[2025 Datong Attraction] Travel Guide for Huayan Monastery (Updated Jul)

Datong has been popular for a year because of Black Wukong, but it is also because of its profound historical heritage that it can catch this wave of traffic~ This city is very suitable for calming down and strolling slowly. I have compiled a 2-day and 1-night urban tourist route. Just follow this~- ♾️「Route Suggestions」 DAY1️⃣: Yungang Grottoes➠Datong City Museum➠Datong Ancient City Wall DAY2️⃣ (Ancient City Citywalk): Huayan Temple➠Bell Tower➠Sipailou➠Drum Tower➠Shanhua Temple➠Fuwen Temple➠Dijun Temple➠Guandi Temple➠Taiping Tower➠Fahua Temple - 🔆「Route Highlights and Features」 1️⃣ Yungang Grottoes 💰120 A world cultural heritage and one of the four major grottoes in China, there are many tourists, so go early. If you are interested in statue culture, it is strongly recommended to ask a tour guide for explanation, or make a plan in advance! Otherwise it's just a cursory look. 2️⃣Datong City Museum Free, reservation required The collections in Datong City Museum display many ethnic items, especially items from the Northern Wei, Liao, Jin and Yuan dynasties, which are worth seeing! The original Huayan Temple Chiwen is on display in the museum 3️⃣ Ancient City Wall Entrance from the West Gate and North Gate is free, and the East Gate and South Gate charge 💰10/person to climb the city wall Datong Ancient City Wall is well preserved, and it looks very beautiful when lit up in the evening, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the ancient city~ 4️⃣Huayan Temple 💰50 Huayan Temple is a relatively well-preserved Liao and Jin temple complex. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, but the murals, architectural structures, and Buddha statues are of great research value. The more famous ones are the Chiwen in the Main Hall, the double pavilion-style wall collection, the "Oriental Venus" Bodhisattva statue, the murals... 5️⃣ Shanhua Temple It is also a temple building from the Liao and Jin Dynasties, with the four heavenly kings becoming popular among the black monkeys. 6️⃣ Four Archways The landmark in the center of the ancient city, facing the four directions of east, west, south and north, very distinctive 7️⃣ Nine Dragon Wall One of the largest existing Nine Dragon Walls in China, built in the Ming Dynasty, ordinary mobile phones cannot take a full picture at 1x 8️⃣ Fahua Temple Close to the east gate of the city wall, built in the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty, there is a glazed Lama Tower inside, the red wall and white tower are very beautiful! - 🍜「Food and Beverage」 Datong also has a lot of carbohydrates, and must-eats include knife-cut noodles, mutton offal noodles, Shunyi jelly, fried pancakes, etc. - 🚌「Transportation」 You can take bus No. 3 to Yungang Grottoes. Most of the places can be reached by bus. It is recommended to walk in the ancient city. It is also convenient to take a taxi when you are tired.

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! 👣✨

Datong is a great weekend getaway destination for people from Beijing, Tianjin, and the surrounding areas. This time, taking advantage of the workday plus the off-season double buff, the experience concludes: Datong is worth a special trip! 🎈 Yungang Grottoes: Recommendation Rating⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The murals and Buddha statues of the four major grottoes are unparalleled, and a thousand-year dialogue makes the trip worthwhile. Special reminders: 1. The grottoes open at 9 am, don't go too early or you'll freeze! It's still quite cold in the morning now. 2. Tickets are 100, half-price for students at 50, make sure to bring your student ID. 3. The museum is not open. 4. Yungang Grottoes mini-program, search will redirect to Lijiang guide, which automatically explains based on your geographical location. 5. Generally, photography inside the caves is not allowed. 🎈 Huayan Temple: Recommendation Rating⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tickets are 35. A thousand-year-old temple, the moment you step into the Mahavira Hall, you will definitely feel that the trip was worth it. You can climb to the top of the Huayan Pagoda! The underground palace contains relics, and the history of the Tripitaka is the oldest! 🎈 Shanhua Temple: Recommendation Rating⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An ancient architectural complex with a hundred years of history, the Tang Dynasty style will refresh your senses, as if the heyday of the Tang Dynasty was just yesterday. 🎈 Ancient City Wall⭐️⭐️⭐️ Following the principle of 'since we're here, let's do it', if you have enough energy, go up and take a look. The sightseeing car is not necessary. 🎈 Nine Dragon Screen⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Old stuff, very big! Free! 🎈 Fahua Temple⭐️⭐️⭐️ Free! The front is beautiful, the inside is new, come out in 5 minutes. 🚞 Itinerary: Day1, Yungang Grottoes — Huayan Temple — Lunch (Zini 369) — Shanhua Temple — Ancient City Wall — Nine Dragon Screen — Fahua Temple — China Sculpture Museum — Dinner at Longjuxiang Day2, Follow a one-day group tour, Hanging Temple — Hengshan — Yingxian Wooden Pagoda — Datong City Area — Dinner at Xijindao 🌳 Some suggestions: 1. Datong is really worth a detailed visit, if you have enough time you can go to a few more attractions. 2. The overall cost of living in Datong is low, and the local customs are simple. The phenomenon of overcharging tourists should not be too serious. In particular, jaywalking is a serious issue in Datong, so pay attention to traffic safety. 3. Besides the Yungang Grottoes, I highly recommend Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple, and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda! They are truly ancient buildings that have stood for a thousand years, friends, what else can you say but 'impressive'? 4. The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda I visited with a group included a guide, and I think this is the attraction that most deserves a guided tour! If you go there on your own, be sure to hire one, because the guide will explain in great detail and make you feel passionate and slightly regretful. 5. For Hengshan, take the bus to the mid-mountain and then climb up. It takes one hour to climb up and 40 minutes to come down. To be honest, the scenery is just average. 6. Personally, I feel that the 100 ticket for the Hanging Temple is a bit expensive, and going up just means being pushed around by the crowd. 🌳 Shanxi may not have a high profile, but it is truly worth a visit. You will feel the charm of ancient Chinese architecture, and it will definitely leave you with lasting memories!

