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

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!*

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! 👣✨

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.

On the inner walls of the temple, there is a vivid picture of the story, which is a fairy story of the clouds. They have different expressions and different looks, only indicating the difference in identity between costumes and headwear. The gems in the rhyme of the clouds, the two worlds fly together. Long bowed to the golden body and prayed for a lifetime. No worries, no worries, and the heart is old with Cangshan. Sitting in lotus, accepting the dignified Buddha of worship and prayer. For thousands of years, he sat quietly here, his eyes wide open, and his compassionate tenderness. For thousands of years, he silently listened to the deep desires of his followers, the unsatisfactory realities in the real world, and the secrets of his heart. Then he used his compassionate eyes to penetrate the darkness to bring dawn, and to resolve the troubles and sorrows. .

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".

🤔 Crowded summer vacations? Price hikes during National Day? 💥 September is the perfect time to visit Shanxi! Fewer crowds, stunning scenery, pleasant weather, and better value for money—September is truly the best time to explore Shanxi. - 💯 Exclusive-like tours: Stroll through Pingyao Ancient City without the crowds, and wait less than 10 minutes at Xiaoxitian. 💯 Perfect weather: Average daily temperatures of 20-25°C. Bring a light down jacket for Wutai Mountain, and single-layer clothing with a jacket for other areas. - ⭕️ 7-Day Shanxi Off-Season Itinerary: 【𝑑𝑎𝑦1▶️ Free exploration in Taiyuan】 Recommended: Jinci Museum Evening: Visit Liuxiang Commercial Street . 【𝑑𝑎𝑦2▶️ Taiyuan - Wang Family Courtyard - Hukou Waterfall - Stay in Jixian】 Wang Family Courtyard: Climb the city walls for panoramic views; red lanterns and gray brick walls make for stunning photos. Hukou Waterfall: Water flow is still abundant in September. The viewing platform on the Shaanxi side is less crowded, with better lighting in the afternoon and a higher chance of seeing rainbows. . 【𝑑𝑎𝑦3▶️ Jixian - Xiaoxitian in Xixian - Pingyao Ancient City - Stay in Pingyao】 Xiaoxitian in Xixian: Marvel at the hanging sculptures and Ming Dynasty clay statues. Turn off your phone's flash for better photos. Pingyao Ancient City: The birthplace of Shanxi merchants. Fewer crowds in the off-season. Dress up in traditional Shanxi merchant attire for picturesque photos. . 【𝑑𝑎𝑦4▶️ Pingyao - Foguang Temple - Wutai Mountain Deep Tour - Stay in Wutai Mountain】 Foguang Temple: A Tang Dynasty structure recognized by Liang Sicheng. Morning mist in September adds to its beauty. Wutai Mountain: Spend the whole day exploring. No lines for the cable car to Dailuo Peak, and you can take your time climbing the 1,080 steps. . 【𝑑𝑎𝑦5▶️ Wuye Temple - Shuxiang Temple - Hanging Temple - Stay in Datong】 Wuye Temple: No need to fight for a spot in the off-season! Arrive before 7 AM. Hanging Temple: Enjoy a less crowded experience during off-peak travel. Plenty of time to climb (advance real-name reservation required). . 【𝑑𝑎𝑦6▶️ Yungang Grottoes - Huayan Temple - Shanhua Temple - Datong Ancient City】 Yungang Grottoes: Explore 20 caves. Arrive early for a more immersive experience and no photo queues in the off-season. Datong Ancient City: Visit Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple, and the ancient city walls for a deep dive into history. . 【𝑑𝑎𝑦7▶️ Datong - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Yanmen Pass - Taiyuan】 Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: A towering wooden structure that looks even more stunning against the autumn scenery in September. Yanmen Pass: Climb the Great Wall without the scorching sun! The autumn breeze enhances the poetic atmosphere of the borderlands. - 🍁 September-Exclusive Experiences ▪ Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival in Pingyao Ancient City, starting mid-September ▪ Moon-gazing on Datong Ancient City Wall—perfect for photos in traditional Hanfu attire - Discover more off-season Shanxi travel itineraries. 📩📩 Contact me for details!

