A feast for the eyes and the soul!

### Xiaoxi Temple Travel Guide I. Introduction Xiaoxi Temple, located in Xixian County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province, China, is a renowned Buddhist temple famous for its exquisite hanging sculptures. Originally built during the Northern Qi Dynasty and having undergone several renovations, the existing structures primarily reflect Ming and Qing Dynasty architectural styles. The hanging sculptures of Xiaoxi Temple are hailed as "a gem of Oriental sculptural art," attracting numerous tourists and art enthusiasts. II. Transportation 1. **By Car**: From downtown Linfen, it takes approximately 1.5 hrs to reach Xixian County via the G108 National Highway. Follow the signs to Xiaoxi Temple. 2. **Public Transportation**: Take a bus from Linfen Bus Station to Xixian County (approx. 2 hrs). From there, take a taxi or local bus to Xiaoxi Temple. III. Ticket Information - **Ticket Price**: Approx. CNY 50/person (subject to the scenic area's official announcement). - **Opening Hours**: 8:00am–5:30pm (confirmation recommended). IV. Highlights 1. **Hanging Sculptures**: The hanging sculptures are Xiaoxi Temple's most distinctive feature, especially those in the Mahavira Hall, which vividly depict Buddhist stories and figures. 2. **Mahavira Hall**: This hall houses a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. The surrounding hanging sculptures are exquisite and colorful, possessing immense artistic value. 3. **Thousand Buddha Cave**: Thousands of Buddha statues are carved within this cave, showcasing the superb craftsmanship of ancient artisans. 4. **Ancient Trees**: Many ancient trees surround the temple, adding to the serene atmosphere. V. Visiting Tips 1. **Best Time to Visit**: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Summers are hot, and winters are cold, requiring warm clothing. 2. **Duration of Visit**: Allocate 2–3 hrs to fully appreciate the sculptures and architecture. 3. **Important Notes**: As a religious site, please maintain silence, respect Buddhist etiquette, and refrain from touching the artifacts. VI. Nearby Attractions 1. **Xixian Ancient City**: A worthwhile side trip to experience the charm of the old city. 2. **Hukou Waterfall**: Further afield, but if time permits, it's worth visiting to admire the magnificent Yellow River scenery. VII. Food Recommendations 1. **Xixian Snacks**: Try local specialties like Xixian baked sesame cakes and cold noodles at local restaurants. 2. **Linfen Cuisine**: Sample Linfen delicacies such as beef ball noodles and Hele noodles upon returning to Linfen. VIII. Accommodation Recommendations 1. **Xixian County Town**: Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses are available for travelers with limited budgets. 2. **Downtown Linfen**: If you plan to explore surrounding attractions, hotels in downtown Linfen offer better facilities. IX. Friendly Reminders 1. **Sun Protection and Mosquito Repellent**: Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent during summer visits. 2. **Comfortable Footwear**: Wear comfortable shoes as walking is required within the temple grounds. 3. **Check in Advance**: Consult the weather forecast and the scenic area's announcements before your trip to ensure a smooth visit. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Xiaoxi Temple. Have a wonderful journey!