Jincheng

Jincheng (晋城; Jìnchéng) is a small city in Shanxi Province in China. It is not a common tourist destination, but there are a few noteworthy destinations within Jincheng prefecture, outside the city.

Understand

As in most Chinese cities its size English is not commonly spoken, even in places the traveler might expect such as large hotels and restaurants. In addition, most locals speak a local dialect or speak Chinese with a strong local accent. Travelers who speak standard Chinese will discover occasional difficulties, but should generally be able to communicate with locals most of the time. Jincheng is similar to other small cities in China.

History

Jincheng, located in the southeast of Shanxi Province, is a city with a long history dating back to the ancient period more than 4,000 years ago. Jincheng, named for its location as "the city of the southern frontier of the State of Jin", has long been an important geostrategic hub in North China and the Central Plains. The following are the main stages of Jincheng's history:

From ancient times to the Spring and Autumn Period: The civilization of Jincheng can be traced back to the Xia and Shang dynasties, and it is one of the birthplaces of ancient Chinese civilization.

From the Qin and Han Dynasties to the Wei and Jin Dynasties: After Qin unified the six kingdoms, Jincheng was subordinate to Hedong County of Qin Dynasty. During the Han Dynasty, Qinshui County and other counties were set up in this area as an important military area.

Sui and Tang Dynasties to Song and Yuan Dynasties: In the Sui Dynasty, the economy of Jincheng area developed significantly, and the water conservancy project and agricultural cultivation were further developed. During the Tang Dynasty, Zezhou (one of the ancient names of Jincheng) was established here, which became an important state capital of the Tang Dynasty in Shanxi region. During the Song Dynasty, Jincheng was a strategic place in the Song and Jin wars, which was frequently invaded by the Jin army, and the construction of the city defense was gradually strengthened. During the Yuan Dynasty, Zezhou was part of the Hedong Road, and its economy and culture fluctuated under the influence of the Mongol conquests.

Ming and Qing Dynasties: During the Ming Dynasty, Jincheng was renamed Zezhou Prefecture and belonged to the Chief Envoy of Shanxi Province. During the Qing Dynasty, the economy of Jincheng prospered, especially the exploitation and utilization of coal resources promoted the economic development of Jincheng.

Modern times (from the Republic of China to the present): During the period of the Republic of China, Jincheng experienced the turbulence of the War of Resistance against Japan and the War of Liberation. The mountainous terrain of Jincheng makes it an important activity base of the anti-Japanese guerrillas, and part of the anti-Japanese base area of Jincha-Ji is here. After the 1949 revolution, Jincheng gradually developed in Shanxi Province, especially after the reform and opening up, with rich coal resources, Jincheng's industry has been rapid development, becoming one of China's important energy bases.

Climate

Jincheng
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       12     2 −5       15     5 −3       24     10 2       25     15 6       40     20 10       70     26 16       90     29 19       60     28 18       35     23 12       22     15 6       12     8 1       10     2 −3 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm 晋城气候数据
Imperial conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       0.5     36 23       0.6     41 27       0.9     50 36       1     59 43       1.6     68 50       2.8     79 61       3.5     84 66       2.4     82 64       1.4     73 54       0.9     59 43       0.5     46 34       0.4     36 27 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches

Jincheng, located in the southeast of Shanxi Province, China, has a temperate continental climate with obvious seasonal changes. The following are the main characteristics of Jincheng's climate:

• Spring (March-May) : Spring is warm and temperatures gradually rise, with average temperatures rising from about 5°C in March to about 20°C in May.
• Summer (June-August) : Summer is hot, July is the hottest month, the average temperature can reach 26-30°C, there are occasional high temperatures, especially in the peak of summer.
• Autumn (September-November) : Autumn is cool, with temperatures gradually dropping from about 20°C in September to about 5°C in November. The precipitation gradually decreases, the air is dry, and the weather is sunny, making it the most pleasant season.
• Winter (December-February) : Winter is cold, the average temperature is between -5°C and 5°C, January is the coldest month, often snow and frost phenomenon, dry and cold.

