Hotels in Taiyuan

Fri, Mar 6
Sat, Mar 7
March 2026
April 2026

Free cancellation options if plans change

Unlock travel rewards with One Key

Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Feb 20 - Feb 21
Tomorrow
Feb 21 - Feb 22
This weekend
Feb 20 - Feb 22
Next weekend
Feb 27 - Mar 1

Where to stay in Taiyuan?

Sheraton Taiyuan
Sheraton Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
  • Wake up to city splendor at this hotel with an indoor pool, 3 restaurants, and 24-hour gym.
$104 nightly
$111 total
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Total with taxes and fees
Sheraton Taiyuan
Hyatt Place Taiyuan Longcheng
Hyatt Place Taiyuan Longcheng
Xiaodian District
$42 nightly
$44 total
Feb 28 - Mar 1
Total with taxes and fees
Hyatt Place Taiyuan Longcheng
Holiday Inn Express Taiyuan High Tech Zone by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Taiyuan High Tech Zone by IHG
Xiaodian District
  • Sleek hotel in Taiyuan's High Tech Zone with free breakfast and easy airport access.
$36 nightly
$38 total
Feb 26 - Feb 27
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Express Taiyuan High Tech Zone by IHG
Courtyard by Marriott Taiyuan
Courtyard by Marriott Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
  • Inviting spa hotel minutes from Yingze Park and Tiyuguan metro access.
$74 nightly
$78 total
Feb 27 - Feb 28
Total with taxes and fees
Courtyard by Marriott Taiyuan
Nostalgia Hotel(Taiyuan Shanxi Museum)
Nostalgia Hotel(Taiyuan Shanxi Museum)
Xinghualing District
  • Peaceful urban oasis near Binhe Park offers free WiFi and convenient parking.
$27 nightly
$29 total
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Total with taxes and fees
Nostalgia Hotel(Taiyuan Shanxi Museum)
Days Hotel Lu'an Taiyuan
Days Hotel Lu'an Taiyuan
Yingze District
  • Stay in luxury near Tiyuguan Metro Station with free breakfast and parking.
$105 nightly
$111 total
Feb 21 - Feb 22
Total with taxes and fees
Days Hotel Lu'an Taiyuan
Holiday Inn Taiyuan City Center by IHG
Holiday Inn Taiyuan City Center by IHG
Yingze District
  • Unwind in Taiyuan's center with fitness options and Chinese dining nearby.
$52 nightly
$55 total
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Taiyuan City Center by IHG
Wyndham Grand Shanxi Xiaohe Xincheng
Wyndham Grand Shanxi Xiaohe Xincheng
Xiaodian District
  • Enjoy a leisurely soak in a hot tub after exploring historic Taiyuan.
$88 nightly
$93 total
Feb 21 - Feb 22
Total with taxes and fees
Wyndham Grand Shanxi Xiaohe Xincheng
Pullman Taiyuan
Pullman Taiyuan
Xinghualing District
  • Visit the luxurious hotel in Taiyuan, situated near the railway station and metro.
$56 nightly
$60 total
Feb 26 - Feb 27
Total with taxes and fees
Pullman Taiyuan
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Jiefang Road
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Jiefang Road
Xinghualing District
$47 nightly
$50 total
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Jiefang Road
Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG
Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG
Jinyuan District
  • Walk along the river in a luxurious atmosphere perfect for business and leisure travel.
$108 nightly
$114 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG
Mercure Taiyuan E Tech
Mercure Taiyuan E Tech
Xiaodian District
  • Unwind in the heart of Taiyuan with easy airport access via complimentary shuttle.
$48 nightly
$51 total
Feb 21 - Feb 22
Total with taxes and fees
Mercure Taiyuan E Tech
Mercure Taiyuan City Centre
Mercure Taiyuan City Centre
Yingze District
$52 nightly
$55 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Mercure Taiyuan City Centre
Echarm Plus Hotel
Echarm Plus Hotel
Wanbailin District
$37 nightly
$39 total
Mar 16 - Mar 17
Total with taxes and fees
Echarm Plus Hotel
Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan
Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
  • Family-friendly luxury retreat with a spa, indoor pool, and free kids' club.
$95 nightly
$101 total
Mar 22 - Mar 23
Total with taxes and fees
Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan
Wanda Vista Taiyuan
Wanda Vista Taiyuan
Xinghualing District
  • Luxurious urban retreat with indoor pool, close to cultural sights in Taiyuan.
$68 nightly
$72 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Wanda Vista Taiyuan
Holiday Inn Taiyuan Sunshine by IHG
Holiday Inn Taiyuan Sunshine by IHG
Jinyuan District
  • Contemporary Taiyuan hotel near parks with complimentary WiFi and parking.
$42 nightly
$44 total
Mar 22 - Mar 23
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Taiyuan Sunshine by IHG
JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan
JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
  • Refined luxury awaits in Taiyuan with easy access to metro and local attractions.
$139 nightly
$148 total
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Total with taxes and fees
JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan
yishangjiudian taiyuanchangfengjiedian
yishangjiudian taiyuanchangfengjiedian
Xinghualing District
  • Step into an elegant Taiyuan hotel near Binhe Park and Muslim Temple.
$51 nightly
$54 total
Feb 21 - Feb 22
Total with taxes and fees
yishangjiudian taiyuanchangfengjiedian
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe
Xiaodian District
  • Riverside hotel in Taiyuan offers indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center.
$59 nightly
$63 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe
View all properties