When it comes to Shanxi Datong, many people know that the coal industry is very developed. In fact, this city is also the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty, and it is also the capital of the Liao and Jin Dynasties. The long history of building a city has left Datong with a lot of cultural and architectural heritage, and Huayan Temple is one of them. Huayan Temple was built in 1038 AD, which is the northern emperor-Liaozhongxi seven years. In the early days, it was the royal ancestral temple of the Liao Kingdom. It was not open to ordinary people. Because you are the royal ancestral temple, the architectural community of Huayan Temple is laid out and constructed according to the specifications of the palace. The temple is from west to east, and more than 30 buildings are arranged on the two main lines of the south and the north. Standing on a high point, the panoramic view of the temple is quite a bit like the Beijing Forbidden City. Because it was a Buddhist temple built during the Liao Dynasty, the Buddha statues in the temple reflect the aesthetics of the time. Compared with the thin winds of the Northern Wei Dynasty, the Buddha statues carved in the Liao Dynasty were partial and strong. Huayan Temple is the best-preserved Liaojin temple complex in China. It was destroyed in various periods due to war and other reasons. It has undergone several re-constructions and has its current appearance. Many dynasties in China have changed, and you sing me to the stage, and finally the East-West fusion, East and North culture. Looking at China, there are countless ancient temples, but there are not many historical scales close to Huayan Temple.

Listening to Zen Buddhism, Zen tea, this is the bliss of life.

This temple is located in the ancient city of Datong. It was originally built in 1038 AD, which is the seven years of Liaozhongxi. After that, it was unfortunately destroyed in the war. Although the war destroyed the "recorders" of many civilizations, the foundation still exists. In 1140, because of the need to rebuild Buddhism, Huayan Temple was reborn. There are more than 30 buildings in Huayan Temple. The synchronous is distributed on the two main axes of the north and the south. It has a unique layout style and gives visitors a sacred and steady impression. The whole temple has these main tourist attractions: First, the Shanghuayan Temple consists of the Daxiong Hall, the Shanmen, the Temple, the Guanyin Pavilion, the Tibetan Pavilion and the hatchback; second, the Huayan Temple is The Bojiajia Tibetan Temple is the center, and it is composed of the surrounding Liao Dynasty statues, Shijing Building, pavilion-style Tibetan cabinets and Tiangong Pavilion. Third, the Huayan Pagoda is made of 100 tons of pure copper. Because it is a monastery, it must be inseparable from the Buddha. Therefore, the tower contains a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, Guanyin Bodhisattva, and Jiaozuo Bodhisattva carved with centuries-old incense sandalwood. It is a treasure of Huayan Temple.

Religion seems to always have the effect of healing people's hearts. It will iron up your impetuousness and anxiety, together with your unattainable expectations, to make you calm and tolerant, and let you stand on the ground and be down to earth. I walked through temples in many places, in the north of the south, and in foreign countries. I was disappointed and even got something, but this time Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple gave me a lot of surprises. Huayan Temple was built in the Liao Dynasty, and was destroyed in the war. The Jin Dynasty was rebuilt. In the middle of the Ming Dynasty, Huayan Temple was divided into Shanghuayan Temple and Xiahuayan Temple, each of which opened its own gates and formed its own pattern before recombining. The main temples of the entire temple are all facing the east, which is related to the religious beliefs and living customs of the Qidan people who worship the sun and the east. There are three main places in the temple that surprise me.

Nowadays, the temple of Huayan Temple is magnificent and magnificent. Although the upper and lower two temples are connected together, they are still centered on one main hall. Shangsi is mainly composed of Jinjian Daxiong Hall. It is divided into two courtyards, including Shanmen, Puguangming Hall, Passing Hall, Guanyin Pavilion, Wenshu Pavilion and the hatchback. The layout is strict, high and low, and orderly. The lower temple is built on the central axis of the Bojiajian Tibetan Temple, Huayan Square Tower and Guanyin Temple. It is simple and leisurely. The nearly 500-square-meter Qianfodi Palace under the Huayan Tower is made of 100 tons of pure copper. It is a model of high-rise relics and thousands of Buddha statues. It is a perfect example of the perfect combination of tradition and reality. Standing on the top floor of the pagoda, you can overlook the entire Huayan Temple.

