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

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

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!*

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

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

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.

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

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

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

In the minds of many travellers

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

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

Autumn in Datong is the golden hue beneath the ancient city walls, the tranquility of the Yungang Grottoes, and the lingering Buddhist chants at Huayan Temple～This comprehensive guide will take you on an in-depth journey to experience the autumn beauty of Datong! 🏯 Day 1 【Morning】Yungang Grottoes 📍 Address: Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province ⏳ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 🎫 Ticket: 120 RMB 🔍 A World Cultural Heritage site! Guided tours recommended (150 RMB/session), perfect for autumn photography～ 【Noon】Fenglin Pavilion (Gulou Branch) 📍 Address: No. 46, West Gulou Street, Datong City 🕛 Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM 🥟 Must-try: Hundred Flower Shaomai! Remember to get a queue number in advance～ 【Afternoon】Huayan Temple 📍 Address: No. 459, Xiashipo Street, Datong City ⏳ Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 🎫 Ticket: 50 RMB ✨ Stunning ginkgo season in autumn! Don’t miss the colorful sculpture "Oriental Venus" 【Evening】Ancient City Wall Night View 📍 Entrance: South Gate Yongtai Gate 💡 Lighting Time: 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM 🌉 Free! Enjoy the romantic ancient city night view in the evening breeze ⛰️ Day 2 【Morning】Hanging Temple 📍 Address: Yong’an Town, Hunyuan County, Datong City ⏳ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 🎫 Ticket + Climbing: 125 RMB ⚠️ Limited visitors! Recommended to arrive before 7:30 AM, not suitable for those afraid of heights 【Noon】Hunyuan Liangfen (Cold Noodles) 💰 Per Person: 10-15 RMB 🌶️ Any stall at the scenic area entrance is delicious! Even better with roujiamo (meat sandwich) 【Afternoon】Mount Hengshan 🚡 Cable Car One Way: 70 RMB 👟 About 2 hours hiking, remember to bring water! The autumn scenery is breathtaking～ 🏡 Recommended Homestay: Yanbei Courtyard (Inside Ancient City) 📍 Address: East Gulou Street, Pingcheng District, Datong City 💰 Per Night: 200-300 RMB 🛕 Day 3 【Morning】Shanhua Temple 🎫 Ticket: Free ⏳ Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 🖼️ Liao Dynasty colored sculptures are very well preserved! Off the beaten path but worth it 【Noon】Kaige Restaurant 📍 Address: Zhenxing Street, Pingcheng District, Datong City 💰 Per Person: 40 RMB 🍗 Fengsha Chicken is legendary! Certified by locals～ 【Afternoon】Datong Museum 🎫 Free! Remember to bring your ID card ⏳ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) 🏛️ The lacquer screen is the museum’s treasure! The café on the second floor is very comfortable 【Evening】Ancient Style Street Night Market 🍜 Knife-cut noodles 10 RMB/bowl 🛍️ Souvenir recommendation: Ninghuafu Old Chen Vinegar 🌄 Day 4 【Morning】Tulin Geological Park 🎫 Ticket: 60 RMB ⏳ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 📸 Most beautiful at sunrise! Wear bright clothes for better photos 【Noon】Shuaifu Street Rabbit Head 🌶️ Spicy Rabbit Head 25 RMB each 🥤 Perfect with Taiyuan Steel Soda! 【Afternoon】Nine-Dragon Wall 🎫 Ticket: Free ⏳ Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM ✨ One of China’s three major Nine-Dragon Walls! A must-visit 💡 Practical Tips: 1️⃣ Big temperature difference in September-October, bring a light down jacket 2️⃣ Fewer visitors at Yungang from Monday to Friday 3️⃣ Apply for Shanxi health code in advance 4️⃣ Didi rides are cheaper than taxis Save this guide～Come to Datong in autumn to savor the romance of the millennium ancient capital!

