Just returned from Jinzhong, and my spending habits are in shambles.

🌄 You must visit Jinzhong—breathe in Shanxi's evening breeze, stroll through Ming and Qing dynasty ancient streets, and experience the unique charm of this historic city. Here, you'll find well-preserved ancient towns, majestic grand courtyards, and mouthwatering local delicacies. Below is the ultimate Jinzhong travel guide for you👇

📍 **Location**: Jinzhong is located in central Shanxi Province, bordered by the Taihang Mountains to the east and the Fen River to the west. Its prime location makes it easily accessible from neighboring cities like Taiyuan, Yangquan, Changzhi, and Lüliang.

🚌 **Transportation Guide**:

• **External Transport**: Jinzhong has no airport, so it's best to arrive via Taiyuan Wusu International Airport. From there, you can take an airport shuttle, taxi, or transfer to a train or bus to reach Jinzhong. Alternatively, you can take a train or high-speed rail directly to Jinzhong Station or Pingyao Ancient City Station.

• **Local Transport**: The city has bus routes covering most attractions, but some remote scenic spots may require transfers or special shuttle buses. For more flexibility, renting a car is a great option, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

📅 **Itinerary Suggestions**:

• **3-Day Cultural & Historical Tour**:
◦ **Day 1**: Arrive in Pingyao Ancient City in the morning, wander the Ming-Qing streets, and climb the ancient city walls for a panoramic view. In the afternoon, visit Rishengchang Exchange Shop and Pingyao County Government Office. Enjoy Pingyao beef and Pingyao Wantuo for dinner, then admire the ancient city’s nightscape.
◦ **Day 2**: Head to Qiao Family Compound in Qi County in the morning to marvel at the grandeur of Shanxi merchant mansions. In the afternoon, visit the Wang Family Compound in Lingshi to appreciate its massive scale and exquisite architecture. Dine and rest near the Wang Family Compound in the evening.
◦ **Day 3**: Explore Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu in the morning, where nature and history intertwine. In the afternoon, visit Zhangbi Ancient Castle to uncover the mysteries of this miniature fortress. Return to the city in the evening to conclude your trip.

• **2-Day Nature & Scenery Tour**:
◦ **Day 1**: Visit Longyan Grand Canyon in Xiyang in the morning to admire the deep gorge and cascading waterfalls. In the afternoon, head to Zoumacao in Heshun for breathtaking Taihang Mountain views. Enjoy local food and stay overnight in Heshun County.
◦ **Day 2**: Travel to Yunzhu Lake in Yushe in the morning for a boat ride or lakeside fishing. After lunch at a nearby farmhouse, return home.

🏠 **Accommodation Tips**:

• **Pingyao Ancient City**: Highly recommend staying in a traditional inn within the ancient city to fully immerse in its ambiance. Options like the Pingyao Ming-Qing Guildhall (See Pingyao Branch) offer comfort and proximity to attractions, with some inns even providing free ancient costume experiences.

• **Qiao Family Compound**: The nearby Fushengcheng area offers a variety of accommodations, allowing you to experience Shanxi merchant culture firsthand.

• **Wang Family Compound**: The Chongningbao Hot Spring Hotel, converted from the Wang Family Compound’s Chongningbao, is a great choice—relax in hot springs while soaking in the mansion’s unique charm.

🍱 **Food Recommendations**:

• **Taigu Cake**: A Jinzhong specialty with a crispy crust and soft filling—sweet but not cloying. A perfect souvenir for friends and family.

• **Yuci Sausage**: Made from buckwheat, it has a chewy texture and pairs perfectly with spicy or garlic sauce.

• **Pingyao Beef**: Tender, fragrant, and rich in flavor, with a long history and unique preparation methods.

• **Shouyang Dried Tofu**: Crafted from premium tofu through marinating and drying, it has a slightly crispy skin and delicate interior, bursting with bean aroma. Enjoy it as a snack or in dishes.

🎈 **Must-Do Experiences in Jinzhong**:

• **Watch "See Pingyao" Immersive Show**: A captivating performance that vividly brings Shanxi merchant culture and spirit to life, transporting you back to their golden era.

• **Visit Shanxi Merchant Mansions**: Marvel at the unique architecture, intricate wood, stone, and brick carvings of the Qiao Family Compound and Wang Family Compound, and glimpse the glory of Shanxi merchant dynasties.

• **Stroll Through Pingyao Ancient City**: Walk the bluestone-paved streets, admire the ancient architecture, and savor the slow, leisurely pace of life.