Huayan Temple is located in the southwest of Datong Ancient City. It was built in the 7th year of Liaozhongxi (AD 1038) and was named after the Buddhist classic Huayan Jing. The temple sits west to the east, and more than 30 single buildings such as Shanmen, Puguangming Hall, Daxiong Hall, Bojiajia Tibetan Temple, and Huayan Pagoda are arranged on the two main axes of the north and the south. The layout is rigorous and the scale is grand. It is the earliest in China. Preserving a complete Liaojin Temple complex

Today's Huayan Temple was rebuilt on the original site according to Mr. Liang Sicheng's notes and manuscripts. Liang Sicheng discovered a Song version of "Building French", which introduced the ancient Chinese architecture and construction methods. In order to penetrate this ancient book, Liang Sicheng portable Lin Huiyin and Mo Zongjiang came to Datong by train and starry night to inspect the building. The first stop is Huayan Temple.

Days of travel: 1 day Per capita consumption: - With whom: - Travel method: Self-driving Day 1 This is a long travel, it is recommended to read under wifi, local tyrants! Copyright Notice The copyright of this travel document and all pictures and video works belongs to the author of the article, Rain God Hades. Without the authorization of the person, no individual or organization may copy or reproduce the contents of this article, and I will pursue his legal responsibility. If you need to publish or use it for other commercial purposes, please contact the author to discuss the authorization. Huayan Temple is located in the ancient city center in the center of Datong City. The location of the temple is basically the center of Datong City, which shows the special significance of this ancient temple to the city. Today it is also the largest ancient temple in Datong. Huayan Temple was first built in the Liao Dynasty. At that time, the area under construction was already very large. Later, this great temple was once subjected to war, and it was repeated several times. . After each Nirvana, this ancient temple grew by a point, so that the more it was rebuilt, the larger the area. Later, the temple was too big and it was too big to manage. Then Huayan Temple was divided into two, one was called Huayan Temple, and the other was called Huayan Temple.

Huayan Temple is located in the ancient city center in the center of Datong City. The location of the temple is basically the center of Datong City, which shows the special significance of this ancient temple to the city. Today it is also the largest ancient temple in Datong.

Datong Huayan Temple is a temple full of royal aristocratic atmosphere. It overlooks from a height, its magnificent scale and beaded red facade, much like the Forbidden City in Beijing. Huayan Temple was built by the Liao Kingdom Royal Family in 1038, and the name of the temple was taken from the Buddhist classic "Hua Yan Jing". In the ancient times, the Northern War continued, Huayan Temple was once destroyed. In 1140, that is, Jin Tianyu three years, Huayan Temple experienced reconstruction. In the subsequent Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, Huayan Temple was repaired. However, due to the war, the scale of the Huayan Temple after the restoration was not as good as the initial construction. In 2008, Huayan Temple experienced the last revision and completely restored the grandeur of the Liao period. Huayan Temple sits west to east, and more than 30 buildings including Shanmen, Zangzhen Building, Square Wooden Pagoda and various halls are arranged on the north-south main axis, with strict layout. Among them, the Daxiong Hall is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Liao and Jin Dynasties, with an area of 1,559 square meters. Because the hall is constructed with a reduced column structure, the interior space is extremely open, and dozens of Qing Dynasty giant murals remaining in the four walls are solemn. Lost beauty. Small Raiders: Datong Railway Station and Long-distance Bus Station have cars arriving at Huayan Temple. Self-driving can directly locate Datong Huayan Temple. It is worth noting that the opening hours of Huayan Temple in summer and winter are different, and the opening hours in summer are 8

Overlooking Huayan Temple Square | Antique Street is called "Xiasipo Street", also known as "Shelly Square". It is called "Xiasipo Street" in Ming and Qing Dynasties. Beiwei and Liaojin have always been called "Shelley Square".