Datong, this ancient city forgotten by time, hides countless historical treasures～Just checked in this weekend, here’s a super comprehensive 2-day 1-night guide for you!👇 🗓️ Day 1 ⏰ Morning: Yungang Grottoes 🌟 World Cultural Heritage! A breathtaking treasure trove of Buddhist art🏆 ✨ Every Buddha statue tells a story of the Northern Wei Dynasty 📌 Address: No.1, Yungang Town, Yungang District 🚕 Transport: About 30 minutes by taxi from downtown / Bus No. 3 direct 🕘 Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Recommend reserving 3 hours) 📝 Tips: Definitely hire a guide! A completely different experience 🍽️ Noon: Fenglin Pavilion 🌟 Century-old brand! Must-try "Hundred Flower Shaomai"🌸 🏮 The antique-style building is super photogenic📸 📌 Address: Gulou West Street, Pingcheng District 🚶 Transport: Walkable within the ancient city 🕚 Business Hours: 11:00-14:00 (Try to arrive before 11:30) 🌆 Afternoon: Huayan Temple 🌟 Peak of Liao and Jin architecture! The murals in the Mahavira Hall are stunning😭 🖼️ Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the ancient city! 📌 Address: Huayan Street, Pingcheng District 🚶 Transport: 10-minute walk from the city center 🕘 Opening Hours: 8:30-18:00 🌙 Evening: Night Tour of the Ancient City Wall 🌟 The wall under lights looks like a golden dragon🐉 💫 Cycling or walking is super romantic～ 📌 Address: South Gate Yongtai Gate Entrance 🕘 Lighting Hours: 18:30-22:00 🗓️ Day 2 ⏰ Morning: Hanging Temple 🌟 A millennium-old temple hanging on a cliff! Not for those afraid of heights😱 🏔️ Recommend booking tickets 1-3 days in advance 📌 Address: Daciyao Township, Hunyuan County 🚗 Transport: Private car/shared ride about 1.5 hours (Recommend departure at 7 AM) 🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00-17:00 (Limited visitor flow) 🍽️ Noon: Hunyuan Cold Noodles 🌟 Local specialty! The "Little Wife" cold noodles are super delicious😋 🌶️ Sour, spicy, and refreshing, perfect for cooling down～ 📌 Address: Next to Hanging Temple parking lot 🕙 Business Hours: 10:00-15:00 🌆 Afternoon: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda 🌟 The tallest wooden pagoda in the world! Standing strong for a thousand years is impressive👍 🔨 A miracle of architecture without a single nail! 📌 Address: Fogong Temple, Yingxian County 🚗 Transport: 1-hour drive from Hanging Temple 🕘 Opening Hours: 8:30-18:00 🌙 Evening: Return to Datong City 🌟 Highly recommend the old hotpot on Gulou East Street! The lamb hotpot is amazing🍲 💡 Practical Tips: 🚗 Recommend private car for Yungang + Hanging Temple (about 400 RMB/day) 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: "Datong Garden Hotel" with a prime location 📅 Best travel season: April to October 💰 Budget reference: About 800 RMB per person (including food, accommodation, and transport) Really worth it! Already want to visit again～ Ask questions in the comments 🤔

