[2025 Jiexiu Attraction] Travel Guide for Zhang Bi Ancient Fortress (Updated Mar)

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Worshiping Hou Tu Niangniang, Quanzhen Sect of Taoism. ⭕️Taiheyan Archway: An experience of a thousand years at a glance! It is also the only glazed archway! ⭕️Zoroastrianism Tower: One of the three famous towers in Jin Dynasty, and the only Zoroastrianism building. ⭕️Zhangbi Ancient Castle: Peacock blue glazed plaques from the Ming Dynasty, the structure of the ancient castle Note⚠️ 1️⃣The Taiheyan Archway is far away. Take a bus from Jiexiu Station for 1 hour and walk about 1 kilometer after getting off 2️⃣ Jiexiu will have a lunch break at noon except for the museum I have traveled to 100+ cities in depth Continuously updating...

The short holiday is just around the corner. If you're looking for a trip filled with Shanxi charm, journeying through the ancient elegance of Jinzhong, the folk customs of Xinzhou, and the majestic grandeur of Datong, then this guide is a must-read! -- 🎉Itinerary: Day 1: Nanning—Yuncheng Our journey of discovery begins, departing from Nanning and heading to the vibrant city of Yuncheng. Day 2: Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River—Longdong—Ming and Qing Ancient Street Witness the spectacular Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River, explore the mysterious Longdong caves, and then stroll along the historic Ming and Qing Ancient Street. Day 3: Yanmen Pass Scenic Area—Yanmen Pass Section—Yungang Grottoes Our day's journey takes us from the Yanmen Pass Scenic Area to the Yanmen Pass Section, culminating in a visit to the millennium-old Yungang Grottoes. Day 4: Hanging Temple—Mount Wutai We'll visit the mystical Hanging Temple and then embark on a hike through the scenic landscapes of Mount Wutai. Day 5: Zhangbi Ancient Castle—Wang Family Courtyard Our itinerary brings us to the Zhangbi Ancient Castle, followed by a visit to the Wang Family Courtyard, steeped in a rich, historical atmosphere. Day 6: Yuncheng—Nanning Concluding this unforgettable trip, we return from Yuncheng to Nanning. -- Handy tips: 1. Local customs: Step into Shanxi and immerse yourself in the allure of history. Jinzhong's rich history, culture, and traditional folk customs await your exploration. 💡Tip: Be sure to respect local customs and traditions. 2. Airport transportation: Shanxi Airport is well-connected with major cities across the country, offering convenient transportation options. 🚗Upon arrival, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services are readily available, ensuring hassle-free travel. 3. Photo ops: Must-visit photo spots include Huamen in Linfen, Wunu Mountain in Jinzhong, Huayan Temple in Datong, and Xinzhou Ancient City. Each location offers a unique visual experience. 📷Tip: Don't forget to capture these moments with your camera! 4. Food: Shanxi boasts a diverse culinary scene. Authentic knife-cut noodles, garlic ribs, and grilled fish are must-try dishes. Indulge in a delightful gastronomic adventure as you explore the streets of Shanxi. 🍽️Tip: Be sure to sample the local specialties. 5. Itinerary planning: In your free time, consider visiting local markets to experience the authentic local lifestyle. 🛍️Tip: Embrace the little joys of everyday life. -- 💫Throughout our journey, every corner of Jinzhong, Xinzhou, and Datong has witnessed our encounter with history. Travel is not just about sightseeing; it's about experiencing life itself.💫