Once, more than one tourist said to me with confusion: "Shanxi is so rustic!" I would always smile knowingly and respond frankly: "Yes, Shanxi is indeed 'earthy'." But this "earthiness" is far from the superficial notion of backwardness or monotony. It is a living fossil in phonology, preserving ancient pronunciations and carrying the weight of classical Chinese phonetics. Every syllable can pierce through time, telling ancient tales. In southern Shanxi, it's the yellow soil from the hills, indispensable for making "chaoqi" (a local snack). When tossed in a wok with dough, it imparts a unique flavor—one bite, and that unpretentious essence explodes in your mouth, transporting you instantly to the agrarian life of a thousand years ago. This "earthiness" is also a warm embrace. In the past, the bitter winters of fourteen provinces were warmed by Shanxi's coal. Cartloads of raw coal, carrying the warmth of Shanxi's land, traveled across the nation, burning fiercely in furnaces to drive away the cold, becoming a lifeline for countless families in winter—a selfless gift from Shanxi's soil to all. Shanxi's earth is also the embodiment of homesickness for wanderers. Under the Great Pagoda Tree of Hongtong, countless people once bid farewell to their homeland. During the great migration of the Ming Dynasty, multitudes set out from here to 48,000 unfamiliar destinations. That ancient pagoda tree witnessed tears of parting and carries endless longing. Today, it has become a sacred site for tracing roots—every speck of dust stirred beneath its branches may hold the footprints of an ancestor, evoking descendants' nostalgia for their homeland. When the wind howls through Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple, Guangji Temple, Foguang Temple, Yongle Palace, Jinci Temple, Hanging Temple, Wutai Mountain, and the Yungang Grottoes... these ancient architectural marvels, gleaming with historical brilliance, send incense-laden dust swirling into the air. This dust is a witness to millennia of history—it has seen countless devotees bow in reverence, witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, and every particle is steeped in profound cultural heritage, recording stories sealed by time. From the era of Emperor Yan onward, this land has been shaped by the wheels of history. The wind, carrying dust, has blown since the times of Yao, Shun, and Yu, through the Spring and Autumn period when Duke Wen of Jin dominated, witnessed the rise and fusion of the Northern Wei, surged through the golden ages of the Tang, Liao, and Jin dynasties, and flowed onward through the transformations of the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing. It is the heroic dust kicked up by iron cavalry, the vicissitudes of dynasties—every swirl of dust is a chapter of epic history. Is Shanxi "earthy"? Absolutely. But Shanxi's earthiness is because this was the earliest place called "China"! It is one of the birthplaces of Huaxia civilization, the very root of the Chinese nation. I excitedly told friends: "Did you know? Shanxi is trending now!" They teased with stereotypes: "Is it because it's cold and they need coal again?" I just smiled, and they laughed too. But we all knew—this time, Shanxi's "trending" is truly different. Today, Shanxi is no longer just a resource-rich province known for coal. The winds of cultural tourism are sweeping every corner of this land. Once-overlooked historical and cultural treasures are shaking off the dust of time and shining anew. The ancient city of Pingyao, a perfectly preserved relic of the Ming and Qing dynasties, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing global visitors. Strolling its cobblestone streets and touching its ancient walls, you can almost hear the laughter of Jin merchants from centuries past and see the bustling prosperity of those times. The Yungang Grottoes, with their exquisite Buddha statues, showcase the pinnacle of Buddhist art from the Northern Wei Dynasty with breathtaking artistry. Inside the caves, the serene and compassionate faces of the Buddhas, carved with fluid and delicate lines, leave one in awe of the ancient craftsmen's divine skill. Wutai Mountain, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, gathers temples representing a millennium of devotion. Amidst morning bells and evening drums, with Buddhist chants lingering in the air, countless pilgrims come seeking spiritual solace. Beyond its religious significance, Wutai Mountain's majestic natural beauty—rolling peaks, lush vegetation, and ever-changing seasonal vistas—makes it a fairyland on earth. And Jinci Temple, a scenic spot boasting diverse ancient architecture, captivates visitors with its unique styles and profound cultural depth. The colorful Song Dynasty sculptures in the Holy Mother Hall, lifelike and varied, are treasures of Chinese sculptural art. The Flying Bridge Over Fish Pond, with its cross-shaped structure, resembles a roc spreading its wings—a masterpiece of ancient Chinese bridge architecture. Then there's the Qiao Family Compound in Qi County, famed from the film "Raise the Red Lantern," alongside the Qu Family Compound, the Wang Family Compound in Lingshi, and the Santang Hall in Taigu—together forming Shanxi's courtyard folk culture. Stepping into these grand compounds, with their high walls, intricate carvings, and painted beams, every architectural detail reflects the brilliance and wisdom of Jin merchants. Exquisite brick, wood, and stone carvings, rich in symbolism and craftsmanship, narrate the legendary tales of these merchant families. In the tide of the new era, Shanxi is presenting its unique charm to the world with a fresh posture. Its profound history, stunning landscapes, and cultural riches are drawing ever more explorers. This time, Shanxi's "trending" is a cultural awakening, a historical renaissance—a golden opportunity for the world to rediscover this ancient land. When you set foot on Shanxi's soil, be sure to feel its "earthiness" with your heart, for within this "earth" lies the truest, deepest soul of the Chinese nation.

Below is a 4-day, 3-night historical and cultural trip for two free independent travelers departing from taking it slow to fully appreciate – truly a glimpse into millennia, absolutely worth visiting! Day 1: Guangzhou ➡️ ➡️ ✈️ Flight from Guangzhou to 8:20-11:05 Arrive at noon! Take a taxi directly to Jinci Temple (30 min ride). 🍽️ Lunch: Jinci Old Street · Intangible Cultural Heritage The restaurant is inside Jinci Temple. First, store luggage at the visitor center, then meet the guide after lunch. Explore Jinci Temple for about 3 hours (starting at 1:50 PM). 🚄 South to South Station, 17:37-19:35 🍽️ Dinner: You Wan Xi Day 2: ➡️ 🍳 Breakfast: Highly recommend having it at the homestay – very hearty! Morning: (book tickets 7 days in advance + expert guide, 8:30-12:30) • Snack: Xiaonantang Northern Wei Tea & Pastry (try the milk tea! Must-visit) 🍽️ Lunch: Kaige Restaurant (even half portions are generous) Afternoon: (Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple) 🍽️ Dinner: Fenglin Ge (must-tries: sweet and sour pork, steamed dumplings!!!) Day 3: Hanging Temple ➡️ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda 🍳 Homestay breakfast – eat well today! Best to hire a private car for the day – convenient and cost similar to taxis. Hanging Temple & Hengshan (book climbing tickets 7 days in advance!) Have snacks in the car for lunch. Afternoon: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (guided tour ~1 hour) Stop by Ernü Liangpi on the way – so delicious! Return to in the evening. If time allows, queue early at Xijin Dao. 🍽️ Dinner: Xijin Dao – their knife-cut noodles are amazing! Day 4: ➡️ ➡️ Guangzhou 🍳 Breakfast, pack, then head to the train station. 🚄 South to South 🍽️ Lunch: Qianmen Hot Pot (Jinci Road branch) Must-try mutton hot pot – too expensive in Guangzhou! Close to the museum, visit after lunch. Museum guided tour (13:30-17:30) Then proceed to for return flight to Guangzhou. ✈️ 19:55-22:40 🏨 Accommodation: Laochenggen Courtyard Homestay (Daiwangfu branch) Fantastic! Clean rooms with daily housekeeping. Easy to find yet quiet, with convenient taxi access. The host is generous and friendly! Great room views, quality bathroom amenities, and varied, hearty breakfasts daily – truly satisfying!

