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2024 Hunyuan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Today's Weather
Overcast -5-0℃
Popular Attractions
Xuankong Temple
Datong in the Winter.
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
The hanging temple is becoming more and more famous in the world. Noted as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple has a very unique story behind and it is also located surrounded by beautiful range of mountains. The queue to go up the temple can be very long during holiday season, so estimate about 1-2 hours of queuing before climbing up. #happynewyear #hangingtemple #china
#happynewyear
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.
Before I came to Shanxi, my impression of Datong was stuck in the impression of a lot of coal and good chaos, but I thought that after all, in addition to the provincial capital, the second largest city in Shanxi, but also the scenic spots and historic sites of Yungang Grottoes. Ancient buildings such as Hengshan.
The deepest feeling of this trip was the day of walking in Hengshan, Beiyue.
Beiyue Hengshan is one of the five famous mountains in China. It has a history of more than 5,000 years. Countless emperors and literati singers have climbed to the top. It is also a place where everyone should come at least once in their lives.
Hengshan sky high cloud, the platform is the cliff, the big white clouds are like the top of the head, at your fingertips, as the wind blowing from the valley continues to surge, people can not help but think of the poem "swinging chest" Stratus clouds."
Hengshan is not only beautiful scenery, but also an important birthplace of Taoism. There are many Taoist temples on the mountain. It is said that Zhang Guo, one of the Eight Immortals, is practicing in Hengshan.
An early play of the ancient temple hanging over the mountainside of Cuiping Peak, the entire temple was built on a cliff, built in the Northern Wei Dynasty, and the temple is dedicated to "Buddha", "Tao" and "Russian The Buddhas of the three factions are the earliest existing temples of "three religions in one".
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
There are as many restaurants in Shanxi as there are foods, so we often have different restaurants during the trip. Even if we walk into a house randomly, the taste will not be bad, and each dish is big, so don't worry about not eating enough.
is a special snack in Wuyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province, and it is regrettable to Wuyuan. It is made from potato starch, dried bean curd and broad bean. Wuyuan jelly is the representative of Datong jelly. Well-made Wuyuan The jelly is clear, smooth and refreshing, like the ribs of pigskin. Take it in your hand, "slippery", eat in the mouth "cool silk", unique flavor, called Beiyue a must.
In the minds of many travellers
Hengshan is such a mountain, this time it is the second time to board Beiyue. Friends who often climb mountain know that there are four seasons in the mountains, and the scenery in the four seasons is different.
Although the weather is gloomy, occasionally the sun will also bring unexpected surprises. In the temple group of Hengshan, I encountered a halo, and took a group photo!
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.
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.
Hunyuan County, Datong, Shanxi.
Hunyuan, a county that guards Mount Heng, the Northern Mountain of the Five Great Mountains of China, has a cultural heritage that is no less than that of the cities under the other four mountains.
The mysterious and wild Ming Dynasty murals of the Ten Great Kings of Esoteric Buddhism in Yong'an Temple have become a symbol of Hunyuan with their stunning forms.
The Temple of the True Dharma is a model of Yuan Dynasty architecture, with a magnificent atmosphere, while the rest of the temple is a relic of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The temple is not large, but it is well laid out and complements the majestic Mount Heng. In addition to the architecture, the Ming and Qing murals of Yong'an Temple are another reason why it attracts visitors. Among the Ten Great Kings of the murals, one of them is particularly noteworthy, the Great King of Immovable Wisdom, also known as the "Face-Tearing King," is the image ambassador of Yong'an Temple.
Another peculiar feature of the Temple of the True Dharma is the two characters "Zhuang Yan" (meaning "solemn") written on the wall, which are majestic and powerful. On the back of the hall, there is also a wall with the words "Tiger Roaring and Dragon Singing," which is equally magnificent. These six words are recessed into the brick wall, but visually they appear to be protruding, which is amazing.
6-Day Autumn Trip to Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong: Don't Miss the Beautiful Scenery!
Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong: A 6-day travel guide! A route that combines history and natural scenery, definitely worth a visit. Don't miss it!
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🌟Route Overview:
DAY 1: Guangzhou✈️Linfen
Depart from Guangzhou and fly directly to Linfen to start your Shanxi trip.
DAY 2: Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area - Xiaoxitian
Explore the spectacular Hukou Waterfall and feel its grandeur. Then visit Xiaoxitian to appreciate the beauty of ancient Buddhist architecture.