Shanxi Travel | Must-see attractions in Jinzhong❗ 🌈We've already shared travel guides featuring must-see attractions in Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Henan, Shandong, Jiangsu, Hubei, Jiangxi, Anhui, Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Hunan, Guizhou, Zhejiang, Sichuan, and Guangxi. ✅This time, we'll bring you the third installment of the "Must-See Attractions" series in Shanxi Province—Jinzhong City🎉🎉 1️⃣ Zhangbi Ancient Castle 📍Address: Zhangbi Village, Longfeng Township, Jiexiu City, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–20:00 💴Tickets: 75 CNY/person, discount tickets 37 CNY 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 301 ✅Recommended reason: A well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty castle with a unique military defense system and architectural style. 📌Tip: You can visit the tunnels inside the castle and experience the wisdom of the ancients. 2️⃣ Yuci Old Town 📍Address: Fuxing Road, Yuci District, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–18:00 💴Tickets: 49 CNY, discount tickets 29 CNY 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 18/901 ✅Recommended reason: A well-preserved ancient city from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with many ancient buildings and traditional handicraft shops. 📌Tip: You can taste the local specialties in the old town. 3️⃣ Mianshan Scenic Area 📍Address: Nanhuaizhi Village, Mianshan Town, Jiexiu City, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–19:00 💴Tickets: 110 CNY/person, half-price tickets 55 CNY 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 302/tourist line ✅Recommended reason: A scenic area integrating natural scenery, historical culture, and Buddhist temples. 📌Tip: You can choose to take the cable car up the mountain to save energy. 4️⃣ Zhenguo Temple 📍Address: Pingyao County, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–19:00 💴Tickets: 25 CNY/person, students 10 CNY, children/seniors free 🚎Transportation: Pingyao Bus No. 203 ✅Recommended reason: One of the oldest existing wooden structures in China, the temple houses many precious cultural relics. 📌Tip: Pay attention to protecting the cultural relics and do not touch the ancient buildings. 5️⃣ Wang Family Courtyard 📍Address: Lingshi County, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–18:00 💴Tickets: 50 CNY/person 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 1/7 ✅Recommended reason: A large-scale residential complex from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, known as the "Forbidden City of Chinese Folk Houses". 📌Tip: You can hire a tour guide to better understand the history and culture of the Wang Family Courtyard. 6️⃣ Shuanglin Temple 📍Address: Pingyao County, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–19:00 💴Tickets: 35 CNY/person, students 15 CNY, children/seniors free 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 15 ✅Recommended reason: A well-preserved Buddhist temple with many exquisite murals and sculptures. 📌Tip: Pay attention to protecting the cultural relics and do not touch the murals and sculptures. 7️⃣ Pingyao Ancient City 📍Address: No. 58 Zhaobi South Street, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: Open all day 💴Tickets: 125 CNY/person for a pass, discount tickets 65 CNY 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 15/17 ✅Recommended reason: One of the four best-preserved ancient cities, featuring Ming and Qing Dynasty architectural styles. 📌Tip: You can choose to visit the ancient city at night, as the night view is very beautiful. 8️⃣ Qiao Family Courtyard 📍Address: Qiaojiabao Village, Dongguan Town, Qi County, Jinzhong City ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–17:30 💴Tickets: 115 CNY/person, discount tickets 58 CNY 🚎Transportation: Bus No. 6/15 ✅Recommended reason: A famous residential complex from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, showcasing traditional Shanxi architectural style and culture. 📌Tip: It is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid queuing.

📍Preliminary preparation Documents: Mainland China ID card is required and may be used in some attractions. Clothing: Choose appropriate clothes according to the season. The roads in the castle are a bit rugged, so it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes👟. Others: Power bank, sunscreen, a small amount of cash (just in case). 🚗Transportation Guide Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Zhangbi Ancient Castle". There are parking lots nearby and the parking fees are reasonable. Public transportation: First arrive at Jiexiu City, then transfer to the bus to the castle🚌, but there may be fewer buses, so check the time in advance. 🎫Ticket Information You can buy tickets in advance on major travel platforms, which will be cheaper than buying them on site. There are corresponding preferential policies for students, seniors, etc., so remember to bring your ID. Usually around 75💰 🕙 Tour route Morning: Enter from the south gate of the castle. The first thing that catches your eye is the majestic South Gate, which is great for taking photos. Walk along the main street and visit the Kehan ​​Temple to experience the unique religious culture. Noon: Taste local delicacies in the restaurant in the castle. We recommend Jiexiu stuffed candies and bowl holders, which are delicious. Afternoon: Go to the tunnel entrance and explore the mysterious underground maze. It is so intricate and complex that it feels like traveling back to ancient times. After coming out, you can go to the North Gate and climb up the fort wall to overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire castle. Evening: If you have enough time, you can watch a light show in the castle. The lights and the ancient buildings complement each other beautifully. 🌟Must-see attractions Tunnel: You must experience it, this is a major feature of Zhangbi Ancient Castle. There are various mechanisms and facilities in the tunnel, which is very shocking. The Palace of the Buddha King Kong: The architectural style is unique and the murals inside are very exquisite, which is worth a careful appreciation. 💡 Tips The signal is not very good in some places in the castle, so it is best to download the offline map in advance. When visiting the tunnels, it is best to follow a guide, otherwise it is easy to get lost. My dears, pack your bags and go to Zhangbi Ancient Castle to start a time-travel journey! 💕

