[2025 Hunyuan Attraction] Travel Guide for Heng Shan Mountain (Updated Jun)

⛰【Attractions Guide】 📍Detailed address: 10 kilometers south of Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province 🚗Transportation Guide: From Datong City or Taiyuan, you can choose to take a 🚃bus or 🚊train to Hunyuan County, and then take a bus or 🚖taxi to Hengshan Mountain. If you choose to travel by plane, you can fly to Datong Yungang Airport and then transfer to the corresponding means of transportation to Hengshan. 🚘Friends who travel by car can easily arrive via the Beijing-Tibet Expressway (G6) or Xuanda Expressway and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. 🕙Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 8:00-18:00 💰Ticket price: 45 yuan/person 🌟Highlights: ⛰️Tianfengling: Hengshan main peak, 2016 meters above sea level ⛰️Hengshan Temple Group: Hanging Temple: Located between the cliffs of Cuiping Peak, the second main peak of Hengshan 🕌Sleeping Palace: Located in the Feishi Grotto at the south end of the Hengshan Main Hall Shenxi 🏕️Wetland: Located in Shenxi Village in the north of Yong'an Town, Hunyuan County, 4 kilometers away from the county seat, it is a national wetland park. 🏟️Li Yumei Tomb: Located at the northeast corner of Hunyuan County at the foot of Hengshan Mountain Note tips⚠️ 1️⃣Do a good job of sun protection, there are not many shade trees on the road 2️⃣A hiking pole is necessary for climbing🎉 3️⃣Follow the instructions all the way, it is still very clear 4️⃣You can visit it with the Hanging Temple in one day

#外游 The first time I knew Xiankong Temple was in the final battle of Jin Yong's martial arts novel The Smiling Proud Wanderer. I was already fascinated by the steepness of the temple. This time I was able to personally climb the temple on Hengshan Mountain. I can only describe it as breathtaking. #外游

In the morning light, I visited the Beiyue Hengshan, one of the five mountains, to see its Fanghua. According to legend, Pangu opened the world, chaos first opened, Qing is the sky, and turbid is the ground. He turned his body into a five-yellow, head to the east, and Beiyue Hengshan became the right arm of Pangu. Because it is located in the north, it is the place where everything is undone, so it is called Hengshan. For the lord of Wanshan in the North, it is also known as Hengzong. Hengshan West is Yanmenguan, East is Taihang Sanshan, Nanshi Sanjin, and the north is overlooking Yunmeng; the peaks are rushing, the momentum is magnificent, the towering, and the cross. This is too early, it is still hazy in the mountains, covering the clouds, only a little bit of sunlight in the thin layer of the clouds, this is still the most attractive. Yunxia hides gold and silver enamel, faintly circling the sun and moon. Sunny, the smoke is flying, and the fun is full of fun. When the clouds dispersed, the sky was more open, and Hengshan showed its original appearance. Under the lush greenery is a layer of dangerous rocks, the cliffs stand sideways, stone clips blue sky, as if a heart will fall into the abyss. The canyon is deep and you can only see the green cliffs under the cliff. It is no wonder that ancient poems have clouds: the rock is so heavy that it is unpredictable.

Traveling in Datong, climbing the Range Rover and exploring the ancient temple are also very good, so we drove to Hengshan in the morning. Beiyue Hengshan is located in Wuyuan County of Datong. It has been a famous scenic spot and the birthplace of Taoist culture since ancient times. It was approved by the State Council to be included in the first batch of national-level scenic spots with the perfect combination of human landscape and natural landscape. In 2009, Beiyue Hengshan was included in the National Natural and Cultural Heritage List. Hengshan is the Beiyue in the "Five Sacred Mountains" and also a Taoist holy place. It is said that Zhang Guo, one of the Eight Immortals, is practicing in Hengshan. The Beiyue Hengshan Scenic Area includes Tianfengling, Cuipingfeng and Qianfoling. The current development is Cuipingfeng and Tianfengling. Generally speaking, Hangshan Hengshan refers to the Tianfengling scenic spot. Hengshan main peak is divided into east and west peaks, east is Dafengling west to Cuiping peak, two peaks face each other, style is unique, the cliff green belt, the level is distinct. Hengshan cloud, change endless, but we did not encounter good time, see a lot of pictures of Hengshan cloud on the network, really super beautiful.

As one of the Five Sacred Mountains, Beiyue Hengshan is the universal sacred place of Taoism in the world. According to legend, Zhang Guo, one of the Eight Immortals, is practicing in Hengshan. The highest altitude is more than 2,000 meters, but don't be too nervous. You can choose to take the bus to the Hanging Temple and climb up. You can also choose the cable car to the Hengshan Mountain. Individuals are still advised to drive by car, or choose a transportation vehicle in the scenic area, or go to the middle of the mountain, or look at the scenery along the way. These ancient buildings are the essence of it.

Hengshan Scenic Area includes Tianfengling Scenic Spot, Cuipingfeng Scenic Spot and Qianfoling Scenic Spot. At present, the development of Cuiping Peak and the main peak Tianfengling is relatively perfect. Generally speaking, Tianshan Hengshan refers to the Tianfengling Scenic Spot. Entering the ticket office of Tianfengling is a section of Panshan Road about 5 kilometers leading to the Hengshan parking lot. Looking up east in the parking lot, you can see the words "Heng Zong" on the cliff of Daziwan. This is the most distinctive stone in Hengshan and is regarded as the symbol of Hengshan. Then go up the hiking trail to the Guolao Ridge. There is a straight bend of nearly 90 degrees. The mountain wind is very large and is called "Hufengkou". There are many ancient pines on Hengshan Mountain. The hanging pine of Hufengkou is the most special. Its roots are all exposed, and it is located at the mouth of the wind. The sound of the trees is intertwined, like a tiger roaring.

As one of the Five Sacred Mountains, Beiyue Hengshan is the universal sacred place of Taoism in the world. According to legend, Zhang Guo, one of the Eight Immortals, is practicing in Hengshan. The highest altitude is more than 2,000 meters, but don't be too nervous. You can choose to take the bus to the Hanging Temple and climb up. You can also choose the cable car to the Hengshan Mountain. Personal is also recommended to drive by car, or choose the traffic car in the scenic area, you can also go to the mountainside, you can also look at the scenery along the way. Hengshan should be considered the best climber than other couples. There are many wall carvings in Huixianfu. The most beautiful buildings are the Heaven and Earth and Wanli Wan. It is also the tallest building in Hengshan. There are also landscapes such as Yuhuangge, Yubei Pavilion, Qinqitai and Tongyuan Valley.

Hengshan Scenic Area is centered on Tianfengling and Cuiping Peak, which are both twin peaks and peaks, including Tianfengling Scenic Spot, Cuipingfeng Scenic Spot, Qianfoling Scenic Spot, Hot Spring Scenic Spot and Wuyuan City Scenic Spot; unique mountainous landscape and With a long history, Hengshan has become a unique and famous scenic spot with both natural and human landscapes. It is said that four thousand years ago, I came here and sealed Hengshan as Beiyue. Qinhuang, Hanwu, Tangzong and Songzu have all been there. Not only that, but Li Bai, Jia Dao, Yuan Haowen and Xu Xiake also came. Can be seen the status of Hengshan. Among the Wuyue Mountains, Hengshans profound war culture and the unique hiding culture in which the religion survived in the chaos of war and the ancient witch culture of the Beiyue Emperor were beyond the reach of the other four mountains. The beauty of Hengshan could not be hidden. Compared with the other four mountains, Hengshan looks simple and ancient, does not show the mountain dew, has a unique low-key

In the minds of many travellers

Beiyue Hengshan, 10 kilometers south of Dayuan County, Datong, presents the feeling of being in the mountains of the South! Hengshan is in danger. It has been a battleground for military strategists since ancient times. There have been many important battles in the Hengshan Mountains. Many famous emperors and generals have played here. This is also the place where Hengshan is different from other four mountains. It is worth mentioning that Hengshan has been the place where the royal ceremonies have been held since ancient times, and its status is no less than that of Shandong's Taishan. The Hengshan Gorge is deep and dense, with many Taoist temples and Buddhist temples. The most famous are the Hanging Temple and the Beiyue Temple. The 18th view of Hengshan is also a must-see. Transportation: You can take the bus to the Wuyuan County Bus Station at the Datong Long-distance Station. The one-way time is about 1.5 hours. At the Wuyuan Bus Station, there is a car dedicated to Hengshan Scenic Area.

