2026 Quyang Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

🌈Destination: Zhengding ancient city 🚄Transport: High-speed train from Beijing West to Zhengding station takes only 1h. Zhengding to Dingzhou East is just 20min ⏳Recommended duration: 5 days 4 nights for a relaxed trip [Trip highlights]✨ 1️⃣ Few crowds and beautiful hidden spots Completely avoid the crowds Enjoy the peacefulness of thousand-year-old architecture 2️⃣ Full cultural feast History lovers will be thrilled! Perfect for kids to learn and explore 3️⃣ Affordable Low cost per person but great experience [Itinerary]📅 🏰Day 1: Beijing → Zhengding 1h high-speed train direct, super convenient Check in at an ancient city guesthouse to rest and adjust 🏯Day 2: Ancient city stroll Morning: Experience the Buddhist light and chanting at Longxing Temple Afternoon: Walk along the ancient city wall for panoramic views Evening: Hunt for authentic local flavors 🕍Day 3: Cultural immersion Morning: Hanfu experience at Linxi Garden Afternoon: Appreciate ancient architecture at Beiyue Temple Evening: Night market for skewers, shopping, and exploring 🌉Day 4: Surrounding exploration 20min by car to Dingzhou Visit Zhongshan Jingwang Memorial Hall and Dingzhou Tower 🚄Day 5: Return to Beijing Head home with full memories~ [Travel tips]💡 ✔️Must-haves for kids: stroller + snacks + picture books ✔️Outfit suggestion: Hanfu or traditional Chinese style for the vibe ✔️Pack light: travel light for 4 nights ✔️Food recommendation: must-try kiln-baked sesame seed cake! Who wouldn’t love such a leisurely cultural trip? 🥰

Shanghai Museum East Hall's "Chinese Ancient Sculpture Exhibition" takes you on a journey through a thousand years of history⏳. From the solemn Buddhist statues to the lively secular pottery figurines, each exhibit is a treasure of Chinese civilization! This time, 9 exquisite pieces are selected to satisfy art lovers with a visual feast all at once~💫 🌟【Exhibition highlights】🌟 1️⃣ Jin dynasty "flashy gold" bodhisattva statue💰 The lacquered gold Dashi Zhi bodhisattva from Shanxi is dazzling! 👉 Wearing a golden crown, holding a precious vase 👉 Flowing garment folds with a silk-like texture Touch it on the weekend and it might bring you good luck~ 2️⃣ Tang dynasty handsome Buddha head certified! "Still looking great after a thousand years" refers to this one! 👉 Classic oval face 👉 Drooping brows and eyes with a naturally melancholic vibe This look would still be a hit today! 3️⃣ Northern Song dynasty master of "control" Kāśyapa The "most dedicated worker" carved from Quyang white marble! 👉 Bald head symbolizing wisdom 👉 Serious face typical of an ascetic monk Who says practitioners can’t be stylish? 4️⃣ Song dynasty imposing heavenly king statue Outshines modern male models in seconds! 👉 Armor shining bright 👉 Standing on yaksha demons Who else can match this presence? 5️⃣ Northern Song iron arhat with eight-pack abs🏋️ A textbook model physique! 👉 Clear rib lines 👉 Perfect meditative posture Fitness enthusiasts, check this out! 6️⃣ The chillest Guanyin bodhisattva Can Song dynasty wood carvings be this "Buddha chill"? 👉 Relaxed sitting posture 👉 Shedding the usual Buddhist solemnity This is the weekend vibe every worker wants~ 7️⃣8️⃣ Career expert picks OL icons traveling from the Tang dynasty 👉 Image 7: dignified office worker style 👉 Image 8: wealthy young lady High society style never goes out of fashion! 9️⃣ Desert workhorse tri-colored camel The "Tesla" of the Silk Road era🚗 👉 Luxurious seat between two humps 👉 Colorful glazed craftsmanship This is the real luxury ride! 📍Tips for visiting: It’s best to come on a sunny morning. The light shining through the glass onto the statues creates an amazing atmosphere~ Remember to turn off the flash when taking photos📸

Quyang Cultural Museum, located at the Quyang County Administrative Service Center on South Ring Road in Baoding City, is a comprehensive museum showcasing Quyang County’s long history, brilliant culture, and unique charm. The museum is divided into three exhibition halls: the stone carving art hall, the Beiyue Temple exhibition area, and the Ding kiln exhibition area, displaying Quyang County’s rich and diverse historical and cultural resources. The museum also has a temporary exhibition hall that hosts various themed exhibitions from time to time, offering visitors a diverse cultural experience. The museum’s architecture features a unique style that blends traditional and modern elements. The exterior is mainly white, accented with gray and red lines, presenting a clean and elegant look. The interior is spacious and bright, with a comfortable and pleasant environment, making it an ideal place for visitors to learn about Quyang’s history, culture, and artistic treasures. Notably, parking is convenient at the museum entrance, making it suitable for self-driving visitors. In addition, the museum provides comfortable rest areas and accessible facilities, fully considering the needs of different groups. At Quyang Cultural Museum, you can admire exquisite stone carving artworks, the ancient architectural complex of Beiyue Temple, and historical artifacts from the Ding kiln, experiencing Quyang’s profound historical and cultural heritage and unique artistic charm.

The best value for money in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region! A two-day, one-night trip to Quyang, all-inclusive for 300 RMB. 🚗Transportation: High-speed train from Beijing to Dingzhou (approx. 100 RMB), then take a bus from Dingzhou Station to Quyang Bus Station (approx. 15 RMB). Use shared electric bikes within the county. For attractions in the north (Tiger Mountain/Julong Cave), carpooling is recommended. ✨Highlights: Free or low-cost attractions: · Xiude Temple Pagoda (Free) – A rare Song Dynasty flower pagoda in China · Wenchang Pagoda (Free) – A landmark of the county · Sculpture Square (Free) – A popular spot for locals to stroll in the evening · Gaoyingpo Art Museum (Free) – Showcasing over 500 contemporary sculptures and innovative Ding porcelain works · Artists' Village (Free) – A 130-acre stone carving art area · Beiyue Temple (40 RMB) – The only paid attraction, a must-see, featuring the largest Yuan Dynasty wooden structure and Wu Daozi murals. · Tiger Mountain Scenic Area (65 yuan) – Half price for students/60-70 years old, approximately 32.5 yuan Money-Saving Route: Day 1: Beiyue Temple (40 yuan) → Xiude Temple Pagoda (free) → Wenchang Pagoda (free) → Sculpture Square (free) Day 2: Gaoyingpo Art Museum (free) → Artists' Village (free) → Return Trip 🍜Food: Hei Guinu Dumplings, Clay Oven Baked Flatbread (a few yuan for a filling meal), Sculpture Square Night Market Snacks ⚠️Avoid the Pitfalls: Stay in a budget hotel in the county town (100-150 yuan/night). Beiyue Temple: Free for children under 1.2 meters/over 70 years old. Tiger Mountain sightseeing bus: 10 yuan (optional).