With the lingering popularity of "Black Wukong," the ancient architectural treasures once hidden deep in the Loess Plateau of Shanxi have come into the public eye. Upon arriving at Taiyuan Wusu Airport, a huge "Travel Shanxi with Wukong" themed poster immediately catches your eye, clearly marking all the Shanxi ancient architecture locations referenced in the game design. It’s amazing to see how cultural output from the virtual world has become the best promotional window for traditional architecture. In early August, taking advantage of a friend's wedding in Taiyuan, I embarked on a 9-day pilgrimage of Shanxi’s ancient architecture. Arranged from south to north, it connects the most exquisite ancient architectural clusters in Shanxi: Day 1-2: Taiyuan to attend a friend’s wedding Day 3: Tracing the origins of Jin culture - Shanxi Museum — Systematic understanding of Sanjin civilization - Jin Temple — The earliest existing royal sacrificial garden in China Day 4: The Twin Gems of Pingyao - Zhenguo Temple: A wooden structure treasure from the Five Dynasties period - Shuanglin Temple: Known as the "Treasury of Eastern Polychrome Sculpture Art" - Pingyao Ancient City photoshoot (Key spots: City Wall → Erlang Temple → Rishengchang → City Tower → Xietongqing → County Government Office → City God Temple → Confucian Temple) Tips: County Government Office court performance times at 9:00/11:00/15:30; Xietongqing’s underground treasury is uniquely special Day 5: Dialogue between the Yellow River and Hanging Sculptures - Hukou Waterfall Shanxi side (closer to the waterfall core than the Shaanxi side, offering a more magnificent view) - Xiaoxitian (Recommended to visit earliest or latest to avoid crowds and appreciate the essence of Ming Dynasty hanging sculptures) Day 6: Tang Dynasty Wooden Architecture Pilgrimage (If time permits, visit Guangsheng Temple first) - Nanchan Temple: The oldest existing Tang Dynasty wooden structure in China - Foguang Temple: Praised by Liang Sicheng as "China’s Number One National Treasure" - Xinzhou Ancient City Xiurong Academy - 8:20 PM Iron Flower performance on the ancient city wall (see previous guides for details) Day 7: Liao and Jin Dynasty Architectural Feast - (Stop by Chongfu Temple when passing through Shuozhou) - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: The tallest and oldest wooden pagoda in the world - Jingtusi Temple: The pinnacle of coffered ceiling art - Yong’an Zen Temple: Yuan Dynasty mural treasures - Hanging Temple (See previous articles for ticket and climbing tips) Day 8: Northern Wei Artistic Peak - Datong Museum - Yungang Grottoes: The first royal Buddhist grottoes in the eastward spread of Buddhism Day 9: Datong Ancient City Finale - Huayan Temple: A model of Liao and Jin dynasty temple architecture - Shanhua Temple: Well-preserved Liao and Jin architectural complex - Datong Ancient City photoshoot In-depth Experience Suggestions: 1. Knowledge Preparation: Shanxi’s ancient architecture contains rich historical, religious, and artistic connotations. It is recommended to review background information of each site before the trip to understand the core highlights. Focus on history, architectural features, sculpture styles, and mural themes. 2. Guided Services: Professional guides are strongly recommended at the following places: - Shanxi Museum (systematic overview of Shanxi civilization) - Jin Temple (interpretation of 3,000 years of sacrificial culture) - Xiaoxitian (unveiling the art of hanging sculptures) - Yungang Grottoes (the rise and fall of the Northern Wei regime, understanding the sinicization of Buddhist art) 3. Photoshoot Experience: Ancient cities in Shanxi offer traditional costume photoshoot services with significant price differences: - Pingyao is the most affordable (basic package starting at 88 RMB) - Datong, Xinzhou, Taiyuan ancient cities start around 199 RMB Choose based on itinerary and preferred shooting style; costume and makeup quality are similar 4. Shanxi Cuisine Highlights: Don’t forget to taste these authentic delicacies during your trip: - Kingdom of noodles: Wantuo, Tijian, Youmian, Dao Xiao Mian... - Classic dishes: Guoyou Rou (oil-fried pork), Sweet and Sour Meatballs, Pingyao Beef - Specialty breakfast: Tounao (Taiyuan traditional medicinal cuisine), Shaomai

