The first snow dusts the Taihang peaks, Warmth lingers deep in the countryside. As the peak winter tourism season arrives, Jincheng City in Shanxi Province unveils three distinctive rural tourism routes. Centered around folk culture villages, snow-themed adventures, and wellness retreats, these itineraries seamlessly blend Jincheng's architectural heritage, snow resources, and ecological strengths. They unlock fresh winter experiences in the “Pearl of the Taihang Mountains,” transforming the region's “cold resources” into a thriving cultural tourism economy.
Folk Village Route: Journey Through Millennia, Trace Ancient Village Heritage
Centered on “experiencing traditional customs and exploring ancient fortress heritage,” this route connects key sites including Henghe Village, Huangcheng Village, Guoyu Ancient City, Haihui Academy, and Dayang Ancient Town.
Visitors can experience the thrill of mountain biking on Henghe Village's dedicated trails; immerse themselves in large-scale live performances like “Return to the Prime Minister's Mansion” at Huangchengxiangfu—the “First Twin-Castle Ancient Fortress of the East”—tracing the story of renowned Prime Minister Chen Tingjing amidst its blue-tiled roofs and gray bricks; stroll along the cobblestone paths of Guoyu Ancient City, feeling its profound historical depth and vibrant folk customs; Step into Haihui Academy, which produced 68 imperial scholars during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and soak in the unique essence of Shanxi's cultural heritage. Within Dayang Ancient Town's 350,000-square-meter complex of Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasty architecture, touch the living fabric of a millennium-old town and fully experience the folk customs and historical weight of Jincheng's countryside.
Winter Wonderland Adventure: A Seasonal Feast of Taihang Mountain Snow Fun
This specially designed winter adventure route blends the “thrill and speed” with the “serene romance” of Taihang's winter landscape.
The journey begins at the professional ski resort within the Colorful Taihang Tourism Area, renowned for its powdery, pristine snow and comprehensive facilities—a must-visit for families and skiing enthusiasts. Ascend to the summit of Wangmangling Scenic Area to encounter the Taihang peaks blanketed in snow and adorned with crystalline rime ice, evoking a fantastical fairyland. Explore Songmiao Village and Suzhuang Village, strolling through ancient hamlets adorned with snow to experience the tranquil romance of “snow reflecting ancient charm.” Head to the Free Wilderness Tourism Area for activities like snowshoeing and wilderness camping, unleashing your wild side and challenging yourself amidst nature. The Wolongwan Wellness Resort features four ski runs capable of accommodating over 2,000 skiers simultaneously.
Wellness Retreat Route: Savor Rural Moments, Empower Mind-Body Healing
This wellness-themed itinerary centers on “ecological wellness and leisure retreats,” connecting premium destinations like Fengcheng Wellness Demonstration Zone, Heju・Tianyuan, Jincui Zhanghe, and Ancient Post Station Zheshui for a soothing journey suitable for all ages.
Begin your relaxation journey at Fengcheng Wellness Demonstration Zone, then experience integrated medical care and ecological wellness services at Heju・Tianyuan. Immerse yourself in the “natural oxygen bar” of Jincui Zhanghe and Songmiao Village, where dense forests and picturesque landscapes blend harmoniously. Visit the Gu Yizheshui Scenic Area, the ancient Zhong Temple, and Bushan Village to feel the weight of history along ancient post roads and in historic temples. Along the way, participate in fun activities like cycling, fruit picking, and farm experiences. This comprehensive offering satisfies natural sightseeing, cultural immersion, and leisure wellness, allowing visitors to shed fatigue and nourish body and mind amidst pastoral landscapes.
It is reported that these three newly launched rural tourism routes represent Jincheng City's meticulously planned and upgraded premium itineraries, leveraging its core resources of “Taihang Mountains and waters, ancient castles and villages, folk culture, and ecological wellness.” Beyond connecting scenic spots, these routes emphasize comprehensive service guarantees covering “eating, lodging, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment.” Supporting facilities like rural homestays, specialty dining, and guided services have been enhanced along the routes, crafting a winter cultural tourism feast that is “playable, tangible, and enjoyable” for visitors.
Moving forward, Jincheng City will continue to cultivate its rural tourism brand, continuously optimize route experiences, and enrich product offerings. This will further elevate the recognition and influence of Jincheng's rural tourism, inviting more visitors to explore the depths of the Taihang Mountains. Here, they can immerse themselves in the natural beauty, cultural charm, and wellness delights of Jincheng's countryside. By empowering rural revitalization through cultural tourism, Jincheng aims to propel its cultural tourism industry toward higher-quality development. (By Duan Siqi)