Check out hotels with a pool in Taiyuan

Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe

Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe
Xiaodian District
$59 nightly
$63 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe

Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG

Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG
Jinyuan District
$108 nightly
$114 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG

Sheraton Taiyuan

Sheraton Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
$104 nightly
$111 total
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Total with taxes and fees
Sheraton Taiyuan

JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan

JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
$139 nightly
$148 total
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Total with taxes and fees
JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan

Wanda Vista Taiyuan

Wanda Vista Taiyuan
Xinghualing District
$68 nightly
$72 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Wanda Vista Taiyuan

Pullman Taiyuan

Pullman Taiyuan
Xinghualing District
$56 nightly
$60 total
Feb 26 - Feb 27
Total with taxes and fees
Pullman Taiyuan

Wyndham Grand Shanxi Xiaohe Xincheng

Wyndham Grand Shanxi Xiaohe Xincheng
Xiaodian District
$88 nightly
$93 total
Feb 21 - Feb 22
Total with taxes and fees
Wyndham Grand Shanxi Xiaohe Xincheng

Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan

Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
$95 nightly
$101 total
Mar 22 - Mar 23
Total with taxes and fees
Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan
View all properties

You can also stay at hotels with a spa in Taiyuan

Courtyard by Marriott Taiyuan

Courtyard by Marriott Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
$74 nightly
$78 total
Feb 27 - Feb 28
Total with taxes and fees
Courtyard by Marriott Taiyuan

Days Hotel Lu'an Taiyuan

Days Hotel Lu'an Taiyuan
Yingze District
$105 nightly
$111 total
Feb 21 - Feb 22
Total with taxes and fees
Days Hotel Lu'an Taiyuan

Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG

Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG
Jinyuan District
$108 nightly
$114 total
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHG

Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan

Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
$95 nightly
$101 total
Mar 22 - Mar 23
Total with taxes and fees
Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan

JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan

JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan
Xiaodian District
$139 nightly
$148 total
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Total with taxes and fees
JW Marriott Hotel Taiyuan
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties
Our prices for hotels in Taiyuan are cheapest in November
Price trends for hotels in Taiyuan
Pricing is based on two traveler single night rates
View properties in February
Typical weather for Taiyuan
February
High 38°F / low 23°F. Sunny most days.
View properties in February
38°
23°
51°
34°
63°
43°
73°
54°
82°
62°
83°
66°
79°
64°
71°
56°
60°
45°
44°
30°
31°
17°
31°
16°
Monthly weather averages (˚F)

Top neighborhoods in Taiyuan

Xinghualing District

Taiyuan's Xinghualing District neighborhood has a host of places to visit such as Chongshan Monastery and Binhe Park.