Three mountains and five mountains, I have all climbed. Every year, I go climbing with a group of friends. In 2015, it was the Beiyue Hengshan. It is still fresh in my memory. The friends are all over the mountain and they are exhausted. But when we reached the top of the mountain, everyone cheered and felt that their hard work was worth it. Very nice piece of memory.

Datong Travel Guide: The Buddhist Scroll and Frontier Charm of the Ancient Capital Datong, once the capital of the Northern Wei dynasty and a key frontier town during the Ming and Qing dynasties, boasts the grandeur of millennium-old grottoes, the daring Hanging Temple, and the weathered ancient city walls, along with the chewy knife-cut noodles and hearty lamb offal soup. From the compassionate gaze of the Yungang Buddha to the Liao-Jin legacy of Huayan Temple, from the vast volcanic fields to the magical earth forest, Datong, known as the "Buddhist Dragon City," invites you to travel through time and touch the diverse pulse of Chinese civilization! 1. Must-Visit Attractions: Grottoes, Ancient Architecture, and Natural Wonders • Buddhist Treasures: Grottoes and Temples • Yungang Grottoes (5A Scenic Area) 🏛️ World Heritage Highlights: ◦ Recommended Key Caves: Cave 20 (Open-air Giant Buddha), Cave 5 (17-meter seated Shakyamuni statue), Cave 6 (Buddha’s life story in "comic strip" style). ◦ In-depth Experience: Visit the "Yungang Museum" inside the park to learn about the grottoes’ excavation history; the night light show (open in peak season) adds mystery. 📸 Photo Tips: Shoot the main caves in the morning with front light; in the afternoon, capture the side profile of the Cave 20 Buddha. Drones are prohibited! 🎫 Tickets: 120 RMB (peak season April-October), 100 RMB (off-season), optional electric cart 15 RMB. • Hanging Temple (Mount Heng Scenic Area) 🏔️ Heavenly Chanting in the Air: ◦ Architectural Marvel: Supported by only 27 horizontal beams embedded in the cliff, Li Bai inscribed the word "Magnificent." Climbing requires courage (entrance fee 100 RMB + Hengshan ticket 45 RMB). ◦ Safety Tips: Limited visitors in peak season; recommended to arrive before 8 AM; those afraid of heights can admire from afar, and photos from Jinlong Gorge below are equally stunning. • Huayan Temple 🕍 Liao-Jin Royal Temple: ◦ Mahavira Hall: The largest surviving Liao-Jin Buddhist hall, with a 4.5-meter high roof ridge ornament; ◦ Bhikkhuni Scripture Hall: Houses the "Eastern Venus" Bodhisattva with hands clasped and teeth showing, exquisite celestial pavilions. 🎫 Tickets: 50 RMB, free during morning chanting (6:00-7:30), where you can listen to sutra recitations. 2. Ancient City and Frontier Style • Datong Ancient City Wall 🏮 Epic Night Tour: ◦ Cycling Around the Wall: Rent a bike (30 RMB/90 minutes), 7.2 km wall overlooking ancient temples and residences, Yongtai Gate barbican light show (20:00). ◦ Free Wall Access: Scan QR codes at entrances like Heyang Gate and Yongtai Gate to reserve. • Shanhua Temple 🌿 Tranquil Tang Dynasty Style: The most intact Liao-Jin temple in China, with solemn Five-direction Buddhas in the Mahavira Hall, no admission fee and few tourists. • Datong Volcanic Cluster 🌋 Geological Wonder: ◦ Jinshan: Hike the volcanic crater and collect volcanic pumice; ◦ Langwoshan: Wooden boardwalk tour with views of dense volcanic cones; 🚗 Transport: 30 km from city center, recommended to drive or charter a car (200 RMB/car). 2. Datong Cuisine: Carb Feast and Frontier Passion 1. Must-Try Classics • Knife-Cut Noodles: 🍜 The "Eastern shaved noodles" with rich braised meat sauce, "Xi Jin Dao" offers an elegant environment, served with a braised egg and dried tofu, about 15 RMB per person for a full meal. • Lamb Offal Noodles: 🌶️ "He Laoren Lamb Offal" features fresh spicy red oil, paired with crispy fried dough, a winter warming must-have. • Shaomai Dumplings: 🥟 "Longjuxiang" Hundred-flower Shaomai (lamb, three fresh fillings, vegetarian), a basket of 12 served with brick tea to cut the grease. 2. Snacks and Night Markets • Huangmi Cold Cake: Purple Clay 369 coarse grain season, cool and sweet with osmanthus honey. • Hunyuan Cold Noodles: Chili oil + broad beans + dried tofu, "Xiaosifu Cold Noodles" (Hunyuan branch) is the most authentic. • Night Market Recommendations: ◦ East Drum Tower Street: grilled skewers, spicy rabbit heads, Hunyuan cold noodles stalls; ◦ Ancient Style Street Night Market: bowl cakes, oat dumplings, sea buckthorn juice. 3. Souvenirs • Yanggao Dried Apricots: thick flesh, sweet and sour taste; • Guangling Dried Tofu: five-spice and spicy flavors, vacuum packed for convenience; • Copper Hotpot Model: mini version of Datong copperware, available in craft shops inside the ancient city. 3. Transportation Guide: Convenient Choices Bridging Past and Present • External Transport: ✈️ Airplane: Datong Yungang Airport (15 km from city), limited flights, can transfer via Taiyuan/Beijing; 🚄 High-speed Rail: Datong South Station (2 hours from Beijing, 1.5 hours from Taiyuan), taxi to city about 20 RMB; 🚗 Driving: Erguang Expressway connects well, friendly for Taiyuan/Beijing drivers, parking near ancient city 5-10 RMB/hour. • Inner-city Transport: 🚕 Taxi: starting fare 7 RMB, short distances between attractions in the ancient city; 🚌 Bus: Tourist line 603 (Datong South Station - Yungang Grottoes), fare 2 RMB; 🚲 Shared Bikes: Hello/ Qingju cover the ancient city, ride along the city wall and old alleys. 4. Accommodation Recommendations: From Ancient Courtyards to Design Hotels • High-end Options: 🏨 Datong Wangfujing Supreme Hotel: next to the south gate of the ancient city, heated pool + Yungang-themed afternoon tea; 🏯 Datong Yungang Grand Hotel: Northern Wei style design, walking distance to Huayan Temple. • Ancient City Style: 🛏️ Datong Pipa Old Inn: thousand-year-old historic house, legendary site of "Zhaojun Leaving the Frontier," rustic courtyard; 🌿 Datong Lanchi Courtyard: Siheyuan-style homestay, listen to the ancient city’s evening drum sounds. • Cost-effective Choices: 🏢 All Seasons Hotel (Datong Ancient City Branch): smart home features + free laundry, ideal for business travelers; 🏡 Datong Youth Hostel: backpacker hub, convenient for carpool tours to volcanic cluster/Ying County Wooden Pagoda. 5. Travel Tips and In-depth Experiences 1. Best Seasons: ◦ May to October: pleasant climate, peonies bloom at Huayan Temple, volcanic cluster lush green; ◦ Winter: stunning snow scenes at Yungang Grottoes, fewer tourists, hotel prices drop sharply. 2. Ticket Discounts: ◦ Hold the "Datong Tourism Pass" (100 RMB) for unlimited annual access to Yungang Grottoes, Hengshan, and 11 other attractions; ◦ Half price for students and seniors over 60, free for children under 1.2 meters. 3. Pitfall Warnings: ◦ Illegal taxis: beware of fixed-price black taxis at train station/airport, recommend using Didi or metered taxis; ◦ Shopping tips: many fake "antiques" and "jade" around scenic spots, shop rationally; ◦ Dining traps: some restaurants in the ancient city are overpriced and low quality, prioritize old shops with local queues. 4. Nearby Extended Trips: ◦ Ying County Wooden Pagoda (1-hour drive): world’s tallest wooden pagoda, mystery of standing for a millennium; ◦ Ulanqab Volcano (2-hour drive): spacesuit photo ops, stargazing the Milky Way at night; ◦ Yanmen Pass (2.5-hour drive): "China’s First Pass," site of the Yang Family generals’ stories. Datong, an underestimated thousand-year-old royal city. Here, you can greet the Buddha at Yungang Grottoes in the morning, trace the patterns of Ming bricks on the ancient city wall in the afternoon, and soothe your rumbling stomach with a bowl of knife-cut noodles at dusk. When the city lights come on and the drum sounds at Yongtai Gate begin, you will realize: the depth and vitality of this frontier ancient capital far exceed your imagination.🏮🗿