Strolling around Beiyue Temple on a rainy day ☔️ Unexpectedly discovered this forgotten national heritage treasure ✨ 📍 Address: No. 2 Beiyue Road, Hengzhou Town, Quyang County, Baoding City, Hebei Province ⏰ Opening hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM year-round This was once a place for worshiping Beiyue Until the 17th year of the Qing Shunzhi reign Beiyue actually referred to Mount Damao, not Hengshan in Hunyuan! 🌧️ Rainy days add to the atmosphere. The entire park is symmetrically laid out along the central axis. The restoration doesn’t feel northern at all, with lush greenery everywhere Perfect for photos with a strong vibe! Chinese architecture appears faintly through the rain and mist Instantly transports you back to ancient times 💔 A little regret: The much-anticipated Yuan dynasty Denning Hall Is still not open to the public But the other buildings are worth seeing! After all, Quyang is the hometown of stone carving, and the scattered stone sculptures and carvings on the lawn beside the hall are all very impressive About 200 meters across the road is Xiude Temple’s Flower Pagoda, the earliest pagoda in the country, built in the Song dynasty. A collection of exquisite white marble statues now exhibited at the Palace Museum and Hebei Provincial Museum were unearthed from the foundation during its restoration. PS: History and culture lovers must come to experience the rich cultural heritage here! Though not well known, it’s peaceful and quiet with few visitors Perfect for a slow, thoughtful visit~

Visiting Hengyang Academy truly moved me with its quiet scholarly atmosphere~ No noisy tourist spots here, just green tiles and white walls, ancient cypresses standing tall, and even the breeze carries a faint scent of ink, as if you can hear the clear voices of ancient scholars reading aloud📚 ✨ Old Traditions Hidden in the Lecture Hall Push open the wooden door of "Minglun Hall," and with a creak, it feels like traveling through time~ In the center stands the teacher’s lectern, flanked by neat desks. Sunlight streams through the lattice windows, casting spots of light on the wooden floor where tiny dust particles float. On the wall hangs a plaque inscribed with "Benevolence, Righteousness, Propriety, Wisdom, and Trustworthiness," instantly reminding one of the old tradition of respecting teachers and valuing learning😌 Try sitting at the desk, pretending to hold a brush pen, and for a moment, you might feel like a diligent student studying hard in the cold window light~ 🌿 The Backyard Garden is So Healing There’s a little surprise behind the academy! Rockeries and flowing water wind around the pavilions, a few old locust trees grow lush and full, with stone tables and benches underneath—perfect for sitting and daydreaming. Morning glories climb up the bamboo fence in the corner, their pink-purple flowers dotting the green leaves, blending beautifully with the antique architecture, evoking a sense of "stealing half a day of leisure"🌸 I heard that in the past, students would come here to stroll and discuss their studies when tired of reading, and even the air seems filled with earnestness~ 💡 Tips for Visiting the Academy 1. Located inside Quyang City, not far from Beiyue Temple, so you can visit both on the same trip. 2. Wear plain-colored clothes for better photos! White shirts, cotton-linen skirts match perfectly with the academy’s rustic charm. 3. Don’t be loud! The quiet atmosphere is well preserved here; walking softly and taking your time to look around is the most comfortable way to enjoy it. 4. Pay attention to details! The wood carvings on the door lintels and the patterns on the window frames all hide the cleverness of our ancestors. When leaving, the sunset shines on the academy’s gate tower, casting long shadows. Suddenly, it feels like places where you can quietly feel history are more memorable than fast-paced check-ins~ If you love tranquility, you must come here for a visit✨

Here’s a major highlight of the trip: standing by the lake at sunset. As the gentle evening breeze rolls in and the sun paints the water crimson, all your exhaustion just washes away with the waves. Just sitting there quietly is therapeutic enough 💖. Plus, taking a stroll beneath the trees or melting snow and capturing those random dappled light spots—every casual snap looks like a magazine spread, perfectly documenting your own little slice of freedom. Top Itinerary Picks 1. Shanghai - Quyang Park Address: No. 880 Zhongshan North 1st Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai Opening Hours: 05:00 - 21:00 Why we recommend it: It's just a crosswalk away from the subway, making it the top choice for a laid-back stroll. The park is packed with towering trees, and the sunlight filtering through the leaves creates gorgeous light and shadow play—giving off a very down-to-earth, everyday vibe. We highly suggest coming in the late afternoon. Basking in the mellow sunset glow, whether you're with family, friends, or flying solo, you can truly feel the city slowing its pace. 2. Quyang - Hushan Scenic Area Address: Hushan Village, Fanjiazhuang Township, Quyang County, Baoding City Opening Hours: 07:30 - 18:00 (Summer), 08:00 - 17:00 (Winter) Why we recommend it: If you love hiking, this is right up your alley! The natural scenery along the way is absolutely stunning. You might stumble upon shadows outlined by sunlight in the woods, and even have the chance to snap photos of melting snow and ice. We recommend heading up the mountain early in the morning—the air is super fresh and the panoramic views are epic. It's the perfect spot to slow down and soak in a full day out. 3. Quyang Jiashan Water Park Address: 180 meters southwest of Sujiazhuang Reservoir, Xiahe Town, Quyang County, Baoding City Why we recommend it: An absolute must-visit spot to beat the summer heat! Not only does it have awesome water rides, but you can also take in the distant lake views. It's super kid-friendly, and also totally romantic for couples splashing around and showing off some PDA. Just remember to double-check their operating dates, pack your swimsuit and sandals, and definitely don't skimp on the sunscreen! 4. China Stone Appreciation Valley (Zhongguo Shangshi Gu) Address: S382, Quyang County, Baoding City Why we recommend it: A massive recommendation for explorers or anyone into the aesthetics of rocks! The natural stone landscapes here are breathtaking. When you reach the bottom of the valley, the natural light pouring in feels incredibly dreamy—every casual shot is a cinematic masterpiece. The valley takes on a different vibe depending on the weather; misty and rainy days add an especially moody, atmospheric touch. 5. Quyang - Feishi Pavilion Ruins This place is dripping with history and a sense of timeless tranquility. If you're a fan of treasure hunting and historical tales, you definitely need to take a walk here. 6. Accommodation Pick: Book's Room Homestay (Quyang Road Branch) Address: 2nd Floor, No. 1 Quyang Road Highly rated across the board! It's located right in a local residential neighborhood, so the location is super convenient—just steps away from Exit 2 of Subway Line 10. The rooms are spacious, cozy, and spotless, and the staff are super friendly and polite. The bang for your buck is off the charts. Whether you're just crashing for the night on your trip or looking for a quiet corner to read and reflect, this place hits the spot. 7. Shanghai Wujiaochang Quyang Bailian Atour Hotel Conveniently located with fully-equipped facilities, making it an ideal home base for bouncing between the two cities. Handy Pro-Tips · We highly recommend catching a sunset at Quyang Park or near the scenic spots in the late afternoon to really chill out. That expansive, mellow golden hour truly melts away all your stress and fatigue. After watching the sunset, you'll feel like you've hit the reset button. · When snapping pics, pay attention to the sunlight and tree shadows. Nature scenes with ice, snow, or right after the rain are incredibly photogenic. · Public transit in the Quyang area can be a bit sparse, so we recommend a road trip (driving yourself) or booking a car in advance to save you a ton of waiting time. · If you're hitting up the water park in the summer, don't forget your sunscreen and flip-flops, and always stay safe in deeper waters. Foodie Recommendations Near the attractions in Quyang, you've got to try the local BBQ and rustic mountain stir-fries. Back in Shanghai, we suggest hunting down some Jiangnan-style joints around the park to experience authentic home-cooked flavors made with local ingredients.

