[2025 Ningwu Attraction] Travel Guide for Ten Thousand Ice Cave (Updated Mar)

I just returned from Xinzhou with my parents last week, and my friends were all asking about this hidden gem! No crowds, no tourist traps, and an exclusive experience for just over 600 RMB per person. Save this comprehensive guide now~ 🚞Transportation Tips ▪️ Take the high-speed train from Taiyuan to Xinzhou (25 minutes), then a 10 RMB taxi ride to the ancient city. ▪️ Luyashan Scenic Area carpooling tip: At 7 am, villagers offer carpooling from the west gate of the ancient city (50 RMB/person, half the price of a private car). ▪️ The Yellow River No. 1 Tourist Highway is stunning for self-driving, but for beginners, the Laoniu Bay → Qiankun Bay section is recommended, with fewer curves and scenic viewing platforms throughout. 🌟Must-Have Experiences 1️⃣ Capture stunning photos in the万年冰洞 (Wannian Ice Cave): Bring a warm-colored flashlight! The amber light refracted by the ice pillars is magical. 2️⃣ Horseback riding in Hanfu at雁门关 (Yanmen Pass): Locals rent horses below the pass (30 RMB/lap). Capture heroic photos in armor. 3️⃣ Cook hot pot in the奇村 (Qicun) hot springs: Buy a bag of raw eggs and drop them into the 80°C spring. Enjoy soft-boiled eggs with buckwheat bowl cakes after 15 minutes. 4️⃣ Stargazing and camping by the云中河 (Yunzhong River): Navigate to "牧马桥 (Mu Ma Qiao)". The Milky Way is visible in summer. Remember mosquito repellent. 5️⃣ Feed lambs in悬空村 (Xuankong Village): Buy a bundle of hay for 5 RMB, and the black-faced lambs under the eaves will chase you. It's incredibly heartwarming. 🍲Local Food Radar ✅ Ancient city oil cake blind box: 3 RMB/piece, randomly filled with brown sugar/jujube paste/red bean paste. Eat them while they're hot, even if they're scalding. ✅ Two ways to eat Dai County's "Ao Fish": First, drink the milky fish soup, then dip the fish in vinegar. Enjoy a filling meal for 40 RMB per person. ✅ Deluxe version of Baode bowl cakes: Topped with fried dough twists and marinated eggs. The chili oil is so fragrant you'll want to take some home. ⚠️Avoid: The "wild mushroom soup" at the scenic area entrance is often fake. For authentic mushroom soup, visit a farmhouse restaurant in Wutaishan. 🧳Packing List ✔️ Add: Foldable kettle (perfect for boiling eggs in hot springs/making instant noodles) ✔️ Add: Waterproof phone case (sudden rain is common in Malun Grassland, Luyashan) ✖️ Remove: DSLR camera (the temperature difference in the ice cave can cause fogging; a phone is more practical) ⭕️ Hidden gem: Hand warmers for your phone! Prevents your phone from shutting down in the cold ice cave (tested and proven). 📅Seasonal Activities 🌸 March-April: Apricot blossoms in Xinzhou Ancient City + kite flying by the Yunzhong River 🍉 June-August: Escape the heat in Luyashan (20°C) + mushroom picking 🍁 September-October: Admire the autumn foliage at Yanmen Pass + Jujube Festival ❄️ December-February: Hot springs with snowy scenery in Qicun + Blue Ice season in the ice cave Learning to make莜面栲栳栳 (youmian kaolaolao) from an 80-year-old grandma in Xuankong Village, listening to the night watchman at Yanmen Pass tell stories of Ming Dynasty border guards, and watching for the aurora at the ice cave observation station with locals at 3 am (though we didn't see it)... The most precious part of this trip wasn't the likes on social media, but the memories of local culture and customs.

- Hey friends😎, springtime in Ningwu, Xinzhou is like a hidden gem, possessing a unique charm. The average temperature in March-April hovers between 5℃ and 15℃, neither too cold nor too hot, allowing you to experience the unique flavor of spring. Ningwu in spring boasts tranquil mountains and forests, ancient villages, and a rich culture, making it the perfect place to embark on a spring journey. Follow me now as we begin this Ningwu spring tour, and don't forget to save this post!💕 - ➤[Ningwu Overview] Located in northern Shanxi, Ningwu is an essential part of the Loess Plateau. With a long history and profound cultural heritage, it is home to abundant historical relics and unique folk customs. Ningwu's natural scenery is stunning, renowned for its distinctive landscapes of mountains and waters. The interplay of mountains, forests, and villages creates a picturesque scene.🌳 - ➤[Attraction Features] ❶ Integration of Mountains and Waters: Ningwu boasts magnificent mountains and forests alongside clear streams, forming a natural landscape painting.🌊⛰️ ❷ Springtime Tranquility: With fewer tourists, you can fully enjoy the serene beauty of spring.🎑 ❸ Warmth of Humanity: From ancient architecture to authentic cuisine, Ningwu in spring offers a unique cultural warmth.🍜 - ➤[Recommended Attractions] ❶[Luya Mountain] Tickets: 60 Yuan Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00 Luya Mountain is famous for its picturesque scenery. In spring, Luya Mountain is lush and green, and the mountain peaks appear even more vibrant under the caress of the spring breeze.😃 - ❷[万年冰洞 (Wannian Ice Cave)] Tickets: 120 Yuan Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00 With its unique geological structure, the Wannian Ice Cave is a rare ice cave spectacle in the world. In spring, the ice crystals in the cave are crystal clear, making you feel like you're in a world of ice and snow.😘 - ❸[Ningwu Pass] Tickets: 50 Yuan Opening Hours: 07:00 - 17:30 Ningwu Pass has a long history and unique architectural style. Stroll along the pass in spring and feel the vicissitudes of history.😋 - ❹[Xuankong Village (Hanging Village)] Tickets: Free Opening Hours: All Day Xuankong Village is well-preserved and full of rustic charm. In spring, you can sample various local snacks and experience the lively atmosphere of the village.😎 - ❺[Tianchi (Heaven Lake)] Tickets: 80 Yuan Opening Hours: 08:00 - 16:30 Tianchi is a natural alpine lake with crystal-clear water. Visiting in spring offers a unique sense of warmth and tranquility.🥰 - 🏖[Ningwu Travel Itinerary] D1 Arrive in Ningwu by car🚗➡Luya Mountain➡Xuankong Village After arriving in Ningwu, visit Luya Mountain to admire the spring scenery. In the evening, head to Xuankong Village to savor local delicacies. D2 Wannian Ice Cave➡Ningwu Pass Visit the Wannian Ice Cave in the morning to experience the beauty of the ice and snow world. In the afternoon, explore Ningwu Pass and learn about its history and culture. D3 Tianchi➡Return Trip Visit Tianchi in the morning to experience the marvelous scenery of the lake and mountains. Return in the afternoon. - ➤[Recommended Travel Time] March to April Ningwu in spring has pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The tranquil mountain and water scenery is particularly layered, making it a great place to relax. - ➤[Food] ❶ Ningwu Youmian: Unique taste and rich in nutrients.🍜 ❷ Ningwu Tofu: Smooth and tender with a unique flavor.🍲 ❸ Ningwu Mutton: Tender, juicy, and nourishing.🍖 - ➤[Accommodation] ❶ Ningwu Star Hotels: Such as Ningwu Hotel, comfortable and luxurious, suitable for family trips.🏨 ❷ Village Guesthouses: There are many guesthouses with ancient charm around the villages, offering a quiet and cozy stay.🏠 ❸ Mountain Cabins: Small wooden cabins on Luya Mountain offer close proximity to nature and a fantastic experience.🏝️ - 🚂[Transportation Guide] ✈️ Air Travel: Taiyuan Wusu International Airport is the main air transportation hub, offering convenient and fast access. 🚆 Train Travel: High-speed rail goes directly to Taiyuan, then transfer to a bus to Ningwu, making transportation very convenient. 🚗 Self-Driving Tour: A self-driving tour around Ningwu is recommended for flexible itinerary planning. 🚍 Public Transportation: City buses and long-distance buses can reach major attractions. - ➤[Tips] ❶ There is a large temperature difference between day and night in spring, so pay attention to adding or removing clothing.🧣 ❷ Be mindful of slippery surfaces and stay warm when traveling in the mountains.🌂 ❸ Respect local customs and habits.👟 ❹ Bring enough drinking water and snacks to replenish your energy.🍫 ❺ Check the opening hours and ticket information of the attractions in advance and plan your itinerary accordingly.🏨