The average annual precipitation is between 400 and 600 mm, and the precipitation is mainly concentrated in summer, especially in June and July with frequent thunderstorms. In winter, there is less precipitation, mainly in the form of snow.

Wind speeds in Jincheng are relatively low, but there are occasional strong winds in spring and winter. Summer thunderstorms can also be accompanied by gusty winds.

The humidity of Jincheng is low, especially in winter, the air is dry, the spring and autumn season is moderate, and the summer is slightly humid due to the increase in precipitation.

Climate change in Jincheng is evident: the summer high temperature weather has increased, and the frequency of extreme weather events has also risen.

Get in

By plane

Jincheng does not have a commercial airport although flights are available to nearby Changzhi and Zhengzhou. If you arrive at Zhengzhou Airport, you can get a high-speed train to Jincheng from there.

By train

There are two major railway stations in Jincheng:

• 1 Jincheng Railway Station (晋城站), 98 Yingbin Street, Cheng District (城区迎宾街98号) (bus nos. 2, 13, 19 and 31). Serves regular-speed trains only. (updated Jul 2023)
• 2 Jincheng East Railway Station (晋城东站), Danhe Expressway, Zezhou County (泽州县丹河快线) (bus nos. 110, 111, 112 and 319). Serves high-speed trains only. Most trains heading to Jincheng these days are high-speed trains, so this is now Jincheng's busiest station. Trains from Taiyuan, Shanxi's provincial capital, take about 1.5 to 2 hours to get here. Trains from Zhengzhou take about 1 to 1.5 hours, though if you're coming from the airport station, it will take a bit longer. (updated Jul 2023)

Get around

• by taxi: Taxis in Jincheng usually run the meter so no negotiation is necessary with drivers. The meter starts at ¥5. Do not expect the taxi drivers to speak either English or standard Chinese.
• by bus: The city has many buses. Most are ¥1, except for special longer-distance buses which travel to and from the suburbs and neighboring towns and villages. These longer-distance city buses often cost ¥2.
• by bicycle: There are still many bikes in Jincheng although they seem to be increasingly replaced with electric bicycles and scooters. The city is relatively flat so cycling is easy. On large streets bicycles ride in a separated one-way road parallel to the main road. On some streets the bicycles have been pushed into smaller bike lanes paved into the sidewalk. If you ride on such bike lanes note that the sidewalks are used for parking and there are often cars coming and going on the bike lane. Bicycles do not have the right of way. It is also common to see motorcycles driving the wrong way down the bike path, sometimes at great speed.
• on foot: The city is small enough that those who enjoy a long walk should be able to travel across the city on foot in a reasonable amount of time. Be aware of the many hazards to pedestrians. Green pedestrian signals are not a guarantee that it is safe to cross. Cars turning right rarely slow down. Cars parked on the sidewalk and other obstacles will often force pedestrians onto the street. Drivers are accustomed to this, but do not expect to have the right of way as a pedestrian. Like many cities in China, manhole covers are often missing, so watch carefully where you step.