Jinyuan District

Taiyuan's Jinyuan District neighborhood has a host of places to visit such as Jinci Park and Jinci Temple.

Yingze District

The Yingze District neighborhood offers attractions such as Shuangta Si and Wuyi Square.

Xiaodian District

Taiyuan's Xiaodian District neighborhood offers attractions including Yurang Bridge.

Top landmarks in Taiyuan

Shanxi Museum

4.0/5 (2 reviews)
Shanxi Museum is just one of the attractions in Yingze District, Taiyuan so you might want to stop by during your trip. If you want to experience more of the culture Taiyuan has to offer, head to Taiyuan University of Technology, The Coal Museum of China, and Yingze Park.
See properties

Wuyi Square

4.0/5 (3 reviews)
If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Wuyi Square— just one of the monuments in Yingze District.
See properties

Yingze Park

4.0/5 (2 reviews)
If you like quiet time surrounded by flowers and greenery, hang out at Yingze Park in Yingze District. Want to stretch your legs some more? Head to Binhe Park, located nearby.
See properties

Shuangta Si

If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Shuangta Si— just one of the monuments in Yingze District.
See properties

The Coal Museum of China

If museums are on your list of things to see, you might want to browse the collections at The Coal Museum of China in Wanbailin District. If you want to see more of the museums in Taiyuan, Shanxi Museum isn't far either.
See properties

Muslim Temple

If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Muslim Temple— just one of the monuments in Yingze District.
See properties

Yurang Bridge

If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Yurang Bridge— just one of the monuments in Xiaodian District.
See properties

Longshan Grottoe

Jinyuan District is home to Longshan Grottoe, so why not stop by during your stay in Taiyuan.
See properties

Learn more about Taiyuan

Taiyuan is applauded for its cultural attractions such as Shanxi Museum and The Coal Museum of China. The city has something for everyone including sights like Muslim Temple and Yingze Park within a small-town setting.

See all hotels in Taiyuan
Adobe

Check out reviews of Taiyuan hotels guests love

Holiday Inn Taiyuan City Center by IHG

Holiday Inn Taiyuan City Center by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"The clerk Klay 魏超宇 is very nice to help me to mail my package and help me to call the taxi."
jennifer 3-night trip
Posted 5 months ago
Holiday Inn Taiyuan City Center by IHG

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Taiyuan?
You can discover great hotels in Taiyuan from $29 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. To find an affordable hotel in Taiyuan that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com and sort hotels by "Price: low to high".
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Taiyuan hotels?
Discover great deals on Taiyuan hotel stays with Hotels.com. You can also look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season to find off-peak deals. If you're up for a spontaneous trip, don't forget to check out our last-minute deals on Taiyuan hotels.
Can I book Taiyuan hotels with free cancellation?
It's easy to book a refundable Taiyuan hotel on Hotels.com. Simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". The majority of hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Taiyuan?
Some of the most popular luxury hotels in Taiyuan are Pullman Taiyuan, Wanda Vista Taiyuan, and Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan. Pullman Taiyuan is a luxury hotel with a high guest rating amongst our travelers, and it offers an indoor pool, plus spring water bathtubs and pillow menus in the guestrooms. Wanda Vista Taiyuan and Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan are two more favorite luxury stays in great Taiyuan locations.
What are some of the best hotels in Taiyuan for couples?
Choose a top-rated Taiyuan romantic hotel and enjoy your couple's getaway. Our travelers love Lihua Grand Hotel, a hotel with a restaurant and an indoor pool. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Wanda Vista Taiyuan. This hotel offers a restaurant and an indoor pool for a perfect stay. Discover more hotels in Taiyuan on Hotels.com for couples by using the "Traveler experience" filter in your search and selecting "Adults only" or "Romantic".
What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Taiyuan?
One of the best Taiyuan hotels for kids is Pullman Taiyuan. Pullman Taiyuan is a kid-friendly hotel with a guest score of 8.8 out of 10 offering family-friendly amenities like an indoor pool and free parking, plus free cribs in guestrooms. Discover more kid-friendly hotels in Taiyuan by using the Hotels.com "Family friendly" filter in your search.
What are the top Taiyuan hotels with a pool?
For some added luxury, discover the best Taiyuan hotels with a pool. Parkview Hotel Taiyuan is a great hotel with an indoor pool and a guest rating of 10 out of 10. Plus, you can make the most of its 3 restaurants and spa services. Hilton Garden Inn Taiyuan Binhe is a popular hotel that features an indoor pool along with a restaurant and a bar/lounge. You can select "Pool" in the "Amenities" filter of your search on Hotels.com to find even more places to stay in Taiyuan with a pool.
What are some of the best Taiyuan hotels with free parking?
If you're driving, a great Taiyuan hotel with free parking is a bonus. Our travelers' favorites include:
Where can I get free parking at my hotel in Taiyuan?
Can I book a refundable hotel in Taiyuan?
If you want the flexibility to change your travel plans to Taiyuan, most hotels provide refundable* bookable rates. You can find these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.
Where can I stay in Taiyuan if I want an affordable accommodation?
Nostalgia Hotel(Taiyuan Shanxi Museum) is an accommodation you might want to consider that'll save you money.
What will the weather in Taiyuan be like during my trip?
The warmest months in Taiyuan are usually July and June with an average temp of 70°F. January and December are the chilliest months when the average temp is 28°F. The rainiest months are July and August.

