Your First Visit to Xia County, Yuncheng: A Comprehensive Travel Guide 🌟
Hey travel lovers! 👋 Are you ready to explore a hidden gem in Shanxi Province? Xia County, located in Yuncheng, is brimming with historical sites, cultural relics, and breathtaking scenery. Here's your ultimate travel guide to Xia County, styled just for you,小红书 fans! ✨
Day 1: Dive into History and Culture 📜
Morning:
- Sima Guang Shrine (司马温公祠): Start your day at this sacred site dedicated to the famous historian Sima Guang. Walk through the ancient sculptures from the Northern Song Dynasty and marvel at the Song, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties' treasures. Don't miss the Yuqing Zen Monastery (余庆禅院) within the shrine, though be prepared to see headless Buddha statues due to past theft. 🙏
- Address: Near Sima Guang's Tomb, Xia County
- Opening Hours: 08:30-17:30 (last ticket sale at 17:00)
Afternoon:
- Xia County Confucius Temple (夏县文庙大成殿): Head over to this magnificent temple, where you'll be greeted by its impressive scale and intricate glazed ridge ornaments. The two ancient cypress trees in front, one dead and one thriving, symbolize the passage of time. Perfect for a mid-day photo shoot with the sun casting a golden glow. ☀️
- Address: Inside Xia County Town
Evening:
- Dining at Rongjian Pork Trotter (荣建猪蹄总店): Treat yourself to a delicious meal at this popular restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful dishes. Don't forget to try their signature pork trotters! 🍖
- Address: 50m west of 209 National Highway
- Operating Hours: 11:30-21:30
Day 2: Nature and Spirituality 🌿
Morning:
- Duiyun Cave (堆云洞): Nestled on Niu Village's hill in Jiwang Mountain, this former Taoist temple turned red tourism site boasts breathtaking views and a unique architectural style reminiscent of the Potala Palace in Tibet. It's a perfect blend of nature and spirituality. 🌄
- Address: 25km west of Xia County Town, on Jiwang Mountain
Afternoon:
- Qiangxia Guan Yu Temple (墙下关帝庙): Take a bus ride (No. 101 from Xia County) to this second-largest Guan Yu Temple in Yuncheng. Feel the local reverence for Guan Yu as you wander through the temple, and don't forget to snap some photos in traditional attire for that authentic vibe. 👘
- Address: Qiangxia Village, Xia County
Evening:
- Relaxation at a Local Spa: After a day of exploring, unwind at one of Xia County's hot springs, such as Tianmu Xiadu Spa Center. Perfect for soaking away your fatigue. 🛁
Tips for Your Trip:
- Transportation: Getting to Xia County is easy; simply take Bus No. 101 from Yuncheng Railway Station or the Central Hospital. 🚌
- Accommodation: Stay at Shangqing Hepan B&B (上卿河畔民宿) for a cozy and convenient base during your stay. It offers free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and a 24/7 front desk. 🛌
- Local Delights: Besides Rongjian Pork Trotter, try Chen Qiao Mutton Hubu (陈乔羊肉糊卜) for a hearty meal at an affordable price. 🍲
Remember, Xia County is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone who loves exploring new places, Xia County has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to this hidden gem in Shanxi—you won't be disappointed! 🎒✨
Safe travels, and happy exploring! 🌈
