Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan
The Yellow River enters Shanxi here, the Great Wall converges here, and the Shanxi-Shaanxi-Inner Mongolia Grand Canyon begins here, showcasing the rugged landscape of the Loess Plateau.…
Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan, Datong
Key facts
- Admission
- ¥96
- Time needed
- 3–4 hours
- Getting there
- To reach the Laoniuwan area, first go to Shuozhou (朔州). From Datong, take a train, which takes about two hours to reach Shuozhou. From Shuozhou Long-Distance Bus Station, there are buses to Pianguan, though not many. Villagers at Laoniuwan can provide simple meals. Pianguan is known for its donkey meat and buckwheat noodles (liangmian), and its suanfan (sour rice) is distinctive. It may not suit everyone’s taste, but it is worth a try.
- Guidebook rating
- 4 / 5
From China Self Guided Travel 2025, page 1849. Open in Google Maps
About Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan
The Yellow River enters Shanxi here, the Great Wall converges here, and the Shanxi-Shaanxi-Inner Mongolia Grand Canyon begins here, showcasing the rugged landscape of the Loess Plateau. This is where the Great Wall and the Yellow River meet, and it is one of China’s ten most beautiful canyons. The Laoniuwan scenic area consists of three bends and one valley: Baozi Tower Bend, Laoniuwan, Sizuo Tower Bend, and the small Yangjiachuan Gorge. On the cliff beside the Laoniuwan Fortress, right by the Yellow River, stands a hollow brick enemy tower that remains in excellent condition. Perched on the cliff and overlooking the river, it is one of Pianguan’s most celebrated scenic spots.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan cost?
Admission to Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan is ¥96, as listed in the 2025 guidebook. Prices can change; check the official channel before you go.
How do I get to Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan?
To reach the Laoniuwan area, first go to Shuozhou (朔州). From Datong, take a train, which takes about two hours to reach Shuozhou. From Shuozhou Long-Distance Bus Station, there are buses to Pianguan, though not many. Villagers at Laoniuwan can provide simple meals. Pianguan is known for its donkey meat and buckwheat noodles (liangmian), and its suanfan (sour rice) is distinctive. It may not suit everyone’s taste, but it is worth a try.
How long should I spend at Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan?
Plan on 3–4 hours for Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan.
Where is Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan?
Laoniuwan on the Yellow River, Pianguan is in Datong, Shanxi Province, in the North China of China.
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