Shanxi's hidden gem for sketching is absolutely amazing! A treasure guide every art student must save
by Simmons_Evelyn_29
Sep 5, 2025
Perfect encounter with nature✨ The complete guide to the Northern China International Sketching Base is here!
🏞️ Where is this place?
📍 Address: Zuoyun County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province
Known as "The Taihang Mountains in an oil painting"! Nestled in the embrace of the Taihang Mountains and surrounded by the Qingzhang River, it's a paradise for sketching~
------
💫 Three must-visit areas:
1️⃣ Laojing Area - The nostalgic vibe of old films with a film-like texture
📽️ Filming location of the movie "Laojing" well preserved
🎭 Must-visit: Wu Tianming Film Art Museum + Ming and Qing Dynasty Brick Carving Art Museum
🎨 Featured sketching spots: Laojing Village, Tianmen Village, and 6 other ancient villages
2️⃣ Zecheng Area - Long-lasting ancient charm with an artistic flair
🏡 A 500-year-old original ecological ancient village
💃 Must-experience: Intangible cultural heritage "Xiaohua Opera" performance
🎭 Must-visit: Hyperrealistic Oil Painting Gallery + Shanxi Classic Sculpture Museum
3️⃣ Tongyu Area - Collision of red memories and art
🇨🇳 The Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts Memorial ahead is stunning
🎨 Featured themed villages: Baijiazhuang Village (anime style), Shangwu Village (red theme)
✨ Hidden highlights:
- 🖼️ Over 15 art galleries across the three main areas
- 🚌 Thoughtful shuttle service dedicated for sketching trips
- 🏡 Quaint and charming inn accommodation experience
🚗 Transportation guide:
Self-driving: 2 hours from Shijiazhuang/Yangquan direction
High-speed rail: Get off at Zuoyun Station, then 30 minutes by taxi
(Suggest booking a car for more convenience~)
⏰ Best time to visit:
Summer June-August: Enjoy both cool weather and sketching
Autumn September-October: Stunning colorful foliage perfect for photos
🏨 Accommodation recommendations:
Top choice: Inns within the base:
- Laojing Inn (movie theme)
- Zecheng Inn (natural wood ancient style)
Nearby there is also H Hotel (Zuoyun Binhe Road branch)
📸 Creative tips:
🌄 Taihang Mountain sunrise is a must-shoot!
🏡 The gate details of ancient villages are very atmospheric
💦 Remember to bring waterproof art supplies when sketching by the Qingzhang River
🌟 Tips:
Remember to prepare:
- Sun protection essentials (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Non-slip hiking shoes
- Quick-dry art materials (mountain climate is changeable)
Every frame here is a natural canvas, so bring your brushes and meet your inspiration!🎨✨
Post by Simmons_Evelyn_29 | Sep 5, 2025












