In Shanxi, not far from the cool sanctuary of Mount Wutai, lies a place that is not only refreshingly pleasant but also hides a natural ice age wonder—the Legendary Ten Thousand Year Ice Cave. For photography enthusiasts, enjoying the coolness while capturing the stunning scenery through their lenses is a rare win-win.
The Luya Mountain Scenic Area is renowned across North China and stands out in Shanxi, often praised as the “Magnificent and Exquisite Luya Mountain Spanning Five Hundred Li.” It is the source region of five major rivers including the Fen River and the Sanggan River. The area consists of attractions such as the Ten Thousand Year Ice Cave, Luya Mountain, Cliffside Ancient Plank Roads, Stone Gate Hanging Coffins, Alpine Meadows, Lovers’ Valley, Ningwu Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), the Source of the Fen River, and the Hanging Village. Luya Mountain and the famous Buddhist mountain Mount Wutai are both located in Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province, like twin lotus flowers on opposite sides of the Dayun Expressway. Unlike the world-renowned but crowded Mount Wutai, which is packed with pilgrims and tourists, Luya Mountain sees fewer visitors and is one of Shanxi’s rare serene and picturesque destinations.
Photo Spot 1: The Mysterious Cave of the Legendary Ten Thousand Year Ice
The Cliffside Plank Road was built during the Tang Dynasty’s Zhenyuan era. A series of ancient cliffside temples are connected by the plank roads, linking scenic spots such as the Arhat Hall, Vairocana Hall, the ruins of the Great Buddha Hall, and the Xiaozu Pagoda with the area’s beautiful landscape, forming a chain of visual and spiritual wonders.
Recommended Photo Spots: The caves and perilous cliffs of the Cliffside Plank Road, the hanging architectural complex, and the Small Hanging Temple