| Challenge to Travel Out Every Week: Datong Second Visit Full Record. Datong is truly a treasure city worth visiting again and again! This is my second time here. The first visit was in early April last year for two days, and I knew I had to return when I left. Finally succeeded in making another solo trip! 📝First Trip Itinerary (2-day schedule) ✅Day 1 Route: Huayan Temple ➡️ Datong Museum ➡️ Yungang Grottoes 🚄 Transport: Took high-speed train from Beijing North Station to Datong South Station (about 2 hours), same route for return. 🔹 Huayan Temple: One of China's earliest and best-preserved Liao and Jin dynasty temple complexes, ticket 50 RMB. Joined a group tour at the entrance, 15 RMB per person for 10 people, very cost-effective～ 🔹 Zini 369: Visited this popular restaurant. Not quite used to the taste of sand onions, but the cold noodles were good. Bought some sea buckthorn bread on the way, chilled and delicious～ 🔹 Datong Museum: Free entry. Rode a shared bike there after lunch. Free guided tours available, inquire at the lobby on the first floor. After the museum, biked to the hotel to check in, then explored the ancient city by bike in the evening～ 🔹 Yungang Grottoes: Ticket 120 RMB, took Bus No. 3 to the terminal. It was off-season with few visitors, booked a guide on Taobao (just for me, amazing experience!). Took a 10 RMB electric cart back, then a private car to Datong South Station (not recommended for solo travelers)～ 📝Second Trip Itinerary (One-day intensive tour) ✅Day 2 Route: Hanging Temple ➡️ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (perfect weather with comic-like clouds☁️) 🚄 Transport: Took 08:20 high-speed train from Beijing North Station to Datong South Station, returned on 20:08 train. 🔹 Hanging Temple: Entrance ticket 15 RMB, climbing ticket 100 RMB. Took Bus 901-1 from Datong South Station to Hengshan Tourist Center (inform the driver in advance), about 1.5 hours. Those who didn’t get climbing tickets online can buy on-site, afternoon tickets released at noon～Took a shuttle from the tourist center to the temple (10 minutes, 20 RMB round trip). Queued for over an hour to climb, spent about half an hour up there—not for the acrophobic! 🔹 Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: Ticket 50 RMB. Took the shuttle back to the tourist center at 3 PM. The direct bus to the pagoda had stopped (last bus around 1 PM), so took a taxi (shared ride 30 RMB). The moment I entered the scenic area, I knew the day was worth it! 🚌 Return: Rode a shared e-bike from the pagoda to Yingxian Bus Station, took a 5 RMB bus to Yingxian West Station (about 20 minutes). Then high-speed train to Datong South Station in 22 minutes, ending a delightful day～ 💡Tips: Shared bikes are very convenient in Datong. Check the weather before trips. For ancient architecture sites, guided tours are recommended to better understand the history and culture～Can’t wait to explore more hidden gems next time!

✅️Who would believe this is a homestay in Datong, right across from Huayan Temple. The window frames breathtaking ancient city views, with convenient transportation nearby, free parking available, and close proximity to the city walls and bus stops. The area is also dotted with charming specialty shops, supermarkets, and restaurants. ✅️The room showcases unique craftsmanship with a minimalist yet cozy decor, where every detail reflects quality. The well-organized layout creates a spacious feel. The bedding is soft, comfortable, and impeccably clean for a perfect night's sleep. ✅️The bathroom features a dry-wet separation design, complete with high-quality toiletries that emit a pleasant fragrance for a refreshing experience. The homestay also provides snacks, fruits, and a rich breakfast selection. 📍Location: Qingyuan Street, Pingcheng District, Datong 🏡Homestay: Tongshe Wabi-Sabi Beauty Stay

This trip to Shanxi Datong was nothing short of a soul-stirring cultural feast—truly worth every moment! **Stepping into** the Yungang Grottoes, I was instantly captivated by the grandeur and exquisite carvings that have stood the test of 1,500 years. The solemnity of the Buddha statues and the profound sense of history were overwhelming. Climbing up to the **Hanging Temple of Mount Heng**, I marveled at the ancient ingenuity and audacity that brought to life the saying, "A perilous tower a hundred feet high, where stars can be plucked by hand." The wooden structure, miraculously embedded into the cliffside, felt both thrilling and awe-inspiring as I walked through it. Finally, at **Huayan Temple**, I was immersed in the majestic atmosphere of this Liao and Jin dynasty royal temple. The sheer scale of the Mahavira Hall and the unparalleled beauty of the "Eastern Venus" statue in the Pavilion of Buddhist Scriptures left me breathless. These three world-class treasures, each with its unique style and profound heritage, perfectly illustrate the diversity and brilliance of Chinese civilization. Datong offered not just stunning sights but also an indelible imprint of millennia-old culture on my heart.