DAY 3: Mount Wutai
Climb Mount Wutai, a famous Buddhist mountain, to experience its profound cultural heritage and tranquil mountain scenery.
DAY 4: Hanging Temple - Yungang Grottoes - Datong Ancient City - Nine-Dragon Screen
Visit the thrilling Hanging Temple and the artistic treasures of the Yungang Grottoes. Stroll through Datong Ancient City to feel its historical vicissitudes. Finally, admire the exquisite Nine-Dragon Screen.
DAY 5: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Yanmen Pass - Xinzhou Ancient City
Visit the ancient legend of Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and the majestic Yanmen Pass. Enjoy a night tour of Xinzhou Ancient City to savor its night scenery and charm.
DAY 6: Qiao Family Courtyard - Shanxi Museum - Taiyuan Ancient County Scenic Area
Visit the Shanxi merchant culture of Qiao Family Courtyard and the treasures of Shanxi Museum. End your trip at Taiyuan Ancient County Scenic Area to feel the prosperity of the ancient city and the accumulation of history.
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Travel Preparation: 🧳 Going to Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong? Don't forget to bring these essentials!
👚 Clothing: The temperature in November is moderate. Wear light long sleeves during the day and bring a jacket for the night. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for long walks.
🎒 Accessories: Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget your charger and data cable. Bring a camera to capture beautiful moments.
💳 Documents: ID card, student ID, and other discount cards, as well as cash and bank cards, just in case.
🍪 Food: Bring some snacks and water to replenish your energy. There are also many local delicacies to try and buy.
🧴 Daily Necessities: Sunscreen is a must. Bring toiletries according to your needs. Travel-size toiletries are recommended.
💊 Emergency Supplies: Band-aids, motion sickness medicine, etc., just in case, to ensure a smooth trip.
🎉 Others: Depending on the activities, you may need to bring a light first aid kit. Pay attention to the weather forecast for outdoor activities.
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🌟Don't forget to like and follow us to unlock more travel tips for Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong, and make your trip more exciting!🌟
Hanging Temple: A miracle of architecture on a cliff.
🌈 Highlights:
The Hanging Temple is a wooden structure built on the cliff at the foot of Mount Heng. The entire structure was built without a single nail, relying on mortise and tenon joints to embed it into the cliff. The temple was built during the Northern Wei Dynasty, more than 1,500 years ago, and is the earliest and best-preserved wooden cliff structure in China.
⭐️ Climb the Hanging Temple:
The Hanging Temple was originally called "Xuankong Pavilion" and was later renamed "Hanging Temple". It is the only temple in China that combines Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The entire temple is a wooden frame structure with 40 halls and pavilions. The temple is not large, but it is a masterpiece of architecture. The pavilions are connected by walkways, and the temple is grand and magnificent, with superb architectural skills and immortal artistic value. The poet Li Bai was so impressed that he wrote a poem about it, and Xu Xiake praised it as a great spectacle. There are still 11 grotto temples, including the Ten Thousand Buddha Cave, the Sanxiao Hall, the Holy Mother's Palace, the Guanyin Hall, and the Zhenwu Patriarch Hall.
🎫 Ticket information:
Tickets for the Hanging Temple are divided into a 15 yuan entrance ticket and a 100 yuan ticket to climb the temple. If you just want to see the temple without climbing it, you can see it from outside without buying a ticket.
✨ Tips:
If you want to climb the temple, it is recommended to enter at 8 am when it opens. The corridors are narrow and can only accommodate one person at a time, so entering early can help you avoid the crowds. The lighting is also better at this time. After visiting the Hanging Temple, you can climb Mount Heng.
🚗 Address and transportation:
1⃣ Self-driving is recommended.
2⃣ Mount Heng Scenic Area is located in Hunyuan County. You can take bus No. 2 to Tangjiazhuang Station. You can transfer from Datong, but it is time-consuming and laborious.
3⃣ You can buy a direct bus ticket from Datong to the Hanging Temple online. There are round-trip tickets available, and you can choose the specific time when you buy the ticket.
4⃣ You can join a one-day tour from Datong (a pure tour without shopping, usually including Mount Heng).
Datong | A stunning city, a must-visit hidden gem!
🎉 I rarely use the word "stunning" to describe a city, until I visited Datong. 😎 It is said that underground cultural relics are in Shaanxi, while above-ground cultural relics are in Shanxi. As the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty, Datong has left countless historical and cultural treasures for future generations. In addition to the Yungang Grottoes, one of the four major grottoes in China, there are also thousand-year-old temples such as Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple. The Hanging Temple on Mount Heng is a unique wonder in the world, and even Li Bai exclaimed "magnificent" when he saw it.
🌄 Datong is like a heavy history book, with every page filled with historical stories. 🧐 Let's talk about the Yungang Grottoes first. It is one of the "Four Major Grottoes in China" and a World Cultural Heritage site! 😜 The Buddha statues in the grottoes are exquisitely carved, each showing the grandeur of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Here, you can deeply feel the unique charm of grotto art. It is worthy of being the first batch of national key cultural relics protection units.
🙏 Huayan Temple is one of the three existing Liao and Jin Buddhist temples in China, with a solemn and ancient architectural style.
✨ As the first batch of national key cultural relics protection units, Shanhua Temple is the most complete and largest existing Liao and Jin temple in China. Every brick and tile here tells the story of the past. 😎
🐉 The Nine-Dragon Wall is a glazed screen wall in front of the Datong Prince's Mansion of Zhu Gui, the son of Emperor Taizu of the Ming Dynasty! After more than 600 years, it is still dazzling, with nine dragons vividly depicted, as if they are about to break through the wall.
👏 Mount Heng, one of the Five Great Mountains of China, is also a wonder, and the Hanging Temple on Mount Heng is even more legendary. It was built in 491 AD and is a unique temple that combines Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. It has stood on the cliff for more than 1,500 years, which is truly amazing! It is the second batch of national key cultural relics protection units.
🏯 The ancient city wall of Datong is also worth a visit. It is a national 4A-level scenic spot and a key cultural relic protection unit in Shanxi Province, and it is relatively well-preserved. Standing on the city wall, it feels like traveling back in time to ancient times. 🤗 In addition, historical sites such as the Pingxingguan Battle Site, Pingcheng Site, and Coal Mine Mass Grave all witness the vicissitudes of this city. 💕 If you come to Shanxi, you must not miss Datong, where surprises are everywhere.
Hunyuan Yong'an Temple
Hunyuan Yong'an Temple, also known as Yong'an Zen Temple, is located in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province. It was first built in the Jin Dynasty, but was later destroyed by fire. It was rebuilt in the early Yuan Dynasty by Gao Ding, the military governor of Yong'an, and his son, who were both from Hunyuan.
Yong'an Temple faces south and has two courtyards. The temple is large in scale. There are many cultural relics and buildings in the temple, among which the Hall of the True Dharma is a relic of the Yuan Dynasty. The hall is five rooms wide and three rooms deep, with a single-eave hipped roof and glazed tiles. The murals of the Yuan Dynasty in the hall are the essence of the temple. The murals cover an area of about 180 square meters and depict 882 water and land figures in 135 groups of water and land stories. The figures in the murals are depicted in detail, with vivid expressions, including "Ming Wang Preaching the Dharma" and "Rebirth in Heaven." These murals include not only Buddhas and Bodhisattvas worshipped by Buddhists, but also Taoist deities and Confucian figures of loyalty, filial piety, and righteousness, making them a "complete collection of ancient Chinese religious figures."
5 Days in Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou: Discover the Hidden Gems of Shanxi!
Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou: 5 days of in-depth exploration of the unique charm of Shanxi. Come and explore this fascinating land with us!
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📅 Itinerary:
Day 1: Shanghai ✈️ Shuozhou
Arrive in Shuozhou and start your exciting journey in Shanxi!
Day 2: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda – Hanging Temple – Yungang Grottoes
Visit the ancient Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, experience the mystery of the thousand-year-old Hanging Temple, and admire the beauty of Buddhist art at the Yungang Grottoes.
Day 3: Mount Wutai – Wuye Temple
Make a pilgrimage to Mount Wutai, the Bodhimanda of Manjushri, and visit Wuye Temple in the afternoon to pray for peace and prosperity.
Day 4: Xinzhou Ancient City – Pingyao Ancient City – Rishengchang Exchange Shop
Stroll through the ancient streets and alleys of Xinzhou Ancient City, then head to Pingyao Ancient City to experience the culture of Shanxi merchants and visit Rishengchang Exchange Shop to learn about the history of ancient finance.
Day 5: Qiao Family Compound
Visit the Qiao Family Compound to experience the grandeur and sophistication of the Shanxi merchant compound and end your pleasant journey in Shanxi.
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Must-visit attractions:
✨ Yungang Grottoes: A treasure trove of ancient Indian, Western, and Central Plains art, each grotto tells a story of a thousand years.
🌙 Pingyao Ancient City: Immerse yourself in the culture of Shanxi merchants. The night view of the ancient city is like a dream, so don't miss it.
🏛 Qiao Family Compound: Experience the grandeur of a northern family in the Ming and Qing dynasties. The paintings, brick carvings, and plaques all exude sophistication and history.
💥 Hanging Temple: A thousand-year-old temple built on a cliff, with a unique layout. Here, you can feel the magnificence of the architecture.
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Travel essentials: 🧳 Exploring Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou? Don't forget these items!
👕 Clothing: T-shirts and light jackets to cope with the temperature difference between morning and evening. Don't forget comfortable flat shoes.
🕶️ Accessories: Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen to protect your skin.
🆔 Documents: ID card and driver's license are essential for travel, so don't forget them.
📱 Electronics: Cell phone, power bank, and camera to capture beautiful moments.
💊 Medicine: Band-aids and anti-diarrhea medicine for peace of mind on your trip.
🌂 Other: An umbrella for sun and rain protection, practical and convenient.
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Shuozhou, Datong, and Xinzhou: Explore all three cities and make the most of your time! Start your journey in Shanxi and experience the unique charm of this land! 🌈✨
Hanging Temple, Datong (Oct 16, 2024).
The Hanging Temple of Datong is a famous ancient architectural complex located on the cliffs of Cuiping Peak on the west side of Jinlong Gorge of Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province, China. It is renowned for its unique geographical location and architectural style. The Hanging Temple was first built in 491 AD (the 15th year of the Taihe era of the Northern Wei Dynasty), with a history of over 1,500 years. It was originally constructed with wood, later evolving into a stone structure during the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and has been preserved to this day.
The architecture of the Hanging Temple is highly distinctive, known for its precariousness as if it were on the edge of an abyss, with a saying that goes, "Hanging Temple, halfway up the sky, suspended by three horse tails." The entire temple appears to be hanging on the cliff, hence the name "Hanging Temple." It consists of 40 rooms, all supported by wooden frame structures, fixed only by 27 wooden beams inserted into the rock wall. The Hanging Temple is not only a Buddhist temple but also enshrines Taoist and Confucian deities, making it a rare temple in China that combines the three religions. Inside the temple, there are calligraphy works by the Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai, with the words "Magnificent," as well as various precious cultural relics such as bronze, iron, clay, and stone sculptures.
The architectural structure of the Hanging Temple is highly distinctive, with a variety of forms, including main ridges, eaves ridges, flying ridges, and poor ridges on the roofs, as well as single eaves, double eaves, and triple eaves on the eaves, and various structural methods such as beam-lifting structures, flat-top structures, and bracket structures. The Hanging Temple is a national key cultural relic protection unit. As an old tourist attraction, it has excellent safety measures. Although the walkways are narrow, steep, and low, there are places to hold onto, making it very friendly for those with a fear of heights.
Autumn Travel Guide for Yuncheng–Jinzhong–Xinzhou.
Yuncheng–Jinzhong–Xinzhou, six days of fun! This super detailed guide will help you explore Shanxi. Save it now and start your Shanxi trip!
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🚩Itinerary:
DAY 1: Yuncheng Salt Street
Stroll along Yuncheng Salt Street and feel the charm of the ancient city and the traces of history.
DAY 2: Wang Family Courtyard–Pingyao Ancient City
Visit the Wang Family Courtyard to appreciate the charm of Jin merchants, then head to Pingyao Ancient City to wander through the streets and alleys of the ancient city and experience the passage of time.
DAY 3: Mount Wutai
Climb Mount Wutai, a sacred place of pilgrimage, and experience the harmonious blend of Buddhist culture and natural scenery.
DAY 4: Hanging Temple–Yungang Grottoes–Xinzhou Ancient City
The thrill of the Hanging Temple and the exquisite beauty of the Yungang Grottoes complement each other. Finally, stroll through Xinzhou Ancient City and feel the weight of history.
DAY 5: Donghu Vinegar Garden–Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River in Shaanxi
Taste Shanxi vinegar culture at Donghu Vinegar Garden, then head to Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River to experience the grandeur of the Yellow River.
DAY 6: Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area
Explore Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area and enjoy the natural beauty and mysterious legends.
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Some tips:
📍 Local specialties are very affordable, so don't forget to try the local snacks and handicrafts!
✈️ Xinzhou Airport is more convenient for getting to Mount Wutai. The airport bus is only CNY 80 and takes 2 hours.
🌡️ The weather is mild in November, but the temperature difference between day and night is large, so remember to bring a light jacket.
📸 Mount Wutai and Pingyao Ancient City are great for taking photos, so leave your mark!
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Yuncheng, Jinzhong, and Xinzhou are full of beautiful scenery! More exciting things are waiting for you to discover. Don't forget to follow me so you don't miss any travel tips! 🌈
I really didn't want to leave Yanmenguan and the Hanging Temple.
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!
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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!
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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!
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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! 👣✨
Xuankong Temple Guidebook
Xuankong Temple is located on the cliff of Cuiping Peak at the foot of Mount Heng, southeast of Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province. Xuankong Temple was originally named "Xuan Kong Temple" and was built in the 15th year of the Taihe period of the Northern Wei Dynasty (491 AD), more than 1,500 years ago. It has been repaired many times during the Tang, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, and the existing buildings were mainly built during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
✔️Visiting order:
1. Arrive at the scenic area and enjoy the panoramic view: After entering the scenic area, don't rush to climb Xuankong Temple. You can stand on the viewing platform or a suitable location a little further away to enjoy the panoramic view of Xuankong Temple. This is also an excellent place to take panoramic photos of Xuankong Temple, so you can take photos here as a souvenir.
2. Check in at cultural relics:
- Xu Xiake Memorial Pavilion and "Tian Xia Ju Guan" stone inscription.
- Li Bai's "Zhuang Guan" stone inscription.
3. Line up to climb Xuankong Temple: After visiting the above attractions, go to the climbing place to line up. Due to the small space of Xuankong Temple, when there are many tourists, the number of visitors needs to be limited, and it may take some time to line up.
4. Enter Xuankong Temple for a visit:
- Hall of Three Religions: After entering Xuankong Temple, the first place you enter is the Hall of Three Religions. Here, the Buddha of Buddhism, Confucius of Confucianism, and Laozi of Taoism are enshrined. The three founders of the three religions are in the same room, which is very rare in the country and reflects the unique culture of the integration of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in Xuankong Temple.
- Ying Shen Hall: After coming out of the Hall of Three Religions, walk to the right along the plank road, and you can see the Ying Shen Hall, where a statue of the Ying Shen Buddha over 5 meters high is enshrined. It is said to have fallen from the main peak of Mount Heng during the Northern Wei Dynasty.
- Hall of Three Officials: Continue walking north to the Hall of Three Officials, where the Three Officials of Taoism are enshrined, namely the Heavenly Official, Earthly Official, and Water Official. The Three Officials are in charge of the operation and disasters of the three realms of heaven, earth, and water.
- Mahavira Hall: Finally, at the end is the Mahavira Hall, where the Three Buddhas are enshrined, namely the Past Buddha Kasyapa, the Present Buddha Sakyamuni, and the Future Buddha Maitreya, representing Buddhism's understanding and transcendence of the cycle of time.
After visiting each hall, walk along the long bridge connecting the South and North Towers and feel its thrill and ingenuity. The long bridge is about ten meters long, with a building on the bridge, a hall in the building, and a Buddha in the hall, which is amazing.
Hengshan travel recommendations.
Guide to Hengshan & Xuankong Temple without stepping into any pitfalls!
When you come to Datong, Shanxi, how can you miss Beiyue Hengshan and the mysterious Xuankong Temple? This ancient temple with a history of more than 1,500 years is a unique cultural heritage that combines Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism! The Hanging Temple is like a bright pearl embedded in the cliffs💎. This place was originally called "Xuankong Pavilion", which contains profound Taoist and Buddhist culture. Later, the entire temple seemed to be hanging on a cliff.
🕰️Please remember the opening hours: 08:00-18:00 from June to October, 08:30-17:30 from November to May. The recommended play time is about 1-2 hours, but don’t forget that the boarding ticket requires an additional 100 yuan! 🎫
There are two types of tickets for Hanging Temple:
Admission ticket: 15 yuan
Admission ticket: 100 yuan
The admission ticket only allows you to watch from a distance below, while the boarding ticket allows you to climb up to the temple in person and feel the shock of being built in the air. 📸 Photo spot! The road to Xuankong Temple is narrow, but the photos are really great! Especially the Hanging Temple under the sunlight is breathtakingly beautiful.