This is a spring intangible cultural heritage exploration journey that blends millennia-old medicinal fragrance with exquisite stone craftsmanship, connecting two nationally recognized historic and cultural cities, Anguo and Quyang. The two-day, one-night itinerary is leisurely paced, offering immersive experiences in traditional Chinese medicine culture as well as in-depth encounters with national intangible heritage such as stone carving and Ding ware porcelain. It’s a healing micro-vacation route that combines spring outings with heart-nourishing relaxation. 【Anguo Medicine King Temple】 Founded in the Eastern Han Dynasty, expanded during the Northern Song, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, it is the largest and oldest existing architectural complex dedicated to the Medicine King in China. The main deity worshipped is Pi Tong, who was honored as the “Medicine King” by Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty. Under the warm spring sun, the scent of medicine wafts between the flying eaves and dougong brackets, and the mottled light on the stone steps and inscriptions feels like traveling through a thousand years to listen to the enduring echoes of traditional Chinese medicine culture. 【Qizhou Shangkang Valley】 An immersive health and wellness street district styled after the late Qing and early Republic periods, integrating cultural experiences, traditional Chinese medical therapy, medicinal cuisine, and themed inns. The winding bluestone paths, gently lifted ancient eaves, and spring sunlight spilling over the tiles create a slow-paced sanctuary for body and mind wherever you walk. 【Chinese Medicine Capital Medicinal Botanical Garden】 An 800-acre modern Chinese medicinal herb agricultural park. The eastern area features 240 acres of lavender fields just beginning to bloom; the western area is designed according to the five elements and five organs theory of traditional Chinese medicine, creating “Five Health Gardens.” The fresh green herbs and the aroma of botanicals in spring make it a natural classroom for learning traditional Chinese medicine through leisure. 【Hebei Baixiaodan Chinese Medicine Health and Culture Experience Park】 Here you can make your own medicinal sachets and accessories, experience medicinal baths for wellness, learn traditional exercises like Baduanjin and Five Animal Frolics, tour a transparent factory to explore the production process of Chinese medicine, and enjoy medicinal teas and cuisine. This interactive experience lets you feel the warmth and wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine. 【Huahai Central Pedestrian Street】 Over 600 meters of European-style dual streets with eight themed plazas scattered throughout, combining shopping, sightseeing, wellness, and leisure. A springtime stroll here offers countless photo opportunities for stunning seasonal shots. 【Gaoyingpo Art Museum】 A non-governmental sculpture museum founded by a national master of arts and crafts, showcasing the fusion and coexistence of Quyang stone carving traditional techniques and contemporary artistic expression. Ancient-style and innovative works silently converse under the spring sunlight. 【Beiyue Temple】 Founded during the Northern Wei Dynasty (500–508 AD), the Denning Hall is the largest surviving wooden structure from the Yuan Dynasty. Inside, the east and west walls hold massive murals of the “Heavenly Palace” attributed to the master painter Wu Daozi. As spring light flows and the flying celestial robes seem ready to take flight, history breathes vividly in this moment. 【Chen Wenzeng Ding Porcelain Art Museum】 Systematically displays over 2,000 representative works of contemporary Ding ware porcelain, calligraphy, and poetry by the Ding kiln master Chen Wenzeng. The basement features the themed exhibition “800 Years of Ding Kiln, 500 Years of Tribute,” outlining the pinnacle of Chinese white porcelain with a thousand exquisite replicas. 【Quyang Cultural Museum】 A state-approved museum with a sculpture culture hall presenting a panoramic exhibition of Quyang stone carving evolution from the Shang and Zhou Dynasties to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The Beiyue Culture Hall uses models and videos to restore the architecture and mural charm of Beiyue Temple, serving as a three-dimensional textbook to understand Quyang’s “stone soul and porcelain spirit.” Anguo’s horseshoe-shaped baked flatbread, small salty snacks, medicinal cuisine, Quyang’s black girl dumplings, and kiln-baked flatbread... these intangible cultural heritage foods are living legacies on the tongue and the warmest human notes of this journey. The fragrance of medicine settles the body, the charm of stone nourishes the heart—two days and one night is just right to turn spring into a poem you can travel, feel, and taste. Come to Baoding and start your unique journey now!

Nannie Water (now Qinxian, Shanxi) holds a special place in Buddhist history, centered on the "Nannie Water Stone Carving Cache" unearthed in 1959. It is hailed as the "China's First Folk Stone Carving Museum," with its uniqueness reflected in the following three aspects: 1. The Unique "Building Block" Statue Tower This is the most iconic discovery of Nannie Water. Unlike fixed grottoes such as Yungang and Longmen, the statue towers here are stacked from multiple square stone blocks, each with niches on all four sides, allowing them to be assembled and disassembled like building blocks. This movable tower-column structure is extremely rare nationwide and serves as a living fossil for studying the internal layout of Northern Dynasties temples. 2. A "Living Archive of Folk Beliefs" Spanning 500 Years These stone carvings span from the 2nd year of Yongping in the Northern Wei Dynasty (509 AD) to the 9th year of Tiansheng in the Northern Song Dynasty (1031 AD), covering over 520 years. They fully document the evolution of Buddhist art from "delicate and refined images" to "plump and robust forms." Since they were funded and carved by the common people, the statues incorporate numerous scenes of folk performances and agricultural life, making them precious samples for studying ancient secular beliefs. 3. One of the Three Major Caches and the Mystery of "Avoiding Calamity" The Nannie Water stone carvings, along with those in Quyang, Hebei, and the Wanfo Temple in Chengdu, Sichuan, are known as the three major Buddhist stone carving caches of 20th-century China. These artifacts were carefully buried by monks and believers during the Northern Song period (presumably to avoid "Buddhist persecution" or war). They were neatly arranged, thus surviving millennia of weathering and preserving their original artistic style.