See

• Lingchuan Red Maple (陵川红叶), Lingchuan County (陵川县). Lingchuan County, in the northeast of Jincheng, is famous for its red maple trees. The best place to see them is reportedly in the area about 20 km south of the county seat, particularly along the stretch of road between Huaishuling Village (槐树岭村) and the township of Duohuo (夺火乡). The leaves of the maple trees are at their most colorful during the months of October and November. 
• 1 Manghe National Nature Reserve (蟒河国家级自然保护区, Mang River National Nature Reserve, 蟒河生态旅游区 Mang River Ecotourism Area), Manghe Village, Manghe Town, Yangcheng County (阳城县蟒河镇蟒河村) (take bus no. 202 from Jincheng East Bus Station), ☏ +86 356 4868240, +86 356 4227100. 08:00-17:00 (low season), 08:00-17:30 (high season), no entry after 16:30. ¥72. 
• 2 Yuhuang Temple (玉皇庙, Jade Emperor Temple), S332 Fucheng Village, Jincun Town, Zezhou County (泽州县金村镇府城村S332) (take either bus 319 or the East Bus Station-Xiihedi (客运东站-西河底) bus line). 08:30-18:30. A large Taoist temple dating from the Song Dynasty. The temple is noteworthy for it's many old sculptures, particuarly the figurines representing the 28 mansions of Chinese astronomy. ¥20. 
• 3 Jincheng Museum (晋城博物馆), 1263 Fengtai Street East, Cheng District (城区凤台东街1263号) (in the southeast corner of Zezhou Park; take bus no. 4 (inner or outer circle routes), 5 (subroute), 8 (inner circle route), 12, 16, 19, 36 or 50), ☏ +86 356 6965144. 09:00-17:00, no entry after 16:00, closed on Mondays. Jincheng's main museum. Holds over 20,000 artefacts. Free. (updated Feb 2022)

The House of the Huangcheng Chancellor

• 4 House of the Huangcheng Chancellor (皇城相府), No. 2 Huangcheng Village, Beiliu Town, Yangcheng County (阳城县北留镇皇城村2号) (take bus 201 from Jincheng East Bus Station), toll-free: +86 356 4858062. 08:00-18:00. ¥120. (updated Jul 2023)
• 5 Ancient City of Guoyu (郭峪古城), Guoyu Village, Beiliu Town, Yangcheng County (阳城县北留镇郭峪村) (take bus 201 from Jincheng East Bus Station), ☏ +86 356 6922226, 3524290894@qq.com. Summer: Su-Th 08:00-18:00, F Sa public holidays 08:00-18:30; winter: daily 08:00-17:30. A walled village with many old residences dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The village is only about 300 meters from the House of the Huangcheng Chancellor. ¥35. (updated Jul 2023)
• 6 Xiangyu Castle (湘峪古堡), Xiangyu Village, Zhengcun Town, Qinshui County (沁水县郑村镇湘峪村) (take bus 208 from Jincheng East Bus Station), ☏ +86 356 3251100. Daily 08:00-17:00. Another fortified village full of well-preserved historic buildings. It was built in the early 17th century by the Sun brothers, who held important positions in the Ming bureaucracy. The uniquely-designed walls are particularly impressive. ¥50. (updated Jul 2023)
• 7 Jue Mountain (Yushan) (approximately 30 km southeast of Jincheng City, it is part of the South Taihang Mountain range), ☏ +86 356-3959754. 07:00-18:00. Jue Mountain, also known as Jade Mountain, is located in Jincheng City, Shanxi Province, China, and is part of the Southern Taihang Mountains. Known for its magnificent natural scenery and deep Taoist culture, Jue Mountain is an important tourist destination that attracts many visitors to explore its beautiful landscapes and rich history. ¥50-100（subject to confirmation from the scenic area’s official website）. (updated Oct 2024)
• 8 Wangmangling, Qinshi County, ☏ +86 356 -6878610. Free entry; specific hours may vary depending on the management. Wangmangling is a renowned scenic area known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It features unique rock formations, lush greenery, and numerous Taoist temples, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and those interested in spirituality. The area offers various hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the picturesque environment while enjoying fresh air and serene surroundings. Wangmangling is particularly famous for its tranquil atmosphere, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Free admission. (updated Oct 2024)

Do

• Huangcheng Xiangfu (Huangcheng Manor), Huangcheng Town, Yangcheng County. Huangcheng Xiangfu is the former residence of Qing Dynasty official Chen Tingjing, known for its unique architectural style and rich historical culture. It showcases the lifestyle and culture of official families during the Ming and Qing dynasties, making it a great place to learn about Jincheng's history. (updated Oct 2024)
• Jue Mountain. As a famous Taoist holy site, Jue Mountain attracts many visitors with its magnificent natural scenery and rich Taoist culture. Hiking allows you to enjoy beautiful mountain views, especially stunning sunrises and sea of clouds. (updated Oct 2024)
• Wangmangling, Wangmangling Scenic Area, Qinshi County. Wangmangling is known for its peculiar peaks and natural landscapes, making it an ideal spot for photographing sunrises and cloud seas. It is popular for summer cooling and autumn leaf viewing. (updated Oct 2024)
• Rope Crafts. The rope crafts from the Jincheng area are renowned for their unique weaving techniques, with common items including various woven accessories and daily goods, making excellent gifts. (updated Oct 2024)
• Ceramics Shanxi. Shanxi province is famous for its ceramics, and Jincheng is no exception. You can find exquisite ceramic dishes, vases, and decorative items, which serve as wonderful souvenirs. (updated Oct 2024)
• Local specialties. In addition to food and handicrafts, Jincheng offers local specialties such as Shanxi apples and dried fruits, which are also great options to purchase. (updated Oct 2024)
• Specialty snacks. At markets and snack stalls in Jincheng, you can discover many local specialty snacks, like fried dough and tofu pudding, perfect for bringing home to share. (updated Oct 2024)
• Jincheng Confucian Temple. A historical site dedicated to Confucianism, this temple features traditional Chinese architecture and provides insights into the teachings of Confucius. It’s a peaceful place to learn about local history and culture. (updated Oct 2024)

Buy

• Zezhou Red Hawthorn. Zezhou red hawthorn is a special product of Zezhou County. Zezhou hawthorn protection area belongs to temperate continental monsoon climate, four distinct seasons, spring drought, little rain, sufficient sunshine, large amount of sunshine; Summer is hot and hot, rainfall concentration; Autumn rainy, high air, suitable for planting hawthorn. Zezhou red Hawthorn is a local famous varieties, the variety of red round large, single fruit weight of about 20 grams, pink flesh, flesh taste alcohol, sweet and sour delicious, known as the national "Hawthorn king" reputation. Zezhou red hawthorn not only has red skin and flesh, sweet and sour taste and unique quality, but also has high nutritional and medicinal value. The fruit is sweet and sour and delicious, which can generate water and quench thirst, and has high nutritional and medicinal value. (updated Oct 2024)
• Qinshui Black fungus. Qinshui black fungus is a special product of Qinshui County. Black fungus is mostly born in bigtree, cork oak, mache oak, bigleaf oak and other broad-leaved trees. Qinshui black fungus produced in Lishan is excellent, and can be eaten and made of Chinese medicinal materials. Qinshui black fungus shape like "flying", like "yan", not only delicate meat, crisp and smooth mouth, but also rich in nutrition, containing protein, fat, carbohydrates and a variety of vitamins and inorganic salts. Because Qinshui black fungus is rich in various nutrients, it is known as "vegetarian meat". On March 25, 2010, the Ministry of Agriculture of the People's Republic of China approved the registration and protection of geographical indications of agricultural products for "Qinshui black fungus". (updated Oct 2024)
• Gaoping rhubarb pear. Gaoping Rhubarb pear is a special product of Gaoping. Gaoping City is a continental warm temperate monsoon climate, four distinct seasons, rain and heat in the same season, the annual average temperature of 10.4 degrees Celsius, the average annual precipitation of 600 mm, frost-free period 180-200 days, suitable for all kinds of crops. It is very suitable for the planting of Rhubarb pear in Gaoping City, which is the "hometown of yellow pear". Gaoping Rhubarb pear fruit is yellow, large and neat, the peel is thick, waxy, storable, white flesh, juicy and crisp, moderate glycolic acid. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was a tribute to the imperial court. The cultivation of rhubarb pear in Gaoping City has a long history, which was honored as a tribute treasure by the royal family in the Sui Dynasty, and has a cultivation history of 1500 years. In the Compendium of Materia Medica, Li Shizhen, a medical sage of the Ming Dynasty, praised Gao Ping Rhubarb pear as the top quality, which had the effects of promoting fluid and moistening dryness, clearing lung and heart, removing phlegm and reducing fire. (updated Oct 2024)
• Bagong green onion. "Bagong green onion" is one of the four famous local specialties in early Shanxi Province. Because of its unique quality, it is as famous as Shanxi Fenjiu and Qingxu vinegar. It is characterized by scallion and white hypertrophy, single plant and stem, scallion and white meat thick heart solid, fine structure, strong and spicy taste, its nutritional composition and bactericidin higher than general scallions, anticancer index can reach 26%, with high edible value and medicinal function. Bagong Town of Zezhou County is located in Linggang, is a red clay soil, dry air, adapt to the growth habit of green onion like cool, very suitable for planting. Since 2000, in order to protect this traditional variety, Bagong Shuangfengyuan green Onion professional Cooperative of Zezhou County has re-developed Bagong green onion by selecting and breeding traditional excellent varieties. (updated Oct 2024)
• 阳城桑椹. Yangcheng mulberry is a special product of Yangcheng County. Yangcheng County has a long history of mulberry cultivation and sericulture, which originated in the Shang and Zhou Dynasties and flourished in the Tang and Song Dynasties. It has a history of sericulture production for more than 3000 years. As early as 2000 years ago, mulberries were used as supplements for the emperor of China. After more than a year of preliminary examination, expert review and publicity, in 2013, "Yangcheng Mulberry" was certified by the Ministry of Agriculture's agricultural products geographical indication, becoming another business card of Yangcheng agricultural products after "Yangcheng Dogwood" and "Xicheng Mountain millet". "Yangcheng Mulberry" by the Ministry of Agriculture geographical indication certification, will greatly improve the popularity of Yangcheng mulberry. Mulberry production will become one of the sources of farmers' income increase. (updated Oct 2024)