Highlights of the Xuankong Temple experience:
Hall of Three Religions: Sakyamuni, Confucius and Laozi are worshiped here. The three religions of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism are integrated into one, which is extremely rare in domestic temples.
The treasure of the temple: the three Ming Dynasty statues in the Main Hall are shaped using the dry lacquer technique.
Li Bai's inscription: Li Bai once wrote the word "spectacular" on the rock wall.
🏔️ Hengshan, one of the birthplaces of Taoism
🚡 You can choose the cable car or hike up the mountain, choose according to your personal physical strength!
💡 Remember to visit the temples and ancient ruins in Hengshan to feel the charm of Taoist culture.
📸 Photo spot! The scenery at the top of Mount Hengshan is stunning, especially at sunrise, it is even more intoxicating!
The cable car can go directly to the middle of the mountain, but it still takes about an hour to reach the top. The wind on the top of the mountain is very windy and the temperature is low, so you need to keep warm. The shuttle bus must leave on time and you need to plan the time in advance.
Isabella Foster Isabella72 Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, Xuankong Temple in Hunyuan.
Shanxi Trip: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, Xuankong Temple || The weather was nice and cool. The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is a true wonder, but it has been leaning for decades. This is because a leader in the 1980s decided to replace the wooden walls on each floor with wooden lattice windows, which caused the pagoda to lean due to different wind pressures. I also thought of some recent renovations that have turned beauty into ugliness and destroyed the real to create the fake. I hope the leaders who don't know what they're doing will leave our few remaining historical treasures alone. When I arrived at Xuankong Temple, the sky was full of auspicious clouds. I climbed the steps along the cliff and couldn't help but admire the wisdom and perseverance of the ancients.
Fun for all ages! Recommended hiking routes near Datong, plus travel tips.
1. Recommended Attractions
Hengshan Mountain:
Located in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province, about 60 km from the city center.
One of the Five Great Mountains of China, Hengshan Mountain is known for its steepness and is called the "Northern Pillar of Heaven."
The main peak, Tianfeng Ridge, is 2,016.1 meters above sea level. There are several hiking trails suitable for visitors of different fitness levels.
Yungang Grottoes:
Located on the southern slope of Wuzhou Mountain, about 16 km west of Datong City, Shanxi Province.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has 45 main caves and more than 51,000 stone-carved Buddha statues.
Although not a traditional hiking spot, the tour requires walking and climbing, making it suitable for a leisurely hike.
Hanging Temple:
Located on the cliff of Cuiping Peak on the west side of Jinlong Gorge, Hengshan Mountain, Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province.
A temple built on a cliff, it is the only temple in China that combines Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
Visiting the Hanging Temple requires some courage and physical strength, but the scenery is stunning and worth a visit.
Datong Volcano Group:
Located in Datong County and Yanggao County, Datong City, Shanxi Province.
A famous Quaternary volcano group in China, it has several extinct volcanic cones and lava terraces.
Suitable for geological education and leisurely hiking.
Cailiang Mountain:
Located in the eastern part of Datong City, Shanxi Province.
A mountain near Datong with a low altitude, but beautiful scenery and fresh air.
Suitable for family weekend outings and light hiking.
2. Transportation Guide
Self-driving route:
Choose the appropriate route according to the specific location of each attraction, such as G55 Erguang Expressway, S30 Sunyou Expressway, etc., and follow the navigation instructions.
Public transportation:
From Datong City, you can take a bus or tourist bus to some attractions.
For distant attractions, it is recommended to take a long-distance bus or train to nearby towns and then transfer to local transportation to the scenic area.
3. Precautions
Safety first:
Make sure you are in good physical condition before hiking and wear comfortable sports shoes and clothing.
Pay attention to weather changes and bring rain gear and sunscreen.
Follow the rules of the scenic area, do not climb areas that are not open, and ensure personal safety.
Eco-friendly travel:
Please protect the natural environment, do not litter, and keep the scenic area clean.
Try to use public transportation to reduce carbon emissions.
Plan your trip wisely:
Plan your trip according to the physical condition of the elderly and children to avoid overexertion.
Check the opening hours and ticket prices of attractions in advance and plan your itinerary.
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