The moment I stepped into Zhangbi Ancient Castle, it was as if I had traveled through a time tunnel, pulling me back to that ancient and mysterious era. This thousand-year-old castle hidden in Jiexiu, Shanxi, every brick and stone, every alley, bears the traces of time and tells the vicissitudes of history. Walking along the bluestone path, the crisp sound under your feet forms a wonderful echo with the surrounding tranquility. The castle has a unique architectural style, integrating multiple functions such as military defense, religious beliefs and residential life. The towering fortress walls are thick and solid, as if showing people its former glory and majesty. Climbing up the fort wall and looking into the distance, you can see the undulating mountains in the distance, which complement the ancient castle and form a beautiful picture. Walking through the streets and alleys of the ancient castle, you will see ancient houses scattered in an orderly manner on both sides. Most of these dwellings are well preserved, with flying eaves, brackets, wood carvings and brick carvings, all of which demonstrate the exquisite skills of ancient craftsmen. Pushing open the mottled wooden doors, you can seem to see the lively atmosphere of the past here. In some courtyards, ancient farm tools such as stone mills and stone rollers are placed, which remind people of people’s living scenes in the past. The religious buildings in the castle are even more breathtaking. Temples such as the Khan Temple and the Palace of King Kong Buddha are solemn and majestic, with the smoke of incense burning everywhere. Here, different religious cultures blend with each other and coexist harmoniously, reflecting the ancient people's respect and tolerance for faith. As you enter the temple, exquisite murals and sculptures come into view. They are not only treasures of art, but also witnesses of history. In Zhangbi Ancient Castle, I also learned many interesting historical stories and folk legends. These stories are like bright stars, embellishing the historical sky of the castle and making it even more mysterious. This trip to Zhangbi Ancient Castle not only allowed me to appreciate the charm of ancient architecture, but also made me feel the profoundness of history and culture. It is a living history book that deserves every one of us to savor and feel it carefully. When I left the castle, I was filled with reluctance and looked forward to seeing it again next time.

Pingyao → Zhangbi Ancient Castle → Wang Family Courtyard → Pingyao → Shuanglin Temple|||The transportation for the entire route is very inconvenient. If you are not driving yourself and only using public transportation, you either need to have plenty of time and stay overnight in Jiexiu, or be prepared to take a taxi. First, from Pingyao to Jiexiu, there is a bus from Jiexiu to Zhangbi Ancient Castle. The bus stop is right outside the train station, but the schedule is uncertain, with buses running about once an hour. You can ask for more information when you get there. Zhangbi Ancient Castle is not very big, and about 3 hours is enough to explore it. There is no direct transportation from Zhangbi Ancient Castle to Wang Family Courtyard, so you need to take a bus back to Jiexiu and then go to Wang Family Courtyard. In this case, you will probably need to take a taxi, which costs about 50 yuan. Alternatively, you can take a train from Jiexiu to Lingshi, and then take a bus from Lingshi to Wang Family Courtyard. The route depends on your schedule. We planned to do it in one day, and we booked a car for the two segments in between. It is difficult to book a car in Jiexiu, and almost all of them are taxis. After a day of sightseeing, we returned to Pingyao from Lingshi. It is very convenient to get from Pingyao to Shuanglin Temple. You can take bus 108 near the train station, which goes directly to the temple. While waiting for the bus, private car drivers may approach you and ask if you want a ride. You can negotiate the price, and they can take you there for 8 yuan. The choice is yours. Shuanglin Temple is really worth visiting. The craftsmanship of the various hanging sculptures of gods and Buddhas in the Three Thousand Worlds is particularly exquisite.

🌈Attractions: Zhangbi Ancient Castle is located in Jiexiu, Shanxi Province. It is a charming thousand-year-old castle. The architecture here is unique, with open forts on the ground and secret passages underground. The ancient houses in the fort are scattered in an orderly manner, with a strong Ming and Qing style, and the mottled walls seem to be telling ancient stories. The streets and alleys are arranged in a herringbone shape, and walking through them feels like traveling through time and space. The underground tunnels are even more amazing, intricate and multifunctional. They are used for attack, defense, storage and other purposes. Walking through them, you can feel the wisdom and military strategy of the ancients. Zhangbi Ancient Castle also has a rich religious culture, with many temples and Taoist temples scattered throughout it. The ancient glazed stele and exquisite murals add a touch of mystery to the castle. Here, traditional folk culture is also passed on, and various folk activities showcase the unique local customs and practices, which is a shining pearl left by history to Shanxi. 🎟️Tickets: Adults 75 Students 37 🕐️Scenic area opening hours: 8:00-17:30 💗Other tips:

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : ! 🏯「Scenery you can't miss」 🌟Guanyu Temple You can see the Guanyu Temple as soon as you enter the South Gate. Walk into the Guanyu Temple and admire the exquisite carvings and layout of the ancient buildings. Stop here for a while to understand the status of Guanyu culture in ancient times 🌟Ancient Tunnel There are open forts on the ground and secret tunnels underground. It is tens of thousands of meters long and divided into three layers, upper, middle and lower. It has complete facilities for attack, defense, retreat and defense, which reflects the superb defense wisdom of ancient times. It is really worth a trip! 🌟Kongwang Foxing Temple In the front porch, you can see a very rare glass stele in China, with a peacock blue background and black writing. The delicate lines outline every line and every pattern, which condenses the wisdom of ancient craftsmen 🌟Most of the temples and palaces in the castle are covered with glass roofs, with dancing dragons and extraordinary demeanor; running beasts and running horses are lifelike; its colors are gorgeous and gorgeous, and the craftsmanship is exquisite After thousands of years of baptism, it is still shining and amazing! Shanxi is worth a visit for everyone who loves historical and cultural heritage❤️

Zhangbi Ancient Castle is a miniature ancient castle in Jiezhou City, Shanxi Province, China, with rich historical and cultural connotations and unique architectural style. The ancient castle was formed during the Northern Dynasty and the Sixteen Kingdoms, and gradually formed a five-level military defense system with "above-ground castle, underground tunnel" as the main structure through three stages: fortification, military town, and defensive village. The ancient castle is 374 meters long from east to west, 244 meters wide from north to south, and covers an area of 120,000 square meters. The castle has a rich and diverse culture, including ancient tunnels, Khan Temple, Kongwangxing Temple, Liuli Monument, ancient stage and many other cultural relics. The ancient castle has a five-level ancient military defense system with castle gates, alley gates, secondary alley gates, courtyard gates, and tunnels. The tunnel is 20 meters deep from the ground, divided into upper, middle and lower three layers, with a total length of more than 10,000 meters, and is a typical representative of the northern fortress in China with high historical, artistic and scientific value.

Travel Shanxi with Hei Wukong Feihong Tower This is a glazed pagoda in the style of a pavilion. It is octagonal in shape and has a cross-hipped roof. The tower is 47.31 meters high and hollow inside. The top of the tower is decorated with a glazed caisson. The tower is built of blue bricks, and each floor is inlaid with yellow, green, blue, purple, and white glazed decorations. Each floor has eight sides, and each side is different. From the first floor to the thirteenth floor, the decorations are exquisitely made. There are mighty and majestic warriors, pavilions surrounded by clouds and smoke, kind and benevolent Buddhas, and solemn and dignified Bodhisattvas. The poses are varied, and none of them are the same. Feihong Tower is the only glazed tower found so far that has left the inscription of craftsmen. It is the largest and most complete glazed tower. Whenever the wind blows, the 114 golden bells on the tower sway with the wind, making a crisp and pleasant sound, as if telling the vicissitudes and changes of a thousand years. Adult ticket 70 yuan, round-trip sightseeing car fare 20 yuan ⌚️Tour time 3 hours Zhangbi Ancient Castle A rare miniature city, known as a miracle in the history of world architecture! It is called a miniature because it covers an area of only 0.12 square kilometers, but it has everything and is full of mystery! This is Zhangbi Ancient Castle at the foot of Mianshan in Jiexiu. It was built during the Sixteen Kingdoms period. It is the only remaining and rare ancient defensive village cultural relic in China, and it is a complete specimen! · This miniature military ancient castle with a history of 1600 years has witnessed the turbulent changes of dynasties, the arduous process of national integration, and the joys and sorrows of village development! In order to avoid war, there is a huge tunnel system built by the ancients underground in Zhangbi, with a total length of nearly ten kilometers. The traps in the tunnel, communication channels, peepholes, ambush channels, and drainage outlets are all available! The many temples in Zhangbi are also a highlight. There are 16 existing temples in the ancient castle, such as the Kongwang Buddha Temple, Zhenwu Temple, Erlang Temple, Guandi Temple, etc., all of which are located near the north and south gates, most of which are built on the city wall! Very characteristic! Yuci Old City Ticket price: 70 yuan It was formerly known as "Fengcheng" and was built in the second year of Sui Kaihuang (582 AD), and has a long history of 1441 years. The most worth visiting is the Yuci Chenghuang Temple, which was built in the Yuan Dynasty, the Shanmen was in the Ming Dynasty, and the plaque was inscribed by the Qing Dynasty. It is quite diverse. In 1999, it was selected as one of the 100 most beautiful ancient buildings in the world. It is said that it is the oldest Chenghuang Temple in China. Taiheyan Paifang Located in Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province, it was built in the 23rd year of Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty (1897 AD) and has a history of more than 100 years. It is a masterpiece of the heyday of China's Ming and Qing glaze art! The entire archway is exquisitely crafted and complex, with bright and dazzling colors. A large amount of complex peacock blue glaze is used. The bright turquoise color is dazzling, and the glaze firing technology of peacock blue glaze is said to have been lost. Although it is not open to the public, it does not affect entry. Jiexiu Houtu Temple It is a Taoist building complex, built with glazed complex decorations, and can be called a museum of glazed art architecture. According to records, it was created in the Southern and Northern Dynasties or earlier, and most of the existing buildings are relics of the Ming Hongwu period. It is the largest and best-preserved palace-style temple among the existing Houtu temples in China.

