Day 3 – The Xiezhou Guandi Temple in Yuncheng represents the glory and nobility of Guan Yu — a revered general who earned deity status in Chinese culture. This temple is built in the hometown of Guan, which gives a remarkable presence to the city. Architecture from the 17th century and depictions of the general’s valor blaze all over.

The Great Iron Oxen in the ancient city of Puzhou symbolize the brilliant architectural work of the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907). These huge strong iron oxen helped the civilization to grow by standing not only as pillars for the river bridge but also for social growth.

Day 4 – The Li family’s grand courtyard will never fail to impress. The grand courtyard is a combination of Chinese, Japanese and European architectural styles. This courtyard is not only famous because of its mixture of styles but also for the values attached to the Li family. A belief in giving back to society earned the Li family a treasured reputation among the local. The Li family’s high humanitarian, cultural and historical values, as seen in this site, are worth emulating.

My trip to Shanxi allowed me to experience and bond with many other people and cultures. I miss Shanxi already!

The author is a hotel guest service executive from India