Mount Heng, known as the "Northern Mountain," boasts peaks that rise like a screen, exuding an awe-inspiring grandeur. In the early hours of dawn, I ascended step by step along the stone stairs, with mist flowing beneath my feet, as if walking in a mythical realm. As the sky gradually brightened, the eastern clouds turned golden-red, and sunlight pierced through the gaps, accentuating the majestic contours of the mountain range. When the sun fully emerged from the horizon, its golden rays sliced through the sky like a blade, and Mount Heng was instantly cloaked in dazzling armor. The solemnity and grandeur of the scene evoked a deep sense of reverence, as if standing amidst the symphony of heaven and earth. The sunrise at Mount Heng is not only a magnificent masterpiece of nature but also the perfect testament to the thousand-year majesty of the Northern Mountain.

#SeptemberDestinations2025 Hengshan, the Northern Peak, exudes majestic grandeur. Its precipitous peaks and lush greenery create a breathtaking spectacle, shrouded in mist and clouds, like a magnificent landscape painting. The winding mountain paths offer breathtaking scenery at every step, inspiring awe. Hengshan is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich religious and historical heritage. The Hanging Temple, nestled against the mountain, seems to soar into the sky, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient craftsmen. Standing atop the peak, the gaze reaches out to the vast expanse of the world, broadening the mind. Hengshan's allure lies in its blend of solemnity and spirituality, allowing one to experience the intertwined power of nature and faith.

#holidayitinerary • 🌟 Top Attractions • Yungang Grottoes 云冈石窟 🪨 → UNESCO site with 50,000+ Buddha statues. • Hanging Temple 悬空寺 ⛩ → built on cliffs, marvel of architecture. • Hengshan Mountain 恒山 🏞 → one of China’s “Five Sacred Mountains.” • Datong Ancient City 大同古城 🏯 → restored city walls, gates & night views. • Nine-Dragon Screen 九龙壁 🐉 → largest glazed dragon wall in China. • Yingxian Wooden Pagoda 应县木塔 🌳 → world’s tallest wooden pagoda. #holidayitinerary #myitinerary #familytravel #china #travel #chinatravel #chinatrip

‍️💨 August 14-18, 2025 Datong Self-Driving Tour Record 🌟Day 1 Departure from Beijing: ① Datong Coal Museum (Highlight: the largest coal block), also offers an underground mine experience with separate paid reservation. ② Yungang Grottoes in Datong (World Heritage Site). [○] Suggestion: Take a taxi from the hotel to Datong Ancient City, and taxis can also be used between attractions inside the ancient city. 🏠 Stay: Haohai International Hotel. 🌟Day 2 ① Huayan Temple (Liao and Jin dynasty temple, highlight: the "Bodhisattva with palms together and teeth showing" statue in the Vajrayana hall). ② Nine-Dragon Wall (the largest glazed dragon wall in China). ③ Shanhua Temple (Highlight: the "Golden Stele" also known as the "Zhubian Stele"). Backup attractions: Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Confucian Temple, Fahua Temple, City Wall, Ancient City Night View... 🏠 Stay: Haohai International Hotel. 🌟Day 3 ① Datong City Museum. ② Datong Earth Forest (a magical geological wonder). ③ Jingtusi Temple in Ying County, park here 🅿️. Highlights: the caisson ceiling in the Mahavira Hall, and the disheveled stone lions outside the mountain gate. ④ Walk to Ying County Wooden Pagoda (one of the world's three great wooden pagodas). ⑤ Yong'an Temple in Hunyuan (exceptional Yuan dynasty murals). ⑥ Hunyuan Prefecture Office. 🏠 Stay: Hengshan International Hotel, Hunyuan. 🌟Day 4 Tour Hengshan Scenic Area: ① Navigation: Hengshan Hanging Temple Scenic Area ground parking lot entrance (arrive before 8:00 for ample parking). Take a shuttle bus about 6 km from Beiyue Hengshan Visitor Center to the Hanging Temple boarding point, enter the Hanging Temple scenic area, queue for 40 minutes to climb (ticket reserved). ② From the Hanging Temple boarding point, take the shuttle bus to Yuemen Bay (Hengshan Scenic Area entrance), take the cable car up the mountain, then walk downhill to the core temple area. At Zhenwu Temple, take the shuttle bus back to the Hanging Temple boarding point, then take the shuttle bus back to Beiyue Hengshan Visitor Center to retrieve your car. [○] Shuttle bus ticket between Hanging Temple and Hengshan is 20 RMB/person, valid for both directions; entrance tickets are purchased separately. 🏠 Stay: Datong Hunyuan Tangtou Hot Spring Wanda Jinhua Hotel (cost-effective, with hot springs). 🌟Day 5 Pingxingguan Victory Scenic Area: ① Navigation: Pingxingguan Victory Military Experience Area 🅿️ parking, walk to Pingxingguan Victory Memorial Hall, after visiting you can return to the experience area to play. ② Laoye Temple. ③ Qiaogou Viewing Platform. Return to Beijing.