Three-day tour of ancient Xinzhou Xinzhou, located in the north-central part of Shanxi Province, has a total area of ​​25,150 square kilometers and a permanent population of 2,689,600. It has a long history and profound cultural heritage. It is a famous wrestling hometown and a sea of ​​folk songs. Itinerary Overview Number of days: 3 days Route map: [Wutai Mountain - Luya Mountain - Xinzhou Ancient City] Budget: About 1,200 yuan (excluding accommodation, accommodation costs vary depending on the hotel selected) Best season: Summer Daily itinerary [DAY1] Pilgrimage to Wutai Mountain ✅ Recommended route: Wuye Temple - Shuxiang Temple - Pusa Ding 📸 Must-take camera: Panoramic view of Wutai Mountain 💡 Tips: Be careful to respect religious beliefs and customs. 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Wutaishan Marriott Hotel, comfortable and convenient 😋 Food recommendation: Wutaishan vegetarian restaurant, about 40 yuan per person. [DAY2] Explore Luya Mountain ✅ Recommended route: Wannian Ice Cave - Shimen Hanging Coffin - Cliff Plank Road 📸 Must-take photos: Wannian Ice Cave 💡 Tips: There are many mountain roads, so pay attention to safety. 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Ningwu Ramada Plaza Hotel, good environment 😋 Food recommendation: Ningwu fried cake, about 35 yuan per person. [DAY3] Strolling in Xinzhou Ancient City ✅ Recommended route: Streets and alleys in the ancient city - Specialty shops 📸 Must-take photos: Gate of Xinzhou Ancient City 💡 Tips: Experience local folk activities. 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Xinzhou Fanhua Jinglun Hotel, convenient transportation 😋 Food recommendation: Dingxiang steamed meat, about 30 yuan per person. Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls - Pay attention to order when visiting Mount Wutai. - Be careful when visiting Luya Mountain. 💕I hope this guide can bring you a little help🎉, follow me and discover more wonderful journeys together!

👍️Recommended reason: Explore Wannian Ice Cave and encounter a world of ice and snow! Ningwu Wannian Ice Cave is a mysterious place that seems to come from a fairy tale world. The ice cave was formed during the Quaternary glaciation period, about 3 million years ago. It is the largest ice cave discovered in China and one of the largest ice caves in the world.😍 **Detailed address: Madigou Village, Chunjingwa Township, Ningwu County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province. **Tour order: First, feel the mysterious coolness at the entrance of the cave, then slowly go deep into the ice cave and enjoy various unique ice pillars, ice waterfalls, ice flowers, and other landscapes in turn.😃 **📅Must-see attractions: Various ice sculptures with unique shapes in the cave, some like waterfalls pouring down, some like palaces towering, and some like lifelike animals. Every place is amazing with the magic of nature.💎 **Transportation guide: You can choose to drive by yourself and navigate to Wannian Ice Cave. You can also take public transportation, first arrive at Ningwu County, and then transfer to a shuttle bus to the ice cave.🚗 **🏨Accommodation guide: Ningwu Luyashan International Hotel, with complete facilities, clean and tidy rooms, and thoughtful service. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful scenery, allowing you to have a good rest after playing.🛏️ **Scenic area ticket: CNY 120. **Opening hours: 08:00 - 18:00. Nearby food recommendations: - 🥟Youmian Kaolao: Chewy with a strong wheat flavor. The youmian is made into a cylindrical shape, arranged in a steamer and steamed, and then served with various seasonings, which is very delicious.😋 - 🍜Yiwo Si: Golden in color and crispy in taste. Made with white flour as the main ingredient, it is made through multiple processes and tastes crispy and delicious.🥰 **Photography tips: Wear bright clothes, which will stand out more against the ice-blue background. You can use the lights in the ice cave to take dreamy effects.📷 **Shopping souvenirs: You can buy some local handicrafts, such as paper-cutting, wood carving, etc., as a souvenir of this wonderful trip.🎁 **💗Other tips: The temperature in the cave is low, so remember to bring warm clothes. Pay attention to safety when playing, and do not touch the ice wall to avoid damaging the landscape.😉

#FuriTabi #NatureAndStunningViews Located in Ningwu County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province, the Myoen Ice Cave is dotted with transparent ice pillars, ice waterfalls, and limestone caves, creating a fantastic landscape illuminated by colorful lights. The Myoen Ice Cave was formed 3 million years ago during the Quaternary Ice Age of the Cenozoic Era, and is over 100 meters deep and divided into five layers. The inside of the ice cave is covered in ice all year round, so you can feel cool even in the hot summer. The entrance fee is 120 RMB. It is a national tourist attraction ranked 4A.

