North China

Linfen Travel Guide

Early China of Yaodu and Taosi

Linfen｜Early China of Yao Capital and Taosi: The area around Linfen is said to be where Yao was active. The Yao Temple is in the urban area, and the Taosi site is in Xiangfen County. The observatory at Taosi, along with the crocodile drum and special chime stone, pushes the 'earliest China' one step further back. This site compiles the best seasons to visit, recommended stays, intercity transportation, and local tips.

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Destination Details

Key facts

Best seasonApr–Jun, Sep–Oct

Suggested stay1 day

Affiliated AreaNorth China · Shanxi

Key highlightsYao Temple · Taosi Ruins · Hongdong Great Pagoda Tree · Guangsheng Temple and Feihong Tower

Local cuisineBeef meatball noodles, Wu family smoked meat, Linfen huanxian.

The Linfen area is the legendary activity area of Yao. The Yao Temple is in the urban area, and the Taosi Ruins are in Xiangfen County. The observatory platform at Taosi, along with the drum and special chime, pushes "the earliest China" back another step.

Main Highlights

Yao Temple

A temple complex commemorating Yao. The main structures are the Wufeng Tower and Guangyun Hall.

Taosi Ruins

A large city site dating back approximately 4,300-3,900 years ago, with the world's earliest observatory and sacrificial platform remains.

Hongdong Great Pagoda Tree

A gathering place for Ming dynasty immigrants. The saying "Ask me where my ancestors are, they are under the Hongdong Great Pagoda Tree in Shanxi" refers to this place.

Guangsheng Temple and Feihong Pagoda

At the foot of Mount Huo, the glazed pagoda and Yuan dynasty murals are both outstanding.

Recommended Stay and Route

Recommended stay: 1 day.
Half a day for Yao Temple, half a day for Taosi; Hongdong Great Pagoda Tree and Guangsheng Temple can be combined in one day.
It is more efficient to connect with other cities with the same theme; refer to the "Extendable Routes" below.

Best Season

April to June, September to October

How to Get There and Intercity Transportation

Linfen West Station has the Daxi High-speed Railway; Taosi and Guangsheng Temple require self-driving or a chartered car, within 1 hour from the urban area.

Local Cuisine

Beef meatball noodles, Wu Family smoked meat, Linfen Hehe noodles.

Local Tips

The Taosi Ruins are more original, it is recommended to visit the museum first before seeing the site; public transportation is sparse in the township and county sections.