Find out more about Taiyuan

Whispers of the Mountains: Discover the Enchantment of Taiyuan's Temples and Forests

Discover Taiyuan, the heart of Shanxi, China, where ancient temples meet lush forests and stunning mountain landscapes. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of history and nature, inviting travelers to explore the majestic Jinci Temple, wander through the serene gardens of the Shanxi Museum, and hike the scenic Taihang Mountains. Experience local culture in charming small towns nearby, savoring the flavors of Shanxi’s renowned cuisine. Whether you seek spiritual enrichment or outdoor adventure, Taiyuan promises a captivating journey steeped in rich traditions and breathtaking scenery. Perfect for the culturally curious and nature enthusiasts alike.

Discover great hotels in Taiyuan

Taiyuan offers a range of hotel accommodations, from luxury options with spacious rooms to comfortable mid-range choices. Many hotels feature modern amenities and convenient access to local attractions, making them suitable for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you seek a star luxury hotel or a cozy stay, Taiyuan has plenty to explore. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Taiyuan:

  1. Hilton Garden Inn Jinzhong YuciOpens in a new window: This 4.0-star hotel offers a comfortable retreat with a variety of dining options, including an accessible onsite restaurant and a bar and lounge. With 24-hour fitness facilities, it caters to leisure travelers seeking an active getaway. The entertainment offerings, such as LCD televisions and billiards, create a relaxed atmosphere. The hotel's proximity to the airport adds convenience, making it an ideal choice for trend-aware travelers looking for a smooth journey in a well-appointed setting.
  2. Lihua Grand HotelOpens in a new window: A luxurious 5.0-star hotel, Lihua Grand Hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a hot spring-themed vacation experience. With a natural hot spring onsite and a full-service spa, this property elevates relaxation to new heights. The indoor pool and sauna further enhance the luxurious ambiance, appealing to those who prioritize wellness and rejuvenation. The upscale design and curated experiences make it a standout destination for discerning travelers who appreciate indulgence and comfort.
  3. Intercontinental Taiyuan by IHGOpens in a new window: This upscale 5.0-star hotel is designed for travelers seeking a welcoming environment with luxury and spa-themed amenities. With a full-service spa offering massage, reflexology, and body scrubs, it invites relaxation and pampering. The elegant design and attention to detail create a boutique atmosphere that appeals to those looking for unique experiences. This hotel stands out as a sophisticated choice for leisure travelers who value both comfort and distinctive, high-quality journeys.

