Before visiting northern Shanxi, I found accommodation around Datong quite expensive, so I chose Shuozhou as a base instead. On my trip the Yudu Hotel near Shuozhou railway station cost a little over 100 yuan, while many places near Datong started around 150–200 yuan. These are my historical observations, not current quotes: prices vary by date and room.
A one-day driving route
My plan was to see Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, Mount Heng (Hengshan, the northern sacred mountain) and Yanmen Pass in a single day, renting a car from about 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is an ambitious itinerary: travel times, traffic, opening hours and how long you spend at each site can change, so check conditions and be ready to shorten the route or add a day.
Heading toward Hengshan, stop at the wooden pagoda first. It dates to 1056 and is among the world's oldest and tallest surviving wooden pagodas, according to Shanxi provincial information. After leaving the expressway at Yingxian, I suggest finding a legal parking space and continuing to the site if convenient. Parking near the attraction was difficult when I visited; a shared electric scooter may be an option where available and permitted. I thought the entrance ticket was poor value and chose to photograph the pagoda from outside, so I cannot review the interior visit.
Next comes Mount Heng. My suggestion is to finish there by around 2 p.m., then continue to Yanmen Pass. On my trip part of the scenic Tourist Highway No. 1 was difficult to drive and one-way during visiting hours; it returned to two-way traffic shortly after the pass closed. Do not assume this schedule still applies: check current signs and local road restrictions before setting off. I spent the remaining time at Yanmen Pass and drove back to Shuozhou after closing.
Food and practical notes
I found prices in Shuozhou relatively low. In the evening, around school dismissal time, there were plenty of snack stalls near Shuozhou Middle School and the station area. Vendors and opening times can change.
Before booking, confirm the attractions' current hours, admission, parking and road rules. If you plan to drive in China on a foreign licence, check the Chinese government guidance and current local requirements for a valid Chinese or temporary driving permit. The timings above describe my experience, not a promise that every stop can be completed in one day.
Translated from the original Chinese article, published October 27, 2026.
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