【Super Detailed Travel Route】🌟🌟 Day 1️⃣: Jinci Museum 📍Address: Jinci Town, Jinyuan District, Taiyuan 🌟A millennium-old site! Experience the charm of Shanxi's earliest royal sacrificial garden～Wearing Hanfu for photos is a must!📸 Day 2️⃣: Meifan Yizhi Hotel → Yanmen Pass → Yingxian Wooden Pagoda 🏨Meifan Yizhi Hotel (Taiyuan Wuyue Plaza Branch) 📍Wuyue Plaza, South Tiyu Road, Xiaodian District, Taiyuan ✨An art hotel full of design! Every corner is a photo spot🤳 ⛰️Yanmen Pass: One of the "Nine Passes Under Heaven"! A paradise for Great Wall enthusiasts～ 🕋Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: One of the world's three great pagodas! The wooden structure is stunning! Day 3️⃣: Hanging Temple → Mount Heng 🏯Hanging Temple: A thousand-year-old temple hanging on a cliff! Not for the faint-hearted😱 ⛰️Mount Heng: One of the Five Great Mountains! The view of the sea of clouds from the summit is breathtaking～ Day 4️⃣: Huayan Temple → Datong Ancient City → Yungang Grottoes 🕍Huayan Temple: A model of Liao and Jin architecture! A perfect spot for ancient-style photography! 🏯Datong Ancient City: Feels like traveling back in time! The night view is stunning! 🗿Yungang Grottoes: A World Cultural Heritage site! The pinnacle of stone carving art! Day 5️⃣-6️⃣: Guanyun Hotel → Pingyao Home Inn → Taiyuan Atour Hotel 🏨Guanyun Hotel: High-altitude scenic rooms! Watch the sunrise while lying down🌅 🏮Pingyao Ancient City: One of China's four best-preserved ancient cities! A must-visit! Day 7️⃣: Atour Hotel → Liuxiang 🛍️Liuxiang: Taiyuan's century-old commercial street! A food lover's paradise🍜 ✨【Top 5 Must-Visit Spots】✨ 1️⃣Yungang Grottoes: The pinnacle of Chinese stone carving art! 2️⃣Jinci Museum: Three thousand years of history! Check out the Zhou cypress and Tang locust trees🌳 3️⃣Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: The world's oldest, tallest, and largest wooden pagoda! 4️⃣Hanging Temple: A wonder among wonders! Warning: may cause weak knees⚠️ 5️⃣Huayan Temple: Liao and Jin architectural aesthetics! Easily get stunning ancient-style photos√ 💡【Notes】 1. The distances between attractions are quite far; car rental or self-driving is recommended🚗 2. Strong UV rays in August! Sunscreen is a must🌞 3. Some attractions have many stairs; wear comfortable shoes👟 4. Book hotels early during peak season! Guanyun Hotel is very popular～ 5. Pingyao Ancient City is lively at night! A must-experience👀

