Walk in Xinzhou Ancient City – Shanxi, China

Xinzhou City (忻州市), ancient name Xiurong (秀荣), is a prefecture-level city located in Shanxi Province, China. The city has a total area of 25,152 square kilometers with many mountains and hilly areas.
Wutai Mountain (五台山) , one of the four famous Buddhist mountains in China, is located in the eastern part of the city. The mountain is also known by its Chinese name Wutaishan and as Mount Qingliang, which is home to more than 53 sacred monasteries.
It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 and named a AAAAA tourist attraction by China’s National Tourism Administration in 2007.
In this video, we explore the Xinzhou Ancient City (忻州古城), a well-preserved city with a history stretching over 1,800 years. It was built during the Eastern Han Dynasty in 215. It is a historical and cultural city on thousands of kilometers of tea roads between China and Russia.
It offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past, blending ancient architecture, cultural traditions, and a rich local heritage that makes it a must-visit for history lovers and culture seekers alike.
The ancient city has four city walls and four city gates. Walking along these ancient walls, visitors can admire the traditional defensive structures, including watchtowers and gateways that once protected the city from invaders.
At the center of Xinzhou Ancient City lies a network of narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard houses, temples, and historic mansions. The architecture reflects the distinct Shanxi style, featuring grey brick walls, wooden carvings, and upturned eaves that transport visitors back to a bygone era.
One of the highlights is the restored Drum Tower (鼓楼), which serves as a focal point for the city’s cultural and social activities. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the old city, where ancient and modern elements blend seamlessly.
Xinzhou Ancient City offers a rare opportunity to experience the charm of an authentic Chinese ancient town without the overwhelming crowds of more commercialized destinations.
Whether exploring centuries-old temples, walking along the ancient walls, or savoring local delicacies, visitors will find themselves immersed in the rich history and culture of this hidden treasure in northern China. It was rated as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.
Chapters:
00:00 Xinzhou Ancient City (忻州古城)
06:48 Xinzhou Ancient City Wall (忻州古城墙)
20:42 North-South Street (南北大街)
30:28 Mingyue Tower (明月楼)
32:42 Snack Street
38:07 Caishen Temple (财神庙)
40:43 Lively Streets
51:39 Guandi Temple (关帝庙)
57:15 Xiurong Academy (秀容书院)