Eat

• Yangcheng roast liver. This is a dish made of fresh pork liver with secret seasonings. It is carefully cooked through multiple processes such as frying, steaming and deep-frying. It has a unique taste and is a must-try for many tourists . (updated Oct 2024)
• Jincheng fried cold noodles. This is a traditional snack with a history of more than 100 years. The cold noodles are cut into pieces and fried in oil, then added with minced garlic in vinegar. ‌ Is soft, tender, spicy and delicious. (updated Oct 2024)
• Jincheng Kuoyourou. This is a special dish made of lean pork with water starch, carrots, black fungus and other ingredients. It is bright in color and tender in meat. ‌Is a classic food in Jincheng. (updated Oct 2024)

Drink

• Oil tea. This is a traditional Shanxi drink, mainly made of flour, peanuts, sesame and other roasted and boiled into water, taste strong, with the effect of warming the stomach. (updated Nov 2024)
• Plum soup. made of dark plum, hawthorn, licorice, etc., sweet and sour delicious, with the role of thirst, heat and greasy. (updated Nov 2024)
• Apricot tea. Almond as the main raw material, ground into powder, add water and boil, delicate taste, with the effect of moistening the lungs and relieving cough. (updated Nov 2024)
• Jujube tea. With local specialty red jujube as the main raw material, boiled tea, sweet and delicious, with the role of nourishing blood and beauty. (updated Nov 2024)

Sleep

• 1 Yibin Grand Hotel (晋城颐宾大酒店), 1428 Qianjin Road (晋城市前进路1428号), ☏ +86 3563068888. 
• 2 Sunshine Hotel (晋城阳光大酒店), 568 Zezhou Road (晋城市泽州路568号), ☏ +86 3562229188. 
• 3 Lanhua Hotel (山西兰花大酒店), 2288 Fengtai East Street (晋城市凤台东街2288号), ☏ +86 3562628888. 
• 4 Jinnian Hotel (晋城金辇大酒店), 888 South Zezhou Road (泽州南路888号), ☏ +86 3562228222. 
• 5 Jincheng Grand Hotel (晋城大酒店), 88 Fengtai West Street (晋城市凤台西街88号), ☏ +86 3562053022. 
• 6 Pacific Hotel (晋城太平洋大厦), 899 West Fengtai Street (凤台西街899号), ☏ +86 3566966666.