Datong is pleasantly cool in summer, making it ideal for travel. Arriving at Datong Station, we rented a Volkswagen Lavida from Ctrip for 160 yuan per day. In the evening, we visited the Ancient City Wall. The Datong City Wall rivals the Xi'an Ancient City Wall. Located in the heart of Datong, it is a national 4A-level scenic area. In 2008, as part of Datong's efforts to preserve and revitalize its historical and cultural heritage, the eight-year restoration project of the ancient city wall was completed, achieving full enclosure. The wall is majestic and spectacular, especially at night when the lights come on, creating a mesmerizing night view. No ticket is required to climb the ancient city wall in the evening. Bicycles and electric sightseeing vehicles are available for rent, though the prices are a bit steep. We stayed overnight in Datong. The next day, we drove to the Hengshan Scenic Area, took the cable car up, and hiked down. Hengshan is famous for its long history and culture rather than outstanding natural scenery, making it suitable for hiking and exercise. After descending, we took a shuttle bus to the Hanging Temple. The admission ticket to enter the Hanging Temple costs 100 yuan and was sold out a day in advance. We could only purchase a 15-yuan entrance ticket to admire it from a distance. After spending an hour at the Hanging Temple, we drove to Ying County to visit the Millennium Wooden Pagoda. The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, also known as the Sakyamuni Pagoda of Fogong Temple, is one of the tallest and oldest surviving all-wooden pagodas in the world. Alongside Italy's Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, it is hailed as one of the "Three Great Pagodas of the World." It also served as a filming location for *Black Myth: Wukong* and is well worth a visit. Nearby, the "Zhao Da Steamed Mutton" restaurant offers delicious mutton with strong local flavors—highly recommended. On the third morning, we visited the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national 5A-level scenic area. Carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty when the capital was Pingcheng, the Yungang Grottoes, along with the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, the Maijishan Grottoes in Tianshui, and the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, are celebrated as China's "Four Great Grottoes." The Yungang Grottoes are divided into eastern, central, and western sections, with the central area being the most exquisite. A suggested visit duration is 3-4 hours.

Datong, a northern ancient city carved by time, once served as the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty and boasts world-class cultural heritage sites like the Yungang Grottoes and the Hanging Temple. Here, you’ll find not only awe-inspiring historical relics but also unforgettable local delicacies. If you're planning a high-value cultural trip, this guide will help you explore Datong to the fullest! Must-Visit Attractions in Datong 1. Yungang Grottoes (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Why visit: One of China's Four Great Grottoes, a 1,500-year-old treasure trove of Buddhist art. The giant Buddha in Cave 20 is the symbol of Datong. Recommended duration: 2-3 hours (rent an audio guide or hire a tour guide to avoid a superficial visit) Ticket: ¥120 (peak season), ¥100 (off-season) 2. Hanging Temple (at the foot of Mount Heng) Why visit: A thousand-year-old temple built on a cliff, hailed as "one of the world's most dangerous buildings." Tips: Climbing steep stairs is required to enter—not for those afraid of heights, but the views are breathtaking! Ticket: ¥125 (includes entry fee) 3. Huayan Temple (Liao and Jin Dynasty Architectural Gem) Why visit: Datong’s most exquisite ancient temple. Don’t miss the murals in the Mahavira Hall and the "Smiling Bodhisattva." Ticket: ¥50 4. Datong Ancient City Wall (Free Night View Spot) Recommended activity: Climb the wall at dusk, rent a bike (¥30/hour), and enjoy the illuminated ancient city. 5. Mount Heng (One of China’s Five Great Mountains) Best for: Hiking enthusiasts. Can be combined with a day trip to the Hanging Temple. Ticket: ¥45, cable car one-way ¥70 Must-Try Local Delicacies Datong is a paradise for noodle lovers—don’t miss these specialties! Daoxiao Noodles: Try Dongfang Xiaomian (chain store, affordable and hearty with rich broth). Yangza Ge: A warm lamb offal soup, best paired with flatbread. Laozi Hao Helao Yangza is a must-visit. Shaomai: Datong-style shaomai features thin wrappers and generous fillings. Fenglinge (a century-old restaurant) offers a charming ambiance but is slightly pricey. Huang Gao: A local staple—soft and sticky, best dipped in vegetable broth. Hunyang Liangfen: If visiting the Hanging Temple, don’t miss this refreshing, spicy cold jelly in Hunyuan County! Budget Accommodation Recommendations Datong is affordable, with decent hotels ranging from ¥150-300. Near the Ancient City: Datong Youth Hostel (great for backpackers, lively atmosphere, ¥50-80/person) Home Inn/Hanting (Ancient City branch) (chain hotels, clean and safe, around ¥200/night) Near the Train Station: Jinjiang Inn (convenient transportation, great value, ¥180-250/night) Transportation Guide Datong South Station (high-speed rail): Slightly far from downtown, taxi to the ancient city costs about ¥20. Datong Station (regular trains): Close to the city center, with convenient bus access. Getting around: Buses + taxis suffice. Taxi fares between attractions usually don’t exceed ¥30. 3-Day 2-Night Itinerary Day 1: Yungang Grottoes → Huayan Temple → Datong Ancient City Wall night view Day 2: Hanging Temple + Mount Heng day trip (join a local tour for around ¥200/person) Day 3: Shanhua Temple → Nine-Dragon Wall → Explore Gulou Street for food Travel Tips Datong has significant day-night temperature differences—bring a jacket even in summer. The Hanging Temple has visitor limits; arrive early in peak season to avoid crowds. Vinegar lovers: Try Shanxi aged vinegar—perfect for dumplings and noodles! Datong, a city where grottoes, ancient temples, and food tell its history, awaits your discovery!