📍Location: Nanshan South Viewing Platform, Beigudong, Fuping County, Baoding, Hebei 🧭 Navigation: Nanshan South Viewing Platform, Beigudong, Fuping County, Baoding 🎫 Tickets: Viewing platform is free, no ticket required 🚗 Road conditions: Paved mountain roads, easily accessible by sedan, can take the east-up west-down loop without backtracking Only a 3-hour drive from Beijing! A hidden gem for family road trips around Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei is here! Known by netizens as "Baoding's Little Maldives," the emerald lake water surrounds the green mountains, offering a 360-degree unobstructed view. Few people, beautiful scenery, and free of charge—perfect for unlocking fun with kids in the mountains and lakes 🌊 🌟 Must-visit family highlights The Nanshan South Viewing Platform offers a 360-degree unobstructed god’s-eye view. Standing on the platform, you can see the Wangkuai Reservoir nestled in the folds of the Taihang Mountains. The blue lake water surrounds the green mountains like emeralds, with winding waterways carving out emerald-colored peninsulas. The scenery is breathtaking. Recommended to arrive one hour before sunset; when the sunset light bathes the water, it’s stunningly beautiful and perfect for capturing atmospheric family photos with kids. ⏰ Super easy and worry-free one-day family trip itinerary, relaxed with kids and no rush Morning: Navigate to near the village committee of Neihe Village, Quyang. The area by the reservoir looks like the sea, great for simple camping, picnics, and relaxing with kids, easy to take great photos. Noon: Drive 15 minutes to Beichian Village, known as Baoding’s Maldives. The lake water is clear like jellyfish sea. You can enjoy authentic stewed fish and fried shrimp at local farmhouses by the shore, which kids love. Afternoon: Drive 20 minutes to Nanshan South Viewing Platform, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery with kids, take family photos, and wait for the stunning sunset. Evening: You can camp and picnic near the viewing platform, then return after sunset, or stay overnight to watch the sunrise the next morning. After rain, there’s a high chance to see a sea of clouds. ⚠️ Family travel safety tips ✅ The water near the reservoir is shallow but there are cliff-like deep waters not far from the shore. Always watch elderly and children closely. ✅ Leave no trace, be sure to take all trash with you to protect the mountain and wild scenery. ✅ Spring, summer, and autumn offer the best scenery, with bluer water and greener mountains—ideal for family trips. ✅ If time allows, visit Fuping Tianshengqiao National Geopark on the way to unlock more family activities. Accommodation 🏨Yunhua Creek Valley Luxury Tent Hotel A luxury tent hotel hidden in the mountains, built by the creek, with a children’s play area. It’s a half-hour drive from the viewing platform, perfect for family vacations. 🏨Fuping Pingshitou Village Homestay A countryside homestay deep in the Taihang Mountains with full pastoral scenery. You can experience farming activities, great for kids to feel rural life. 🏨Gujiatai Camel Bay Courtyard A unique countryside homestay with a private courtyard and complete facilities. Customizable family mountain hiking activities available, very convenient for kids. 🏨Jiashan Youlegu Hotel A family-friendly hotel in the core area of Quyang, featuring a water park and children’s play area. It’s a 15-minute drive from Neihe Village, very convenient for travel.

Want to escape Beijing during the Spring Festival but afraid of the crowds? I've already ingrained the travel mantra "Hit popular spots in the off-season, dig for hidden gems in peak season" into my travel DNA 😂 This selection strategy has been personally tested and is super reliable, sharing it with those of you who also want to avoid crowds! 🧠 My logic for selecting off-the-beaten-path destinations 1. Check hotel price increases Look up prices one month in advance; if the price difference between peak and off-peak seasons is less than 30%, you can basically avoid large crowds. 2. Look at historical heritage Places with wealthy ancestors or ancient buildings/artifacts won’t be boring, no matter how off the beaten path they are. This Spring Festival, I locked in: Beijing → Quyang → Dingzhou → Zhuozhou for a 3-day self-drive trip Test results: Almost no one at paid attractions, some spots felt like we had the place to ourselves! Only had to wait a bit for meals (many restaurants closed during Spring Festival), overall experience was excellent 👍 📅 Day 1 Beijing → Quyang → Dingzhou ✅ Quyang, Hebei 🌟 Beiyue Temple & Xiude Temple Pagoda|⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommended 🅿️ Parking: Ground parking lot on the west side of Beiyue Temple South Gate · Beiyue Temple: Houses the largest surviving Yuan Dynasty wooden structure in China The Denning Hall has the same double-eaved hip roof style as the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City, very high standard! Inside is a legendary giant mural painted by Wu Daozi (under renovation when we visited, so we couldn’t see it 😭) There are many stone inscriptions, several related to Su Shi, a delight for history buffs. · Xiude Temple Pagoda: 5-minute walk away Built in the Sui Dynasty, the existing structure is original from the Song Dynasty The lower half is a flower-shaped pagoda, the upper half is a pavilion-style brick pagoda, a unique design standing alone in the fields with an amazing atmosphere. 🍽️ Dining Heiguinü Dumplings was closed for Spring Festival, so we went to the neighboring Qingxiangyuan Home-style dishes tasted great, portions were huge, remember to order fewer dishes based on the number of people. ✅ Dingzhou Tip: Single tickets for Dingzhou attractions are relatively expensive; buying the five-attraction combo pass is the best deal. 🅿️ Parking: Zhongtian Plaza underground parking, walking to attractions is more convenient. 🌟 Dadaoguan Yuhuang Temple|⭐⭐⭐ A spot that impresses you right at the entrance, then it’s over. The Yuhuang Hall is original from the Ming Dynasty, with authentic dougong brackets, sparrow tail rafters, and angled backs. The four walls have Ming Dynasty Wanli period plaster and gold leaf murals, though preservation is average, which is a pity. 🌟 Beizhuangzi Han Tomb Stone Carving Museum (Zhongshan Han Tomb)|⭐⭐⭐⭐ Tomb of Liu Yan, King of Zhongshan in the Eastern Han Dynasty (son of Liu Xiu), nearly 2000 years old. You can go down into the tomb chamber and see the yellow intestine burial system firsthand, a very immersive experience. Outside there is a stele gallery with hundreds of yellow intestine stones, very high density of cultural relics. 🍽️ Dining Dawafang Folk Cuisine Jujube pancakes and braised big bones are the signature dishes, flavors are reliable, portions still large. Again: order fewer dishes based on the number of people to avoid waste and mistakes.