“Hengshan Tie” Traveling beyond Yanmen Pass, suddenly a streak of blue-gray rises between heaven and earth. This mountain seems like a stubborn stone forgotten when Nüwa mended the sky, its edges still carrying the wildness of ancient times. Northern Mount Heng, among the Five Great Mountains, always appears distant, like a distant mountain blurred by light ink in a Chinese painting. But when you truly stand before its gate, you understand the grandeur of the "hidden chamber of Youyan." The best time to climb is before the morning mist disperses. The moss-covered stone steps are soaked with the traces of a thousand years, each green brick embedded with footsteps from different dynasties. Reaching the "Qinqi Terrace," it is said that Zhang Guolao once played chess with an immortal here. The stone table is crisscrossed with grooves, and you can almost hear the crisp sound of chess pieces striking. Suddenly, a mountain breeze sweeps by, and the pine waves flow past your ears like water, blurring the line between the sound of wind and the lingering notes of a guqin. In front of Zixiao Palace stands a bronze incense burner, with smoke curling into a Taiji pattern. The copper bells hanging from the eaves are mottled with rust but still ring out clear, melodious tones. The Taoist’s bamboo broom sweeps over golden bricks, and in the rustling sound hides the secret words of the "Yunji Qiqian." Turning around, you see "Dazi Bay," where the characters "Hengzong" are as large as houses on the cliff face. The carvings from the Northern Wei dynasty seep with cinnabar red, like a talisman frozen for a thousand years. The most marvelous is ascending the Meeting Immortals Mansion. The sea of clouds churns beneath your feet, and seventy-two peaks gather like a congregation of immortals. Suddenly, a ray of sunlight breaks through the clouds, landing on the golden roof of the Sanqing Hall. In an instant, the entire mountain transforms into a cinnabar furnace, steaming with purple energy. Only then do you understand Li Bai’s wild verse, "Breathing out a hundred rivers, Yanran can be shattered," born from the nurturing vitality of heaven and earth. As dusk falls, the cliff inscriptions along the mountain path gradually fade into shadow. Running your fingers over the blurred engravings, the dignity of Tang dynasty regular script and the ruggedness of Wei stele intertwine in the stone grain. Mount Heng never boasts of strange peaks or rocks; it hides its sharpness in the texture of culture. Like the bamboo staff in Xu Xiake’s travel notes, worn smooth by wind and rain, the more unpretentious it is, the more its strength shows. Looking back while descending, Mount Heng is already shrouded in twilight. This mountain, called "Xuan Yue" in the "Shuijing Zhu," always maintains the aloofness of the northern land. It is neither as illustrious as Mount Tai’s imperial rites nor as fierce as Mount Hua’s sword aura, yet it forms its own universe in solitude. Suddenly, you realize that "Heng" means the longest breath between heaven and earth.

⛱️Must-See Attractions: 1. Yungang Grottoes: One of the three major grottoes in China. After decades of carving, it has 53 grottoes and more than 59,000 Buddha statues, representing the highest achievement of Buddhist art in the 5th–6th centuries. It is a treasure of human cultural heritage. 2. Hanging Temple: The only temple in the country that combines Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. It has an all-wood structure and is more than 50m above the ground. It was selected as one of the "Most Precarious Buildings" by Time Magazine in 2010. Its ingenious architecture is amazing. 3. Datong Ancient City Wall: With a long history of construction, the existing city wall was built on the old city sites of the Han, Wei, and Tang dynasties under the leadership of General Xu Da in the Ming Dynasty. The night view with lights is very stunning. 4. Hengshan Mountain (Northern Mountain): The Northern Mountain of the Five Great Mountains is famous for its unique pine trees and strange rocks. It also has a rich Taoist cultural heritage, attracting many travelers to climb mountains, enjoy the scenery, and pray for peace. 🍜Food Guide: 1. Sliced Noodles: The noodles are smooth on the outside and chewy on the inside, with distinct edges and corners, shaped like willow leaves. Served with special broth and toppings, it tastes delicious. 2. Picked Noodles: Place the dough on the edge of the bowl and pick it into noodles with thin ends and a thick middle with chopsticks. They are chewy and delicious when topped with various gravies. 3. Datong Braised Pork Strips: Select streaky pork, which is cooked and steamed. The meat is soft and tender, fatty but not greasy, and melts in your mouth. 🏨Accommodation Guide: Recommended Hotel: Jinjiang Inn (Ancient City Yingbin Street Branch) Recommended reasons: 1. Excellent location, very close to the ancient city. 2. There are many restaurants nearby. 3. Provide free parking and other services. 🚄Transportation Guide: 1. Yungang Grottoes: Take bus No. 3 or express tourism line 603 to reach it. 2. Datong Ancient City: Take bus No. 35 or 38 to reach it. 💗Other tips: Please prepare hiking poles in advance for mountain climbing.

Travel Guide • Location and Transportation • Location: The Hanging Temple is located on the half-cliff of the Golden Dragon Gorge on the south side of Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province. • Transportation: From Datong City, you can drive or take a bus to Hunyuan County, and then transfer to a local minibus or taxi. During peak season, there are direct official minibuses from Datong to the Hanging Temple for CNY 7, but they may not be available during the off-season, so you will need to take a taxi. Hunyuan County is about 8 km away from the Hanging Temple Scenic Area. You can take Hunyuan County Bus No. 8 for CNY 3. • Tickets and Opening Hours • Ticket price: CNY 15 for admission ticket, and CNY 100 for climbing the temple. • Opening hours: 7am to 5:30pm daily. • Travel Route and Time Arrangement • Travel route: After entering the scenic area, you can reach the Hanging Temple by following the signs. The whole journey takes about 1–2 hours. If you have enough time, it is recommended to take photos from a distance first, and then decide whether to climb up for a visit. • Time arrangement: If you are short on time, you can arrange half a day to visit the Hanging Temple and its surroundings. If you have plenty of time, you can stay a little longer nearby and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery, such as the mountain scenery of Mount Heng. • Photography Tips • If you want to capture a panoramic view of the Hanging Temple, it is recommended to choose the time between 9am and 12pm, when the angle of sunlight is appropriate and the scenery is the most beautiful. If you want to shoot night scenes, you can go to the bend of the mountain road in the evening to shoot the warm-toned night scene with the lanterns lit up. • Food Recommendations • Local specialties include tofu pudding and fried rice. If you stay in Hunyuan County, you can also taste Hunyuan jelly and even try Hunyuan's dark cuisine "Astragalus Root Stewed Rock Rat" (only available in winter), but it needs to be paired with local buckwheat wine to remove the fishy smell. Personal Opinion • Architectural Art and Cultural Value • The Hanging Temple is world-renowned for its characteristics of "wonder, precariousness, and ingenuity" and is a miracle in the history of architecture. It cleverly uses the vertical space of the mountain, as if suspended in mid-air, which is amazing. The layout and architectural structure of the temple demonstrate the superb skills and wisdom of ancient craftsmen. At the same time, the Hanging Temple also embodies the idea of "the unity of the three religions", integrating Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, and has extremely high cultural value. • Travel Experience • Viewing experience: Looking up at the Hanging Temple from a distance, its posture hanging on the cliff is shocking, as if it will fall at any time, and this visual impact is very strong. After climbing the Hanging Temple, standing on the wooden trestle, looking at the deep valley below, you will have a feeling of being in an abyss, as if you are floating in the air. • Psychological experience: For people who are afraid of heights, climbing the Hanging Temple is a great challenge, and every step requires courage. But for those who like adventure and seek excitement, this is an excellent place to experience. • Surrounding Environment and Facilities • The natural scenery around the Hanging Temple is also very charming, with its own characteristics in the four seasons. There are supporting catering and rest facilities in the scenic area, but the prices are relatively high. If you want to experience the local culture more deeply, you can go to the nearby Hunyuan County, where there are more delicacies and snacks to choose from. In short, the Hanging Temple is an excellent tourist destination that combines natural landscapes and human history. Whether you are interested in historical culture or like natural beauty and adventure experiences, you can find your own fun here.

