Locust tree of Hongtong

Southern Shanxi features traditional yaodong cave dwellings carved into loess hillsides. Some villages allow visitors to walk around, meet local families or stay in renovated cave-style guesthouses.

Guangsheng Temple was established in the Eastern Han Dynasty in 147. The temple, originally known as the Julushe Temple before being renamed Guangsheng in 769, was damaged in a major earthquake in 1303, during the Yuan Dynasty, and was rebuilt thereafter. The temple experienced many repairs during the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911), but the structures have kept the architectural style of the Yuan Dynasty. The highlight of Guangsheng Temple is the spectacular Feihong Pagoda ("Flying Rainbow Pagoda"), the largest and best preserved glazed pagoda in China. Octagonal in shape and nearly 500 years old, this 13-storey pagoda glimmers on sunny days, with the sunlight reflecting off of the many multi-colored glazed tiles which cover the 47-m tall tower. The many eaves of the structure feature glazed Buddha, birds, beasts, dragons, guardians, warriors, other figures, and all sorts of plants, all exquisitely sculpted and still in excellent shape after over four centuries. At the corner of each eave, a wind chime dangles from a ceramic dragon, with 114 such bells in all. While the Feihong Pagoda is the main feature of the Upper Temple, visitors should not neglect the other structures in the temple, which are quite spectacular as well. Guangsheng Temple consists of an Upper Temple and a Lower Temple, and the buildings in this complex contain many exquisite sculptures, mainly from the Ming Dynasty.

Linfen Ancient City Park recreates the historic appearance of Linfen's old city with lakes, bridges, sculptures, and thematic areas celebrating the city's rich heritage.

A long riverside park with cycling paths, wetlands and green areas. Bike rental vendors occasionally operate near the park entrance. A relaxing way to explore the city.

Temple fairs during Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival or the Zhonghe Festival are a highlight of southern Shanxi culture. Visitors can watch major folk performances such as Jinnan Weifeng Drum and Gongs (晋南威风锣鼓), known for its powerful percussion, and the Tower Lion Dance (天塔狮舞) from Taosi Village, featuring acrobatic moves on a 9-mbench tower. Markets, traditional snacks, lion dances, gongs and drums, and rural folk customs create a lively festive atmosphere.

The pedestrian streets around Yao Temple often host small performances, food stalls, lantern decorations and night markets. A pleasant area for an evening walk.