Enjoy winter folk cultural carnival in Shanxi

A lantern show illuminates ancient Taiyuan county seat. [Photo/Shanxi Daily] 

When winter comes, don't miss the opportunity to admire ancient architecture, enjoy flower lanterns, and experience traditional customs in North China's Shanxi province, immersing yourselves in the festive atmosphere. 

Shanxi boasts a rich variety of folk activities, each with its own unique cultural connotations and historical background.

A lion dance performance is staged in the Ancient City of Pingyao. [Photo/Shanxi Daily] 

Every year on the 15th day of the Chinese lunar calendar, the Ancient City of Pingyao – a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site – hosts a grand folk event called "Pingyao Chinese New Year." 

Folk celebrations take place in the ancient city, allowing visitors to experience the distinctive local customs and appreciate the allure of the traditional Chinese culture of the Han ethnic group in northern China. 

In Datong, if you visit the ancient city during the Spring Festival, you may encounter some unique folk performances. Enjoy yangko (a popular folk dance), carrying iron rods, lion dance competitions, and Jinju Opera shows, creating an overwhelming feast for the senses.

A datiehua show lights up the night. [Photo/Shanxi Daily] 

Situ Town in Jincheng city is a cultural treasure trove that combines Shanxi folk customs, cuisine, culture, and creative markets. The most breathtaking experience here is the traditional folk performance called datiehua (spraying molten iron), a technique passed down for thousands of years. Skilled craftsmen strike molten iron that reaches temperatures of up to 1,700 Celsius degrees into the air, creating fan-shaped golden sparks resembling fireworks that result in spectacular scenes for onlookers.

In addition, in Yuncheng, local cultural activities in winter, including lantern exhibitions, temple fairs, and intangible cultural heritage exhibitions, showcase the rich local culture and enjoy high levels of participation from the public.