Luliang, a low-key city on the Loess Plateau

Qikou Ancient Town is located in Lin County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province. It is a well-preserved ancient town from the Ming and Qing Dynasties and is known as the "No. 1 Town of the Nine-Bend Yellow River".

Transportation: From Taiyuan, you can take a bus directly to Lin County, which takes about 3 hours, and then take a local bus or taxi to the ancient town. The self-driving route is Taiyuan-Lishi-Qikou, with a total distance of about 230 kilometers.

Best time to visit: April-May and September-October. The summer is hot.

Main attractions:
1. Black Dragon Temple: The highest point of the ancient town, overlooking the entire Yellow River
2. Xiwan Village: Well-preserved residential buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties
3. Lijiashan Village: The famous painter Wu Guanzhong once sketched here
4. Yellow River Gallery: Naturally formed rock landscape
5. Ancient town old street: bluestone road with shops on both sides

Specialties:
1. Wan Tou: Local specialty noodles with special sauce
2. Yellow River Carp: Freshly caught, delicious meat
3. Red dates: a specialty of Lin County, large and sweet
4. Oil cake: a traditional snack, crispy on the outside and glutinous on the inside
5. Dried tofu: handmade, unique flavor

Accommodation recommendations:
1. There are many characteristic inns in the ancient town, with prices ranging from 100-300💰/night
2. The hotel conditions in Linxian County are good, the price is 150-400💰/night

Tour suggestions:
1. It is recommended to arrange a 1-2 day trip
2. Walk around the ancient town and wear comfortable shoes
3. You can take a boat tour of the Yellow River, about 50💰/person
4. Buy local handicrafts such as paper-cuts, cloth tigers, etc.

Note:
1. Some sections of the road are steep, please pay attention to safety
2. Book accommodation in advance during peak season
3. Respect local customs and practices
4. Protect cultural relics and avoid graffiti

The ancient town of Qikou has completely preserved the architectural style and lifestyle of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and is an important window for experiencing the Yellow River culture and Shanxi merchant culture. Take a stroll in the ancient town and feel the unique charm of going back in time.