Luya Mountain – Shanxi's "Little Altay"

🗂 Preparation: ID card (mandatory), thick jackets/windbreakers (large temperature differences in mountains), sun protection gear, hiking shoes, common medicines 🚗 Transportation: - Self-drive: ~4hrs from Taiyuan, ~3hrs from Datong - Public transport: Train to Ningwu Station → local bus/taxi 🎫 Attractions & Routes: - North Route: Ten-Thousand-Year Ice Cave + Hanging Coffins at Shimen, combo ticket ¥188 - East Route: Tianchi Lake Cluster + Fen River Source, single ticket ¥40 (Tianchi combo ticket offers better value) 🏨 Accommodation: - Dongzhai Town: Budget-friendly B&Bs (e.g., Luya Mountain Summer Resort) - In scenic area: Luya Mountain International Hotel (prime location, ideal for higher budgets) 🍲 Local flavors: Ningwu stewed dishes, lamb with artemisia, wild mushroom soup – authentic mountain cuisine Xiaoyinghan Village – Free "Little Altay" 🎒 Preparation: Food/water, trash bags, camping gear, sun/insect/snake protection 🚗 Transport: Navigate to "Xiaoyinghan Village, Gujiao" – 1.5hrs direct from Taiyuan 🌿 Experience: Meadow walks, stream trekking, wind-listening. Photo spots: Meadows + streams with grazing livestock