Taiyuan! A completely underestimated tourist city! Guide collection

🗺️ Taiyuan Tour Route

Day 1:

Jin Merchants Museum (Former Site of the Governor's Mansion) → Liuxiang → Bell Tower Street/Food Street → Fen River

• ⛩️ Jin Merchants Museum: Free entry; reservations can be made via the official WeChat account.
• ⛩️ These spots are all within walking distance. Bell Tower Street is a landmark with many photo-worthy backdrops.

• ⛩️ Fen River: The second-largest tributary of the Yellow River. A stroll along its banks in the evening is a must—how else can you say you’ve truly visited Taiyuan? Take a boat ride to soak in the scenic river views.

Day 2:

Jin Temple Park → Jin Temple Museum → Taiyuan Ancient County

• ⛩️ Jin Temple: A must-visit in Taiyuan, as the saying goes, “If you don’t see Jin Temple, you’ve wasted your trip to Taiyuan.” Built to commemorate Tang Shuyu, the founding prince of the Jin State, it’s a sacred ancestral temple.
  • Tickets: Jin Temple Park is free; Jin Temple Museum costs 80r/person.
• ⛩️ Taiyuan Ancient County: A filming location for Man Jiang Hong. Rent Hanfu for photos, and don’t miss the night fireworks show.
  • Tickets: 20r/person.

Day 3:

Shanxi Museum → Taiyuan Botanical Garden → Jinyang Lake (Sunset Viewing)

• ⛩️ Shanxi Museum: “To understand Shanxi, look at its above-ground relics.” The museum houses miniatures of scenic spots across Shanxi and many striking cultural relics.
• ⛩️ Taiyuan Botanical Garden: A new internet-famous check-in spot with a超长 (super long) space staircase—stunning for photos, especially when lit up against a dim sky. It features three exhibition halls: Theme Flower Hall, Tropical Rainforest Hall, and Desert Plant Hall.

• ⛩️ Jinyang Lake: North China’s largest artificial lake, renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. Even the frozen lake surface in winter is picturesque. It’s close to the botanical garden, so combine the two!

🏞️ Extra Options (If Time Allows):

• Mountain climbing: Jiaozi Cliff, Mengshan Giant Buddha, Taishan, or Tianlong Mountain are all excellent choices.
• Caiwei Manor: The photo spot is on the bell tower—climb up for the perfect shot (ask staff for directions).

🌟 Practical Tips

Accommodation:

• Beyond hotels, consider homestays (no specific recommendations here).
• Opt for areas around Vientiane City (close to many attractions) or Liuxiang (abundant dining options).

Transportation:

• Taiyuan has few subway lines, but buses are convenient—most attractions are directly accessible by bus.
• 🚗 Taxis: Recommended to book online for ease.

Food Streets & Local Flavors:

• Food Streets (recommended by a local): Laojunying Snack Street, Yijing Snack Street, Xuxi Snack Street, May Day Snack Street, Taoyuan Snack Street.
• Must-Try Foods:
  • 🍢 Skewers (a Taiyuan specialty!)
  • Steamed yellow rice with jujube, bowl tray (a local snack), stewed noodles, sea buckthorn ice cream, enema (a traditional dish), oat noodles, hand-rolled noodles.

Taiyuan blends history, nature, and delicious food—this route lets you savor its unique charm. Enjoy your trip! 🎉