This is the right way to travel during holidays! "Challenge popular cities in the off-season, discover hidden gems in the peak season" is already engraved in travelers' DNA 😂 Want to escape Beijing during the holidays but hate crowds? I zoomed in and out of the digital map countless times and finally found some overlooked gems reachable by self-drive! Sharing my secret selection strategy: 1. Check hotel price increases If the price difference between off-season and peak season is less than 30% when checked a month in advance → definitely fewer people 2. Look at historical heritage Places where ancestors were once "wealthy" won’t be boring no matter how off the beaten path This Spring Festival’s real test: Quyang + Dingzhou + Zhuozhou three-day trip Except for occasional queues at restaurants (many closed during Spring Festival), almost no one at paid attractions! Some places felt like private tours, even locals praised how fun it was 👍 D1 Beijing → Quyang → Dingzhou ✅ Quyang 🌟 Beiyue Temple & Xiude Temple Pagoda|Highly recommended with five stars 🅿️ Parking: Ground parking lot on the west side of Beiyue Temple South Gate Beiyue Temple houses the largest surviving wooden structure from the Yuan Dynasty in China The Dening Hall has the same double-eaved hip roof as the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City, with very high standards There’s also a millennium-old mural attributed to Wu Daozi (unfortunately under renovation and not open 😢) The courtyard is full of stone carvings and steles, many related to Su Dongpo, a delight for history buffs! A 5-minute walk from the temple is Xiude Temple Pagoda Built in the Sui Dynasty, preserved from the Song Dynasty The lower half is a flower-shaped pagoda, the upper half is a pavilion-style brick tower, a unique design Standing alone in the fields, the atmosphere is perfect for photos 📸 🍽️ Food Heiguinü Dumplings were closed for Spring Festival Went to the nearby Qingxiangyuan Home-style Cuisine Tastes great, portions huge, remember to order less per person! ✅ Dingzhou Tips: Single tickets for Dingzhou attractions are expensive, the five-attraction combo ticket is the best deal 🅿️ Parking: Zhongtian Plaza underground parking, very convenient for walking to attractions 🌟 Dadaoguan Jade Emperor Hall|Included in combo ticket · Three stars Stunning at first sight Well-preserved Ming Dynasty architectural style: dougong brackets, sparrow tail rafters, and ridge decorations are all impressive The four walls have Ming Wanli period gold-leaf murals showing gods worshipping, very grand Unfortunately, preservation is average, a bit of a pity 🌟 Beizhuangzi Han Tomb Stone Carving Museum (Zhongshan Han Tomb)|Included in combo ticket · Four stars Tomb of Liu Yan, King of Zhongshan in the Eastern Han Dynasty (son of Liu Xiu), nearly 2,000 years old You can enter the tomb chamber and see the Huangchang burial system up close Outside there’s a stele gallery and hundreds of Huangchang stones, full of historical atmosphere 🍽️ Food Dawafang Folk Cuisine Jujube cakes and braised big bones are the specialties Portions still huge, continue to order less! Overall Experience Few people, peaceful, informative, no traffic jams, no queues Truly allows you to leisurely visit ancient sites even during holidays Perfect for friends who love history, ancient architecture, and want to avoid crowds!

🎉Baoding's history dates back to the Yin and Shang dynasties. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, the capitals of the Yan and Zhongshan states were located within Baoding. The artifacts and historical sites unearthed in Baoding are all renowned. Among the eight major Liao dynasty structures, Baoding has two. The artifacts excavated from the Mancheng Han tombs are stunningly impressive. Quyang, formerly the Northern Yue, still has the Beiyue Temple, Quyang stone carvings, and the Ding kiln, one of the five famous kilns. Dingzhou, a county-level city, boasts nine national treasures, and the Dingzhou Museum is even a national first-class museum. The Qing Western Tombs are also located within Baoding. The current crown jewel is the Eastern Han bronze horse, excavated from the Xushui Fangling Han tomb. Its joyful design is quite charming, possessing extremely high artistic and historical value as a national first-class cultural relic. "Baoding Memories" showcases intangible cultural heritage projects with regional characteristics. The sound of bangzi opera rises as you enjoy the stage performance; the melodious sheng and pipes carry a century of elegance. Various musical instruments and martial arts are endlessly and brilliantly performed. The exquisite Beijing embroidery demonstrates needlepoint artistry, Ding porcelain craftsmanship blooms with a millennium of charm; Quyang stone carving is a meeting of strength and beauty; a small Yishui inkstone tells the timeless tales of the Yan and Zhao lands... These are Baoding’s masterful crafts. Zhili official cuisine cooking techniques, Liu Ling drunken wine brewing, Anguo medicinal cuisine, Huaimao pickles, and more are the tastes of memory, intangible heritage on the plate. 【Professional Esports Equipment】 We are equipped with top-tier esports computers, high-speed internet, and high-definition large-screen monitors, fully loaded configurations. The 5060 graphics card paired with a 320Hz high-refresh esports screen makes playing AAA titles or popular esports games incredibly smooth. The 4K HD projector offers an unprecedented immersive gaming experience, ensuring you can play without interruption and enjoy the ultimate experience. Air conditioning, hairdryer, and refrigerator are all available! Daily cleaning staff replace disposable items, so hygiene is impeccable. The luxurious and comfortable esports-themed rooms allow you to rest fully after intense gaming sessions. Whether it’s the choice of bedding or room design, everything is aimed at providing you the best accommodation experience. The hotel’s check-in process is very fast, and the front desk staff are especially friendly. The room attendants proactively help carry heavy luggage to the room. In short, all service staff are super nice. The hotel offers laundry and drying services, luggage organization, optional mouse and keyboard peripherals, courier services, document printing, luggage storage, free snacks, disposable razors, free parking, and complimentary toiletries in the free area.

🚄 Departure from Beijing|Dingzhou-Quyang One-Day Ancient Site Tour🗺️|| Meticulously organized!! A 1-hour direct ancient site route from Beijing West Station! Unique and upscale~ ⏰ Itinerary: Saturday 8:30 AM Beijing West → Dingzhou East (1h) Get off and take a taxi to start the treasure hunt✨ 📍 First Stop: Dingzhou Museum 🏠 Address: No. 160 Zhongshan Middle Road, Dingzhou City ⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) 💫 Highlights: · The top county-level museum! The exhibits are so thoughtfully arranged! · Must-see treasure: Artifacts from the Han Zhongshan King’s Tomb🔮 · Northern Dynasties Buddhist statues are breathtaking! The underground relics of Jingzhi Temple are stunningly beautiful💘 📍 Second Stop: Kaiyuan Temple Pagoda 🏠 Address: No. 328 Zhongshan Middle Road, Dingzhou City ⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 💫 Highlights: · One of the first nationally protected Song Dynasty pagodas! Tower admission only 20 yuan, great value! · Tips: Secretly telling you, the south gate entrance is a bit of a detour😉 📍 Third Stop: Zhongshan Han Tomb 🏠 Address: No. 73 Mingyue Street, Dingzhou City 💫 Highlights: · Off the beaten path but absolutely amazing! You can explore the underground palace🏺 · The park has hundreds of stone carvings from various eras that are incredibly impressive!! 🚕 Take a taxi to Quyang before 3:00 PM (30 minutes) 📍 Fourth Stop: Xiude Temple Pagoda 🏠 Address: 500 meters southwest of Beiyue Temple, Quyang County 💫 Highlights: · A mixed Song Dynasty pagoda with floral tower and pavilion style! Perfect for photos📸 📍 Fifth Stop: Beiyue Temple 🏠 Address: No. 18 Beiyue Road, Quyang County ⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 💫 Highlights: · Yuan Dynasty wooden structure is legendary! The park has over 200 ancient steles, a real treasure! · Unfortunately, the Denning Hall is usually closed😭 No chance to see the murals 🎒 Travel Tips: 1. Book high-speed train tickets in advance on Trip.com for cheaper prices 2. Bring a power bank and camera📷 3. Keep warm in winter

