Shanxi Taiyuan | Explore the Mysterious Ancient Village Hidden in the Mountains

Shanxi Dachang Ancient Village (pronounced chǎng) boasts a history of over 1,500 years and is the oldest surviving village discovered in the area to date. Recognized as one of China's Historic and Cultural Villages, Dachang Ancient Village is often referred to as the "Potala Palace" deep within the Taihang Mountains!

Dachang Ancient Village is a bloodline village where all residents share the surname Han. From the founding ancestor Han Chongming to the present day, the village has seen 15 generations. In the past, hundreds of Han descendants lived here, but now only 13 residents remain.

The village has no shops, restaurants, or pharmacies. The only entertainment might be gathering under the ancient locust tree in the evening, reminiscing about the past while holding bowls of food. Residents make a living by farming and raising livestock such as chickens and sheep. Occasionally, the calls of wild boars, weasels, and badgers echo through the mountains, breaking the silence and adding a touch of vitality to the secluded village.

Key Highlights
Dachang Ancient Village is known for its four unique features, which attract countless visitors to explore and study:

1. Unique Architecture
The village is built on a stone slope, and all houses are constructed from stacked stones. The layout follows principles of feng shui, with shaded areas embracing sunny ones, wind gathered and energy retained, eastward entry and westward collection, pine and cypress trees overhead, and clear springs encircling the village—making it an auspicious location.

2. Unique Roads
All roads in the village are paved with stones. Walking through the mountain paths and alleys of Dachang Village, you'll feel the cleanliness and elegance of the entire village.

3. Unique Tree
The village is built on a massive rock, making it difficult for trees to grow. Yet, there is a thousand-year-old locust tree in the village—a true marvel!

4. Unique Buddha Statues
The village houses seven Buddha statues known as the "Stone Dragon Mountain Guardian Deities." Interestingly, the weight of these stone Buddhas varies significantly at different times of the day—a mystery that experts are still working to unravel.

Address: Dachang Village, Yu County, Yangquan City (1-hour drive from Taiyuan, 46 minutes by train)
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Recommended Visit Duration: 3 hours; if taking photos or visiting with children, plan for half a day.