Who understands, family! After walking around Datong for 3 days, my legs are exhausted but I still want to come back— the ancient sites here are not just “check-in” spots, those old shops hidden in alleys and secret cliffside viewing platforms are the real soul! I've put together this guide with GPS coordinates, following it will definitely let you see 80% more surprises than others✨ 🚗 Transportation | Don’t get tricked by navigation apps anymore! ▪️ To Datong: The first choice is the high-speed rail Datong South Station! Taxi to the ancient city costs 25 yuan (don’t take illegal taxis! They will take detours), take bus 603 for 2 yuan directly, but you have to wait 15 minutes. ▪️ To Yungang Grottoes: Take bus 603 then transfer to 603 branch line (3 yuan), but carpooling is recommended! There are many carpool drivers at the ancient city gate, 15 yuan per person, 20 minutes direct (1 hour faster than the bus). ▪️ Hanging Temple + Ying County Wooden Pagoda: Definitely join a small day tour! 80 yuan including transportation + ticket booking, saves over 100 yuan compared to taking a taxi yourself (don’t choose tours starting before 7 am, too early to enjoy). ▪️ Getting around the city: Ride shared electric scooters! In the ancient city, “Hello” scooters cost 5 yuan/30 minutes, very convenient for weaving through alleys, faster than walking and no sunburn☀️ 🏠 Accommodation | Stay in the right place = sleep an extra hour! ❌ Avoid: Chain hotels outside the ancient city (far from attractions, no atmosphere) ✅ Highly recommend these 3 amazing places: 1. Inside the ancient city · Zini 369 Guesthouse: Right outside is the Four-Arch Gate! Rooms have kang beds, sleeping under floral quilts at night feels very secure, breakfast includes freshly cooked millet porridge + salted egg (tastier than store-bought). 2. Yungang Grottoes · Meigao Hotel: Perfect for families with kids! Rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the grottoes, watch the sunrise at 7 am shining on the giant Buddha, golden and dazzling (hotel guests get fast-track access to Yungang Grottoes). 3. Next to Huayan Temple · Zen Hotel: A courtyard hidden in an alley! Open the window to see the flying eaves of Huayan Temple, the owner plays the guqin, sitting in the courtyard at night drinking tea and listening to music feels like traveling back to ancient times🌙 📸 Must-Play List | These hidden angles are amazing! 🏯 [Ancient Site Walking Guide] ▪️ Yungang Grottoes: Don’t just look at the Tan Yao Caves! Walk west to caves 5-6, there’s a small platform where you can photograph the Buddha statues with blue sky and white clouds in the frame (best light at 10 am with slanting sunlight, softest light). Also, the reflection pool at Lingyan Temple, take photos at 3 pm of the grottoes reflected in the water, like a mirror of the sky. ▪️ Hanging Temple: Be sure to buy the climbing ticket! Climb to the second floor and go to the small corridor on the left, looking down is a hundred-meter cliff, legs may shake but you have to take the photo (if afraid of heights, stand on the inner side to shoot). At the bottom of the mountain, the Hengshan Cableway upper station has a viewing platform, no one competes for spots to shoot the full view of the Hanging Temple. ▪️ Datong Ancient City: Go to the south city wall at 6 am! The elderly doing morning exercises haven’t arrived yet, stand at the arrow tower to shoot the sunrise shining on the ancient city rooftops, blue tiles with golden light, breathtakingly beautiful (bring a jacket, very cool in the morning). 🍜 Foodie Guide | If these places aren’t delicious, you can hit me! ▪️ Must-eat 3 knife-cut noodle places: - “Dongfang Knife Noodles (Shuaifu Street branch)”: Add meat, egg, and dried tofu! The broth is old soup stew, paired with local vinegar is amazing (go at 7 am to watch the chef cut noodles live, the noodles look like flying willow leaves). - “Laochai Knife Noodles”: Hidden way to eat! Order “meat fried knife noodles,” the noodles are coated with sauce flavor, add a stewed egg, break it up and mix, delicious enough to lick the plate (chili oil is the soul, one spoonful is enough). - “Qizhong Knife Noodles”: Locals have eaten since childhood! The chili oil is poured with mutton fat, with a hint of milk fragrance, add a portion of spicy mutton blood stew, 15 yuan to eat until full. ▪️ Other legendary foods: - “Longjuxiang Shaomai Restaurant”: Hundred-flower shaomai must be eaten hot! Bite into the skin and the juice bursts out, paired with free brick tea to cut the grease (recommend ordering half a basket, one basket has 16 pieces, too much to finish). - “Panglailai Rabbit Head”: Choose rabbit head with soup! The spicy numbing flavor has a strong aftertaste, paired with a bottle of Datong beer, eating by the roadside is the real soul (if afraid of spice, choose five-spice flavor). - “Zini 369”: Must order yellow millet cold cake! Glutinous rice wrapped with yellow millet, dipped in osmanthus honey, sweet to the heart, eat with sour fish soup to relieve spiciness and greasiness. 💡 Hard-learned lessons | I stepped into these traps for you! 1. Don’t buy the “cultural creative ice cream” at the entrance of Yungang Grottoes! 35 yuan each and tastes bad, better spend 5 yuan on a local mung bean popsicle, refreshing and cheap. 2. Don’t wear sandals at the Hanging Temple! The steps are narrow when climbing, easy to get your feet stuck, sports shoes are safest (girls don’t wear skirts, inconvenient for stairs). 3. Don’t go to the “internet-famous Hanfu shop” in the ancient city! Renting for a day costs 200+ yuan and doesn’t include makeup, go to the alley’s “Xiaoya Hanfu,” 100 yuan for a full set plus hairstyle, the owner has great taste. 4. When eating lamb offal, you must have “oil cake”! Soak it in the soup to absorb the broth, ten times more fragrant than eating with fried dough twists (many places don’t offer it proactively, you have to ask). The day I left Datong, sitting at the foot of the ancient city wall, watching the sunset dye the golden roof of Huayan Temple red, an old man next to me gnawing on a rabbit head said, “This is the soul of our Datong~” Suddenly I understood—the beauty here isn’t in the guidebooks, but in every slowed-down moment🌇 Quickly your buddy who loves exploring ancient sites, come to Datong this autumn!