Hunyuan is located in northern Shanxi Province, southeast of Datong City, and is a small city at the foot of Mount Heng. However, this small city has become a popular tourist destination due to its many cultural and historical attractions. How to visit Hunyuan? What to eat in Hunyuan? Where to stay in Hunyuan? Let me tell you. 📍City Transportation: 🛵Hunyuan County is not big. There are bus lines in the urban area, but shared electric bicycles or walking are more convenient. 🚗From Datong City to Hunyuan, you can take the Hunyuan Line 901–1 or the direct bus to the scenic spot. 🏝️Attraction Guide: [One] Yong'an Temple: 💰20 The Hall of the Orthodox Transmission of the Yuan Dynasty, with Ming Dynasty murals inside, including the Face-ripping Ming King. [Two] Round Enlightenment Temple Brick Pagoda: 💰20 A Jin Dynasty brick pagoda with exquisite carvings and an iron phoenix on top that moves with the wind. [Three] Hunyuan Ancient City: Free Quaint and antique, brightly lit, with many snacks and abundant local products. [Four] Hanging Temple: Entrance 💰15, climbing 💰100 A great wonder of the world. The number of climbing tickets is very limited. You can get up early that day and queue at the visitor center to wait for the tickets to be released. [Five] Mount Heng: 💰45 One of the Five Great Mountains. 👍🏻Food Features: As the saying goes, people who live near mountains live off the mountains, and people who live near water live off the water. Hunyuan not only retains the flavor of Datong Shanxi cuisine, but also has the characteristics of wild Hengshan dishes. ✨Hunyuan Jelly: A well-known snack. It is recommended to try the Little Daughter-in-law Jelly and Pang Sao Diliu Jelly restaurants in the city center. ✨Astragalus Mutton: Hunyuan's specialty is astragalus, and Datong's mutton is delicious. Astragalus mutton is a must-try. Beiyue Hengshan Village in Hunyuan City is worth a visit. [House] Where to stay: Hunyuan City is not big, and accommodation is concentrated near the ancient city block. You can also choose the Hengshan scenic area, which is closer to the Hanging Temple. I recommend Hunyuan Apple Light Luxury Hotel (Hunyuan Ancient City Branch). 💗Other tips: ✨Hunyuan is located in a mountainous area with low temperatures, so pay attention to keeping warm. ✨Hunyuan is a popular city during the holidays, with a large number of people, so it is recommended to go to the scenic spot during off-peak hours. ✨Prepare motion sickness medicine to prevent motion sickness.

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, also known as Yingxian Fogong Temple Sakyamuni Pagoda, is located in the Fogong Temple in the northwest corner of Yingxian County, Shanxi Province. It was built in the second year of Qingning in the Liao Dynasty. (1056), it has a history of more than 970 years. The tower is 67.31 meters high. The tower body is a loft-style building with an octagonal plan and five floors and six eaves. There is not a single iron nail in the entire tower. It is made entirely of 54 types of brackets that are riveted and stacked together. The structural design is scientific and rigorous, which is amazing. The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is one of only eight remaining Liao Dynasty wooden structures in China. It is also the oldest and tallest existing all-wooden high-rise tower building in the world. It is known as one of the "Three Greatest Towers in the World" along with the Eiffel Tower in France and the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. Tickets: 50 yuan Public transportation travel guide: High-speed rail station: Yingxian West Station: Arrive at the exit of Yingxian West Station and take the shuttle bus to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. The fare is about 5 yuan and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Arrive at the Liao Dynasty Cultural City, walk about 400 meters north to the south entrance of the Wooden Pagoda Scenic Area Ying County Station: Arrive at the exit of Yingxian Station and take the shuttle bus to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. The fare is about 5 yuan and the journey takes about 20 minutes. Arrived at the Liao Dynasty Cultural City, It costs about 5 yuan and the journey takes about 20 minutes. Arrive at the Liao Dynasty Cultural City, walk about 400 meters north to the south entrance of the Wooden Pagoda Scenic Area Shuttle bus operating hours: Yingxian West Station/Yingxian Station-Liao Dynasty Cultural City: 07:19-20:30 Yingxian Bus Station-Yingxian West Station/Yingxian Station: 06:30-19:30 PS: The off-season will be adjusted according to passenger flow Direct bus from Datong to scenic spots (reservation required in advance): Datong Ancient City->Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (the pick-up point and Niushun Hotel opposite Yangmen Square) Ticket price: 39 yuan Departure time:7:30/8:30/13:20 Yungang Grottoes 1>Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (stop at Datong Ancient City) Ticket price: 39 yuan Departure time:12:55 Hengshan Visitor Center - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda Ticket Price: 29 Yuan Departure time: 11:10/12:30/13:55 PS: There will be extra buses during peak season Datong through train travel guide: Travel to the Hanging Temple, Hengshan Mountain, Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (Pure Land Temple), Yungang It is best to have 2 days to visit these attractions in the grottoes Two-day through train tour: D1: Arrive at Yungang Grottoes at 9 am, take a direct bus to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda at 12:55 pm, visit Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and Jingtu Temple, and take a direct bus back to Datong D2: Take a direct bus from Datong Ancient City to the Hanging Temple, visit the Hanging Temple and Hengshan Mountain, and then take a direct bus back to Datong. If you want to visit Hunyuan Ancient City, Yong'an Temple, and Yuanjue Temple, take the intercity bus from Hunyuan to Datong for the return trip One-day tour by direct train: In the morning, take a bus from Datong Ancient City to the Hanging Temple, visit the Hanging Temple and Hengshan Mountain. In the afternoon, take a direct bus to Yingxian at 13:55, visit the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and the Pure Land Temple, and take a direct bus back to Datong In short: Datong Ancient City - Hanging Temple, Hengshan - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, Pure Land Temple - Datong Ancient City

Take the shuttle bus in the scenic area (¥7) to the entrance of Mount Heng (ticket ¥45). Instead of taking the cable car or ferry bus, start the hike from the foot of the mountain. The 6-7 kilometer stretch from the base to the trailhead is a gentle slope on asphalt roads, easy to walk but with many hairpin turns. By following some shortcuts through the woods, it takes about an hour to reach the trailhead. The trail to the summit is not far, but it consists mostly of steep stairs. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the peak of Mount Heng at an altitude of 2,016 meters—Tianfeng Ridge. Honestly, the view from the summit is average, but it’s one of the easier peaks to collect among the Five Great Mountains. At the top, there’s usually a long queue of people waiting to take their summit photos, so be prepared to spend some time waiting for your turn.

🌈Basic Information, Features: 📍Address: 10 kilometers south of Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province 🎫Tickets: Peak season (April-October) 45 yuan｜Off-season (November-March) 25 yuan Hanging Temple charges separately 130 yuan｜Cable car one-way 70 yuan (half price for students/seniors) ⏰Opening Hours: Summer 8:00-18:00｜Winter 8:30-17:30 (Hanging Temple closes 30 minutes earlier) ✨Features: ❗️Quanzhen Taoist sacred site🧘♂️｜Cliff-hanging temple with three religions in harmony🏯｜Tianfeng Ridge at 2016m offers panoramic views🌄｜"Journey to the West" filming location + Zhang Guolao riding donkey backward legend🦌 🚗Transportation Guide: ▪️Self-driving: Beijing→Jingda Highway→Hunyuan exit (2.5 hours)｜Taiyuan→Dayun Highway→Hunyuan West exit (3 hours)💰Free parking at "Hengshan Scenic Area parking lot"🚗 ▪️High-speed rail: Datong South Station→Hunyuan tourist shuttle (30 yuan/person, 1 hour)🚌｜Taiyuan South→Yingxian Station→shared ride to scenic area (50 yuan) ▪️Warning: Don't trust "unofficial guides offering shortcuts"! Scenic shuttle bus costs 13 yuan one-way, cable car operates until 16:50⏰ 📅One-day Tour Route: 🌞Hiking Adventure Version: 1️⃣ Morning: Rush to Hanging Temple (enter with first batch at 7:30!)→Take "floating palace" backlit photos📸→Touch the bronze wind chimes at Three Religions Hall🔔 2️⃣ Noon: Try Hunyuan bean jelly + knife-cut noodles🍜 at the foot of the mountain (recommended: Cai's Restaurant, about 25 yuan per person) 3️⃣ Afternoon: Take cable car up to Kuixing Pavilion→Climb 103 steps of "Sky Ladder" to Tianfeng Ridge🏔️→Find Zhang Guolao's donkey hoof prints at Huixian Palace🐾→Touch Emperor Kangxi's "Huachuiyoujiu" inscription at Hengzong Hall📜 4️⃣ Evening: Capture sunset and sea of clouds at Jinlong Gorge🌅→Stay at guesthouse to listen to pine trees and stargaze🌌 ⛱️Recommended Activities: ▪️Must-do TOP3: 🏯"Walking on air" wooden plank path at Hanging Temple｜🚡Cable car ride through clouds to see the mile-long Sleeping Buddha｜📸Take "picturesque landscape" photos at Tianfeng Ridge ▪️Hidden experiences: 🕵️♂️Collect rubbings from 5 cliff inscriptions to exchange for "Five Sacred Mountains Pass"｜💎Find the "donkey hoof print" fossil easter egg at Guolao Ridge ▪️For culture enthusiasts: 🧧Make rubbings of "North Yue Hengshan Temple Stele"｜🎭"Dream of Hengshan" Taoist blessing ceremony ▪️Family-friendly: 🚂Mountain sightseeing train｜🐿️Feed chipmunks on the pine forest boardwalk 🏨Accommodation, Facilities: ▪️Immersive choice: Hengshan International Hotel (window views of Hanging Temple at night, free Hanfu experience, 400+ yuan per person)🏯 ▪️Value for money: Hunyuan County express hotels (near night market, 150 yuan per person including breakfast)🏨 ▪️Secret retreat: Pine Wave Villa (wooden cabins on mountainside + stargazing skylights, complimentary Hengshan astragalus tea, 300+ yuan per person)🌲 ✅Services: Free hiking stick rental｜Multi-language audio guides (50 yuan/day)｜VIP queue-free access 💗Travel Tips: ✅ Must-bring list: Non-slip shoes + light down jacket! Stone steps are very slippery after rain, 15°C temperature difference at the summit❄️ ✅ Best photo spots: 📍45° upward angle of Hanging Temple for "floating effect"｜🌄West side of Tianfeng Ridge for "Golden Dragon Playing with Pearl" cloud sea ✅ Pitfalls to avoid: 🚫Cable car maintenance on Mondays (check official WeChat in advance!)｜🍢Don't buy overpriced sausages at the summit (bring your own snacks!) ✅ Fun facts: 🌟Hengshan was formerly called "Changshan" (Zhao Yun's hometown)｜🎬Filming location for the 1986 "Journey to the West" TV series📺 ✅ Safety tips: 🔥No climbing over cliff plank paths｜📶Some areas have no signal (download offline maps in advance)

Without further ado, I must climb all the Five Mountains this year⛰️ 🚶 The first stop is Hengshan. Take the train from Chengdu to Datong South Station, take a bus to Hunyuan Ancient Town, stay at the [Zhoushu Official Residence Inn], and have a good sleep to have more energy for climbing the mountain the next day. 🌞Dining in the hotel in the morning, the variety is particularly rich! Don't miss the knife-cut noodles, eat well and then go again Take a taxi to Hengshan Visitor Center, it only takes ten minutes to get there. 🎫 Hengshan ticket 45r, shuttle bus 20r 🧗Start hiking from Hengzong, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the top. It is all stone steps. There are temples and halls on the way. It is recommended to bring your own lunch. There are not many places to eat in the scenic area. Personally, I think the best check-in spot is not at the top of the mountain, but halfway up the mountain. You can see Xuanwu Lake in the distance, and the vast scenery is really more beautiful! . 🎫The ticket to the Hanging Temple is 15r, and the boarding ticket is 100r (you need to buy tickets in advance). It is the filming location of Wukong. There are small restaurants outside the temple, so you don’t have to worry about going hungry. . After going down the mountain, we ate the Hailu Sliced ​​Noodles recommended by the driver. The portion was large and the taste was chewy. It was very satisfying with meatballs and eggs. The second night I stayed at the [State Office Residence Inn] again. The room was very large and spacious, with complete hardware facilities and good soft services. I didn't want to check out. Be sure to allow enough time! Because the hotel is a scenic spot! You can have a good stroll! Covering a large area, it allows you to immerse yourself in the former prefectures, government offices, prisons, accounting offices, and armories... You can also put on the local Hanfu to take photos. There is a full sense of space, and many places 📷 are huge in the photos! Souvenir refrigerator magnets and specialty vinegar can also be arranged, the cost performance is very high, it is really good value for money 🥰

| Touching the Bones of the North Mountain on a Suspended Cliff. 🗺 Double Route: Suspended Wonders and Ancient Road to the Summit 1⃣ Hanging Temple - Hengzong Temple Cultural Route 📍 Hanging Temple → Hengshan Archway → Hengzong Hall → Huixian Mansion → Tianfeng Ridge ⏰ 5–6 hours (including in-depth explanation) ✨ Secret Realm Experience: Enjoy the Hanging Temple alone at 6 am, and listen to the morning bell shaking off the millennia of dust from the wooden pillars. 2⃣ Bitter Sweet Well - Qinqitai Cultivation Route 🚶 Bitter Sweet Well → Feishi Cave → Baiyun Lingxue → Qinqitai → Chunyang Palace ⏰ 4–5 hours (requires some physical strength) 📜 Cultural Easter Egg: Set up an ancient incomplete game on Qinqitai, and the Taoist disciples may give you some advice. 🚗 Transportation Hub ▪ From Datong: Datong Bus Station → Hunyuan (CNY 15/1.5 hours), transfer to the scenic shuttle bus (CNY 8) ▪ Self-driving Navigation: Locate "Hengshan Second Parking Lot", and walk 5 minutes to the cable car station. ▪ Hidden Route: Climb the wild path from Shenxi Village in the back mountain (requires a guide) to unlock the ruins of the unmanned ancient temple. 🏯 Decoding Hardcore Attractions 🔸 Hanging Temple ⚠ Limited Flow Warning: The daily reception is ≤800 people. It is recommended to buy tickets 3 days in advance (CNY 100 for boarding). 📸 Camera Position Metaphysics: After passing the iron cable bridge, look back and shoot upwards to embed the temple into the mountain-shaped gap of Hufengkou. 🔸 Hengzong Hall 🛐 Pilgrimage Secret Method: Touch the "Doutian Steps" of the 103 steep steps in front of the hall, close your eyes and go straight up without looking back. 🌲 Ancient Cypress Spectacle: The Four Dafu Pines are twisted like dragons, and the tree tumors contain arrow clusters from the Ming Dynasty. 🔸 Huixian Mansion 🍵 Immortal Tea House: Try Hengshan Astragalus Tea (the tea soup is golden, a holy product for nourishing qi) ⚔ Cliff Password: Find Li Bai's "Magnificent" stone carving, the spacing between the two characters hides sword energy. 🔸 Tianfeng Ridge ⛰ Summit Ceremony: Ring the ancient bell next to the 2016.1m elevation monument (CNY 5/3 rings) 🌄 Sea of Clouds Warning: After the rain, when the weather is clear, you can see the cloud waterfall pouring down from Cuiping Peak. 🏡 Stay in the Immortal Qi 🛖 Mountain Residence School ▪ Hanging Inn: You can see the silhouette of the ancient temple when you open the window, and listen to the wind passing through the wooden beams at night. ▪ Hengshan Taoist Temple: Experience the life of a Taoist with a CNY 20 bunk bed, and you can practice Baduanjin in the morning. 🏨 Comfort School ▪ Hunyuan Zhou Shu Inn: Transformed from a Ming Dynasty government office, with a kang bed and floor heating. ▪ Tangtou Hot Spring Hotel: After going down the mountain, soak in the geothermal spring of the Taikoo boundary metamorphic rock. ⚠ Avoid Lightning: Most of the "farmhouses" at the entrance of the scenic spot do not have hot water, so choose carefully. 🍜 Beiyue Flavor Atlas 🍲 Taoist Health ▪ Hengshan Vegetarian Feast: Astragalus simmered with mountain mushrooms + buckwheat jelly (reservation at Baiyun Temple) ▪ Hunyuan Jelly: Served with local crispy lotus beans, the spicy oil permeates three streets. 🔥 Carbohydrate Crit ▪ Yellow Rice Fried Cake: Filled with brown sugar jujube paste, made by the old lady at the foot of Hengzong Hall. ▪ Knife-cut Noodles "Flying Knife" Performance: The owner of the noodle restaurant can cut the noodles into a bamboo basket 3 meters away. 🍶 Dark Challenge Guilingji Wine: Ming Dynasty court secret recipe medicinal wine, the stamina is like the Gangfeng of Beiyue. 📿 In-depth Gameplay ▪ Ancient Building Surveying and Mapping Experience: Measure the mortise and tenon of the Hanging Temple with Luban ruler (reservation required) ▪ Rock Wall Rubbing: Feishiku Northern Wei Dynasty "Yunzhong Scenic Spot" cliff (CNY 50/sheet) ▪ The Road of Herbalists: Follow the pharmacist to dig Hengshan Astragalus (best in May of the lunar calendar) ▪ Starry Sky Night Talk: Use a star pointer to recognize the Big Dipper on the top of Tianfeng Ridge, and the night watch Taoist priest will talk about Ziwei Doushu. 🚨 Avoid Pit Warning ⚠ Beware of "Free Incense": Those who force incense in front of the Sanqing Hall will ask for high incense money afterwards. ⚠ The authenticity of "Hengshan Stone Dare": The genuine product comes from Zhang Guolao Yu gneiss, and the fake is cast with cement. ⚠ Black Car Trap: "CNY 10 to Datong" at the entrance of the scenic spot is mostly to increase the price halfway. ⚠ Photography Scam: Those who dress up as Monkey King to take photos charge by the finger after shooting. 🌪 Extreme Weather Countermeasures ❄ Frozen Plank Road: Learn to pick mountain workers to tie grass ropes for anti-skid (available in the scenic area for CNY 5/pair) 🌧 Sudden Rainstorm: Hide in Feishi Cave and watch the rain curtain weave into a crystal curtain at the entrance of the cave. 🌫 Dense Fog Lost: Follow the Hengshan Taoist music to identify the direction (music is played regularly every day) 🌞 Scorching Sun Exposure: Buy handmade willow woven sun hat (the old lady weaves on the spot) 📜 Cold Knowledge Supply Station 🔺 The pillars of the Hanging Temple are actually Ming and Qing Dynasty reinforcement parts, and the real load-bearing beams are inserted into the rock mass. 🔺 The four characters "Rentian North Pillar" on the plaque of Hengzong Hall secretly fit the layout of the Big Dipper. 🔺 The bitter and sweet wells are 3 meters apart, and the water quality is very different due to the fault. Currently, only the sweet well has water. 🔺 The stone table of Qinqitai is engraved with an unsolved incomplete game, which is suspected to be left by Qiu Chuji. ✨ Soul Tip Lean down and stick to the ground in the Leiyin Hall at the northernmost end of the Hanging Temple, and you can hear the creaking sigh of the thousand-year-old wooden beams coming from the ground. Bring a copper coin and stuff it into the rock crevice of Cuiping Peak. If it does not fall after three days, the aura of Beiyue is connected to your blood. When the setting sun dyes Tianfeng Ridge into purple and gold, take out the Hunyuan jelly in your arms—at this moment, the mountain wind is the best seasoning, and swallow the entire Saibei Jianghu with the vast twilight.

Shanxi Travel Notes: A Cultural Corridor and Natural Landscape Through Time Pre-trip Preparation: Practical Guide and Seasonal Choices Located in North China, Shanxi experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique charm. Based on multiple travel experiences, fall (September-November) is the best time to visit: the weather is cool, the autumn foliage in the Taihang Mountains and red leaves of Wutaishan create a picturesque landscape, and there are fewer tourists, making it ideal for in-depth exploration. If you prefer winter's solemn atmosphere, the Yungang Grottoes between December and February appear more majestic against the snow, while the frozen Hukou Waterfall presents a spectacular ice formation. Packing List: Clothing: For fall, bring windproof jackets and light sweaters; for winter, down jackets, hats, and gloves (especially important for high-altitude areas like Wutaishan). Sun Protection and Moisturizing: Due to Shanxi's strong UV rays and dry climate, sunscreen, moisturizing spray, and lip balm are essential. Medicine: Digestive medicine (for adapting to local food), motion sickness pills (for winding mountain roads), mosquito repellent (for summer mountain areas). Documents: ID card, student ID (for discounts at some attractions), driver's license (if driving). Travel Log: A Symphony of Mountains and History Day 1: Taiyuan - First Impressions of the Ancient Capital Upon arriving in Taiyuan, head straight to Jinci Temple. Built to commemorate Tang Shuyu, the founder of the Jin State, this temple is famous for its "Three Wonders": the ancient twisted cypress trees, lifelike Song Dynasty painted clay statues of female attendants, and the clear waters of the Nanlao Spring, immediately immersing visitors in the weight of history. Spend the afternoon at Shanxi Museum, where artifacts from bronze vessels of the Shang and Zhou Dynasties to Northern Dynasty murals silently tell the glorious story of Jin culture. In the evening, savor authentic knife-cut noodles at Clock Tower Street, where chefs skillfully slice noodles into boiling water with curved knives, creating strips that dance like silver fish, perfectly complemented by the tangy aroma of aged vinegar. Day 2: Pingyao Ancient City - A Time Capsule of the Ming and Qing Dynasties One hour by high-speed rail to Pingyao. The ancient city walls remain intact, offering a bird's-eye view of the chess board-like layout of grey-tiled courtyards below. Inside the Rishengchang Exchange House, visitors marvel at the business wisdom of Jin merchants who "connected the world." The prison and torture instruments in the County Government Office send chills down one's spine, reflecting the harshness of ancient justice. As night falls and lanterns light up the streets, enjoy Pingyao beef with yellow rice cake while listening to the innkeeper's tales of escort agencies in the courtyard, as if transported back in time. Day 3: Wutaishan - Spiritual Cleansing in the Buddhist Holy Land Drive to Wutaishan in the morning along winding mountain roads. The 108 steps of Pusa Peak symbolize "breaking free from 108 worldly troubles." As you climb, mountain mist swirls and distant bell sounds create a serene atmosphere. Sit quietly under the white pagoda at Tayuan Temple, watching Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims prostrating themselves, feeling the power of faith touch your soul. Stay at a mountain guesthouse for the night, where the owner serves a bowl of vegetarian noodles - simple tofu and wild vegetables taste extraordinarily delicious, perhaps blessed by the temple's pure energy. Day 4: Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple - Where Art Meets Marvel The Yungang Grottoes in Datong represent the artistic pinnacle of this journey. The smile of the giant Buddha in Cave 20 remains compassionate after 1,500 years of weathering, while the flying apsaras on the cave ceiling seem to dance, transporting visitors to a Buddhist paradise. In the afternoon, visit the Hanging Temple, a wooden structure embedded in steep cliffs supported only by beams. Walking on the creaking walkways, you'll marvel at ancient wisdom while your heart races at the sight of the deep valley below. Day 5: Taihang Grand Canyon - Nature's Wild Symphony Drive along Taihang No. 1 Tourist Road, where Danxia landforms burn like flames outside your window. The Fairy Lake in Tongtianya Gorge gleams like jade. Take the cable car to the viewing platform, where the canyon stretches like a giant dragon below, evoking feelings of "looking down upon all mountains." In the evening, drink tea in an ancient courtyard in Zheshui Village, where locals share freshly picked walnuts and stories of how this road has revitalized their once-isolated village, revealing the beautiful harmony between nature and culture. Culinary Experiences: Decoding Shanxi's Flavors Aged Vinegar: Visiting the Qingxu Vinegar Factory, the fermentation workshop's acidic smell brings tears to your eyes, but the eight-year aged vinegar offers a rich, sweet aftertaste that completely transforms your understanding of "sour." Kingdom of Noodles: From Pingyao's kaolao (oat noodle rolls) and Datong's knife-cut noodles to Yuncheng's water droplet noodles, Shanxi people transform wheat into countless forms, served with minced lamb sauce or tomato sauce - simple yet fundamentally satisfying. Hidden Delicacies: Bowl holders at Taiyuan Old Military Camp Food Street and brown sugar fried cakes at Yuncheng night market offer more authentic local flavors than tourist restaurant dishes. Practical Tips and Pitfall Prevention Transportation: Attractions are scattered throughout the province; high-speed rail plus car rental is most convenient (e.g., Taiyuan to Datong takes 2 hours by high-speed rail, car rental averages CNY 300 per day). Self-driving recommended along Taihang No. 1 Road, with viewing platforms and service stations combining scenery and convenience. Ticket Reservations: Popular sites like Wutaishan and Yungang Grottoes require booking 3 days in advance through official platforms to avoid entry restrictions. Cultural Taboos: In temples, avoid stepping on thresholds or pointing at Buddha statues; address monks as "Master" with clasped hands. Shopping Tips: For lacquerware, Guangling paper-cuts, and other handicrafts, buy from intangible cultural heritage workshops rather than tourist stalls to avoid counterfeits. Personal Reflections: Mountains, Rivers, and Enduring Jin Culture The most memorable aspects of this journey were the simplicity and warmth of Shanxi people. At Wangu Temple, an elderly pagoda keeper proudly explained Tang Dynasty lotus carvings in halting Mandarin. At a family restaurant near the Qiao Family Compound, the owner insisted on giving me homemade pickles just because I had praised them during our chat. These moments touched me more deeply than any ancient relic. Shanxi is like an open thread-bound book, its pages containing both grand imperial tales and everyday stories of common folk. When you touch the ancient bricks of thousand-year-old pagodas, taste the lingering flavor of aged vinegar, and listen to the Yellow River's roar, you understand: the charm of this land lies not in "checking off sites" but in "immersion."