Unlock the scenery of Mount Heng with your kids~This light luxury family guide to Hunyuan lets you experience the suspended ancient temple and the magnificent Mount Heng in style, all comfortably without hassle 🥳 【📍2 days 1 night essential itinerary】 ▫️Day 1: Hanging Temple of the Northern Wei → Shenxi Wetland Natural Oxygen Bar → Ancient city night view + upscale Shanxi cuisine ▫️Day 2: Light hike on Mount Heng (Northern Peak) → Turtle City and Snake Street ancient architecture stroll → Finish with local snacks 【🌟Must-visit recommendations】 📍Hanging Temple: Located in Jinlong Gorge of Mount Heng (Address: Daciyao Township, Hunyuan County, Datong City), a millennium-old Northern Wei relic, a stunning fusion of three religions! Recommended to arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds. Watch out for steep steps when bringing kids, and wear non-slip shoes 👟 📍Mount Heng (Northern Peak): Take the shuttle bus to mid-mountain (ticket 20 RMB/person), about 2 hours of light hiking to the summit to experience the grandeur of the "Five Great Mountains" 🌄. Remember to bring a light jacket as the weather on the mountain can change quickly~ 【🌊Family treasure spots】 💦Shenxi Wetland (Address: Shenxi Village, Hunyuan County): The northern water town healing vibes max! Reed marshes and lakes are perfect for photos, kids can feed small fish and chase ducks 🦆 🏯Hunyuan Ancient City (free admission): "Turtle City and Snake Street" full of ancient charm! Don’t miss the Yuanjue Temple Brick Pagoda (Address: West Yong’an Street), where wood and brick carvings let kids appreciate ancient architecture beauty 【🚗Transportation tips】 🚙Self-drive: Fly from Chengdu to Datong, rent a car upon arrival and reach Hunyuan in 1 hour (car rental available at West City Auto Repair Shop). Attractions are scattered, so driving is most convenient! 🚌Bus: Shared ride from Datong South Station 50 RMB/person, 1 hour direct to the county 【🍽️Food highlights】 🌟Hengyue Family Banquet (Address: East Street, Hunyuan County): Must order clay pot baked bass 💰128 RMB, Northwest turtle fish 🐟, book window seats in advance (reservation phone 0352-xxxx) 🍜Old brand cold noodles: Guo Laoliu Cold Noodles (Address: West Gate Street), sour and spicy, endlessly appetizing! 【⚠️Avoid pitfalls】 ❗Hanging Temple may close temporarily due to strong winds, check weather in advance! ❗Mount Heng cable car stops in wind, recommend early departure ❗For souvenirs in the ancient city, trust dried astragalus root, try tea before buying 【🏨Accommodation recommendations】 Recommended to stay in a four-star chain hotel in the county, within walking distance to the ancient city, stable hot water supply, more comfortable for kids~Standard room about 💰400+/night Millennium-old relics + magnificent mountains and waters, Hunyuan family trip is forever the best! If budget allows, just go for it with eyes closed~ For a more detailed guide, comment "1" below 👇

Julong Cave is located in Lingshan Town, Quyang County, formed about 500 million years ago during the Cambrian period. It is a rare large limestone karst cave group in North China. The entire cave system stretches over 3,000 meters, divided into five upper and lower levels. The cave's structure is complex, with passages crisscrossing like an underground maze. According to geological experts, Julong Cave was formed by the long-term dissolution of soluble rocks by groundwater. After billions of years of sedimentation, calcium carbonate continuously precipitated, forming various stalactites, stalagmites, stone curtains, and stone flowers. These natural sculptures shimmer under the lighting, as if entering a dreamy crystal palace. Even more astonishing, Julong Cave is not only a natural wonder but also carries profound cultural history. It is said that a famous monk from the Tang Dynasty once practiced here, and ancient stone carvings and Buddhist shrine remains are still preserved inside the cave. During the War of Resistance, it also served as a hidden base for the Eighth Route Army, making significant contributions to the revolutionary cause. The blend of nature and culture adds a sense of depth and legend to Julong Cave.

Lingshan Julong Cave is located 2 kilometers northeast of Lingshan Town, Quyang County, Baoding City, Hebei Province, at the foot of Lotus Mountain. It is a fissure-type natural karst cave group, named for its long dragon-like cave body and numerous dragon-shaped formations inside, representing a typical northern karst landscape. The cave has a total length of 2,800 meters, with about 2,000 meters developed, divided into three parts: Ancient Ape Cave, Julong Hall, and the Underground Maze. The temperature inside is constant at 17-18°C, featuring over a hundred natural attractions such as Yunxi Huajing and Dinghai Shenzhen. Inside the cave, 12-meter-long ancient ape ash deposits and 260,000-year-old ancient animal fossil accumulations were discovered, marking the first archaeological find in Hebei Province. This cave group was formed over hundreds of millions of years of crustal changes. Historical figures such as Dou Jiande and Su Shi visited from the late Sui Dynasty to the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. The existing Su Shi "Penglai" stone inscription relics are preserved here.