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.🏮🗿

Finally checked off Huayan Temple from my list! As soon as I stepped into the Mahavira Hall and looked up at the massive chiwen and the painted ceiling, I was instantly struck by the ancient charm spanning a thousand years. The 'Heavenly Palace Pavilion' in the Pavilion of Buddhist Scriptures is so exquisite it feels like a fairytale, and the smiling Bodhisattva with clasped hands is incredibly soothing, radiating a timeless gentleness. From the top floor of the Huayan Pagoda, you can overlook Datong city, where the gray bricks and tiles intertwine with the bustling streets, creating a collision of historical depth and lively modernity. Truly worth the visit! ✨ Highly recommend going around 4 PM when the crowd is sparse. Remember to purchase tickets in advance through the official WeChat account. The site clears out around 6 PM, giving you two hours to explore and take photos at your leisure.

Review of a 2-day, 1-night trip to Datong from Beijing! A relaxing, no-rush, no-frills trip is also possible! This trip is not a military-style, everyone~ It's a relaxing, relaxing trip, suitable for office workers who want to escape the city on the weekend. Destination: Datong City, Shanxi Province. The old town is charming, the food is delicious, it's easy to walk around, and there are many tourist attractions. Day 1 – Take a leisurely stroll in the old town. Recommended itinerary: Huaen Temple Sanhua Temple Taiwang Palace Nine Dragon Wall Fahua Temple Yungang Palace The Old Noble House of the Taiping Taiping Tower The Great Mosque Drum Tower – Free to enter, but the stairs are steep! Walk around the old city wall at night. The south gate area has beautiful lights (10 yuan entrance fee, other areas are free) Day 2 – Visit the world-famous stone carving caves Yungang Stone Caves I recommend coming early to avoid the crowds. (It gets very crowded during school breaks) How to get there: Express train: Beijing North → Datong South (08:22–10:06) Once you arrive, take a taxi to have lunch at 紫泥369 If you arrive before 11:00, you won’t have to wait in line~ You can also book a seat with a great view (private room, amazing view, great service!) For food, Datong is the answer! Those who love flour and noodles will scream because it’s a heaven of “carbs!” Recommended: 紫泥369 Feng Liang Kai Heng Brewery (book in advance/book via WeChat) Luo Xiang Cutlet / Bi-Fold Cutlet / Dong Xiang Cutlet — Every shop has excellent knife-cut noodles! Lucky Cup – Sandthorn flavored tea/juice is very refreshing Pro-style eating tips: You have to go before the shop opens so you don’t have to wait in line. If you go late = definitely disappointed waiting in line~ But if you really miss it, just have the cleaver noodles. Every meal is delicious! Summary: Datong is a lovely city, easy to walk around, easy to travel around, perfect for a weekend getaway. You don’t need to rent a car to travel around. The food is good, the places to visit are packed, and the photos are beautiful! #Datong #TravelChina #Shanxi #ReviewChina #ChillTravelChina #NatureAndCultureTrails #WorkingPeopleCanTravel

🌟【Location and Transportation】✨ The hotel is located in Datong Ancient City, facing Huayan Temple, only 311m from Huayan Pagoda, and very close to Jiulongbi and Shanhua Temple. The surrounding transportation is convenient, whether you take a taxi or drive by yourself. The hotel also provides free parking. 🏠【Hotel Facilities and Environment】🎈 The hotel is designed in the style of an ancient courtyard, which is elegant and grand. It has a huge viewing platform where you can directly enjoy the beautiful scenery of Huayan Temple. The rooms are clean and hygienic, the bedding is comfortable, and they are also equipped with an intelligent guest control system, intelligent toilet, Dyson hair dryer and other facilities, and the details show the intentions. 😀【Service Experience】👍 The hotel staff are warm and thoughtful, and are always responsive. They will help carry luggage and allow late check-out. In addition, there are washing machines and dryers on the floors for guests to use. 🍜【Dining】🍳 The hotel provides free breakfast, including grains, rice porridge, toast, fruit, etc., which are rich in variety, and you can enjoy it while admiring the beautiful scenery. At the same time, there are many snack streets around, with a wide variety of food, making dining very convenient. 📸【Photo Opportunities】📷 The design of the hotel is full of oriental aesthetics. Whether it is the floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby, the quaint courtyard, or the view of Huayan Temple outside the window, they are all excellent photo backgrounds, and you can take great photos with a casual shot. ⚠️【Small Disadvantages】🙅 There is a jade and antique city next to the hotel. Vendors will set up stalls for trading very early in the morning, which may affect some guests who want to sleep in. Overall, Yunding Yashe Hotel (Datong Ancient City Huayan Temple Branch) is a very cost-effective hotel, suitable for couples, families and tourists who like ancient culture.

