The first city in New China built entirely on coal, now transforming into a green smart city at the foot of the Taihang Mountains.
Yangquan, located in the eastern part of Shanxi Province at the foot of the Taihang Mountains, is the smallest prefecture-level city in Shanxi by area and population. It was established in 1947 as one of the first cities in New China.
Historically a coal mining powerhouse, Yangquan supplied energy to much of northern China. In recent years, the city has been undergoing a remarkable transformation, diversifying into smart manufacturing, new materials, and tourism.
The city is famous for Niangziguan (Lady's Pass), a spectacular mountain pass and waterfall on the Shanxi-Hebei border. The surrounding countryside offers dramatic karst landscapes, ancient Great Wall sections, and mountain forests.
Yangquan has a long history dating back to the Spring and Autumn period. The area was strategically important due to its location on the Shanxi-Hebei border.
During the Ming Dynasty, the Pingding section of the Great Wall was heavily fortified. Niangziguan was named after Princess Pingyang, sister of Tang Emperor Gaozu, who led an army to defend the pass.
In 1947, Yangquan was officially established as a city — one of the first in the People's Republic. It grew rapidly as a coal and industrial center. In the 2010s, the city began shifting away from coal dependency toward sustainable development.
Yangquan's economy has historically been dominated by coal mining and heavy industry. The city was one of China's major anthracite coal producers.
Today, the city is actively diversifying. New industries include smart manufacturing, new energy, information technology, and tourism. The Shanxi province's push for green transformation has accelerated Yangquan's shift.
Agriculture in the surrounding counties produces millet, corn, and walnuts. Tourism is growing, centered on Niangziguan and Shinaoshan.
Discover the culinary treasures of Yangquan, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
A perfect day exploring Yangquan's natural beauty and history.
Explore ancient fortifications and mountain scenery.
Shijiazhuang Zhengding Airport (2h drive) and Taiyuan Wusu Airport (1.5h drive) are the nearest major airports.
Yangquan East Station on the Shijiazhuang-Taiyuan HSR: Shijiazhuang 40min, Taiyuan 45min, Beijing 2h.
City buses and long-distance buses connect all districts and scenic areas.
Available throughout the city
Apr - May
Mild, flowers bloom on the mountains. Great for hiking.
Jun - Aug
Warm but rainy. Mountains are lush and green. Waterfall at its fullest.
Sep - Oct
Clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and autumn foliage. Best season.
Nov - Mar
Cold and dry. Snow on Niangziguan creates beautiful scenery.
China's Dragon City with 2,500 years of history - birthplace...
Ancient capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty and one of China...
The birthplace of the God of War Guan Yu, home to China's la...
Home to the awe-inspiring Hanging Temple at Xuankongsi and t...
A land of dramatic yellow earth plateaus, ancient cliffside ...
A city nestled in the Taihang Mountains, known as "the lungs...
A city of stately Ming-era mansions and the breathtaking Wan...
Home to the sacred Mount Wutai, a UNESCO Heritage Site and o...
Discover more cities, food guides, and travel inspiration.
