Nestled in the heart of Shanxi Province, Xinzhou Ancient City stands as a testament to 1,800 years of Chinese history. Known locally as "Xiurong Ancient City," this historic landmark offers visitors a rare glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of northern China, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern revitalization efforts .
Founded in 215 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Xinzhou Ancient City has served as a political, cultural, and commercial hub for northern Shanxi for nearly two millennia . Throughout its long history, the city earned the prestigious title "Key to Northern Shanxi" (Jinbei Suoyue), reflecting its strategic importance as a military stronghold and a vital stop along the China-Russia Tea Road .
The ancient city's historical significance is further evidenced by its architectural legacy. During the Qing Dynasty alone, Xiurong Academy—the city's premier educational institution—produced 39 imperial scholars (jinshi), 165 successful provincial candidates (juren), and 264 tribute students (gongsheng), demonstrating the area's deep scholarly traditions .The ancient city features a traditional layout characterized by blue-brick walls, winding streets, and historically significant gates. The iconic South Gate Tower, built during the 24th year of Wanli in the Ming Dynasty, rises majestically atop 12-meter-high walls, commanding attention as visitors enter the city .
In 2017, the Xinzhou municipal government launched an ambitious restoration project aimed at preserving the city's historical character while creating a vibrant cultural tourism complex . The restoration team carefully researched historical records and architectural remains to ensure authenticity. "The ancient city wasn't created from nothing," explains Ning Guopan, deputy manager of the Xinzhou Ancient City operating company. "Every street, every shop's architectural style has historical basis" .
Today, the city boasts 12 immovable cultural relics and numerous historical structures, including Xiurong Academy, Yishan Temple, Guandi Temple, Caishen Temple, and Taishan Temple . These buildings serve as cultural anchors, connecting visitors to the region's storied past.
Perched on the highest point of the ancient city, Xiurong Academy stands as the cultural centerpiece of Xinzhou. Completed in 1775 during the Qianlong era, it was once the region's highest educational institution and remains one of the best-preserved academies in Shanxi still serving educational functions today .
The Xiurong Academy Museum, located within the academy's lower courtyard, houses four main exhibition areas: "Nine Plains Literary Tradition," "Xiurong Song," "Ancestral Treasures," and "Century of Glory." These exhibits showcase the complete historical and cultural narrative of Xinzhou, featuring precious artifacts including Yuan Haowen's Xu Yijian Zhi, Fu Shan's Complete Works of Shuanghong Kan, and Xu Jishe's Yinghuan Zhilue .
Xinzhou Ancient City serves as a vital platform for preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage. Throughout the city, visitors can explore workshops dedicated to traditional crafts such as paper-cutting, gourd pyrography, nut carving, and dough sculpture .
