Juye County Travel

Juye County, Heze, Shandong — historically known as Daye, honored as the "Hometown of the Kylin" due to the legend of "Kylin Auspicious Omen." It is also the "Hometown of Chinese Farmer Painting," boasting historical sites such as Yongfeng Pagoda, Jinshan Mountain, and Kylin Terrace, integrating Kylin culture, painting art, and mountain-water scenery. A 2-day in-depth tour unlocks the charm of this millennia-old county, experiencing the unique blend of history and art.

2700+
Years of Urban History
1
4A-level Scenic Area
7+
Core Attractions
10+
Specialty Foods
Yongfeng Pagoda, Juye County, Heze City
Yongfeng Pagoda - Tang-Song Architectural Gem
The landmark building of Juye County, first built in the Tang dynasty and completed in the Song dynasty. An octagonal pavilion-style brick pagoda with exquisite carvings, standing firm through a thousand years of wind and rain — one of the most complete ancient brick pagodas in southwestern Shandong.

Juye County Two-Day One-Night Kylin Culture Tour

Visit Yongfeng Pagoda to trace history, climb Jinshan Mountain for panoramic views, taste jar soup, admire farmer paintings, and unlock the history and artistic beauty of this ancient county

Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Main Destinations
Yongfeng Pagoda, Jinshan Tourist Area, Kylin Terrace, Farmer Painting Village, Juye Museum
Suitable For
History enthusiasts, mountain climbers, food seekers, art lovers
Budget per Person
¥400-¥850
01
Ancient Charm Tracing
Yongfeng Pagoda · Kylin Terrace · Juye Museum · Confucian Temple
Highlights

Morning: Visit Yongfeng Pagoda to appreciate Tang-Song architectural art. Afternoon: Ascend Kylin Terrace to trace the source of Kylin culture, tour Juye Museum to systematically learn local history. Evening: Stroll through the Confucian Temple to experience Confucian culture.

Attractions
Yongfeng Pagoda
Major national cultural relic protection unit. First built in the Zhenguan era of the Tang dynasty and completed in the Jiayou era of the Song dynasty, standing 31 meters tall with eight sides and nine levels. The pagoda body is carved with Buddha figures and floral patterns, featuring rigorous structure and majestic appearance — an important physical object for studying Tang-Song architecture.
Kylin Terrace
Also known as Lin Zhong, traditionally considered the site where "a kylin was captured in the west hunt" during the Spring and Autumn period. The existing rammed-earth platform is about 7 meters high with a circumference of 100 meters. A Ming dynasty "Kylin Terrace" stele stands on the platform — an important birthplace of Kylin culture, known as the "First Kylin Terrace of China."
Juye Museum
Houses over 5,000 artifacts, including more than 30 national first-class relics. Features exhibition halls on "Kylin Culture," "Tang-Song Cultural Relics," and "Farmer Paintings," systematically showcasing Juye's historical development from prehistoric to Ming and Qing dynasties alongside its distinctive culture.
Practical Info
Accommodation
  • Business hotels in city center
  • Kylin culture themed homestays
  • Inns near Jinshan Scenic Area
Food Recommendations
  • Juye jar soup
  • Xieji jar soup
  • Juye painted eggs
  • Hanging stove sesame flatbread
Travel Tips
  • A historical culture block is under construction around Yongfeng Pagoda; some areas may be under renovation
  • The farmer painting exhibition hall at the museum offers painting experience (reservation required)
  • There is a Kylin Culture Square near Kylin Terrace, suitable for photo opportunities
02
Mountains & Art
Jinshan Tourist Area · China Farmer Painting Village · Zhushui River Park · Departure
Highlights

Morning: Climb Jinshan Mountain to experience the natural and cultural landscape of "The Number One Mountain Under Heaven." Afternoon: Explore China Farmer Painting Village to appreciate folk art, stroll through Zhushui River Park to enjoy city scenery, purchase specialties before departure.

