2025 Hunyuan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

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! ☀️

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

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

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.

Embark on a millennium-old journey through this ancient city! Datong, where history meets modernity, will transport you straight to the Northern Wei Dynasty era ⏳ 🚩2-Day Essential Itinerary: DAY1: 📍Hanging Temple (at the foot of Mount Heng, southeast of Hunyuan County) Finally saw this "hanging in mid-air" marvel with my own eyes! Arrive early to avoid crowds. Climbing up lets you experience ancient wisdom from 1500 years ago (not for those with acrophobia) 📍Mount Heng (15-minute drive from Hanging Temple) One of China's Five Great Mountains. The cable car makes ascending easy, and the summit offers spectacular views of the winding Ming Great Wall ruins in the distance 🍜Lunch recommendation: Hunyuan Little Wife Liangfen (Yong'an West Street, Hunyuan County) - local specialty cold noodles with smoked eggs are amazing DAY2: 📍Yungang Grottoes (16km west of Datong) Breathtaking! Definitely get a guide or you'll miss too many details. Cave 20's giant Buddha is a must-see - best visited in morning light 📍Huayan Temple (within Datong Ancient City) A royal temple from Liao-Jin period. The main hall's owl-tail ornaments are unique, and the underground palace's Thousand-Buddha bronze statue is stunning 📍Datong Ancient City Wall (enter at Yongtai Gate on south wall) Sunset views from the wall are incredibly romantic. Renting a bike for a ride is delightful 🍖Must-try foods: ✔Fenglinnge Hundred-Flower Shaomai (in ancient city) ✔Dongfang Knife-Cut Noodles (multiple branches) ✔Old Datong Hot Pot (old store on Gulou East Street) 💡Practical tips: 1. Bring a jacket for significant day-night temperature differences 2. Reserve Yungang Grottoes audio guide in advance 3. Walking is best in ancient city - taxis take longer routes 4. Hanging Temple has visitor limits - arrive before 7am in peak season History & Culture

40°C heat is unbearable! 🥵 While others crowd beaches like dumplings in a pot, we’re quietly heading to these natural air-conditioned havens! Here are 8 hidden gem towns with an average temperature of 22°C—sleeping under blankets in summer isn’t a dream! Bookmark this and set off this summer! 👇 🧊 Liupanshui, Guizhou | Avg. 19°C Officially dubbed "China’s Cool Capital," it’s a true natural AC. Days are comfortably cool, and nights might even call for a light blanket. Here, ACs are the most redundant appliance. 🌲 Shennongjia, Hubei | Avg. 24°C The "Roof of Central China" lives up to its name! With an average elevation of 2,000+ meters and over 90% primal forest coverage, every breath is packed with negative oxygen ions. Beyond the coolness, explore mysterious wildman legends. 👑 Chengde, Hebei | Royal Summer Retreat A royally certified summer escape—the Qing emperors’ "Summer Capital" speaks for itself. Temperatures in the Mountain Resort are 3-5°C lower than outside. Experience imperial-level cooling! 🌋 Changbai Mountain, Jilin | Avg. 18-20°C How awesome are high-altitude summers? Changbai Mountain has the answer! Marvel at the stunning Tianchi Lake and volcanic landscapes, while 80%+ forest coverage makes you feel inside a giant natural AC, with chill seeping into your bones. 🌬️ Xining, Qinghai | Avg. 25°C Xining, "China’s Summer Capital," shines brightest in summer. Large day-night temperature swings mean hotels rarely have AC—evening breezes are cooling enough. Blue skies, white clouds, and gentle winds spell pure bliss. 🌳 Yichun, Heilongjiang | Avg. 22°C A cool hideaway in the Lesser Khingan Range, rightly called a "natural oxygen bar." With 84.5% forest coverage, summers here brim with fresh greenery and refreshing coolness. 🏯 Datong, Shanxi | Ancient Summer Capital Who says ancient capitals are only about history? Datong is China’s sole "Ancient Summer Capital"! With year-round top-tier air quality, admire the grandeur of Yungang Grottoes and the wonder of Hanging Temple under azure skies—a feast for eyes and body. 🏞️ Enshi, Hubei | Alpine Paradise ⚠️ Note: Skip Enshi city—head to high-altitude areas like Lichuan or Sumadang! These are true summer paradises, hailed as "China’s Most Beautiful Small Places," real-life fairy-tale forests with ~20°C summer averages. Pure comfort! Ditch AC survival mode and embrace 22°C summers—it’s a game-changer! Which town tops your summer getaway list? Drop your pick in the comments!

3-Day Datong Itinerary | Exploring the Ancient Capital, a Journey Through Millennia Day 1: Yungang Grottoes + Huayan Temple Morning: Arrive in Datong and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site [Yungang Grottoes] (120 CNY), admiring the Buddhist art treasures of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Focus on exploring Cave 5, Cave 6, and the Tanyao Five Caves. Afternoon: Return to the city center and explore [Huayan Temple] (50 CNY), experiencing the architectural beauty of the Liao and Jin dynasties. Climb the Huayan Pagoda for a panoramic view of the ancient city. Food recommendations: Try Datong's signature knife-cut noodles for lunch (recommended: Dongfang Knife-Cut Noodles), and sample Fenglingge's steamed dumplings for dinner. Day 2: Hanging Temple + Mount Heng Morning: Drive 1.5 hours to the [Hanging Temple] (125 CNY entrance fee, 100 CNY climbing fee) to experience the breathtaking "temple in the air." Afternoon: Hike or take the cable car up [Mount Heng] (45 CNY), one of China's Five Great Mountains, and visit its temple complex and Guolao Ridge. Tips: The Hanging Temple has visitor limits, so arrive early. Wear comfortable shoes for Mount Heng. Day 3: Datong Ancient City Wall + Shanhua Temple Morning: Stroll along the [Datong Ancient City Wall] (free), cycling or walking around for a full city view. Afternoon: Visit the exquisite but lesser-known [Shanhua Temple] (free) before ending your trip with a photo stop at the Nine-Dragon Wall (free). Transport: Taxis or buses can take you to city attractions. Before departure, buy Hunyuan cold noodles as souvenirs. Accommodation: Stay at hotels within the ancient city for convenience. For luxury options, consider Yungang Hotel. Best season: May-October, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Datong: A Millennium of Splendor from the Northern Wei Ancient Capital Harmonized with Industrial Civilization Keywords: Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, Northern Wei Culture, Frontier Customs, Coal Capital Transformation, Noodle Paradise 1. Why Choose Datong? A "Living Fossil" of History and Culture: - Northern Wei Capital: In 398 AD, the Tuoba Xianbei tribe established Pingcheng (modern-day Datong) as their capital, marking China's first major ethnic integration and leaving behind world-class heritage sites like the Yungang Grottoes and Huayan Temple. - Strategic Frontier: Known as the "Northern Key" since ancient times, it witnessed historical events like King Wuling of Zhao's adoption of nomadic attire and archery, Emperor Gaozu of Han's siege at Baideng, and the Yang Family Generals' border defense. - Religious Sanctuary: A melting pot of Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity, with over 200 temples and shrines, earning it the title "Eastern Buddhist Capital." Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture: - Hengshan Foothills: Part of the Five Sacred Mountains, Hengshan boasts geological wonders like the Hanging Temple and Earth Forest. - Sanggan River: A tributary of the Hai River, nurturing vast wetlands and farmlands, creating a unique "half-city, half-countryside" landscape. Industrial and Artistic Fusion: - "Coal Capital" Transformation: From a coal-heavy city to a new energy hub, Datong leads a green revolution with solar panels and wind farms. - Contemporary Art Rise: Venues like the China Sculpture Museum and Datong Art Museum infuse modernity into this ancient city. 2. Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Yungang Grottoes: The Millennium Smile of Northern Wei Royalty** Highlights: - UNESCO World Heritage: 53 major caves with 51,000+ statues, ranging from a 17-meter-tall Buddha to 2-centimeter miniatures, dubbed the "Eastern Sculpture Museum." - East-Meets-West Art: Early Gandharan style blends with Han culture, mid-period "loose robes and wide sashes" reflect ethnic fusion, and late-period folk carvings exude vitality. - Tanyao Five Caves: Symbolizing five Northern Wei emperors as Buddhas, merging religion and politics. Experiences: - Expert-guided tours (≈¥100/session) for deep historical insights. - Summer night tours with dramatic lighting. - Cultural souvenirs like "Yungang Smile" fridge magnets and statue rubbings. 2. **Hanging Temple: A Cliffside "Floating Pavilion"** Highlights: - Architectural Marvel: Built into Hengshan's Jinlong Gorge cliffs, supported by 27 wooden beams, appearing to hover mid-air. - Tri-Religion Harmony: Honors Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, showcasing Northern Wei inclusivity. - Engineering Feat: No nails used—just mortise-tenon joints and lever principles, surviving 1,500 years of earthquakes and storms. Experiences: - Climb (wear grippy shoes!) the narrow walkways for a thrilling "cloud-walking" feel. - Drone shots capturing the temple framed by Hengshan and Cuiping Mountain. - Hike Hengshan (≈2 hours to Tianfeng Peak, 2,016m). 3. **Huayan Temple: Pinnacle of Liao-Jin Architecture** Highlights: - Bhagavat Sutra Hall: Liao-era structure with 29 painted statues, including the famed "Smiling, Barefoot Bodhisattva." - Celestial Pavilion Ceiling: A wooden miniature based on *Yingzao Fashi*, China's oldest "heavenly palace" model. - Huayan Pagoda: Bronze pagoda with a relic-filled underground chamber and panoramic city views. Experiences: - Golden-hour photography of red walls and gilded tiles. - Sutra-copying in the tea house for Zen immersion. - Nighttime folk performances (Jin opera, yangge) at the temple square. 4. **Datong Ancient City: A Ming Dynasty Time Capsule** Highlights: - Ming Walls: 7.2km-long, 14m-high restored ramparts (2008) with four gates, ideal for cycling. - "Four Streets, Eight Alleys": A grid of Ming-Qing landmarks like Drum Tower and Chunyang Palace. - Nine-Dragon Screen: China's largest, oldest glazed dragon wall (45.5m long, 8m high). Experiences: - Bike atop the walls for old-new city contrasts. - Friday/Saturday light shows with music fountains. - Workshops on Datong knotting, Guangling paper-cutting, or Hunyuan cold jelly-making. 3. Unmissable Experiences 1. **Northern Wei Cultural Deep Dive** Itinerary: - Yungang Grottoes → Northern Wei Mingtang Ruins Park (holograms revive imperial rituals) → Datong Museum (Xianbei artifacts) → Sima Jinlong Tomb exhibits (lacquer screens revealing elite Hu-Han fusion). 2. **Frontier Adventures: Great Wall & Forts** Sites: - Desheng Fort: Ming-era gateway with "gate-opening" reenactments. - Shoukou Fort: Great Wall meets Sanggan River—spring apricot blossoms or autumn vineyards. - Li’erkou Great Wall: The "First Bend" due to terrain shifts. Activities: - Hanfu-clad photoshoots as border soldiers or traders. - 5km hike along Ming brickwork. 3. **Noodle Paradise Food Crawl** Must-Eats: - Datong Knife-Cut Noodles: Hand-shaved, chewy strips with pork/ lamb broth, eggs, tofu. - Hunyuan Cold Jelly: Slippery potato starch noodles with spicy toppings. - Guangling Millet Porridge: Thick, fragrant yellow gruel. - Huanggao (Sticky Rice Cake): Steamed millet cake with savory or sweet fillings. - Minbagu: Corn-flour noodles pressed into boiling water, served with lamb sauce. Food Streets: - Fenglin Ge: Century-old "Hundred-Flower Shaomai" (dumplings). - Lao Chai Knife-Cut Noodles: Local favorite (¥10/bowl). - Drum Tower East Street: "Kaige Restaurant" for Datong specialties. 4. Practical Tips Best Time: - Year-round: Spring apricots, summer escapes, autumn Great Wall, winter noodles. - Culture buffs: May-June (Yungang Festival) or Sept-Oct (Ancient Lantern Festival). Transport: - Flights: Datong Yunqiang Airport to Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou. - Trains: Datong South Station (2hrs to Beijing by HSR). - Buses/Taxis: Cheap and efficient within the city. Hotels: - Luxury: Datong Yunqiang Jianguo Hotel (near Huayan Temple, ¥600-1,200/night). - Mid-range: Datong Weidu Int’l Hotel (near Drum Tower, ¥300-600). - Budget: Datong Int’l Youth Hostel (≈¥50-100/bed). Etiquette: - Dry climate: Pack moisturizer and layers. - Temple rules: No touching statues, quiet voices, remove hats indoors. - Eco-rules: No littering at heritage sites (fines apply). - Bargaining: 20% discounts common in markets. Epilogue Datong’s beauty lies in Yungang’s eternal smiles, the Hanging Temple’s gravity-defying drama, Huayan’s divine sculptures, and the steam rising from knife-cut noodles. Here, Northern Wei grandeur meets frontier resilience, coal-dusted history shakes hands with green energy, offering every traveler—history nerds, architecture geeks, foodies, or adventurers—a multidimensional chapter of China’s story. *Tips: Visit Yungang at dawn/dusk to avoid crowds; Hanging Temple’s walkways may unsettle acrophobes!*

Plog｜Datong Summer Retreat, Travel Through Time to Discover the Stunning Charm of the Ancient City🏛️ Taking a break from my busy schedule, I headed to Datong for a summer getaway. With temperatures in Shanghai and Hangzhou soaring to 40°C, I was desperate to find a cool place to escape🫠. I didn’t do much detailed planning before the trip, just wanted to go with the flow. 🤩 But who would’ve thought that Datong would completely blow me away, shattering all my stereotypes about tourist cities! I highly recommend visiting here during summer vacation~ 🖼️ Pic 1️⃣, 4️⃣, 5️⃣ 🏯 Yanhua Temple: The murals here are a must-see and absolutely stunning—perfect for photos! I strongly suggest wearing white clothes to complement the vibrant colors of the murals for picture-perfect results. Yanhua Temple is also one of the filming locations for the game "Black Myth: Wukong," and the Great Buddha Hall is the highlight, with every detail telling a thousand-year-old story. 🗿 Pic 3️⃣, 6️⃣ - 8️⃣ 🪔 Yungang Grottoes: I high-fived the clapping Buddha🙌! I made a wish, and it felt like the Buddha was saying, "It’s a done deal." I spent the whole time looking up at these magnificent statues—great for the neck, by the way😂. The sheer scale and grandeur of these carvings are breathtaking; photos can’t capture even a tenth of their awe. You have to see them in person to truly feel the spiritual impact. 🏯 Pic 9️⃣ 🛕 Hanging Temple: The word "awe-inspiring" doesn’t even begin to cover it! My mind was flooded with questions: How was such a precarious structure built? Why did ancient people choose this spot? You could hear people around me exclaiming in amazement🤣. For the climbing ticket, I recommend going in the afternoon—by 5 PM, the crowd thins out, so there’s hardly any queue, and you can take photos freely without rushing. 🏛️ Pic 10 🎨 Art Museum: The architecture is uniquely artistic. The exhibitions aren’t extensive, but if you have spare time and nothing else planned, it’s worth a visit. It’s right next to the museum in Pics 12 and 18, but the museum gets super crowded, so be sure to book in advance or you might miss out. 🥟 Other tips: Don’t miss Datong’s shaomai (steamed dumplings)—they’re delicious! Though I couldn’t quite get used to the sea buckthorn juice😂. The hotels here are unexpectedly luxurious, almost on par with those high-end Japanese hotels that cost a fortune per night. Also, check out Dongnanyi at night—it’s lively and totally worth exploring! It’s been a while since I’ve seen such a well-planned commercial district. Datong is full of surprises at every turn!