Address: Zhangbi Village, Longfeng Township, Jiexiu City, Jinzhong City. Zhangbi Ancient Castle Scenic Area is one of the top ten charming towns in China! I naively thought that the castle was a gorgeous castle like Europe, but the truth is that it is a tunnel, a rugged tunnel with a total length of more than 1,600 meters, a tunnel like a tunnel war! The unique structure of the ancient castle's above-ground Mingbao and underground tunnels, the dangerous geographical location and the external terrain constitute a complete and true ancient defensive village, which is unique in China, can be called a specimen, and is rare in the world.

Zhangbi Ancient Castle was likely formed during the Northern Dynasties and Sixteen Kingdoms period, and has gone through three stages: fort, military town, and defensive village. It gradually formed a five-level military defense system with "above-ground castle, underground tunnel" as the main structure. It is known as the "above-ground and underground twin city, castle courtyard temple wall museum village", and is one of the important fortresses of the ancient military fortress Que Shu Valley. The tunnels are complex and although many areas are not open, if you do not follow the instructions after entering, you may still get lost. The wardrobe is connected to the tunnel. The current open area is about 10%, about one kilometer. The peacock blue Ming Dynasty glazed stele in the village is also a rare cultural relic.

Experience the above-ground ancient castle and underground labyrinth at Zhangbi Ancient Castle in Jiexiu, Shanxi. Zhangbi Ancient Castle is located in Zhangbi Village, Longfeng Town, Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province. It was first built during the Sixteen Kingdoms period and covers an area of 12,000 square meters. 1. Zhangbi Ancient Castle is rectangular in shape, 374 meters from east to west and 244 meters from south to north. The castle has a perimeter of 1,300 meters. The castle walls are made of rammed earth and are about 5 to 7 meters high. Most of the structures were built or rebuilt during the Tang Dynasty to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The ancient castle was built on a high plateau and next to a ditch. It is higher in the south and lower in the north. The left, middle, and right sides of the castle face the ditch, and the back of the castle is against Mianshan Mountain. It is a geomantic treasure land that is easy to defend and difficult to attack, and has a way to retreat. 2. The main and secondary streets of the ancient castle are clear, the street and alley layout is strict, the door lintels of the houses are exquisite, and the brick, wood, and stone carvings are exquisite and well-preserved. Zhangbi Ancient Castle has the characteristics of "above-ground Ming Castle, underground secret road". It can be said that it is a comprehensive ancient village that integrates history, religion, military, architecture, commerce, humanities, farming, etc., and has historical value, cultural value, and cultural relics. value. 3. Parking lot P: Charge for admission to the ancient castle: Charge

Zhangbi Ancient Castle is the only remaining, rare in the world, and a model of a complete ancient fortified village cultural relic in China. It is also a thousand-year-old castle that integrates military, astronomical, religious, folk, and agricultural multi-cultures. High-speed Rail: Take the high-speed rail to Jiexiu East Station, then take a bus or taxi to Jiexiu City, and then take the city bus No. 301 to the terminal station of Zhangbi Ancient Castle. Main Attractions: Guandi Temple, Kehan Temple, Kongwang Shrine, Erlang Temple, etc., to appreciate the unique charm of ancient architecture. Precautions: 1: The tunnels in the ancient castle are relatively narrow, so pay attention to safety and avoid crowding when visiting. 2: Most of the ancient buildings in the castle are wooden structures, so be careful of fire and do not smoke when visiting.