Huayan Temple (Entrance fee: ¥50) covers a vast area, but due to multiple wars throughout history, only two main halls remain as original structures from the Liao and Jin periods. Historically, the temple was divided into Upper and Lower Temples, each with its own gate, but they have since been merged into one. The Daxiong Baodian Hall in the Upper Temple was rebuilt during the Jin dynasty, retaining the architectural style of the Liao dynasty. It is the largest ancient Buddhist hall still standing in mainland China. The hall features three doors, including the oldest surviving "pot doors." The Buddha statues on the altar were sculpted during the Ming dynasty, while the ornate ceiling was added during the same period. The surrounding murals were painted during the Qing dynasty. The Bojia Jiaozang Hall in the Lower Temple is an original structure from the Liao dynasty. Its statues and architectural design are distinctly different from those of later periods. The Liao dynasty sculptures are characterized by their dignified and rounded forms. Inside the hall, there is a famous "Palms Together with Teeth Revealed" Bodhisattva statue, which has a graceful posture and a gentle smile. The walls of the hall feature intricately arranged two-tiered wooden pavilion-style scripture cabinets. While the other halls and the Huayan Pagoda are modern reconstructions, they were built based on the architectural styles of the Liao and Jin periods. The Huayan Pagoda is the second tallest pure wooden structure in China, after the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. Its underground chamber houses relics of high-ranking monks, and visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda to enjoy a panoramic view of the ancient city. One of my travel companions mentioned that visiting the temple inspired them to learn more about Buddhist history.

🗺️🗺️ [Itinerary] Day 1:Cordis Shanghai Hongqiao Day 2:Tomb of King Sulu-Dezhou Museum-Dongzi Garden Scenic Area Day 3:Badaling Great Wall-The Summer Palace-CCTV Headquarters Building Day 4:The Palace Museum-Jingshan Park-Tiananmen Square-National Museum of China-The Temple of Heaven Park Day 5:Livefortuna Hotel-The Ming Tombs-Beijing Olympic Park-Wangfujing Day 6:Yungang Grottoes-Huayan Monastery-Datong Ancient City Wall Day 7:JI Hotel (Datong South Railway Station)-Xuankong Temple-Datong Ancient City Day 8:Xi'an Bell Tower-Xi'an City Wall Day 9:Mount Hua Beifeng Cableway-Mount Hua-Daming Palace National Heritage Park Day 10:Sheraton Xi'an North City Hotel(Longshouyuan Subway Station Store)-Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum-Big Wild Goose Pagoda-Grand Tang Mall Day 11:Nanjing South Railway Station Man Xin Hotel-Niu Shou Shan-Nanjing City Wall-Confucius Temple-The Qinhuai River Scenic Belt Day 12:Top of Shanghai Observatory-Huangpu River Cruise(Shiliupu Pier)-Shanghai Maglev Train Day 13: 📍📍 [Must-Visit Attractions] 1.Tomb of King Sulu 2.Dezhou Museum 3.Dongzi Garden Scenic Area 4.Badaling Great Wall 5.The Summer Palace 6.CCTV Headquarters Building 7.The Palace Museum 8.Jingshan Park 9.Tiananmen Square 10.National Museum of China 11.The Temple of Heaven Park 12.The Ming Tombs 13.Beijing Olympic Park 14.Wangfujing 15.Yungang Grottoes 16.Huayan Monastery 17.Datong Ancient City Wall 18.Xuankong Temple 19.Datong Ancient City 20.Xi'an Bell Tower 21.Xi'an City Wall 22.Mount Hua Beifeng Cableway 23.Mount Hua 24.Daming Palace National Heritage Park 25.Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum 26.Big Wild Goose Pagoda 27.Grand Tang Mall 28.Niu Shou Shan 29.Nanjing City Wall 30.Confucius Temple-The Qinhuai River Scenic Belt 31.Top of Shanghai Observatory 32.Huangpu River Cruise(Shiliupu Pier) 33.Shanghai Maglev Train 🥘🥘 [Must-Try Food] 🏠🏠 [Accommodation ] 1.Cordis Shanghai Hongqiao 2.Livefortuna Hotel 3.JI Hotel (Datong South Railway Station) 4.Sheraton Xi'an North City Hotel(Longshouyuan Subway Station Store) 5.Nanjing South Railway Station Man Xin Hotel 📷📷 [Photo Spots] 📣📣 [Tips]

