You have no items in your shopping cart.
Subtotal: $0.00
Get Immediate Response of Your Queries, ADD US ON
+86-13910830737
Compare Products
You have no items to compare.
Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Introducing Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Zhangbi Ancient Castle is a remarkably well-preserved fortress standing 37 kilometers away from Pingyao County. Zhangbi Ancient Castle’s name reflects traditional Chinese beliefs in astronomy and geomancy, deriving from two of the Twenty-Eight Mansions — 二十八星宿, a Chinese constellations system — Zhang and Bi.
This ancient fortress is a formidable structure. Sturdy walls, built to withstand any siege, stretch for an impressive 1,300 meters (0.8 mile), forming an impregnable rectangular enclosure of stone and might around the fortress. However, Zhangbi Ancient Castle’s true claim to fame lies in its extensive underground passages, earning it the moniker “Fortress Above, Labyrinth Below.” Believed to have been initiated during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), these tunnels provided vital hiding places and secret camps during conflicts, from local wars of Imperial China to the Chinese Civil War (1927-1949). Today, a restored 1.5-km (0.93 mile) stretch gives visitors a glimpse into this hidden world, revealing three levels of tunnels with dozens of underground rooms, including facilities like stables, command posts, and sleeping quarters.
To witness the ingenuity and resilience of ancient Chinese engineering and military strategy, a side trip to Zhangbi Ancient Castle is a must when visiting Pingyao. A couple of hours exploring this remarkable feat of history will leave a lasting impression.
Zhangbi Ancient Castle Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Zhang Bi Gu Bao 张壁古堡
• Best Time to Visit: Apr, May, Sept & Oct
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 2 - 3 x hours
• Opening Hours: 8:00 - 22:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY67
• Address: Zhangbi Village, Longfeng Township, Jiexiu City, Shanxi Province
What to Expect at the Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Underground Tunnel
Zhangbi Ancient Castle conceals a “Defense Wonder” beneath its very foundations: a vast network of tunnels, once 10,000 meters (6.21 miles) long, designed for refuge and defense. Though earthquakes have sealed off sections over time, visitors can still explore 1.5 kilometers (0.8 mile) of restored tunnels.
Within this subterranean labyrinth, you’ll discover chambers for troops, supplies, and even stables – all strategically placed to maximize space and efficiency. This strategic thinking is further evident in the inclusion of defensive features like traps, hidden passages, and observation points.
While a fascinating journey into the past, the confined spaces may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with claustrophobia. However, for those undeterred, the underground tunnel offers a unique and exciting glimpse into ancient military history.
Temple Cluster
Zhangbi Ancient Castle is not only known for its impressive fortifications but also for its remarkable concentration of religious temples. The site is home to a diverse and fascinating religious and folk culture, with two separate religious complexes located within its walls, one in the northern part and another in the southern part of the castle.
This complex of 21 well-preserved temples and halls, built during the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, showcases the area’s rich history and culture. Highlights include the Zhenwu Temple, dedicated to the Taoist god of the north and boasting intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere, and the Three Sages Hall, which honors Confucian figures and reflects the influence of Confucianism in the region. This blend of Buddhist and Taoist temples within the castle walls illustrates the syncretic nature of Chinese religious practice and makes Zhangbi Ancient Castle a must-see destination for anyone interested in traditional Chinese religious architecture.
How to Get to Zhangbi Ancient Castle
• Zhangbi Ancient Castle is located approx. 37 km (23 miles) away from Pingyao County.
• Charter a car/bus from GoGrandChina to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Pingyao to Zhangbi Ancient Castle.