Unveiling Jiexiu, Shanxi: A One-Day Deep Exploration and Food Guide In Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province, there is a small county town full of historical charm and cultural heritage—Jiexiu. This place is not only a treasure trove of glazed art but also preserves China's only Zoroastrian architecture, making people exclaim: "After visiting Jiexiu, there's no need to see other glazed works." Here is an exciting one-day tour guide to help you appreciate the unique charm of Jiexiu. Itinerary: Morning (9:00-12:00) 9:00-10:00 Jiexiu Museum: As the first stop to explore Jiexiu, the museum houses nearly a hundred breathtaking glazed exhibits, including remnants of ancient buildings such as the Houtu Temple and the Wuyue Temple. The museum's treasure is a two-meter-high, one-ton yellow-green-blue glazed chiwen. Don't forget to look for the internet-famous "Xiezhi" emoji artifact, which is adorable. 10:30-12:00 Xianshen Tower: Travel through history and visit China's only remaining Zoroastrian architecture—Xianshen Tower. This ancient building, which integrates the mountain gate, music tower, and street-crossing tower, is renowned for its triple-eaved cross-hipped roof structure and exquisite glazed decorations on the roof. It is one of the "Three Famous Towers of Shanxi" along with Qiufeng Tower and Feiyun Tower in Wanrong County. Afternoon (14:00-17:00) 14:00-15:00 Chenghuang Temple: Stepping into the glazed capital's Chenghuang Temple feels like entering a dreamy world of glaze. All architectural components, including the roof and hanging fish, are made of glaze, each part shining with historical brilliance. Here, you might also encounter elderly people leisurely playing cards, feeling the tranquility of time. 15:30-16:30 Houtu Temple: As a temple of the Quanzhen sect of Taoism, Houtu Temple enshrines the Houtu Goddess. The main building, Sanqing Tower, has an impressive structural combination. All buildings in the temple, regardless of size, have glazed tile roofs, especially the peacock blue glaze, which is breathtakingly beautiful. 17:00-18:00 Taihe Rock Glazed Archway: Originally a paifang in front of the Zhenwu Temple, although the temple is now destroyed, this Qing Dynasty glazed archway still stands tall. The glazed decorations on the archway reveal the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans, leaving a lasting impression. Other Must-Visit Attractions: In addition to these wonderful attractions in the city, Jiexiu's Zhangbi Ancient Fortress and Mianshan are also must-visit tourist destinations, each attracting numerous visitors with their unique charm. Food Recommendations: In Jiexiu, you can not only enjoy beautiful scenery but also taste authentic Shanxi cuisine. Lao Jiexiu Restaurant, Linzi Qieliuzi, and Qiangze Bowl Steamed Tofu are all excellent food choices. Additionally, Shidian Coffee adds a touch of leisurely afternoon time to your trip. Conclusion: Shanxi Jiexiu, a place full of history and culture, awaits every traveler to discover and savor. Here, you will feel the unique charm of glazed art, appreciate the grandeur of ancient buildings, and taste authentic Shanxi cuisine. Come, let's enter Jiexiu together and start an unforgettable travel experience!

👀What to See ✅Three-level underground military tunnels spanning ten thousand meters ✅Ancient castle architecture ✅Glazed feast ✅Yuan Dynasty stage ✅First village of astrology ✅Characteristic villages of Shanxi ✅Home of the stars from 'Where Are We Going, Dad?' 🚘How to Get There 1️⃣Tourists in Jiexiu City: Take bus 301 to Zhangbi Ancient Castle Station, about 50 minutes, taxi costs 40 yuan, about 25 minutes. 2️⃣Jiexiu High-Speed Rail Station: Take a bus to the city center for 4 yuan, then transfer to bus 4 to the castle, but taking a taxi is more convenient, about 50 yuan, around 30 minutes. 🎫Tickets: 75 yuan for adults / 37 yuan for students 🌟Opening Hours: Peak season 08:00-18:00 / Off-season 08:00-17:00. Visit duration: 4 hours (including photography/listening to explanations) 🏠Accommodation and Dining: There are farmhouse restaurants in the scenic area, mainly serving noodles, and inns like Guhuai Inn/Third Place Inn; in the city (10KM from the scenic area), there are chain hotels like Home Inn and Hanting. 🌈Tips: 1️⃣The castle can be visited together with Wang Family Courtyard. To save time, I took a taxi from Wang Family Courtyard to the castle for 50 yuan. It's best to keep the driver's phone number for a return trip, as it's hard to get a Didi ride. 2️⃣The castle is located on the Loess Plateau, with temperatures 3° lower than the city, and 5° lower in the tunnels. Wear a jacket and sports shoes when entering the tunnels. 3️⃣On the way from Wang Family Courtyard, you will pass by Jie Zitui's hometown and the entrance to Mianshan Scenic Area, the origin of the Cold Food Festival. 4️⃣For a detailed tour, you can hire a guide. Local high school and college students work as guides during holidays, costing around 60 yuan, which is very practical. 5️⃣There is an amusement park inside, suitable for parent-child activities.

Xingxiu Village, ancient tunnels, glazed stele, although Zhangbi Ancient Castle is not the most famous in Shanxi, it is definitely at the forefront in terms of the richness of elements! 🍁Xingxiu Village Zhangbi Ancient Castle was first built during the Sixteen Kingdoms period more than 1,600 years ago. Its name comes from Zhang and Bi in the twenty-eight constellations, so the entire village was built in accordance with traditional astrology and geomancy concepts, with Yin and Yang, Five Elements on the ground, and Liu Ren Qi Men underground. Zhangbi Ancient Castle is rectangular in shape, and most of the preserved buildings are from the Tang Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. There are two fort gates in the north and south that are not in a straight line. The south fort gate has the Guandi Temple, the ancient military ground, the Kehan ​​Temple and the tunnel entrance. There is a Wengcheng at the north gate of the fort, and there are many temples on the city. 🍁 Ancient tunnel There is no clear record of when it was built, but it is speculated to be during the Sui and Tang Dynasties. The total length is about 10,000 meters, and 1,500 meters are currently being excavated. It is divided into three floors, upper, middle and lower, crisscrossing and leading in all directions. The tunnel is well ventilated and doesn't feel stuffy at all. 🍁Glass Monument Jiexiu is the hometown of colored glaze. There are densely packed temple buildings on top of the Beibao Gate. Most of the temple roofs are decorated with three-color colored glaze from the Ming Dynasty, which is stunning. The roof of the main hall of Kongwang Temple is a lion bottle feng shui building, which blesses peace. The peacock blue glazed steles on both sides of the hall were fired in the 41st year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty and are rare in the world. 🍁Zhangbi Ancient Castle Address: Zhangbi Village, Longfeng Town, Zhongxiu City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: 8:00-16:50 Tickets: 75 yuan/adult I have to say that the break time and ticket price settings are a bit different. Zhangbi Ancient Castle

🏛️: Compared to Qiao's Compound and Wang's Compound, I prefer this ancient village hidden in the deep mountains, Zhangbi Ancient Castle. It is not only an ancient village but also one of the more intact miniature "castles" in China that integrates military, residential, productive, astronomical, and religious activities. ⭐ Visitor's Guide: Zhangbi Ancient Castle was built during the Northern Dynasties and Sixteen Kingdoms period, it was once a military fortress and has a history of over 1600 years. Zhangbi Ancient Castle encompasses many cultural relics and historical sites, including the ancient cultural sites of the Xia and Shang dynasties, Northern Dynasties tunnels, Jin dynasty tombs, Yuan dynasty stages, and Ming and Qing dynasty residential buildings. The layout of the ground in Zhangbi Ancient Castle corresponds to the twenty-eight constellations, with bright castles above ground and secret passages below. The ancient tunnels from the Northern Dynasties are about ten thousand meters long, with three levels, upper, middle, and lower, equipped for both attack and defense, which is quite magical. Zhangbi Ancient Castle is located in Jiexiu, which is known as the 'Hometown of Colored Glaze Art', and the colored glaze of Zhangbi Ancient Castle is its typical representative. The temples and halls in the ancient castle are mostly covered with colored glaze, with dragons and phoenixes flying, animals running, peonies blooming, warriors standing quietly, the colors are gorgeous, the craftsmanship is exquisite, and they still shine brightly after hundreds of years. 📍 Detailed Address: Zhangbi Ancient Castle 🚌 It is about a 30-minute drive from Jiexiu county town, suitable for self-driving; take bus 301 from Jiexiu Train Station directly to Zhangbi Ancient Castle, departing every half past the hour, with one bus per hour, the last bus at 17:20. 🎫 75 yuan

This set of Erlang God and his Seven Sages of Meishan colored sculptures were photographed at the Erlang Temple in Zhangbi Ancient Fortress, Jiexiu, Shanxi. He holds a trident halberd, with the roaring celestial hound by his side, looking majestic, detesting evil as if it were an enemy, and the image is unforgettable! Although the colored sculptures are newly made, they are also one of the rare fine works I have seen! But upon closer inspection, it seems that this Erlang God is different from the traditional image we have in mind. This Erlang God, like ordinary people, has only two eyes instead of three! In Chinese folk belief, Erlang God is a deity with a quite extensive influence. In fact, Erlang God originated from the Guankou God in the Shu area before the Song Dynasty. Later, there were Li Erlang (Li Bing's second son), Zhao Erlang (Zhao Yu), and the well-known Yang Erlang (Yang Jian) evolution. Apart from the evolution of the characters, what's more significant is the evolution of the image of Erlang God, especially after the Ming and Qing dynasties, the appearance of the three-eyed Erlang God image has become deeply rooted in people's hearts. So much so that today when talking about Erlang God, the first thing that comes to mind is the three-eyed one, but all these are part of the historical evolution of the image of Erlang God!

