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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.
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Tour Highlights
• Visit Wang Family Compound, the largest of Shanxi Courtyard Houses which rivals Beijing's Forbidden City in its magnitude
• Explore the lanes and houses of the fortified village of Zhangbi
• Delve into the complex network of tunnels and find your way out of the labyrinth at Zhangbi Ancient Castle
• Experienced English speaking tour guide
• Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshmentsAbout This Tour
• Departure: Daily departing from Pingyao
• Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
• Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
• Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
• Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Pingyao
• Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.Tour Itinerary at a Glance
• Pick up from your accommodation in Pingyao
• Drive to Wang Family Compound (about 55km)
• Visit Wang Family Compound
• Lunch on your own
• Drive to Zhangbi Ancient Castle (about 32km)
• Visit Zhangbi Ancient Castle
• Transfer back to your accommodation in Pingyao (about 46km)
Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
• If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)
1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 + $438 $248 $188 $148 $138 $128 $118 $108 $98 $88
Price Remark
• Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).
Price Inclusions
• Professional English language speaking private tour guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
• All admission tickets to sightseeing places
• All government taxesPrice Exclusions
• Hotel accommodation.
• Your personal expenses.
• Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
• Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
• Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.Additional Info
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
• The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
• The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
• IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.Cancellation Policy
• You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
• Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
• Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
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• Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
• GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
• GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
• GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
• No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
• No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.
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