【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👀

📆The wheels of history have rolled over the rich land of the Northern Wei ancient capital, between the arms of the ***Datong Ancient City Wall*** and the thousand-year-old chanting bells of ***Huayan Temple***✨ I discovered this fairy guesthouse—— ***Fengqi Heyuan*** It’s not just a place to rest, but more like a close friend who deeply understands the pulse of the ancient city👏 Perfectly combining the charm of the ancient city with modern comfort, it’s truly amazing! 📍 **Where is this fairy location?** 👉Inside Datong Ancient City, a 5-minute walk to Huayan Temple👣 👉Open the window to see the spectacular ancient city wall🏯 👉20 minutes by taxi to Yungang Grottoes ⚠️The most thoughtful part is the **free pick-up service** 🚗 A dedicated person waits right outside Datong Station to perfectly start your journey～ (After booking, call the housekeeper☎️ to make an appointment) 🏡 **Courtyard design full of time-travel vibes** ✨Traditional Chinese courtyard + Northern architectural features ✨Gray bricks and black tiles, carved wooden windows, every step a new scene ✨Sunlight filters through the window lattice casting mottled shadows, perfect for photos 🌟This is truly a peaceful oasis in the bustling ancient city🌿 🥣 **Foodie’s delight with authentic breakfast** What wakes you up every day is not an alarm clock⏰ But the fragrant ***knife-cut noodles*** 🍜 Paired with soulful minced meat sauce, absolutely amazing! Energizes you for the whole day😁 🖼️Highlight: Must-try Datong snacks～ ✔️Golden crispy fried cakes ✔️Stomach-warming lamb offal soup🥣 ✔️Thick porridge with soft pickled vegetables You need to eat well to have energy to explore the ancient city～ 🏠 **These fairy details are super thoughtful** ✨ **Family and kids room** 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Super spacious, a must-have for traveling with kids! ✨ **High-end amenities** amazed me Dyson hairdryer + smart toilet🚽 ✨ Every room has a **direct drinking water dispenser** 💧 Hot and cold water ready to drink, super convenient for tea ✨ Public **laundry room** 🧺 Stay fresh even on long trips 💕 **Many reasons to stay here** ✔️Unbeatable location ✔️Perfect photo spot ✔️Breakfast so good it makes you cry ✔️Luxurious facilities ✔️Warm and thoughtful service Finally, here’s a little poem from the editor～ 💫Fengqi ancient courtyard intoxicates the northern frontier 💫Huayan bell nearby accompanies the morning light 💫A bowl of knife-cut noodles warms the stomach 💫Returning home, everywhere is fragrant and beautiful

