Things To Do
in Gujiao

Gujiao is a city located in Shanxi Province, China, with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is known for its coal mining industry, which has played a significant role in the region's economy. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including mountains and rivers, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.

Gujiao combines modern development with traditional culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Chinese heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gujiao
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gujiao Coal Mine Museum to learn about the history and significance of coal mining in the region.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Jinci Temple, famous for its ancient architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for leisurely walks and photography.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving Shanxi cuisine, followed by a stroll through the local night market to experience the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Taihang Mountains, enjoying breathtaking views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Gujiao Ancient Town to explore traditional architecture and local crafts, including pottery and textiles.

evening
:

Relax at a local tea house, where you can experience traditional Chinese tea culture and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$4
🚌Public transportation ticket$0.50
🧃Bottle of water$0.30
🍵Cup of tea at a tea house$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history to explore.
  • Beautiful natural scenery with outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to major cities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "我可以帮助你吗?" - Can I help you?
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Gujiao

Visit one of these nice places.

Jinci Temple

An exquisite temple complex surrounded by lush gardens and ancient trees, perfect for capturing architectural details.

Taihang Mountains

Stunning vistas of rugged mountains and valleys, ideal for landscape photography.

Gujiao Ancient Town

Charming streets lined with traditional buildings, offering picturesque scenes of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gujiao

Gujiao is a culinary delight, offering a variety of traditional Shanxi dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Gujiao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dao Xiao Mian

Hand-cut noodles served in a hearty broth, often accompanied by vegetables and meat.

Must-Try!

Shanxi Vinegar

A unique and flavorful vinegar used in many dishes, known for its distinct taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gujiao Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street foods, from dumplings to skewered meats.

Local Snack Stalls

Small stalls offering traditional snacks like fried dough sticks and savory pancakes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gujiao experiences a temperate continental climate, with distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm to hot, with average highs reaching around 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making these seasons particularly pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

It is customary to show respect to elders, such as greeting them first or offering them your seat.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to start the meal and to use chopsticks properly.

Personal Space

While crowded areas may feel close, maintain a respectful distance in personal interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gujiao is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take common precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. It's also wise to have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Gujiao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Digital payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, while cash is becoming less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather can be hot, but it’s perfect for hiking in the mountains and enjoying cool evenings.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage provide stunning backdrops for photography and exploration.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snow, creating a serene atmosphere but requiring warm clothing for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Gujiao at Night

Gujiao's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a mix of local bars, tea houses, and night markets. The local bars often feature live music, creating a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Night markets come alive in the evenings, providing an array of street food and local crafts to explore. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances and festivals that occasionally take place in the city.

Hiking in Gujiao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Wutai Trail

A well-known hiking trail leading to one of China's sacred Buddhist mountains, offering stunning views and spiritual significance.

Fen River Valley Trail

A scenic trail along the Fen River, perfect for leisurely hikes amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Gujiao by plane.

Taiyuan Wusu International Airport

Located about 50km from Gujiao, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, making it the primary access point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gujiao is a moderately walkable city, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other in the downtown area. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some areas may require walking along busy roads, so caution is advised.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Gujiao, with a rich cultural heritage that influences local customs and traditions.

Minority Ethnic Groups

There are also small populations of minority ethnic groups, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A widely popular sport in China, enjoyed by people of all ages and often played in parks and community centers.

Basketball

Basketball is also very popular, with many public courts available for both casual play and organized games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gujiao can be busy during peak hours, particularly near major intersections and commercial areas. Public transportation options include buses that connect various neighborhoods, but schedules may be less frequent during off-peak hours. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available for more convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gujiao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for no meat to ensure meals meet dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, rice dishes and certain vegetable preparations can be safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Gujiao includes several local hospitals and clinics, providing basic medical services. Major hospitals in nearby cities offer more advanced care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and knowing basic medical phrases in Chinese can be helpful.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide