[2025 Hunyuan Attraction] Travel Guide for Xuankong Temple (Updated Jun)

The Hanging Temple has always been on the travel list and was also the filming location for last year’s hit Black Myth: Wukong. The small temple built on the mountain wall has been here for 1,500 years. There is a daily limit on the number of visitors. In addition to the scenic spot ticket, you need to buy a 100 yuan boarding ticket if you want to climb to the top. You also need to reserve more than an hour of queuing time. Only when I stepped onto the slightly flimsy wooden stairs did I realize that I was a little afraid of heights. As I walked along the route, I truly admired the architectural wisdom of the ancients. It turns out that the slender wooden poles under the building are just for decoration and to relieve psychological fear. The only thing that supports the stability of the entire building is a few wooden foundations embedded in the mountain wall. Another thing worth seeing is Li Bai's calligraphy "湛" (Gorgeous). There are several explanations for the extra dot in the word "壮". One is that Li Bai accidentally added it when he was drunk, and the other is that it was too spectacular to describe, so he simply added a dot to indicate that it was more spectacular than 湛. Haha #ShanxiTourism #Where to go for May Day #Where to go for May Day #Black Myth Wukong Filming Location #Hanging Temple

⛰【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

1. Yungang Grottoes - Introduction: There are 254 caves and more than 59,000 Buddha statues, all of which are lifelike and unique, showcasing the superb skills of ancient craftsmen. - Highlights: Experience the perfect fusion of Buddhist art and history, and witness the vicissitudes and splendor of the thousand-year-old grottoes. 2. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Introduction: An ancient wooden pagoda with exquisite architectural skills, it is a miracle of ancient architecture. - Highlights: Appreciate the beauty of unique wooden architecture and explore the wisdom of ancient architecture. 3. Pingyao Ancient City - Introduction: A well-preserved ancient city from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with distinctive city walls, ancient streets, and residential buildings. - Highlights: Stroll through the ancient city, experience the culture of Shanxi merchants, and feel the atmosphere of ancient life. 4. Hanging Temple - Introduction: Built on a cliff, the temple's architecture is breathtaking and spectacular. - Highlights: Appreciate the unique architectural site and structure, and experience the thrilling feeling of being suspended in the air. 5. Jinci Temple - Introduction: The temple is full of ancient buildings, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. - Highlights: Appreciate ancient architectural art and savor the charm of thousand-year-old history and culture. 6. Huayan Temple - Introduction: A historic Buddhist temple with magnificent architecture and solemn Buddha statues. - Highlights: Experience the atmosphere of Buddhist culture and appreciate the beauty of ancient temple architecture. 7. Hukou Waterfall - Introduction: A famous waterfall on the Yellow River, with turbulent water and majestic momentum. - Highlights: Admire the magnificent scenery of the roaring Yellow River and feel the power of nature. 8. Shuanglin Temple - Introduction: The temple is full of exquisite colored sculptures, with a high artistic value. - Highlights: Appreciate ancient colored sculpture art and experience the charm of Buddhist art. 9. Wang Family Courtyard - Introduction: A large-scale residential building complex with a rigorous layout and exquisite carvings. - Highlights: Explore the rise and fall of the Shanxi merchant family and appreciate the exquisite residential architecture and carving art. These nine attractions are unique, from historical culture to natural scenery, from ancient architecture to art treasures, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique charm of Shanxi.

Guys! If you're planning to visit Yanmenguan and the Hanging Temple, make sure to save this 3-day itinerary. It's full of practical tips to help you explore these two attractions! -- Must-visit attractions: - 🏞️Yungang Grottoes: A fusion of art! The essence of ancient India, the Western Regions, and the Central Plains is all here! - 🏯Hanging Temple: A thousand-year-old temple on a cliff, staggered and spectacular! - 🛕Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: A paradise for ancient architecture enthusiasts! Exquisite caissons and murals that you can't get enough of! - 🏰Yanmenguan: A Ming Dynasty pass site, where every step echoes with history and the beauty of time. - 🕍Huayan Temple: A Liao and Jin art hall with Liao sculptures and Liao and Jin Buddha statues. Don't miss it! -- Travel tips: 🏷️ Specialty prices: There are many specialties around the Hanging Temple. Remember to compare prices to avoid overspending. 🍜 Food recommendations: Don't miss the roast duck and halal dishes at Fenglin Pavilion, and the stews at Zini 369 are also delicious! 📸 Photo spots: The hanging buildings of the Hanging Temple are great for photos. Capture your thrilling moments! ✈️ Airport transportation: To get from the airport to Yanmenguan and the Hanging Temple, you can rent a car or take a bus. It's convenient and worry-free! -- After visiting Yanmenguan and exploring the Hanging Temple, don't forget to leave your footprints and stories. Let this trip become an unforgettable chapter in your heart! 👣✨

We stayed in Datong for 1 full day during January 2023. The temperature ranged between-10 and -20 so was pretty chilly and you need lots of layers. There are two main activities/ attractions in Datong, the Yungang Grottoes and The Hanging Temple. the Yungang Grottoes are close to the city about a 20min taxi from the centre and definitely worth a visit. The Hanging Temple is further away and requires a 1hr to 1hr and half taxi. Which our hotel helped organise. but this is definitely worth doing the Temple is just magical.#2023travelwish #datong

Chinese Buddhist temples are generally built between plains and forests. Shanxi has a temple built on top of cliffs and is known as the most dangerous temple in the country. This temple is the famous Hanging Temple, located in Hengshan Scenic Area, Datong City, Shanxi Province. The hanging temple has a history of more than 1,500 years and is a temple of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism and Taoism. Although there are many gods dedicated to worship, each temple is very narrow, and there is not much extra place except for the placement of the gods. Each temple is hidden in the cracks of the rock, and is actually based on the geological conditions of the cliff. The hanging temple has three floors, the bottom of the building is supported by wood, and the building looks like it is hanging in the air. Some corridors are very narrow and can only accommodate one person. A few people will cause "traffic congestion." Walking on the promenade, you can hear the squeaking of the oblique board. Standing on the promenade, blowing the wind, looking at the abyss underneath, although there is no security problem, it naturally produces a fear heart. The temple of hanging temple is very simple, but some believers still sincerely salute, and the practice of not burning incense is worthy of admiration. You can find the location of the photo during the off-season tour of the Hanging Temple. If you go to the peak season, it is difficult to find the location. For security reasons, many places are not allowed to stay too long.

The intelligent ancient craftsmen are not only highly skilled, but also deeply understand the principles of architecture. The entire suspended temple is adapted to local conditions, making full use of the natural state of the cliff to arrange and construct various parts of the temple. Temple is not only a single temple, its eaves have single rafts, heavy rafts, three layers of rafts; the structure has a raised beam structure, a flat roof structure, a bucket arch structure; the roof has a ridge, a ridge, Barren; overall appearance, clever structure, overlapping, resulting in a cave in the building, there are caves in the building, half-walled hall half-wall caves, caves and buildings, the hall is connected to the unique style. Even if I am a junior player who is just getting started with Chinese ancient architecture, I still know that the difficulty is extraordinary, let alone the millennium before the mechanical conditions are extremely underdeveloped. The wisdom and technology of ancient craftsmen is really admirable.

Hanging Temple, also known as Thousand Buddha Cave, suburb of Shaanxi Fugu, lying, cliffs, four treasures of the study, the accumulation of pen and ink, the cultural atmosphere is increasingly rich. After several roamings, the appearance is changing with each passing day. It has begun to take shape and is perfect to stand. It is a grand gathering of the top temples. When I was thinking about it, the place was in awe-inspiring, the river spread to the foot of the mountain, the size was square, there was no way to find it, nowhere to live. A little careless, it is not a strange talk. My generation is here. I still remember that young people are young, so they pay two or three, and they are accompanied by the same travel. It is a popular folk customs. If spring comes, it is the first choice. The campus is reading, and the weekend is two or three, and then reciprocating, and for his years, frequent fun. Vaguely photographed, the lush years have surfaced, and the fun of excursions in the past made people read.

The world-famous Eiffel Tower is 300 meters high and is supported by four cement towers weighing 2,500 tons. What happens to a building without a foundation? Can you hang in the air? The Eiffel Tower can't, but the Hanging Temple can. 2010's "Time" weekly magazine, the Hanging Temple into the "global top ten strange buildings", and the Italian Leaning Tower of Pisa, attracted worldwide attention. Hanging Temple, a temple floating on a cliff, without thousands of tons of foundation, only a few pieces of wood stand. After more than 1,500 years of wind and rain, earthquakes and various disasters, the Hanging Temple is still unable to survive. Hanging Temple is located between the cliffs of Cuiping Peak on the west side of Jinlong Gorge in Hengshan. It is known as the "hanging temple, half-day high, three horsetails hanging in the air". It is famous for its steepness in the abyss. The Hanging Temple was built in 491 AD and is the only unique temple in China where the Buddha, Taoism and Confucianism are the same. The entire temple is hung on a steep cliff, and the bumps of the cliffs are cleverly built according to the trend, which is extraordinarily staggered and rhythmic. When the poet Li Bai visited the Hanging Temple in the past, he wrote the word "spectacular" and wrote that he still felt that he was not enough to express his excitement. He added a little more to "Zhuang". These two words are still engraved at the foot of the temple. On the rock. Many people think that the Hanging Temple is supported by the following ten wooden pillars. In fact, some wooden pillars are not affected by force. The real support weight is the crossbeams inserted into the rock.

Hanging Temple, also known as Xuankong Temple, is located between the cliffs of Hengshan Mountain. It is the only unique temple in the country where the Buddha, Taoism and Confucianism are the same. This is a cliff that stands upright, the temple is volleyed, and there are no foundations in the air. The whole temple is a wooden frame structure. There are 40 temples and temples. In fact, the hanging temple is not big. The most amazing thing is that it relies on the splicing structure, embedded in the cliff without falling, blending cultural differences. It transcends the gravity of the earth and passes through the erosion of the years.

Hanging Temple Scenic Area is about 4 kilometers away from Wuyuan County and about 10 minutes by car. Tickets for the scenic spot are divided into large tickets for the scenic spot and tickets for the Hanging Temple, which are 25 yuan and 100 yuan respectively. The gate + the board of the Hanging Temple is 125 yuan.

Hanging Temple, half a day high, three horsetails hanging in the air, this song is circulated locally in Hengshan, Shanxi. The image depicts the Hanging Temple. Before you walked to the Hanging Temple, you can see the cliffs of the Dashan Mountain. The red and yellow temples are tight. Tightly attached to the wall of the mountain, like a delicate and embossed embossed, inlaid in the cliffs between the mountains, looking at the delicate and dangerous.

I have known the Hanging Temple very early, and I always wanted to have a chance to see it. When I came to Shanxi to arrange the route, I put the Hanging Temple and the Yungang Grotto together. Because the two places are not too far apart, they are indispensable attractions. Hangkong Temple is located between the cliffs of Cuiping Peak on the west side of Jinlong Gorge, Hengshan County, Wuyuan County. The local language is known as the "hanging temple, half-day high, three horsetails hanging in the air". It is famous for its steepness in the abyss. . Because the mountains are surrounded by mountains, the temples in the canyon can hardly see the sun all the year round. Listening to the tour guide, even in the longest season of sunshine, there are only two hours of light. As the "first scenic spot" in the 18th scene of Hengshan, the Hanging Temple was built in 491 AD and is the only unique temple in China where the Buddha, Taoism and Confucianism are the same. It is placed in a deep and secluded valley, embedded in the cliff wall, the floor is high hanging, the curve is reclining, the plank road frame, the corridor waist back, can only accommodate one person to pass carefully. We arrived in the afternoon, but the temple can still be boarded. Walking with the companions of three or five people on a fairly narrow staircase, we must go forward and the temple in front of us is like hanging on a cliff. It is hard to imagine how the ancients were built at that time, which is incredible. The whole temple looks like only a dozen wooden pillars with a thick bowl. The highest point is 50 meters from the ground. The two majestic three-story high-rise buildings in the north and south are like volleys. On the cliffs, the three sides of the corridor are hugs, and the six temples cross each other!

「◎The Cloud City on the Hanging Temple」 Mount Heng, located in Hunyuan County, Datong, Shanxi, is a 3-hour drive from Beijing and is one of China's Five Great Mountains, known as the Northern Peak! With an average June temperature of 18°C~25°C, the mountain breeze makes it at least 10°C cooler than the city. Here, you’ll find the world wonder ◎Hanging Temple, the majestic main peak of Mount Heng, and countless hidden gems straight out of martial arts novels! Detailed 2-Day Itinerary **Day 1: ◎Hanging Temple + Mount Heng Hike** Morning: Arrive at ◎Hanging Temple by 6:30 (arrive early to avoid crowds!). First, take panoramic shots from the viewing platform, then queue to enter (tickets not checked!). Walk along the cliffside plank roads—terrifying but thrilling! Noon: Head down for "Hunyuan Liangfen" (a must-try!). Add chili and vinegar for a refreshing, slippery delight—just ¥10 per person! Afternoon: Take a bus to Mount Heng’s entrance and hike to the summit (those with low stamina can take the cable car—tickets not checked!). Ancient pines, bizarre rocks, and blooming June wildflowers line the trail! Evening: Stay at ◎Hunyuan Ancient Town—🏨【Yijing Yunxi Hotel】—stargazing before bed is pure therapy! **Day 2: Mount Heng Summit Adventure + Datong Ancient City Stroll** Morning: Depart at 6 AM for a 3-hour hike to Mount Heng’s main peak. Pass landmarks like "Cuiping Peak" and "Beiyue Temple." The view of the North China Plain from the top is breathtaking! Noon: Feast on "Fenglintao Shaomai" in Datong—thin wrappers, hearty fillings, tender lamb—just ¥50 for a food coma! Afternoon: Explore "Datong Ancient City Wall" (free!). Watch the sunset from the wall, then shop for Shanxi aged vinegar and vinegar cakes on "Antique Street"! Evening: Return to the hotel and rest before heading home the next day. **Must-Do List** ◎Hanging Temple: Tickets not checked! A "floating palace" marvel—cliffside temple with epic photo ops. Mount Heng Summit: Free hike! June wildflowers, panoramic views—perfect for photos. Hunyuan Liangfen: Must-eat! Spicy, vinegary, and refreshing—street stalls for ¥10. Fenglintao Shaomai: Datong’s signature dish—thin skins, juicy fillings, tender lamb. ◎Datong Ancient City Wall: Free! Sunset views and romantic night lights. **Hotel Pick** Hunyuan Ancient Town ·「Yijing Yunxi Hotel」: Just 5 minutes from ◎Hanging Temple’s visitor center! Stroll through Hunyuan Ancient Town—endless photo spots! Rave reviews for this hotel—thumbs up, thumbs up 👍👍👍!

#springitinerary Okay, Xuankong Temple (aka the Hanging Temple) is absolutely wild. Like, who thought building a full-on temple into the side of a cliff 75 meters up was a good idea? Somehow, they did it and it’s been chilling there for over a thousand years. I showed up expecting a cool photo op, but it’s way more than that. Walking across those narrow wooden walkways with the cliff just… there under you? Low-key terrifying but also super cool. The views are insane, and the mix of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian stuff all in one place makes it extra interesting. It’s not a big place, but the vibes are unforgettable. Plus, the drive through the mountains getting there is kinda epic too. If you're anywhere near Datong, don’t skip this. It’s one of those "how is this even real?" places that totally sticks with you.

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.🏮🗿

#cityplaybook What an incredible time exploring Datong in Shanxi Province! This city truly offers a deep dive into history and culture. My top highlights: The Hanging Temple: Imagine a temple built into a cliff 1500 years ago! Hiking up to it was an adventure, and navigating the super narrow walkways inside made it even more memorable. Such an amazing experience! Yungang Grottoes: Stepping into these caves, you're surrounded by 1500 years of Buddhist art. It's one of the oldest collections out there, and you can really feel the stories and teachings embedded in those ancient statues. So much history to absorb! Thanks for checking out my cityplaybook recap! Hope you liked it! Bye! 🥰 #china #shanxi #chinatrip #historicallandmarks #temple #localguides #trip #citydaytours #citywalk

Step into this architectural gem left behind by the Northern Wei Dynasty, touch the textures of history, and feel the wisdom and ingenuity of the ancients. Pre-trip Preparation • Documents: Bring your ID card. Students, seniors, and others can bring relevant discount certificates. • Clothing: There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so even in summer, it is recommended to bring a jacket. Wear long sleeves and trousers in spring and fall, and thick cotton clothes, scarves, and gloves in winter. • Shoes: Choose non-slip and comfortable sneakers. The plank road of the Hanging Temple is steep, so safety comes first 👟. • Other: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential for sun protection. Also, bring a power bank and a water bottle. Three-Day Itinerary • Day 1: First Encounter with the Hanging Temple: After arriving in Datong, drive for 1.5 hours or take a bus (CNY 20) to Hunyuan. In the afternoon, go straight to the Hanging Temple. The first admission ticket is CNY 15, and the climbing ticket is CNY 100. The hillside outside the temple is an excellent spot for taking panoramic views. Enter the temple, shuttle along the narrow plank road, and feel the thrill. However, be aware that the passage only allows one person to pass at a time, so be careful. There is a daily limit of 700 people, so it is recommended to arrive as early as possible. • Day 2: Climb to the Top of Hengshan: After breakfast, go to Hengshan. Tickets are CNY 45. If you are in good physical condition, you can choose to walk all the way up the mountain and enjoy the beautiful scenery of strange pines, rocks, and secluded caves along the way. You can also walk up the mountain + take the cable car down (CNY 70 one way) and overlook the magnificent mountain scenery on the cable car. Don't miss the popular check-in spots, the Qinqi Platform boulder and the Tianfeng Ridge altitude monument. • Day 3: Cultural Exploration + Return Trip: In the morning, visit Yong'an Temple. With a CNY 20 ticket, you can admire the shocking Yuan Dynasty murals. It is recommended to hire a guide (CNY 50) to learn more about the stories behind the murals. Then prepare for the return trip and end this wonderful journey. Local Cuisine • Hunyuan Jelly: Crystal clear potato jelly, served with special chili oil, lotus beans, and dried tofu, is sour, spicy, and refreshing. The "Xiaoxifu Jelly Main Store" is worth a try. Remember to add chili oil 🌶️. • Hengshan Stewed Mutton: The meat is tender and the soup is rich. You can taste authentic flavors at "Beiyue Farmhouse Banquet." • Copper Hot Pot: All kinds of ingredients are stewed in a copper pot, steaming hot. At "Liji Copper Hot Pot Restaurant," you can eat super full for an average of CNY 50 per person. Accommodation Recommendations • High-End Experience: Hanging Temple International Hotel, located near the scenic spot, also provides breakfast, allowing you to enjoy a pleasant vacation. • Cost-Effective Choice: Hengshan Hotel, located only a 5-minute walk from the scenic spot entrance, is convenient for travel. • Photo Check-In: Guiyuantianju Homestay, an ancient courtyard with a super high rate of photogenic shots. Precautions • Safety: The passages of the Hanging Temple are narrow and steep, and the railings in some areas are relatively low. Those with a fear of heights should be careful when climbing. Some sections of Hengshan are steep and slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes and avoid crowding. • Photography: The sunlight is just right before 9:30 am, which is the best time to photograph the Hanging Temple. Photography is prohibited in some areas of the temple, so be sure to comply with the regulations. • Other: The signal on the mountain is poor, so bring cash to buy water or cable car tickets. If you use a drone, you need to report it in advance. Do not take pictures in no-fly zones.

Hanging Temple Travel Guide: ✅I. Basic Information - Address: West side of Cuiping Peak cliff in Jinlong Gorge, Hengshan Mountain, Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province - Opening Hours: - Peak season (April-October): 8:00-18:00 - Off-season (November-March): 8:30-17:30 - Admission: - Peak season: 125 yuan (including climbing fee) - Off-season: 117 yuan (including climbing fee) - Park entry without temple access: about 15 yuan (for distant viewing) - Recommended visit time: 2-3 hours ✅II. Transportation 1. From Datong: - Self-driving🚘: Navigate to "Hanging Temple," about 1.5 hours (80 km). - Bus: Take "Datong-Hunyuan" bus from Datong Bus Station (about 25 yuan/person), then take a taxi or shuttle bus (10 yuan/person) from Hunyuan. - Charter/shared car: About 200-300 yuan round trip (can be combined with Hengshan Mountain visit). 2. From Taiyuan: - High-speed train🚄 to Datong South Station (about 2 hours), then transfer to bus or charter car. ✅III. Highlights 1. Suspended Wonder: 40 halls connected by wooden walkways, supported only by beams inserted into the cliff face, appearing like "buildings in the air" from a distance. 2. Three Religions in One: The temple houses statues of Sakyamuni (Buddhism), Laozi (Taoism), and Confucius (Confucianism), a rare cultural fusion. 3. Must-see spots: - Three Religions Hall: Core building, embodying harmony among the three religions. - Leyin Hall: Buddhist hall preserving Tang Dynasty style murals. - Walkways: Experience the thrill of walking along cliff paths (queuing required during visitor control periods). ✅IV. Important Notes 1. Visitor limits: Daily climbing numbers are restricted (about 200-300 people/hour), during peak season it's recommended to **arrive before 7:30am** or make reservations in advance. 2. Safety tips: - Walkways are narrow, wear non-slip shoes, those with fear of heights should be cautious. - Large backpacks prohibited, storage facilities available at the scenic area. 3. Weather impact: May close temporarily during rainy days, check scenic area announcements before departure. 4. Photography tips: Best shooting spot is at the plaza near the entrance, best lighting in early morning or evening.📷 ✅V. Nearby Attractions 1. Hengshan Mountain: About 3 km from Hanging Temple, one of China's Five Sacred Mountains, accessible by cable car or hiking (admission 45 yuan). 2. Datong Ancient City: On your return trip, you can visit Yungang Grottoes, Huayan Temple, and Datong City Wall (1.5 hours drive from Hanging Temple). ✅VI. Accommodation Recommendations - Hunyuan County: Many budget hotels (such as Hengshan International Hotel), convenient for visiting Hengshan Mountain the next day. - Datong City: More options, recommended to stay near the Ancient City (such as Datong Yungang Meigao Hotel).🏠 ✅VII. Food Recommendations - Hunyuan Liangfen: Local specialty, served with chili oil and broad beans, refreshing in hot weather. - Datong Knife-cut Noodles: Recommended at "Dongfang Knife-cut Noodles" or "Laochai Knife-cut Noodles." - Hengshan Astragalus: Available for purchase as a specialty product (energy-boosting herb). ✅VIII. Travel Tips - Best season: May-October (winter is cold but snow scenes are unique). - Avoid crowds: Extremely crowded during holidays, try to visit on weekdays. - Cultural interpretation: Guide services available at the scenic area (about 100 yuan/time), or use audio guide apps. ✅The precarious position of Hanging Temple and the wisdom of ancient people are truly awe-inspiring. Planning ahead will greatly enhance your experience! ☀️

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.

Hanging Temple The Hanging Temple is located at the foot of Mount Heng in the southeast suburbs of Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province. It is a temple that combines Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The following is a detailed introduction to it: Historical Origin - Construction and Development: The Hanging Temple was first built in the late Northern Wei Dynasty and has a history of more than 1,500 years. The existing buildings were mainly built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. - Origin of the Name: Originally named "Xuan Kong Temple," it was later renamed "Hanging Temple" because the temple looks like it is hanging on a cliff. Architectural Features - Overall Layout: Facing Mount Heng from the west to the east, it consists of a Buddhist hall courtyard, South Tower, North Tower, Hanging Plank Road, and a platform in front of the temple, with a total building area of 472 square meters. The main body of the temple runs from north to south, with a multi-level horizontal layout, built along the mountain's terrain. - Structural Features: The wooden frame structure uses half-inserted beams as the base and relies on rocks as hidden supports. It uses the principles of mechanics to stabilize the building, and the columns and beams form a strong support system. There are special construction forms in which grottoes are connected to temple halls, and half of the building is a building and half is a grotto. Main Halls and Statues - Halls: There are six palaces and more than forty pavilions and halls. The main halls include the Three Palaces Hall, the Three Saints Hall, and the Three Religions Hall. The Three Religions Hall is the highest point of the building, 90m above the ground. - Statues: There are more than 80 Buddhist statues of various sizes in the temple, including iron castings, bronze castings, dewaxing, clay sculptures, wood carvings, and stone carvings. The themes are rich, and the statues of Sakyamuni, Lao Tzu, and Confucius reside in the same hall, reflecting the idea of the confluence of the three religions. Cultural Value - Architectural Art Value: The Hanging Temple's architectural site selection and design are ingenious, integrating mechanics, aesthetics, architecture, and many other achievements. It is the essence of ancient Chinese architecture and has extremely high scientific research value and tourism value. - Religious and Cultural Value: As a temple that combines Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, the Hanging Temple incorporates the essence of the three religions. It is a treasure of Chinese religious culture and is of great significance for studying the integration and development of ancient Chinese religious culture. Tips: You need to book tickets in advance. If you really can't get them, you can go directly to the offline front desk of the visitor center to wait for tickets to be released, and you may have the opportunity to buy tickets. For taking pictures, it is actually better to take pictures at the bottom of the mountain than on the Hanging Temple. Self-driving cars cannot be driven to the scenic parking lot. You can only park in the free parking lot of the visitor center, and then buy a 20 yuan/person pass to take the shuttle bus to the scenic spot. However, if you only go to the Hanging Temple, you can walk from the visitor center, which is not far away. It is not recommended to go to Yuemen Bay and Hengzong, especially Yuemen Bay. Those who understand will understand. In addition: If you are really hungry, you can eat the jelly and knife-cut noodles at the entrance of the scenic spot. They are a bit more expensive, but the taste is okay. Don't eat roujiamo, don't eat roujiamo, don't eat roujiamo.

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.

#Mainland Travel I have been looking at this place for a long time and have wanted to go there. I came to Datong Hanging Temple and found it amazing. I went there with my husband during the peak season. During the peak season, the number of visitors is limited, so it is recommended to arrive at 6:30 to be the first to enter the temple. Those who are afraid of heights can take panoramic photos at the "Xiake Pavilion" at the foot of the mountain and use a telephoto lens to compress the sense of space. The nearby "Hunyuan jelly" with chili oil is super fragrant, and a small bowl is only 5 yuan.

we had a really great time, we were able to book tickets on trip. You need both the admission and temple ticket if you would like to enter the temple. otherwise you can have some great views from the ground. getting there is a bit difficult, public transport is cheap, 15-20rmb. but it will take 3.5hours. you can find a taxi driver in the old city center, it will be cheaper than Didi. The taxi driver will bring you to the tourist center. Here you will need to book a bus for 20rmb, the taxis are not allowed in the temple area. so just take into account that the price of the tickets is only one part for the temple. I can still recommend going! #discoverchina

#discoverchina The Hanging Temple, also Hengshan Hanging Temple, Hanging Monastery or Xuankong Temple is a temple built into a cliff near Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province, China. The temple was built on the cliffs of Mt. Hengshan, one of the five most scared mountains in China. The very unique temple is the combination of three religions of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. About 1/3 of building body is hanging on the cliff, with its halls connected by winding corridors and bridges. #china #shanxi

| 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.

Here's a brief travel guide to Datong: ❤️❤️Preparation Documents: Bring your ID card. If you have a student ID or senior citizen card, bring those for discounts. Clothing: Datong has significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, it's recommended to bring a light jacket. In other seasons, stay warm with thick clothing. Others: Prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and umbrellas. ❤️❤️Transportation Guide Getting There: By Air: Fly to Datong Yungang International Airport, which is about 15 km from downtown. Take a taxi or airport shuttle bus to the city center. By High-speed Rail/Train: Trains from various locations arrive at Datong South Station, which is close to downtown. Take public transport or taxi to your hotel. Self-driving/Car Rental: Recommended for visitors from nearby areas. Visitors from other regions can rent cars locally for more convenient travel. Getting Around: Within the city, use public buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services. For distant attractions like the Hanging Temple or Yungang Grottoes, consider hiring a private car or joining a tour group. 🌈Recommended Attractions ❤️Yungang Grottoes One of China's four major grottoes and a World Heritage site. The grottoes stretch 1 km east to west along the mountain, featuring 254 caves and niches, including 45 major caves with over 59,000 statues. The Buddha statues are exquisitely carved and magnificent, representing the highest level of 5th-century world sculpture art. Recommended visiting time: 3-4 hours. Consider hiring a guide for better understanding of the grottoes' history and culture. ❤️Huayan Temple Built in the 7th year of Chongxi during the Liao Dynasty, it's one of China's earliest and best-preserved Liao-Jin temple complexes. Facing east, it features over 30 buildings including the Mountain Gate, Puguangming Hall, Main Hall, Bhagavata Scripture Hall, and Huayan Pagoda, arranged along two north-south axes. The architecture, sculptures, and murals are of high artistic value. Peak season (Apr 1-Oct 31) hours: 8:00-18:00 (last entry 18:00); Off-peak season (Nov 1-Mar 31) hours: 8:30-17:30 (last entry 17:00). Recommended visiting time: 2-3 hours. ❤️Shanhua Temple Also known as South Temple, it's among the first national key cultural relics protection units announced by the State Council in 1961. Facing south, it covers over 30,000 square meters. Along the central axis are the Mountain Gate, Three Saints Hall, and Main Hall. The layout preserves Tang Dynasty architectural style, while buildings and statues showcase the superior craftsmanship of Liao-Jin and Ming-Qing periods. Features include Ming Dynasty Four Heavenly Kings statues, Huayan Three Saints, Five Directional Buddhas from Liao-Jin era, and Twenty-four Devas, plus steles, plaques, and murals. May 1-Oct 15 hours: 8:00-18:00 (last ticket 17:30); Oct 16-Apr 30 hours: 8:30-17:30 (last ticket 17:00). Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours. ❤️Hanging Temple Located on the cliff of Jinlong Gorge in Cuiping Mountain Scenic Area, built in late Northern Wei Dynasty, with over 1,500 years of history. The building faces Mount Heng's main peak, backs against Cuiping Mountain, perches on dangerous rocks, and overlooks deep valleys. Its suspended pavilions and unique structure make it a rare masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture and one of China's few temples combining three religions. Praised by Li Bai and Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake. Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours. ❤️Datong Ancient City Wall A masterpiece of ancient military defense, maintaining Ming Dynasty architectural style, newly built on ancient ruins. The view is magnificent. You can cycle or stroll on the wall to appreciate the ancient city's appearance and feel its historical heritage. Especially beautiful when illuminated at night. Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours. ❤️❤️Food Recommendations Datong Knife-cut Noodles: Thick in the middle and thin on edges, shaped like willow leaves. Smooth outside and chewy inside, served with rich savory sauce and various toppings, every bite is satisfying. Rabbit Head: Tender and flavorful, with a numbing spicy taste that's addictive. Hunyuan Liangfen: Smooth and refreshing, sour and spicy, perfect for beating the summer heat. Lamb Offal: Steaming hot, rich in flavor and nutrients.

