Explore Shanxi’s ancient architecture, winter landscapes and regional cuisine on a guided cultural journey.
8 Days from
$
Classic Adventures
Adventure touring
Travel from Beijing into Shanxi province to explore Buddhist grottoes, cliffside temples, ancient wooden architecture and walled towns in their winter setting. The journey links Datong, Xinzhou, Pingyao and Linfen by first-class rail and private vehicle, with visits to the Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and several historic temple complexes. Time in Pingyao reveals traditional lanes, merchant history and courtyard architecture, while regional meals introduce the hearty flavours of northern Shanxi. The journey concludes at Hukou Waterfall, where winter conditions may create ice falls, icicles and frozen formations along the Yellow River.
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Meals: D
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Meals: B,L,D
Meals: B
3 scheduled departures between 27 Dec 2026 and 21 Feb 2027.
Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.
If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.
It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.
You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.
If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.
Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.
Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.
Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.
Winter temperatures vary across Shanxi, with Pingyao Ancient City typically being the coldest destination on the itinerary. Daytime temperatures generally range from -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F), while Datong is usually slightly milder, with temperatures ranging from approximately 2°C to -6°C (36°F to 21°F).
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory.
This is an Adventure Touring trip with regular walking through historic towns, temple complexes, grottoes and scenic areas.
Bring thermal base layers, fleece clothing, a down jacket, waterproof outerwear, warm headwear, a scarf, waterproof gloves and anti-slip winter boots. Sunglasses are also recommended because reflected light from snow can be intense.
No. The trip is scheduled for winter and the itinerary is designed around seasonal scenery, but snowfall and the extent of ice formations are natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
The itinerary uses first-class rail between Beijing and Datong and between Linfen and Beijing. Private vehicles are used for regional touring and transfers within Shanxi Province.
Meals focus on northern Shanxi cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, mutton dishes, pork, hot pot, millet products and local specialities. Seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners are included.
The principal sites have walkable paths, but snow and ice may make surfaces slippery. Travellers should use caution and wear anti-slip footwear, especially at mountain temples and Hukou Waterfall.
The trip uses comfortable 3–4 star hotels, including a hotel inside Pingyao Ancient City.
Yes, you will need to carry your main luggage on and off the trains and a daypack during sightseeing.
Meals feature northern Chinese and Shanxi specialities, including noodles, dumplings, rice, vegetables and shared local dishes.
Vegetarian and some medically required diets can be catered for with at least one month’s notice, although options may be limited.
No, due to regular walking, steps and the possibility of snow and ice, this trip is not suitable for travellers with limited mobility.
No, the arrival transfer in Beijing is not included, although one can be arranged.
Yes, a transfer to the airport is included on the final day after returning to Beijing by high-speed train.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and current Chinese entry regulations, so check the latest requirements before departure.
Carbon Footprint
So what does 100 kg of carbon look like? Here is a rough guide to help put it into perspective:
Discover how we're working to cut carbon emissions from our adventures by exploring the Climate Action page within our Responsible Travel hub.
Please note trip footprints do not include flights to and from the tour.
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