The Taihang Mountains in late autumn are full of beauty.
by WilliamJacobsen
Nov 6, 2024
Folks! I've struck gold today! In Yangquan, I discovered a super niche "healing divine mountain" that boasts a thousand years of history and is perfect for casual ancient-style photoshoots. Most importantly, it's not crowded, making it ideal for a weekend trip. Come unlock it with me! 😎
How amazing is Shuishen Mountain? 3 major features that instantly captivated me!
- The "Culture of Loyalty and Filial Piety" creates a rich atmosphere: Shuishen Mountain is famous for the legend of "The Orphan of Zhao." On the mountain, there's an ancient and charming "Temple of Heroic Women." Red walls and dark tiles, paired with towering ancient cypresses, and when the sun shines down, even the shadows exude gentleness. Walking on the flagstone path feels like traveling back to ancient times~🏮
- Super healing natural scenery: You don't need to climb too high to reach the summit. The path is lined with lush green forests, making it super cool to visit in summer! The view from the summit is amazing, offering a panoramic view of Yangquan city. When the wind blows, your hair floats, and every casual shot gives off "forest fairy" vibes. Every deep breath is fresh air~🌿
- Niche and uncrowded, freedom to take photos: Unlike popular scenic spots that are packed with people, here you can take photos however you like without waiting for a spot. Whether standing on the steps of the ancient temple or sitting on a rock in the forest, you can easily get great shots. Even those who are socially anxious can pose freely~📸
Nanny-level itinerary, easy for beginners to enjoy!
1. How to get there?
- Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Yangquan Shuishen Mountain Scenic Area." There's free parking at the entrance, making it super convenient to drive. It's about a 30-minute drive from Yangquan city center~🚗
- Public transportation: Take a bus from the city center towards "Yinying Town." Once in Yinying Town, take a taxi to the scenic area entrance, which is about 10 minutes and super cheap~🚌
2. A fun route to explore in one day
- 9:00-10:00: Arrive at the scenic area, first stroll around the small square at the foot of the mountain, buy a bottle of water for the climb, and take a "scenic area entrance" check-in photo~
- 10:00-11:30: Walk up the mountain along the path, taking photos of the forest and stone steps along the way. After reaching the "Temple of Heroic Women," explore it carefully. The red walls, carved windows, and ancient steles are all excellent backdrops. Remember to take more ancient-style photos~
- 11:30-12:30: Reach the summit! Take panoramic photos of the city from the top, enjoy the breeze, rest a bit, and eat some snacks you brought to replenish energy~
- 12:30-14:00: Head down the mountain to eat at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area. I recommend trying the local "Yangquan Guoyourou" (fried pork) and "Minqu'er" (local noodles), which are authentic and affordable~🍜
- 14:00-15:30: If you still have energy, visit "Shuishen Lake" at the foot of the mountain. The reflections on the lake are stunning, and the soft afternoon sun makes for even more gentle photos~
3. Accommodation recommendations (great value for money!)
- Yangquan Hotel: In the city center, convenient transportation, clean and spacious rooms. It's also easy to explore the city at night, suitable for those who like a lively atmosphere~
- Yangquan Yaolin Conference Center: Excellent environment, close to the mountains and forests, very quiet at night, and you can hear birds singing in the morning. Suitable for those who want to relax~
- Home Inn Business Hotel (Yangquan Development Zone Branch): A reliable chain hotel with high cost-effectiveness. There are many snack shops nearby, making dining super convenient~
Photo check-in spots + tips to make your social media feed explode!
1. Red wall of the Temple of Heroic Women: Stand in front of the red wall, facing the camera sideways, gently resting your hand on the wall. Have a friend shoot from a low angle, framing both the ancient cypress and the red wall to instantly create an ancient vibe! Remember to wear light-colored clothes for better contrast~
2. Summit observation deck: Face away from the panoramic city view, spread your arms or look up slightly, letting the wind blow your hair. Use your phone's "portrait mode" to blur the background and highlight yourself, instantly transforming into a "healing masterpiece"~
3. Forest stone steps: Walk on the stone steps, look back and smile or look down at the steps. Have a friend shoot from an elevated angle to capture the layers of the forest. Choose a "forest" or "vintage" filter for an amazing atmosphere~
4. Shuishen Lake reflection: Around 4 PM, when the sun shines diagonally on the lake, stand by the lake, aligning your body with its reflection. Shoot horizontally with your phone for a more harmonious composition, like a painting~
5 nearby hidden gem scenic spots to visit along the way!
1. Cangshan Scenic Area: About a 40-minute drive from Shuishen Mountain, it's the core scenic area of "The Orphan of Zhao," with mountains, water, and ancient buildings. Suitable for history and culture enthusiasts~
2. Niangziguan Scenic Area: Known as the "Ninth Pass under Heaven," you can see the Great Wall, explore ancient towns, and experience "Niangziguan Rafting," which is super refreshing in summer~
3. Taolingou Scenic Area: Close to the city center, you can see peach blossoms in spring, and there are fruit picking and amusement parks year-round. Suitable for families with children~
4. Dapeng Ancient Village: A thousand-year-old ancient village with unique architecture, nestled in the mountains like a "paradise." Perfect for taking cultural photos~
5. Hundred Regiments Offensive Memorial Park: A red tourism scenic spot with a memorial hall and historical sites, where you can learn about history and experience red culture~
Folks! Yangquan Shuishen Mountain is truly a "niche treasure" – beautiful scenery, not crowded, and affordable. A short weekend trip here is super healing~ Are you tempted after reading this post? Follow me! I'll continue to unlock more niche and fun scenic spots, helping you avoid the crowds and explore beautiful places everywhere~ See you on the next trip! ❤️
Post by MiikaKoskinen | Sep 12, 2025
