🏃【Shanxi Ancient Architecture Adventure Guide】 Day 1: Classic Stops in Datong Ancient City 📍Huayan Temple (Ticket: 40 CNY) Liao-Jin Dynasty giant temple with Buddha statues rivaling Dunhuang✨ 📍Shanhua Temple (Ticket: 40 CNY) Best-preserved Liao-Jin monastery, the Mahavira Hall is awe-inspiring📸 📍Nine Dragon Wall (Ticket: 10 CNY) The foremost of China's three great Nine Dragon Walls, showcasing Ming Dynasty imperial grandeur🐉 Accommodation🏨: Jinglan Bieyuan Homestay (Datong Ancient City Branch) Day 2: Hanging Temple + Yong'an Zen Temple + Yingxian Wooden Pagoda + Pure Land Temple 📍Hanging Temple (Ticket: 125 CNY) A temple clinging to a cliff! Even Li Bai would give it a thumbs-up👍 📍Yong'an Zen Temple (Ticket: 20 CNY) Houses exquisite murals, including the compassionate Ming King 📍Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (Ticket: 50 CNY) One of the world's three great wonder pagodas, pinnacle of mortise-and-tenon craftsmanship🪓 📍Pure Land Temple (Ticket: 15 CNY) Hidden gem with stunning caisson ceilings, truly heavenly👑 Accommodation🏨: Jinglan Bieyuan Homestay (Datong Ancient City Branch) Day 3: In-depth Tour of Yungang Grottoes 📍Yungang Grottoes (Ticket: 120 CNY) 5A World Heritage Site, 1500-year-old imperial caves🪔 Afternoon: Explore Datong Ancient City, try knife-cut noodles & cold jelly🍜 Accommodation🏨: Delian Boutique Homestay (Pingyao Mochou Branch) Day 4/5: Pingyao & Surroundings 📍Zhenguo Temple (Ticket: 25 CNY) Rare Five Dynasties wooden architecture, unique in Shanxi 📍Shuanglin Temple (Ticket: 35 CNY) Breathtaking sculpture museum with over 2,000 colored statues Night tour of Pingyao Ancient City (Ticket: 125 CNY) Day 6: Cultural Tour in Taiyuan 📍Shanxi Museum (Free) 9 national treasures, a must for bronze enthusiasts🔔 Day 7: Journey Through Millennia 📍Jinci Museum (Ticket: 80 CNY) 3000-year-old architectural complex, Song Dynasty maid statues are exquisite 📍Liuxiang Lane (Free) Taiyuan's liveliest food street, feast before returning to hotel~ 【🌈Top 5 Must-See】 1️⃣Yungang Grottoes: Over 50,000 relief sculptures 2️⃣Pingyao Ancient City: Best-preserved Ming-Qing county town 3️⃣Jinci Museum: 3000 years of ancient architecture 4️⃣Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: 67m pure wooden world wonder 5️⃣Hanging Temple: 1500-year-old cliffside marvel 【⚠️Tips】 ✓July-August has sunny days but large temperature swings - bring sunscreen & light jacket ✓Ancient city streets are cobblestone - wear comfortable sneakers👟 ✓Book Shanxi Museum tickets 3 days in advance ✓Hanging Temple climbing tickets are limited daily - arrive by 7am