Attractions
Jinshan Tourist Area
National 4A-level scenic area, named after the legend of "gold obtained by cutting rock." Attractions include Qin King Cave, Jade Emperor Pavilion, and Jinshan Temple. The Qin King Cave is a large stone chamber excavated during the Han dynasty with numerous relics — a scenic area integrating mountain climbing, exploration, and antiquing.
China Farmer Painting Village
The birthplace of Juye farmer painting. Hundreds of villagers engage in painting, specializing in meticulous gongbi peonies and figure stories. The village features a painting exhibition hall, creative workshops, and training bases, where visitors can watch farmers paint live and experience the joy of painting.
Zhushui River Park
A city park built along the renovated Zhushui River, stretching 5 kilometers. It features waterfront platforms, fitness trails, and a cultural corridor, incorporating Kylin culture and painting elements — a great place for citizens to relax and for visitors to experience the city's character.
Practical Info
Transportation
  • Jinshan Tourist Area is 20 km from county center; take tourist shuttle or self-drive
  • Farmer Painting Village is 5 km from Jinshan; self-driving recommended for combined visit
  • Zhushui River Park: take bus routes 3 or 6
Ticket Info
  • Yongfeng Pagoda: ¥15
  • Jinshan Tourist Area: ¥60
  • Kylin Terrace: Free
  • Juye Museum: Free (registration required)
  • Farmer Painting Village: Free (experience activities charged separately)
Travel Tips
  • Wear comfortable sports shoes for climbing Jinshan; the full hike takes about 2 hours
  • Farmer paintings can be purchased (prices range from ¥50-500)
  • Zhushui River Park is beautifully lit in the evening, perfect for a leisurely stroll

Must-Try Foods in Juye County

Juye Jar Soup

A traditional famous dish of Juye, named for being brewed in a special earthenware jar. Made from lamb and lamb bones, simmered with over ten spices for hours. Rich broth and tender meat, served with vermicelli and coriander — a warm, comforting bowl that is a national intangible cultural heritage.

Xieji Jar Soup

A specialty of Xieji Town, Juye, improved upon traditional techniques. Known for its "milky white broth, tender meat, and mellow flavor." Locals say, "If you haven't had Xieji jar soup, you haven't truly visited Juye" — a landmark local delicacy.

Juye Painted Eggs

A specialty product combining traditional handicraft and food. Selected high-quality duck eggs are cured, then painted with patterns of kylins, peonies, etc. Colorful and auspicious — both a delicacy and a collectible artwork.

Hanging Stove Sesame Flatbread

A traditional pasta of Juye, baked in a special hanging oven. Made from flour, sesame, and cumin. Crispy crust, soft interior, savory and delicious. Often enjoyed with jar soup — a classic combination beloved by locals.

Juye County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Spring (Apr-May): Lush greenery on Jinshan Mountain, ideal for hiking
  • Autumn (Sep-Oct): Farmer Painting Art Festival period, more artworks on display
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Peak season for jar soup, perfect for warming up
Must-Try Foods
  • Juye jar soup
  • Xieji jar soup
  • Juye painted eggs
  • Hanging stove sesame flatbread
  • Water-fried buns
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx ¥75
  • Accommodation: ¥120-260/night
  • Meals: ¥60-120/day
  • Transport: about ¥50
  • Total: ¥400-850
FAQ
  • What is the legend of Qin King Cave on Jinshan Mountain? → Said to be the summer retreat of the First Emperor of Qin during his eastern tour; ancient relics remain inside
  • Can I learn farmer painting on site? → Yes, the painting village offers short-term experience classes (¥50/hour)
  • How long do Juye painted eggs last? → About 30 days at room temperature; refrigerated storage extends to 60 days
  • Where is the most authentic jar soup? → "Li Ji Jar Soup" in the county town, "Old Place Jar Soup" in Xieji Town

Explore Districts & Counties of Heze