Here is a two-day, one-night travel guide for Beiyue Hengshan with a budget of about 1000 RMB, helping you easily explore this magnificent one of the Five Great Mountains. Beiyue Hengshan Two-Day One-Night Travel Guide (Budget: About 1000 RMB) 1. Itinerary Overview Day 1: Arrive at Hengshan, climb to the summit and tour, overnight at the foot or on the mountain Day 2: Continue sightseeing, return in the afternoon 2. Transportation Suggestions Transportation methods: Train/High-speed rail: From your city to Datong City, Shanxi Province (train tickets can be purchased in advance) Bus/Long-distance coach: There are shuttle buses from Datong to Hengshan Self-driving: Convenient and flexible, but consider budget and traffic convenience After arriving in Datong: You can take a bus or taxi (about 20-50 RMB) to the entrance of Hengshan Scenic Area 3. Tickets and Transportation Item Cost (RMB) Notes Hengshan Entrance Ticket 100 Price may vary slightly by season Cable Car (Beiyue Temple to Nantianmen) 70 Round trip cable car, saves energy Other Attraction Tickets 50 Main attractions overview, adjust according to itinerary **Total Tickets + Transportation:** About 220 RMB 4. Accommodation Suggestions Accommodation at the foot or base of the mountain: Budget hotels/inns: 200-300 RMB/night Specialty homestays: Slightly more expensive but better experience Accommodation on the mountain: Needs to be booked in advance, higher price (400-600 RMB), if budget is limited, staying at the foot or base is recommended Suggestion: Choose budget accommodation at the foot or base of the mountain, keep budget within 200-300 RMB 5. Dining Budget Meals: About 50-80 RMB per day Eat at fast food restaurants near the scenic area or at the foot of the mountain Limited dining options on the mountain, it is recommended to bring some snacks and water **Total Meal Cost:** About 150 RMB 6. Detailed Itinerary Day 1 Morning: Depart for Datong, it is recommended to buy train tickets in advance Noon: After arriving in Datong, take a bus or taxi to Hengshan Scenic Area (about 30 minutes) Afternoon: Buy tickets and take the cable car (70 RMB) up the mountain Visit Beiyue Temple, Hanging Temple (combined tickets about 150 RMB) Climb to Nantianmen, enjoy the spectacular view of Hengshan Evening: Stay overnight at the foot or base of the mountain, enjoy dinner Day 2 Morning: Get up early, continue to visit other Hengshan attractions (such as Yuntai, Wulong Palace) Noon: Have a simple meal, prepare to descend Afternoon: Take the cable car down, return to Datong or next destination 7. Budget Summary Item Cost (RMB) Transportation (train/high-speed rail/bus) 300 Tickets and cable car 220 Accommodation 250 Meals 150 Others (souvenirs, emergencies) 80 Total About 1000 RMB 8. Warm Tips Book in advance: accommodation and train tickets to ensure a smooth trip Bring gear: hiking shoes, rain gear, sufficient water and snacks Weather: cold in winter, cool in summer, dress accordingly Safety first: pay attention to mountain road safety, follow scenic area regulations Hope this guide helps you enjoy the grandeur and beauty of Hengshan! Have a pleasant trip!

#September2025 In Baoding's Mancheng District, lies a mysterious and spectacular underground world—Lingshan Julong Cave. This naturally formed karst cave is renowned for its breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and stone curtains, earning it the nickname "an underground art palace." Inside, the lights illuminate the myriad stalactites, creating a vibrant, dreamlike experience, like stepping into a fairytale. Every feature here resembles a work of art meticulously crafted by nature. The air inside the cave is refreshing, warm in winter and cool in summer. This is a journey of exploration into this geological wonder, allowing you to experience the unparalleled wonders and boundless charm of nature.

#September2025 Tiger Mountain gets its name from its majestic silhouette, resembling a crouching tiger. Its winding paths are shrouded in mist and clouds. As you ascend, you'll admire towering ancient pines, and the mountain breeze, carrying the fragrance of the trees, is refreshing. Occasionally, a cascading spring cascades down the cliffs, its clear sound like jade beads spilling into a verdant valley. From the summit, the view unfolds, resembling a crouching giant beast, a majestic spectacle. From the summit observation deck, you can see the undulating peaks. In the twilight, the rocks gleam golden, like the sharp eyes of a tiger. This place is not only a hiking destination but also a photography enthusiast's paradise. In the afterglow of the setting sun, the pine trees lining the mountain and the clouds in the sky complement each other, creating a scene that will leave you spellbound.

#September2025 Quyang Beiyue Temple stands quietly amidst the Cangshan Mountains, its ancient cypresses towering above, and the air of time lingers within its halls. Upon entering the mountain gates, the first thing that catches your eye is the intricately carved stone archway and the heavy blue brick and red walls, shrouded in morning mist, adding a touch of solemnity. Built during the Northern Wei Dynasty, this temple, dedicated to the deity of Hengshan, one of the Five Sacred Mountains, has been a constant source of worship throughout the ages, witnessing the passage of countless dynasties. Slowly ascending the bluestone path, you'll find layers of ancient temples, their painted beams still visible. The vicissitudes of time are etched within the magnificent splendor. The curling air of incense and the clatter of wooden clappers within the halls create a tranquil and natural atmosphere. Looking up, the soaring eaves of the roof seem to reach the sky, echoing against the distant mountains. As you leave, the long, lingering sound of the bells still lingers in your ears, leaving this ancient charm deeply engraved in your heart.

Last week, I drove to Baoding and finally visited Quyang County to see the Northern Sacred Mountain Temple (Beiyue Temple) that I had been longing to visit. Before the Ming Dynasty, all sacrificial ceremonies for Mount Heng, the Northern Sacred Mountain, were held at Beiyue Temple in Quyang. It wasn't until the Shunzhi period of the Qing Dynasty that ceremonies were moved to Hunyuan, Shanxi. This shows the temple's significant role in imperial ceremonies from its establishment during Emperor Xuanwu's reign in the Northern Wei Dynasty until the Shunzhi period. At Beiyue Temple, there are three highlights you shouldn't miss: the Dening Hall, the Heavenly Palace mural, and the stone inscriptions. The Dening Hall, the largest and highest-ranking surviving Yuan Dynasty official wooden structure, served as the main hall for official ceremonies to the Northern Sacred Mountain. While inheriting architectural traditions from the Song and Jin dynasties, it features distinctive Yuan Dynasty characteristics. The exquisite Heavenly Palace mural inside the hall is a masterpiece. Known for its artistic excellence and ethereal style, the mural depicts 286 deities arranged in hierarchical layers around the central figure of the Great Emperor of the Northern Peak. This grand Taoist scene, together with the murals in the Sanqing Hall of Yongle Palace in Shanxi, are known as the Twin Treasures of Yuan Dynasty Taoist Murals. On the lawn and along the pathways of Beiyue Temple, over 100 stone inscriptions from seven dynasties - Northern Wei, Tang, Song, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing - are displayed. These form a tangible textbook of Chinese calligraphy history and an open-air museum of calligraphic art. The inscriptions include works by masters such as Zhao Mengfu, Huaisu, and Dong Qichang, serving as stone archives of historical documents. ☀️Useful Tips☀️ 1️⃣Beiyue Temple has a Quyang Museum which, though small, is worth visiting. It's hidden and easy to miss. 2️⃣Admission is 40 yuan per person, but sometimes it's reduced to 20 yuan when Dening Hall is closed for maintenance.

✨The highlight of Beiyue Temple is the giant murals on the east and west sides of the Dening Hall—🎨Wu Daozi's "Heavenly Palace Map", ➡️"Clouds and Rain" on the east side, and "Peace in All Nations" on the west side, with a total of 73 characters, each with a unique image.⬅️ The god Zhong Kui on the west side has a ferocious face and strong muscles, holding a spear and galloping in the air. ✅ Pass through the Stone Bridge and the Archway, to the Chaoyue Gate, Yuxiang Pavilion, Lingxiao Gate, Sanshan Gate, Feishi Hall, and finally the main building Dening Hall. ✅ On both sides of Dening Hall are the Forest of Steles, Stele Pavilion, and Stone Carvings, which have unique artistic value. ✅ Ancient architecture, painting, calligraphy, stone carving, and Ding porcelain are all in one, with rich connotations.