Huayan Temple 【A Glimpse of a Millennium, Echoes of Liao and Jin Dynasties】 Architect Liang Sicheng once marveled: "The Mahavira Hall of Huayan Temple, a grand structure like a roc spreading its wings, stands majestically in the northern land." Step inside the temple, and you'll find the "Heavenly Palace Pavilion" of the Liao Dynasty's Puguangjiao Cang Hall suspended on the walls, with its intricate mortise-and-tenon joints showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship. The Jin Dynasty's Mahavira Hall features towering chiwen (mythical roof ornaments), with its eaves slicing through the clouds, silently narrating the royal grandeur of 900 years ago. 【The Wooden Buddha's Gaze, Reflecting the Heart of Heaven and Earth】 With hands clasped in prayer, look up at the 29-meter-tall Liao Dynasty painted clay Buddha. The folds of its robe cascade like the ridges of mountains and rivers. The smiling Bodhisattva, with teeth slightly revealed, captures the Khitan artisans' profound understanding of "human compassion"—a pure and serene Buddha land lies within the heart. 【Turning a Corner, Finding Zen】 At the corner of the Sutra Library, the resonance of wind chimes and bronze bells seems to echo the chants of Liao monks. At sunset, the ginkgo leaves scatter like golden fragments on the ground before the hall, perfect for collecting and inscribing sutras. Ascend to the second floor of the Puguangjiao Cang Hall, let your fingers brush across the "Yuanqiao Jiaoze" plaque, and feel a handshake with history. 【Special Tips】 √ Open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; visiting in the early morning is recommended to see the first rays of sunlight reflecting off the gilded roof tiles. √ The Mahavira Hall houses four Liao Dynasty painted clay Heavenly Kings; pay attention to the grassland motifs on their armor. √ The underground palace of the Huayan Pagoda enshrines Buddha relics; circling the pagoda three times clockwise is a local tradition for blessings. "When the 26-meter-tall Liao Dynasty chiwen gazes at you, it is a meeting across a millennium." 14 Xiapo Street, Datong Ancient City, Shanxi Province 📅 Open year-round (some areas may close on a rotating basis during winter for mural preservation).

Day 1｜Arrive in Datong, Feel the Pulse of the Ancient City 🚄 Arrive in Datong at 14:00~ ✅ Datong Museum (Free) 🎫 Booking tips: Book in advance via the official WeChat account! Don’t worry if you miss out, refreshing multiple times on the day usually gets extra tickets~ 💡 Guided tours: The 15:00 public tour is the most popular🔥 (also available at 9:30/10:00/14:30) ➡️ Enter at 15:00 for an immersive 2-hour visit to get a head start on Datong’s history and culture for your later check-ins! 🛒 Nearby stalls sell small Buddha souvenirs, don’t hesitate to bargain🙏 😋 Dinner: Longjuxiang Shaomai (Average ¥63 per person) Thin skin, generous filling, super delicious! Must order the three-flavor and lamb fillings~ ✅ Yongtai Gate Square Night Tour 💡 The music fountain show starts promptly at 20:10⛲️ (half an hour of amazing spectacle) ✅ Stroll along East Drum Tower Street Creative shops + snack street, super lively! The main street is bustling, side streets are quiet and perfect for photos📸 📅 Day 2｜Travel Through a Thousand Years ✅ Huayan Temple (¥50) + Chunyang Palace (Free) ➡️ Spend 1.5-2 hours deeply exploring Huayan Temple, the Liao and Jin dynasty architecture is stunning! Join a live guided group for more value~ Quick 20-minute check-in at Chunyang Palace🉑 😋 Lunch: Zini 369 Coarse Grain Season (Average ¥39 per person) Yellow millet jelly is a classic! ✅ Yungang Grottoes (¥120) 🚕 Taxi directly to the park for 16:00 entry It’s recommended to buy a round-trip sightseeing bus ticket for ¥15💰 ➡️ Follow the official guide for a 2-hour fast track to the essential caves (Caves 5-13 are a must-see) 🚌 Return tip: Take bus route 3 → then taxi from the terminal back to the ancient city 😋 Dinner: Tianyuan Northern Wei Family Banquet (Average ¥41 per person) The Hu Bing flatbread is finger-licking good👆 📅 Day 3｜A Day of Cultural Wonders 🚗 Private car with a treasure-recommending driver! Accompanying you from 8:00 to 19:30👏 ✅ Ying County Wooden Pagoda (¥50) + Pure Land Temple (¥15) Spend 1-2 hours deeply exploring the Wooden Pagoda, quick 0.5-hour check-in at Pure Land Temple 😋 Lunch: Authentic noodle shop in Hunyuan County (Average ¥8 per person) Cheap and hearty🍜 ✅ Yong’an Zen Temple + Yuanjue Temple (¥20 each) A tranquil Buddhist sanctuary in the county✨ ✅ Hanging Temple (¥15 + ¥100 for climbing) 💡 Can’t get a climbing ticket online? You can buy it offline on the day! The shock factor is off the charts💥 (Worth it whether you climb or not) 😋 Garden Hotel (Average ¥50 per person) Safe choice, no risk! Small portions available, very thoughtful❤️ 📅 Day 4｜Ancient City Photo Shoot Day ✅ Ancient style photo shoot experience ⚠️ Time management: Reserve 2.5 hours! 1.5 hours for makeup and styling + 20 minutes for shooting (photographer delivers photos super fast📷) 🚄 Head home in the afternoon with beautiful photos~ 🏠 Accommodation recommendation: Hanting Youjia (South Gate of Ancient City branch) Excellent location, walking distance to everywhere👣 💰 Expense summary: Average ¥2200 per person to fully enjoy Datong (including food, accommodation, transport, and sightseeing)

