rip-offs, with an average cost of about 60 yuan per person, and the price of big carp is 150 yuan each. 🎈In conclusion, the ice drift at the mouth of the Yellow River is an unexpected surprise, and there are always unexpected gains in travel. The Yellow River, as the mother river of China, has nurtured generations of children. 🎈However, the knowledge in textbooks can never replace the shock of seeing with your own eyes. Standing on the bank of the Yellow River, I witnessed the spectacular scene of the ice drift slowly going away like a ribbon, looking across the river to Shaanxi, which is awe-inspiring. 🎈If you also want to feel the charm and magnificent scenery of nature, why not take a trip to the mouth of the Yellow River!

How do you play with mention the town, what do you think of? Is it the homeland cage that you were eager to break through when you were young? Is it the soft corner of your heart when you struggle outside? It is a time to temporarily turn off the retreat where the mobile phone can escape, or a museum that revisits traditional interpersonal relationships. On the edge of the Yellow River, a town that was once prosperous and now abandoned, Qikou Ancient Town, located in the middle of the Yellow River Jinshan Gorge, named after the Yellow River Datong. In ancient times, the lower reaches of the Yellow River were dangerous. The vessels that flowed upstream often stopped at the mouth of the river and turned to dry roads. It was once an important water and land transportation hub. At the time of the port, the port was more than 100 ships a day, and it was a veritable Huanghe town. Look here to see the Yellow River rolling, see the loess kiln full of mountains, taste the last cup of homesickness. 6 things that must be done in the mouth of the mouth 1 day and night sitting in the ancient town high to see the Yellow River rolling. 2 Enjoy the historical stage, archway and houses in the ancient streets of Qikou. 3Walk through the ancient town of Qikou, and look at the ancient town of Qikou at the height of the Black Dragon Temple. 4 Tasting a bowl of local specialties. 5Look to Lijiashan to see the mountain cave dwelling. 6 Browse the Yellow River Gallery by boat. h These few sentences are the portrayal of the mouthful of food. The snacks of the mouthfuls have a strong local flavor. It is a beautiful scenery of the ancient town. When you come to the mouth, you can taste the local dumplings, yam rubbing and so on.

What is happiness? You smoked the smoke, I sold the red dates in the valley. More and more people are inseparable from telephone, internet, and urban life, and they still stay in the ancient house of two hundred years - cave, maybe wait for decades, like other caves Grass is born. And they just want to stay in this time and enjoy the beauty of this moment. Lvliang Cave Dwelling in Shanxi Province, the original Shanxi folk house.

When you mention the town, what do you think of? Is it the homeland cage that you were eager to break through when you were young? Is it the soft corner of your heart when you struggle outside? It is a time to temporarily turn off the retreat where the mobile phone can escape, or a museum that revisits traditional interpersonal relationships. With the seriousness of urbanization, the county is busy becoming a city, the township is busy becoming a county, and the village is busy becoming a township... but with the destruction of the environment, the disappearance of ancient architecture, tradition The layers of life are regressed. The more we are afraid of losing, the more we should cherish it. The word of the old town is now given a small, traditional, quiet and intimate meaning. Qiankou Ancient Town meets all your illusions about the Yellow Land - simple, desolate, full of cracks. At the same time, there is also a bit of ruin and mud. You stand here, you can witness the sunset of the Yellow River, the dusty streets of the ancient town, the ancient town of Qikou has the precious qualities of this era, to maximize the unique cultural heritage of Shanxi, and maintain a vivid and vivid social ecology. They used to be the birthplace of stories, which made up the ancient history of our country. Now they are the narrators of this story, and their stories are worth listening to by everyone.