Shanxi's Hidden Gem! Xinzhou Ancient City 1800-Year Time Travel Guide

Xinzhou Ancient City｜A "Living Museum" just 1 hour from Taiyuan 🏛️
This ancient city with over 1800 years of history still retains the most vibrant northern Shanxi local life!
The best part! Free admission! 💰 Truly irresistible～

🚗【Transportation Guide】
🚄 For high-speed rail travelers: Taiyuan South Station → Xinzhou West Station (25 minutes) 💰21.5 RMB → 15-minute taxi ride to the ancient city
🚙 For self-driving travelers: Navigate to Xinzhou Ancient City Parking Lot (Qiyi South Road, Xinfu District) Parking fee 10 RMB/day! Such a bargain～

🏯【Top 3 Must-Visit Spots】
1️⃣ Climb the city wall: The North City Gate "Gongchen Gate" is less crowded and scenic! The 2.2 km Ming Dynasty city wall is perfect for shooting ancient-style photos 📸
2️⃣ Visit the academy: Xiurong Academy (No. 8 Taian Street, Xinfu District)
The only ancient academy in Shanxi still holding classes! Climb the Wenchang Pavilion for a panoramic view of the ancient city 🏛️
3️⃣ Stroll the old street: South Street is great for exploring! Foodies must try:
· Wang Neng Braised Pig Trotters 🐷 (30 RMB per jin) tender to the bone
· Buckwheat Noodle Soup 🍜 (15 RMB) sour and spicy, very appetizing
· Baode Bowl Cake 🥣 (10 RMB) a local childhood favorite

🍜【Xinzhou Delicacies】
· Iron Pot Chicken 🐔: Slow-cooked farmhouse flavor on a traditional stove
· Tofu Pudding (10 RMB): Perfect with fried dough sticks!
· Pancake with Soup (15 RMB): Carb happiness
· Shenchi Mooncakes 🥮: Traditional taste that beats trendy brands

🏨【Stay in History】
Yunman·Xi Hot Spring Homestay (Inside Xinfu District Ancient City Scenic Area)
📍 Perfect location! 5-minute walk to the food street
♨️ Feature: Each room has a private hot spring! So relaxing after exploring the ancient city～

💡【Useful Tips】
· ⏰ Best seasons: April-May / September-October (avoid extreme heat and cold)
· 👟 Must bring: Sneakers! The ancient city is all stone pavements
· 🌃 Don’t miss the night view! Recommended to stay overnight
· 💰 Small attraction tickets: 10-30 RMB (optional visits)

Here you’ll find both historical depth and local life charm
Spend 1-2 days leisurely exploring to unlock another side of Shanxi!