😜 Today, I'm going to introduce you to Quyang Beiyue Temple! Although it's not as popular as Dingzhou, it has the largest existing wooden structure from the Yuan dynasty! 😲 The murals are also a masterpiece. Locals believe they were painted by Wu Daozi, a famous painter, but they were actually painted by a Yuan dynasty artist. They are still worthy of praise! 👏 The architecture, murals, and stone inscriptions make this place a treasure trove that carries the wishes of a thousand years. 🤩 Come to Quyang and experience its unique charm!

❤Recommendation reason: Beiyue Temple is located in the west of Quyang County, Baoding City, Hebei Province. It was first built during the Jingming and Zhengshi years of the Northern Wei Dynasty during the Southern and Northern Dynasties. Before Shunzhi in the Qing Dynasty, Beiyue Temple had always been the place where feudal emperors of all dynasties worshipped Beiyue. 🌟Highlights: The Beiyue Temple's architectural layout is symmetrical in traditional form, facing south and centered on the central axis. The main building, the Dening Hall, is located at the north end of the central axis. To the south, there are the Fei Shi Hall, Sanshan Gate, Lingxiao Gate, Yuxiang Pavilion, Chaoyue Gate, archway, stone bridge, etc. 👍Most Recommended: The most spectacular feature of Beiyue Temple is the murals in the Dening Hall, where there are tall murals on the east and west walls. The eastern mural is painted with a title of "Clouds Bringing Rain", which depicts many gods in heaven and on earth creating clouds and rain to bring down sweet rain for the benefit of the people; the western mural is painted with a title of "All Nations in Peace and Happiness", which depicts the scene of the gods returning to the palace in triumph after successfully completing the task of creating clouds and rain. 📝Note tips: [1:00] Opening hours: 8:30-17:00 [○] Ticket price: Full price 40 yuan

San Shan Men, the fourth gate of Beiyue Temple, is five bays wide and three bays deep, with a single-eave hanging mountain roof. On the walls outside the gate, there is a stone stele with a 'Quyang Ghost' painted on each side, with robust muscles and fierce looks, said to be the authentic work of Wu Daozi. Inside the gate, on the wall, is the famous 'Zhongshan Songlao Fu' stele, created by Su Dongpo when he served as the governor of Dingzhou. He visited Beiyue Temple and was inspired to write after making pine wine from the resin of ancient pines in the temple courtyard.

Beiyue Temple is located in Quyang County, Hebei, a county famous for its stone carvings. Before the Qing Dynasty, Beiyue was always the Da Mao Mountain within the territory of Quyang County, until the Shunzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, when it was changed to worship Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, Shanxi. Today's Beiyue Temple is famous for its ancient architecture and murals. The entire architectural complex includes, from south to north, the remains of the wooden archway, Chaoyue Gate, Yuxiang Pavilion, Lingxiao Gate, Sanshan Gate, the remains of the Feishi Hall, and the Denning Hall, among other structures. The main building of Beiyue Temple—the Denning Hall—is the largest existing Yuan Dynasty wooden structure in China. Approaching it, one can feel the grandeur of the hall. The hall is six bays deep, nine bays wide, and 25 meters high, with a double-eaved nine-ridged wudian-style roof, which is also the highest grade of ancient architecture. Among the ancient buildings we can see today, there are only about twenty places with double-eaved wudian-style roofs, including the three main halls of the Forbidden City, the Tai Temple, the Ling'en Hall of Changling, the Dacheng Hall of the Confucius Temple in Qufu, the main hall of Dongyue Temple, Tiankuang Hall, and the main hall of Zhongyue Temple, Junji Hall. Another marvel of Beiyue Temple is its murals. On the east and west walls of the main hall are painted 'Heavenly Palace' murals, with the east wall depicting 'Cloud Movement and Rain Dispensing' and the west wall 'Universal Peace'. Each is 8 meters high and 18 meters long, with numerous figures and an extraordinary momentum, depicting the gods lining up to travel before dispensing rain, and the scene of returning to court after the rain. Some say these are works by the Tang Dynasty artist Wu Daozi. But upon careful consideration, this is impossible. The hall was built during the Yuan Dynasty, so how could Wu Daozi have painted on it? It is most likely that these are copies of Wu Daozi's works, or based on sketches made by him. Among these divine images, the Quyang ghost is the most famous. This image is at the top of the mural on the left side of the main hall, and its stone carving replica is on the Sanshan Gate. Indeed, it is full of dynamism and very lifelike. In the courtyard, there are also inscriptions from the Tang to the Qing dynasties, recording sacrifices or repairs to Beiyue Temple, whose calligraphy is also a treasure left to us. ——Travel tips—— ☑️Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm. ☑️Tour time: about 2 hours. ☑️Ticket price: 40 yuan, children free. ☑️Tourism and protection level: National 2, 4A scenic area. ☑️Surroundings: A 10-minute walk in front of Beiyue Temple, you can visit the Xiude Temple Pagoda, the most beautiful compound-style pagoda, not to be missed.

Baoding Quyang Beiyue Temple | A thousand years of Quyang stone carving Quyang is located in the southwest of Baoding, Hebei, on the eastern foot of the Taihang Mountains, and is named for its location on the curved sunny side of the ancient Beiyue Hengshan (now Damao Mountain). Speaking of the sunny side, some people may not be familiar with it. As the old saying goes, the south of the mountain and the north of the water are called Yang. The so-called sunny side is actually the south. Quyang is located in the ancient Yan and Zhao regions, and is a major transportation route from the Central Plains to Shanxi and the northern frontier. It has always been a battleground for strategists. Its development and the ceremonies of Beiyue Hengshan and Beiyue Temple are inseparable. Starting from Emperor Wu of Han, there has been a tradition of worshiping Beiyue Temple. According to the 'Quyang County Chronicles' and the inscriptions of Beiyue Temple, from the Han Dynasty to the Ming Dynasty, the emperor and his officials went to Beiyue Temple for worship more than 300 times. The ceremony brought people to Quyang, and the people brought development. Against this background, it is natural for Quyang stone carving to flourish. When Quyang stone carving shapes images of unclear gender like Buddha, it emphasizes the depiction of the inner world of characters, and pays attention to the echo between characters and between characters and animals. The modeling of Quyang stone carving is not only similar in shape, but also removes complicated details, captures the spirit and structure of people, uses subtraction, and strives to achieve the requirement of vividness in dynamic structure. The shapes of Quyang stone carving works are varied, and the composition images are different. Due to the primitive means of stone mining, it is impossible to control the thickness, thinness, square and round of the stone volume. Quyang stone carvers shape according to the shape, and based on these different types of stones, they develop rich imagination and carve various stone carving works. Beiyue Temple