Ancient wonders meet modern charms: Shanxi captivates global storytellers

An international media tour explored dual identity of North China's Shanxi province – a guardian of millennia-old heritages and a hub of innovative cultural expressions.

The 2025 "A Date with China" international media tour recently concluded in Shanxi, featuring a diverse group of foreign journalists and content creators from countries including the United States, Brazil, Vietnam, Germany, Italy, Russia, Turkiye and Venezuela, venturing into China's rich cultural tapestry.

The event spotlighted Shanxi's breathtaking ancient architecture, world-renowned polychrome sculptures, and vibrant intangible cultural heritages, showcasing how tradition and modernity coexist and thrive in the heart of China.

One of the tour's most awe-inspiring stops was the Jinci Temple in Taiyuan, home to the Hall of Offerings (Xian Dian)—a stunning example of traditional Chinese wooden architecture constructed without a single nail. This architectural marvel, which has withstood the test of time, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese builders.

"China's history is profound," said German content creator Tobias Dominiczak, whose wife hails from Shanxi. "I've visited China many times, but there are still so many historical sites I have yet to discover."