Top locations to stay in Taiyuan

Some great areas to stay in Taiyuan, Shanxi, China, are Sixicun, Yangqu County, and Qingxu County. Sixicun offers cultural experiences and local cuisine, while Yangqu County boasts beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities. Qingxu County is known for its historical sites and temples. For first-time visitors, Yangqu County is the best choice to experience both nature and culture.

  1. Yangqu CountyOpens in a new window: Yangqu County boasts a charming blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an appealing place to stay for travelers seeking a peaceful environment. With stunning landscapes surrounding the area, visitors can enjoy scenic parks and historical sites like the ancient temples that showcase local architecture and traditions. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hiking trails and picturesque spots perfect for relaxation and photography. Plus, the county's proximity to Taiyuan makes it easy to explore the city while enjoying a quieter retreat.
  2. Qingxu CountyOpens in a new window: If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, Qingxu County is a fantastic option. Known for its rich history, this area features fascinating cultural attractions, including the well-preserved Qingxu Temple, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions. The county is also famous for its lovely countryside, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and exploration. With a local market scene that showcases traditional crafts and delicious street food, visitors can truly experience the authentic flavor of Shanxi.
  3. SixicunOpens in a new window: Sixicun is a quaint village that provides a glimpse into rural life in Shanxi. Staying here allows you to experience the serene surroundings and warm hospitality of the locals. This area is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while enjoying scenic views and fresh air. While smaller than other destinations, Sixicun offers a unique charm with local festivals and community events that showcase Shanxi's vibrant culture.

Things to do in Taiyuan

Taiyuan offers a delightful mix of serene forests and majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and exploring. Wander through charming small towns or relax in lush parks, and don't miss the opportunity to enjoy vibrant local operas that showcase the region's rich traditions. It's a hidden gem for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike!

  • Shanxi MuseumOpens in a new window – Begin your Taiyuan journey at the Shanxi Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and archaeology of the region. Explore fascinating exhibits that bring ancient artifacts to life, showcasing Shanxi's cultural heritage in an engaging way.
  • Yingze ParkOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll through Yingze Park, a beautiful urban oasis filled with lush greenery and serene pathways. It's an ideal spot to relax, enjoy a picnic, or simply unwind while soaking up the natural beauty surrounding you.
  • Shuangta SiOpens in a new window – Visit Shuangta Si, a stunning temple that invites you to appreciate its architectural elegance. As you wander around, admire the intricate details and learn about the spiritual significance of this historical site.
  • Wuyi SquareOpens in a new window – Head to Wuyi Square, a vibrant piazza that serves as a social hub for locals and visitors alike. Here, you can watch street performances, enjoy local snacks, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Taiyuan.
  • Yurang BridgeOpens in a new window – Conclude your exploration at Yurang Bridge, a remarkable monument that offers picturesque views of the surrounding area. Snap some photos and take a moment to appreciate the engineering marvel as you reflect on your Taiyuan adventure.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Taiyuan

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Taiyuan is in February, June, and August, when hotel prices are lower. For a budget-friendly trip, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the city’s key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can explore magnificent temples, local libraries, and lush forests, as well as enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the small town, the zoo, and various recreational activities. This trip offers great value for money while allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Taiyuan.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Taiyuan, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, increasing your chances of savings. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so if rooms become available or prices drop, you're more likely to see the best options for your last-minute getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Taiyuan. For a more personalized experience, boutique hotels may offer unique accommodations and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, increasing your chances of finding a great deal.
  4. Consider your location: Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. If you're looking for more budget-friendly options, you might want to consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, which usually tend to be more affordable while still providing good access to the sites you want to visit. You could also look into independent hotels a bit farther out, as they often offer a more authentic experience at a lower cost.
  5. Become a Member: Join our membership for free and start planning your next stay in Taiyuan! As a member, you can unlock exclusive savings on over 100,000 hotels around the globe, enjoying special member prices. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to advance through membership tiers, gaining access to fantastic perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these exciting benefits—sign up today and make your travel experience even more rewarding!

Best time to go to Taiyuan

Taiyuan experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 23.0°F (-5.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.1°F (23.4°C). July is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Taiyuan, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no rainfall and sunny conditions.

Keep exploring