In Shanxi, there is a miniature ancient castle, where the ground level is a thousand-year-old fortress, and beneath lies an ancient tunnel system akin to a "ten-thousand-meter Great Wall". The ancient castle is located in Jiezhou City, Shanxi, and was originally constructed during the Sixteen Kingdoms period. It is one of the well-preserved rare ancient miniature "castles" in China that integrates military, residential, production, and religious activities. Legend has it that this was the place where Liu Wuzhou, from the end of the Sui Dynasty to the beginning of the Tang Dynasty, resisted Li Shimin. He held out in the ancient castle for a long time. Attractions and cultural relics introduction: ◼️ The tunnels of Zhangbi Ancient Castle Resemble a labyrinth, filled with numerous traps and hidden weapons, said to be designed for defense against enemies, including a general's command room. ◼️ Khan Temple Built to commemorate Liu Wuzhou. ◼️ Kui Xing Tower A place for praying for academic success. ◼️ Kong Wang Buddha Temple A place for worshipping Kong Wang Buddha. These key protected cultural relics are all important components of Zhangbi Ancient Castle. They not only reflect the high level of ancient Chinese architecture and culture but also serve as important testimonies to Chinese history and culture.

Located in Zhangbi Village, Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province, it was built during the Later Zhao period of the Sixteen Kingdoms, with a history of over 1600 years. Featuring above-ground bright castles and underground dark fortresses, it is a large-scale ancient military defense village that integrates architecture, astronomy, military, folklore, and religious culture. In 2017, it was a filming location for the show 'Where Are We Going, Dad?'🎬. There are no written records of it, making it an unsolved mystery of history! It has been rated as China's number one astronomical village, the 'living fossil' of ancient villages in northern China, and the 'treasure basin forgotten by history'. Ticket price: 67 yuan (online), open from 8:00-18:00. There is a parking lot at the entrance (10 yuan parking fee). Tour route: South Gate → Guandi Temple → Tunnels → 'Where Are We Going, Dad?' themed courtyard of Du Jiang's family → Laifu Vinegar Defense → Grandma's House → Yongchun Tower → Hongshun Street → Kongwangxing Ancestral Hall, Peacock Blue Glazed Stele

When I first heard the name of the ancient castle, I thought it was a castle, but after I came here I found out that I was deceived. There is no ancient castle! It is just the most ordinary village in Shanxi, not even as good as the big courtyards of the Wang, Qiao and Chang families. After the visit, I realized how ignorant I was. It turns out that the castle is underground. ⛰【Attractions Guide】 📍Detailed address: Zhangbi Village, Longfeng Town, Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province 🚗Transportation Guide: Zhangbi Ancient Castle is located in Longfeng Township, 15 kilometers southeast of Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province. It takes about 80 minutes to drive from Taiyuan Airport to Jiexiu, and it takes about 1 hour to drive from the urban area to the scenic spot; there is a special tourist line to Zhangbi Ancient Castle in Jiexiu City. 🕙Opening hours: 08:00-16:50 (ticket sales stop at 16:30) 💰Ticket price: 67 yuan for adults, 37 yuan for children/students 🌟Highlights: 1. Zhangbi Castle was built in accordance with traditional Chinese astrology and geomancy concepts, with Yin and Yang and Five Elements on the ground and Liu Ren Qi Men underground. 2. The underground tunnels are interconnected and fully functional. There are some small holes on the walls of the tunnel for air circulation with the outside world. The advance, retreat, attack, defense, hiding and escape can be flexible and can station tens of thousands of troops. 3. The "Fu" character screen on Zhang Liwei's home. The huge "Fu" character looks like the "Huo" character at first glance. The radical on the left looks like a dragon, the upper right stroke resembles a crane head, and the lower right stroke is written in regular script as the character "田", which means a healthy life, a prosperous life for the crane head, and wealth and fortune from the fields. 📌Tips: 1. Please follow the tour guide closely during the tour. The underground route is complicated and it will be troublesome if you get lost. 2. It is best to charter a car and book the tickets in advance.