This Qingming Holiday, embark on a spontaneous journey! Ascend the main peak of Mount Hengshan, one of the Five Great Mountains, and fulfill your travel dreams. This 2-day tour of Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou offers an immersive experience you won't want to miss! Save this guide and get ready for an amazing adventure! -------- Must-See Attractions: - 🏞️ Yungang Grottoes: A fusion of ancient Indian, Central Asian, and中原 artistic traditions, each grotto whispers tales of a bygone era. - 🏯 Hanging Temple: Perched precariously on a cliff face, this thousand-year-old temple boasts a stunning architectural layout. A definite must-see! - 🏛️ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: A must-visit for ancient architecture enthusiasts. Marvel at the exquisite caissons, ornate murals, and palpable sense of history. - 🕍 Huayan Temple: A veritable museum of Liao and Jin Dynasty art, housing rare Liao Dynasty sculptures and Buddhist statues. Cultural treasures await your discovery. - 🏰 Yanmen Pass: Traverse the winding ancient paths and explore the majestic ruins of the Ming Dynasty, each step echoing with the weight of history. -------- **Things to Note**: - Local Customs: Shuozhou is renowned for its paper-cutting and dough figurines. Immerse yourself in the local culture and try your hand at these crafts🎨. - Photo Ops: Datong's Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple, along with Xinzhou Ancient City, are ideal locations for photography enthusiasts. - Local Products: Shenchi sesame oil and Xinzhou yellow millet are high-quality and affordable souvenirs to take home🛍️. - March Weather: Be prepared for significant temperature differences between day and night. Pack both warm outerwear and light spring clothing🧥. -------- 🎉 Journey through Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou, where the richness of history meets the splendor of nature. Don't forget to like and save this guide for your next adventure!🚀

This Qingming Festival holiday, embark on a spontaneous trip to Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou! Explore the mysteries of the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda's Dougong brackets, experience the breathtaking Hanging Temple, marvel at the artistic charm of the Yungang Grottoes, discover the Liao and Jin Dynasty elegance of Huayan Temple, and witness the majestic Yanmen Pass. In just two days, immerse yourself in historical and cultural treasures! 🌟Itinerary: Day 1: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda -> Hanging Temple -> Mount Heng Visit the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, a thousand-year-old masterpiece of Dougong brackets, and experience the charm of ancient wooden architecture. Then, head to the ingenious Hanging Temple, a marvel perched on a cliff. Finally, ascend Mount Heng and enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery. Day 2: Huayan Temple -> Yungang Grottoes -> Yanmen Pass First stop is Huayan Temple, where you can admire the unique charm of Liao and Jin Dynasty architecture. Next, journey to the artistic gem of the Yungang Grottoes and explore the thousand-year-old heritage of Buddhist art. Finally, arrive at the majestic Yanmen Pass and experience the beacon-lit years of history. Must-See Attractions: - 🏞️ Yungang Grottoes: This site brings together the artistic essence of ancient India, the Western Regions, and various ethnic groups of Central China. Each stone carving tells a thousand-year-old story. - 🏯 Hanging Temple: This ancient temple clings ingeniously to a steep cliff, with its staggered buildings leaving visitors in awe. It's definitely worth a visit! - 🏛️ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: For those who love ancient architecture, this place is paradise. Exquisite caissons, magnificent murals, every detail exudes ancient charm. Travel Checklist: 🧳 Pack these essentials for your Shuozhou-Datong-Xinzhou adventure! 👕 Clothing: The temperature in March is moderate, comfortable during the day and slightly cool at night. We recommend bringing light jackets, thin sweaters, windbreakers, and hats. Don't forget a pair of comfortable sneakers for exploring these three destinations without tiring your feet! 🎒 Accessories: Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential for outdoor activities in spring to protect your eyes and skin. A portable umbrella is also a good choice in case of unexpected spring showers. 🆔 Documents: Be sure to bring your ID card, student ID, or other discount certificates, as many attractions offer discounts. 💊 Medicine: Carry some cold and stomach medicine with you, just in case. Motion sickness medication is also recommended, as there will be a considerable amount of travel time between the three locations. 🔋 Other: Power banks and charging cables are essential to keep your phone fully charged for capturing those memorable moments. Also, bring some cash, as while mobile payments are widely accepted, cash is still more reliable in some places. Don't hesitate! Grab this Shuozhou-Datong-Xinzhou group tour guide and start your Shanxi adventure!

Datong, Shuozhou, and Xinzhou: A two-day in-depth tour of northern Shanxi. Ascend Mount Hengshan with old friends, experience the charm beyond the Great Wall, relax, and reminisce about old times. -- 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda—Hanging Temple—Mount Hengshan—Yungang Grottoes Follow the tracks of history, starting from the ancient Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, experience the mystery of the millennium-old Hanging Temple, conquer the majestic Mount Hengshan, and finally explore the artistic treasures of the Yungang Grottoes. Day 2: Huayan Temple—Yungang Grottoes (Second Visit)—Yanmen Pass Find solace in the tranquility of Huayan Temple, then return to the Yungang Grottoes for an in-depth tour. In the evening, head to Yanmen Pass and listen to the ancient legends of the border. -- Must-see attractions: Yungang Grottoes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: No. 1, Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: 08:30–16:30, November 1, 2024 to June 16, 2025 🕰️Duration: 3–4 hrs The Yungang Grottoes showcase a fusion of international artistic styles. The visitor route is thoughtfully designed, guiding you step by step through the beauty of early Northern Wei Dynasty art. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: No. 1 Yingyuan Street, Ying County, Shuozhou City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: 08:00–17:00 🕰️Duration: 1–2 hrs The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is an ancient wooden structure. No climbing is required; you can admire exquisite Buddha statues, murals, and plaques inscribed by famous figures throughout history just by touring inside the pagoda. Huayan Temple ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: No. 459, Xiasipo Street, Datong Ancient City, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province ⏰Opening hours: 08:30–17:00, November 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025 🕰️Duration: 1–2 hrs Huayan Temple has preserved a complete complex of buildings. The temple's architecture and statues boast a long history and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a great place to learn about history and culture and appreciate ancient architectural art. -- Tips: - Souvenir prices: Datong's yellow flower millet and Shuozhou's Yingxian Wooden Pagoda souvenirs are affordable and worth buying. 🛍️ - March weather: There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a thick coat for warmth and style! 🧥 - Local customs: Please keep quiet when visiting temples. Try the local vegetarian food—it's pure and delicious! 🍚 - Travel photography: Don't miss these beautiful photo spots: sunrise at Mount Wutai and the spectacular Hanging Temple! 📸 - Food recommendations: Try Xinzhou's "kaolaolao" (steamed oat noodles) and lamb offal stew. The authentic flavors will leave you wanting more! 🍜 -- Datong, Shuozhou, and Xinzhou: A journey through three cities, enjoying boundless scenery. May every step you take be on the mark of history, leaving unforgettable memories in your heart! 🌈

