Located in Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province, about 120km from Taiyuan, Mianshan Mountain is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and national scenic area, renowned for its "unique, precipitous and beautiful" natural landscapes and profound Cold Food Festival culture.
Overview
Basic Information
- Area: Total area of 135 sq km, core scenic area covers 40 sq km.
- Honors: National 5A-level tourist attraction, China's famous historical and cultural mountain, hometown of Cold Food and Qingming culture.
History & Culture
- Origin of Cold Food Festival: Derived from the story of Jie Zitui who lived in seclusion here during Spring and Autumn Period.
- Religious Significance: Sacred Taoist site known as "Little Wudang of North China".
- Architectural Features: Cliffside temples hailed as "Architectural Wonder of China's Hanging Temples".
Natural Landscapes
Geological Wonders
- Unique Peaks & Rocks: Distinctive formations like Dragon Head Temple and Honeycomb Spring.
- Cliffside Plank Walk: Thrilling 3,000-meter-long cliff pathway.
- Waterfalls & Springs: Over 30 waterfalls, with Shuitaogou Waterfall Group being most spectacular.
Seasonal Scenery
- Spring Flowers: Blossoms everywhere around Qingming Festival during Cold Food Culture Festival.
- Summer Retreat: Average 22°C temperature makes it natural summer resort.
- Autumn Foliage: Mountains covered with red leaves in October.
- Winter Ice: Snow-covered landscapes with spectacular ice waterfalls.
Cultural Attractions
Religious Architecture
- Daluo Palace: China's largest Taoist complex, known as "World's Premier Taoist Temple".
- Yunfeng Temple: Cliffside temple built during Northern Wei Dynasty, enshrining statues of Jie Zitui and his mother.
- Zhengguo Temple: Preserves 12 Buddhist mummies, a remarkable Buddhist wonder.
Cultural Sites
- Jiegong Ridge: Hermitage of Jie Zitui, birthplace of Cold Food culture.
- Qixian Valley: Retreat for ancient scholars and recluses.
- Stele Forest Garden: Collection of over 200 historical inscriptions.
Featured Experiences
Cultural Activities
- Cold Food & Qingming Festival: Annual event around Qingming recreating ancient customs.
- Taoist Rituals: Prayer ceremonies during important lunar festivals.
- Cliffside Blessing Bells: Visitors can hang auspicious bells on cliffs for good fortune.
Outdoor Activities
- Mountain Hiking: Multiple trails of varying difficulty levels.
- Canyon Rafting: Exciting summer water activity.
- Ice & Snow Festival: Winter entertainment events.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Peak Season (Apr 1-Oct 31): 07:30-18:30
- Off Season (Nov 1-Mar 31): 08:00-17:30
Ticket Information
- Full Ticket: 110 RMB/person (peak), 90 RMB/person (off)
- Concession Ticket: 55 RMB/person (students, seniors etc.)
- Shuttle Bus: 50 RMB/person (mandatory, includes round-trip transportation within scenic area)
Transportation
- Public Transport: Tourist shuttle buses from Taiyuan Jiannan Bus Station.
- Self-drive: From Taiyuan via Jingkun and Dayun Expressways, exit at Jiexiu and follow signs for about 20km.
- Parking: Large parking lot at entrance for 2,000 vehicles.
Travel Tips
- Best Season: April to October, especially during Cold Food Festival and autumn foliage season.
- Itinerary: Recommend 1-2 days, with accommodation options in scenic area or Jiexiu city.
- Notice: Some sites are precipitous - wear anti-slip shoes and take safety precautions.