On the northeastern edge of the Loess Plateau, the Sanggan River winds its way, nurturing an ancient city with a millennium of history—Datong. Once the capital of the Northern Wei, the secondary capital of the Liao and Jin dynasties, and a microcosm of Ming and Qing frontier culture, it is known as "the capital of three dynasties, a key town of two eras." Today, with its rich historical relics and unique natural scenery, it has become a must-visit place for those exploring the civilization of northern frontiers. 1. Historical Sites: A Frozen Epic of Civilization • Yungang Grottoes: As one of China's three major grottoes, royal craftsmen of the Northern Wei spent a century carving over 51,000 Buddha statues into the cliffs of Wuzhou Mountain. Among them, the giant statues in Caves 5 and 6 reach 17 meters high, with flowing robes and solemn expressions. They bear traces of Indian Gandhara art while integrating the charm of Central Plains culture, marking a milestone in the Sinicization of Buddhist art. • Ancient City Wall: The Datong city wall, rebuilt during the Ming dynasty, stretches 7.2 kilometers in circumference and stands 14 meters high. The imposing wall is built with blue bricks, and its four corner towers complement the surrounding moat beautifully. Walking atop the wall at sunset, the silhouette of the arrow towers and the distant Huayan Pagoda reflect each other, as if you can hear the ancient frontier bugle calls. • Huayan Temple: A Buddhist temple from the Liao and Jin periods, the "Palms Joined, Teeth Exposed Bodhisattva" statue in the Bhikkhu Scripture Hall breaks the traditional solemnity of Buddhist statues with its lively posture and is praised as the "Venus of the East." The temple’s Mahavira Hall is the largest surviving Liao and Jin Buddhist hall in China, with a 4.5-meter-high roof ridge ornament, showcasing the grandeur of a royal temple. 2. Landscape: The Perfect Blend of Strength and Grace in the Northern Frontier Datong’s natural scenery combines the grandeur of the north with the elegance of the south. Outside the city stands Mount Hengshan, known as the Northern Peak, famous for its steep terrain and the Hanging Temple built on cliffs. This millennium-old temple, constructed during the Northern Wei, is integrated with the cliffs, and its "strange, perilous, and ingenious" architecture is breathtaking. The poet Li Bai once inscribed the word "magnificent" here. 3. Local Flavors: Stories of Taste and Streets Strolling through Datong’s ancient city, the air is filled with a rich sense of everyday life. Knife-cut noodles are the soul of the city; dough is sliced into willow leaf shapes by the chef’s hand, boiled in hot water, then topped with tomato and egg sauce or meat sauce, chewy and flavorful. The lamb offal noodle soup is made with a rich broth from lamb bones, mixed with offal and vermicelli, sprinkled with chili and coriander—one bowl warms you against the northern chill. The ancient city’s Sipailou and the network of streets preserve Ming and Qing architectural styles, where old-brand shops and trendy cafes coexist, telling stories of the blend of past and present. From the Buddhist chants of the Northern Wei to the frontier fires of the Ming and Qing, from the chisel marks in the grottoes to the brick patterns on the city walls, Datong has distilled a unique temperament over a thousand years. It is both a history textbook and a living painting, waiting for everyone to feel its warmth and listen to its stories.

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

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

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

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

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

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