Explore millennial culture this Qingming Festival holiday! Come to Datong, Shanxi, visit the Yungang Grottoes, stroll around the surrounding ancient towns, and experience the charm of history. Check out this super practical 2-day itinerary! . 🛣️Route at a glance: DAY 1: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Hanging Temple - Mount Heng Explore the ancient Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and experience the charm of millennium-old wooden architecture; then head to the Hanging Temple to experience the mysterious temple on the cliffs; finally, climb Mount Heng to enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery. DAY 2: Huayan Temple - Yungang Grottoes - Yanmen Pass Visit Huayan Temple and savor the simple Buddhist culture; then go to the Yungang Grottoes to admire the exquisite Buddhist art treasures; finally, arrive at Yanmen Pass to relive the vicissitudes of ancient border history. . Must-see attractions: - 🏞️Yungang Grottoes: Here you'll find a collection of artistic essence from ancient India, the Western Regions, and various ethnic groups of the Central Plains. Each grotto tells a thousand-year-old story. - 🏯Hanging Temple: A millennium-old temple on a cliff with scattered buildings. Immerse yourself in the profound history and spectacular architecture. - 🏛️Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: If you are a fan of ancient architecture, this is a must-see! Exquisite coffered ceilings, gorgeous murals, every detail showcases the ingenuity of the ancients. . Tips: - Souvenir prices: Yungang cloud ear fungus is a local specialty with affordable prices, perfect as a souvenir.🎁 - Airport transportation: Datong Yungang Airport is easily accessible, with taxis starting at 7 yuan, making it convenient to reach the city center.🚕 - Photo spots: The Giant Buddha in Cave 20 of the Yungang Grottoes is a must-see photo spot. Don't miss it!📸 - Food recommendations: Don't forget to try the authentic Shanxi cuisine near the Yungang Grottoes.🍽️ . Yungang Grottoes, a millennium-old Buddhist kingdom, awaits your exploration. Come and experience the profound history and magnificent art!🌟

The short holiday is coming! Here's a three-day tour of Datong and Shuozhou to experience the ancient capital. This super practical guide will help you travel with ease. Don't miss out! -- Must-see attractions: Yungang Grottoes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1, Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: 08:30–16:30, November 1, 2024 to June 16, 2025 Duration: 3–4 hrs It integrates the artistic characteristics of ancient India, the Western Regions, and various ethnic groups in the Central Plains. Definitely worth a visit! Hanging Temple ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: At the foot of Mount Hengshan, southeastern suburb of Hunyuan County, Datong City Opening hours: 08:00–17:00, March 1 to April 30 Duration: 1–2 hrs This thousand-year-old temple stands against a cliff. Its scattered and well-proportioned layout will bring you an unprecedented spectacular experience. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1 Yingyuan Street, Ying County, Shuozhou City, Shanxi Province Opening hours: 08:00–17:00 Duration: 1–2 hrs A must-visit place for ancient architecture enthusiasts. Exquisite caissons and gorgeous murals are waiting for you to discover! -- Tips: - March Climate: The temperature in Datong and Shuozhou is moderate in March, but there is a large temperature difference between day and night. Remember to bring a thick coat🧥. - Souvenir Prices: Compare prices before buying souvenirs. Datong's daylily and Shuozhou's ceramics are good choices with great value for money🛍️. - Airport Transportation: There is an airport bus from Datong Yungang Airport to the city center, which is convenient and fast🚌. - Food Recommendations: Datong lamb offal and Shuozhou cold noodles are delicious and affordable. You must try them🍜! -- The charm of Datong and the beauty of Shuozhou are waiting for you to explore. Don't miss this guide. Start your northern Shanxi journey!

🚗Xuankong Temple was first built in the fifteenth year of Taihe in the Northern Wei Dynasty (491 AD). It has been renovated throughout the dynasties. During the Jin and Yuan Dynasties, the South Tower, North Tower, and the hanging棧bridge had roughly formed the current spatial pattern. The Xuankong Temple during the Republic of China period is basically the same as what we see today, and the existing buildings were mainly built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The gate of Xuankong Temple faces south, with the west as the main direction. It is a wooden frame structure with a multi-level horizontal layout in a north-south direction. The overall layout is "one courtyard, two towers". The south end is a hanging temple, and the north side is two hanging towers. The hanging temple includes the Daxiong Hall, Taiyi Hall, Guandi Hall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Songzi Guanyin Hall, and Galan Hall. The South Tower has Chunyang Palace, Sanguan Hall, and Leiyin Hall. The North Tower has Sanjiao Hall, Sifang Hall, and Sansheng Hall. 🚗The Xuankong Temple scenic area and its surrounding areas boast intangible cultural heritages such as Hengshan mountain worship, the North Great Mountain god worship culture, folk belief social activities and worship, folk tales, and folk songs, such as the folk tale - the mystery of the hanging of Xuankong Temple. Xuankong Temple is one of the earliest and best-preserved high-altitude wooden cliff-side buildings in China and is the first scenic spot among the eighteen scenic spots of Hengshan Mountain. Xuankong Temple was praised as "magnificent" by the great Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai and marveled as a "great spectacle of the world" by the great Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake. In February 1982, it was listed as a national key cultural relic protection unit.

🚄Three-Day Tour of Datong: A Wonderful Journey through History and Local Life Pre-trip Preparations Documents: 📎Bring your ID card and any discount cards (such as student ID, senior citizen card). Clothing: Datong is relatively cold, so bring a thick down jacket, thermal underwear, scarf, gloves, and snow boots. In other seasons, you should also bring a jacket in case of temperature differences between morning and evening. Items: Power bank, sunscreen, moisturizing skincare products, common medicines such as stomach medicine. Accommodation Recommendation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stay inside the south city wall. The decoration is magnificent, the rooms are clean, the environment is comfortable, and the service is warm and professional. You can experience the charm of the ancient city as soon as you step out the door, and enjoy the night view of the city wall in the evening. The location is convenient, and there are many restaurants nearby. Food Recommendation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Knife-shaved Noodles: A must-try food. The noodles are thick in the middle and thin on both sides, shaped like willow leaves. They are smooth on the outside and chewy on the inside. We recommend Dongfang Knife-shaved Noodles, which has a rich soup base and firm noodles. Lamb Offal Soup: Made with lamb head, lamb tripe, lamb blood, and vermicelli, the soup has a rich flavor and is both warming and delicious. Fenglinge's lamb offal soup is fresh and delicious, not to be missed. Copper Pot Mutton Hot Pot: Using a traditional copper pot heated over charcoal fire, the fresh and tender mutton is swirled in the boiling broth and dipped in sesame sauce. The aroma is irresistible. The copper pot mutton hot pot at Purple Mud 369 Coarse Grain Season is very popular. Three-Day Itinerary 📍Day 1: In-depth Tour of the Ancient City's History - Morning: Walk from the homestay to Huayan Temple. This is a royal temple from the Liao and Jin dynasties. It has a unique architectural style, a magnificent main hall, and lifelike Liao Dynasty painted sculptures in the Bhagavat Hall. - Noon: Enjoy knife-shaved noodles at a restaurant in the ancient city and experience the charm of Datong's pasta. - Afternoon: Visit Shanhua Temple, a thousand-year-old temple that preserves a large number of Liao and Jin Dynasty buildings and statues. The layout is rigorous, simple, and elegant. Afterwards, climb the south city wall, rent a bicycle, cycle around the wall, and overlook the panorama of Datong Ancient City. - Evening: Enjoy special snacks such as lamb offal soup, rabbit head, and jelly noodles at the night market in the ancient city, and experience the vibrant local life of Datong. 📍Day 2: Exploring the Yungang Grottoes - Morning: Take a bus or taxi to the Yungang Grottoes, one of the four largest grottoes in China. There are 45 main caves and more than 50,000 statues. Each Buddha statue embodies the wisdom and craftsmanship of the ancients, which is awe-inspiring. - Noon: Have lunch near the Yungang Grottoes scenic area, choose local farmhouse dishes, and taste Datong's special stews. - Afternoon: Continue to visit the Yungang Grottoes. You can follow the guide to learn more about the history and culture behind the grottoes. After the visit, return to the city and go to the Datong Museum. The museum has a rich collection that provides a more comprehensive understanding of the historical changes in Datong. - Evening: Enjoy a feast of copper pot mutton hot pot at a restaurant in the city. After dinner, you can watch the ancient city light show and enjoy the city's brilliant night view. 📍Day 3: Trip to the Hanging Temple of Hengshan Mountain - Morning: Go to Hunyuan County and visit Hengshan Mountain. You can choose to take the cable car up the mountain to enjoy the natural scenery and Taoist ancient architectural complex of Hengshan. - Noon: Enjoy local specialties such as chicken stewed with astragalus at a restaurant at the foot of Hengshan Mountain. - Afternoon: Visit the Hanging Temple, a temple built on a cliff with a unique structure and breathtaking architecture. It is a wonder of the world. After the visit, return to Datong city and prepare for your return journey.