[Trip Highlights] ✅ Gaze upon the thousand-year-old Buddha in Cave 20 at Yungang Grottoes ✅ Experience the thrilling heights of the Hanging Temple ✅ Admire the imperial aesthetics of Liao-Jin Dynasty colored sculptures at Huayan Temple ✅ Witness the dialogue between past and present under the sunset at the ancient city wall 📍 Yungang Grottoes (Entrance fee: CNY 120) When morning light illuminates the golden kasaya of the outdoor Buddha in Cave 20, you'll witness the peak of Buddhist art from the Northern Wei Dynasty. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds and quietly appreciate the magnificent "Five Caves of Tan Yao." Pay special attention to the bas-reliefs depicting Sakyamuni's enlightenment in Cave 6, considered the "Comic Bible" of the 5th century. 🏯 Hanging Temple (First entrance: CNY 15, Climbing fee: CNY 100) Li Bai's inscription of "Magnificent" still remains at this 1,500-year-old wooden structure embedded in the cliff of Cuiping Peak. Tips for climbing: wear non-slip shoes and stay close to the inner side. During rainy season, the misty atmosphere creates a fairyland effect. Daily visitor numbers are limited, so book the earliest time slot. 🌇 Datong Ancient City Huayan Temple (CNY 50): The smiling Bodhisattva with clasped hands in Bhogavati Hall will change your perception of Liao Dynasty sculptures Shanhua Temple (Free): Best-preserved Liao-Jin architecture complex, perfect for hanfu photos in front of the Five Dragon Screen City Wall (Free): Best sunset views from Yongtai Gate at South Gate, better experienced by bicycle 🍜 Datong Culinary Delights (Average CNY 30 per person) • Xijin Dao: The "Hermès" of knife-cut noodles, amazing with minced meat sauce and braised tofu • Long Juxiang: Heritage shumai with yellow rice cake, careful with the juicy lamb filling • Shunyi Liangfen: Three generations of traditional chili oil recipe, fragrant but not overwhelming 🚌 Transportation Tips • 2-hour high-speed rail from Beijing to Datong South Station • Bus Route 3 directly to Yungang Grottoes • Shared car recommended for Hanging Temple (about CNY 60/person) • Shared electric bikes convenient within ancient city 📸 Photo Spots 45-degree upward angle from the left side of Cave 20 Buddha Panoramic view of architecture from second-floor plank road at Hanging Temple Sunset with chiwen roof ornaments at Huayan Temple's Main Hall Traditional inn entrance at Pipa Old Store on Ancient Street [Accommodation Recommendations] • Yungang Hotel: Walking distance to city wall • Datong Youth Hostel: Rooftop bar with starry views for backpackers 💡 Special Notes • Best visiting season: April-October • Official guide service available at Yungang Grottoes (CNY 150/group) • Hanging Temple may close temporarily during rain or snow • All public toilets in ancient city are heated! Standing on the ancient city wall, modern buildings share the skyline with thousand-year-old pagodas. This "Phoenix City" tells its story through the steam of copper hotpots: history never left - it lives in every weathered brick of the city wall and in the skilled movements of noodle makers' wrists.

Yungang Grottoes + Ancient City Stroll Must-see attractions: Yungang Grottoes - A Millennium of Buddhist Art As one of the four major grottoes in China, the Buddha statues here are exquisitely carved, especially the Sakyamuni statue in Cave 5 and the open-air Buddha in Cave 20, which are truly awe-inspiring. It is recommended to rent an audio guide or hire a tour guide to gain an in-depth understanding of the Buddhist art of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Huayan Temple + Shanhua Temple Huayan Temple is representative of Liao-Jin architecture. The Great Buddha Hall is magnificent, and the Huayan Pagoda offers a panoramic view of the ancient city. Staying at the same hostel allows you to overlook Huayan Temple, making for beautiful photos. Shanhua Temple is quieter than Huayan Temple, with well-preserved Liao Dynasty wooden structures, perfect for slow appreciation. In the evening, you can see the golden ancient city. At sunset, rent a bicycle or walk along the Datong Ancient City Wall, which is 7 km long and offers a panoramic view of the ancient city. When the lights come on at night, the city walls become even more magnificent.

Datong, the former capital of Liao and Jin, is an ancient border city. The Huayan Temple in the southwest corner of the city has been silent for a thousand years, like a calm wise man, quietly observing the rise and fall of the world. When I first entered the gate, I did not immediately feel the "pure" atmosphere, on the contrary, it was a heavy, quiet force like a mountain pressing down on my head. Huayan Temple is divided into two temples, the upper and lower temples, with a unique layout, echoing the "everything is unobstructed" cosmic view in the "Avatamsaka Sutra". The upper temple is centered on the Great Hall of the Buddha. The five Buddhas sit in the hall, and the central Vairocana Buddha looks down at all living beings, solemn and speechless, but makes people feel the shock of "being seen". The Buddha statue is huge, the sculpture is simple, but it hides unspeakable compassion and wisdom. At that moment, I couldn't move, I could only bow my head silently, feeling insignificant. Unlike the elegant temples in the south, the architecture of Datong Huayan Temple is more in the Liao Dynasty style, with thick beams and columns, steady structure, and low-key colors, like the primitive power when the world was first opened. The Buddha here is not a gentle savior, but more like a manifestation of the laws of the universe. They don't speak, but they lead you to introspection in silence. The lower temple is even quieter. The murals and colored sculptures in the lecture hall still retain the Liao and Jin styles, with strong lines and serious expressions. Walking through it, it's like stepping into an unfolded "Avatamsaka Sutra" - every wall and every statue is a footnote to "all dharmas return to one". I sat quietly in front of the Buddha statue, not chanting sutras, not thinking about the meaning, just feeling: there is calmness and tolerance in the breathing, and a kind of perfect and unmoving peace. The Huayan Sect talks about "no hindrance between principles and affairs", and I really experienced these four words here for the first time. The Buddha is not only in the high hall, but also between the beams, under the stone steps, and even in my own thoughts. Walking out of the temple gate and looking back at the grand Mahavira Hall, it is no longer a building, but like a three-dimensional "Hua Zang World Map" - endless layers, and all dharmas are harmonious. Compared to the Kungfu Qi of Shaolin, the sea and sky of Putuo, and the cloud-dhyana of Emei, the silence here is a sense of returning to the origin after "seeing the nature", not dazzling or obvious, but extremely stable. For me, Datong Huayan Temple is not a pilgrimage, but more like a "structural awareness": Who am I, and am I in a kind of mutual blending relationship with the universe like these five Buddhas? This is not a place for quiet cultivation, but a "place to know the law". #Inland Travel