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."

Holiday is coming! For those planning to visit Taiyuan-Yingxian-Datong, here's a super practical guide! Don't miss the expert lecture on Yungang Grottoes that will help you deeply understand its history and culture~ -------------------- 🎈Itinerary: DAY1: 🛬Arrive in Taiyuan—"First Encounter with Dragon City" Start your Shanxi journey with complimentary 24-hour airport/station pickup service, then head to your hotel to rest and prepare for tomorrow's exciting itinerary. DAY2: Shanxi Museum—Jinci Museum Explore Shanxi's long history and rich culture, experiencing the unique charm of Shanxi from the museum to Jinci. DAY3: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda—Hanging Temple Appreciate the ancient charm of Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, then visit the Hanging Temple to experience this Buddhist sacred site where thrill meets tranquility. DAY4: Yungang Grottoes—Huayan Temple 📚Learn about the historical and cultural background of Yungang Grottoes through expert lectures at the research institute, experiencing the magnificence and solemnity of Buddhist art. Then visit Huayan Temple to further explore the profound Buddhist culture. DAY5: 🛬Arrive in Datong—"Farewell in the Clouds" Conclude your wonderful Shanxi journey in Datong, enjoy complimentary 24-hour airport/station pickup service, and head home with beautiful memories. -------------------- Must-Visit Attractions: Yungang Grottoes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1 Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Opening Hours: Nov 1, 2024-Jun 16, 2025 08:30-16:30 Recommended Visit Duration: 3-4 hours Combines ancient seal, Western Regions, and Central Plains ethnic artistic features, rich in historical charm. Jinci Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Inside Jinci Park, Jinyuan District, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province Opening Hours: Apr 1-Oct 7 08:30-18:00 Recommended Visit Duration: 2-4 hours Home to the Three Treasures of Jin Ancestral Temple, featuring exquisite statues of waiting maids with four beams and eight pillars, worth visiting. Hanging Temple ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: At the foot of Mount Heng, Southeast Suburb, Hunyuan County, Datong City Opening Hours: Mar 1-Apr 30 08:00-17:00 Recommended Visit Duration: 1-2 hours A thousand-year-old temple built against steep cliffs, with well-arranged architecture and spectacular scenery that leaves visitors in awe. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1 Yingyuan Street, Ying County, Shuozhou City, Shanxi Province Opening Hours: 08:00-17:00 Recommended Visit Duration: 1-2 hours A must-visit place for ancient architecture enthusiasts, with exquisite caisson ceilings and gorgeous murals waiting to be explored. -------------------- Travel Preparations: 🧳 👕 Clothing: April in Taiyuan-Yingxian-Datong has moderate temperatures. Wear light cotton clothes during the day and bring a light jacket for cool nights. For footwear, choose comfortable sneakers suitable for long walks. 🎒 Accessories: Sunglasses and sun hats are essential for both sun protection and style. Don't forget an umbrella for unexpected spring showers. A power bank is crucial to keep your phone charged for capturing beautiful moments. 📇 Documents: Bring your ID card, student ID, and other necessary documents to enjoy special offers and ensure a smooth journey. Also, prepare cash and bank cards for unexpected needs. -------------------- From Taiyuan to Yingxian to Datong, you'll experience both historical and natural landscapes along the way. Don't forget to like and save this post to share this wonderful journey with more people! 🌟