The Wannian Ice Cave is located in Chunjingqi Township, 50 kilometers west of Ningwu County, Shanxi Province, next to the tourist line, with an altitude of 2,300 meters. After on-site inspection by cave experts from the Institute of Geology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, it was confirmed that this cave was formed during the Quaternary glacial period of the Cenozoic Era, about three million years ago, hence the name Ten Thousand Year Ice Cave. In 2005, Ningwu Wannian Ice Cave became a national geological park in the fourth batch of national geological parks evaluation. In March 2011, it was rated as a national 4A-level tourist attraction.

Yunqiu Mountain is located in Linfen County, Shanxi Province. The purpose of coming here is to see the thousand-year-old ice cave. The Yunqiu Mountain Ten Thousand Year Ice Cave Group is one of the three largest ice cave groups in the world. It was formed during the Quaternary Glacial Period and has a history of more than 3 million years (hence the name Ten Thousand Year Ice Cave). In an arid and water-scarce place like Shanxi, the cause of the formation of ice caves remains a mystery. The naturally formed group of ice caves have walls covered with ice that never melts all year round. The ice spikes, icicles and ice waterfalls in the cave are crystal clear, showing dreamy colors under the illumination of lights, as if you have walked into a mythical world of glacial romance. 🐟🐟Transportation strategy: Take the high-speed rail from Taiyuan Station to Houma West Station (about 1 hour), and then take a taxi directly to Yunqiu Scenic Area (fare is about 100 yuan). 🐟🐟Play time: The ice cave is not large and it takes about 20 minutes to walk through it. However, since the temperature is below minus 10 degrees Celsius all year round, remember to wear a down jacket and cape before entering the cave, otherwise you will freeze to death. The road surface of the ice cave is also very slippery, so you must be extra careful when walking to avoid slipping. The ice cave ticket is 120 yuan per person. 🐟🐟Other attractions: As a national 5A scenic spot, Yunqiu Mountain has many other attractions besides the Wannian Ice Cave, such as Yuhuangding (where you can take a cable car), Yuanyang Bridge (glass suspension bridge), and Talpo Ancient Village (a folk village with many homestays and a good environment. If you want to stay for one night, you can choose here). If time permits, it is recommended to stay in Yunqiu Mountain for one night and play for two days, which is the most enjoyable. #See the Earth in an instant

Luya Mountain in Chenzhou City, Shanxi Province is a famous summer resort. There is a Wannian Ice Cave formed three million years ago. The four seasons are frozen and chilly in the cave. Even in the midsummer season, the temperature of the cave is 20-30 degrees, and the cave is still ice and snow. The icicles, ice shoots and ice hanging from low temperature are everywhere, and in the mountains where the four seasons are very distinct, such natural phenomena are rare! The location of the wannian ice cave is located in Chunjingyu Village, 50 km west of Ningwu County, Quzhou City, Shanxi Province, at an altitude of 2,300 meters. According to the on-site inspection of the authoritative geological experts of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, this hole was formed in the Cenozoic Quaternary glacial period, about three million years ago, and is one of the rarest large ice caves outside the permafrost discovered so far in the world. Entering the cave, as the steps descend, the cliffs around the cave are covered with thick, hard ice, and the thicker the ice, the deeper the ice. It is said that the cave is always at a constant temperature of minus 5 degrees Celsius. The area that has been developed so far is about 100 meters deep, and the boardwalk is divided into upper and lower layers. As the first-level steps step in, the colorful lights illuminate the crystal-clear icicles. It feels like there is a hole in the sky, just like the world inside the ice romance, ice sculptures are everywhere.

The colorful Wannian ice cave shines in this world.

Luya Mountain, Ningwu County, Chenzhou City, Shanxi Province. The Luya Mountain on the ice and fire is a flaming mountain on one side and a thousand-year ice hole on the other. The 10,000-year-old ice was formed in the Cenozoic Quaternary glacial period, about three million years ago, hence the name Wannian Ice Cave. The cave is kept icy all the year round, and even if it enters the cave during the hot summer, it is still a scene of severe winter, which is completely different from the outside of the cave. After the development, the Wannian ice cave is more than 100 meters away from the ground. More than 100 meters, divided into five layers, through the ice hole, the ice ladder, the ice stack, you can visit all floors. The icicles, ice curtains, ice waterfalls, ice shoots, ice flowers, ice bells, ice buddha, ice sheets, ice hangs, ice beasts, ice people formed by ice are all in a world of ice. Stepping into the ice cave, through the bright lights, you can see the ice waterfall, ice Buddha, ice bell on the wall, ice shoots, ice sheets, ice beasts on the ground, hanging ice on the top of the cave, ice cones, big and small. The scenery is exquisite, or crystal-clear, or graceful, all amazing.