#chinatravel 🚄 From Beijing: 2.5–3 hrs by high-speed train 📍 Best for: History, temples, ancient art ⸻ ✅ Must-See Stops: • Yungang Grottoes – Thousands of Buddha carvings, UNESCO site • Huayan Monastery – Peaceful temple with wooden architecture • Nine-Dragon Wall – China’s oldest glazed dragon wall • Old City Wall – Great for sunset walk & city views • (Optional) Hanging Temple – Cliffside temple, ~1 hr drive from city ⸻ 🍜 Must-Eat: Knife-cut noodles, lamb skewers, Shanxi vinegar dishes #chinatravel #travelchina #chinatrip #china #malaysiatochina #myitinerary #shanxi #datong #大同

🚀【Astonishing! Explore the Ancient Capital Datong – Travel Through History and Feel the Blend of Tradition & Modernity!】✨ Hi everyone, I'm your travel buddy🌟! Today, let’s dive into the mysterious and captivating city of Shanxi—Datong! Here, you’ll find not only magnificent ancient architecture and profound history but also modern energy and innovation. Whether you're a history buff, photography enthusiast, or foodie, Datong has something for everyone! Join me on this exciting journey!🔥 1. 【Must-Visit Attractions】—A Time Tunnel Through the Millennia⏳ 1. **Yungang Grottoes 🗿** *Why visit?* As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Yungang Grottoes feature grand Buddhist carvings showcasing the artistic peak of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Each statue seems to whisper tales from a thousand years ago. *Tips:* Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds. Bring your camera—the lighting and angles are perfect! Ticket: ¥150 (adults), discounts for students. 2. **Datong Ancient City Wall & Drum Tower 🏯** *Highlights:* A well-preserved ancient wall offering panoramic views of the bustling city. *Tip:* Wear comfortable shoes to stroll along the wall, and use a wide-angle lens for photos! 3. **Huayan Temple 🕍** *Features:* A majestic temple blending Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, radiating serenity. *Tip:* Visit at dawn or dusk for soft lighting and a tranquil atmosphere. 2. 【Hidden Gems】—Discover Another Side of Datong🧭 1. **Nancheng Night Market 🍢** *Food recs:* Lamb skewers, knife-shaved noodles, tofu pudding, candied haws—authentic Shanxi flavors in a lively setting! *Tip:* Gets lively after 7 PM—eat, explore, and soak up the local vibe. 2. **Datang Furong Garden 🌸** *Highlights:* A Tang Dynasty-themed park dazzling with night lights, perfect for photos and relaxation. *Tip:* Bring family or friends for a magical "time-travel" experience! 3. **Handicraft Shops 🧵** *Recs:* Paper-cutting, ceramics, wood carvings—take home souvenirs to preserve cultural memories. 3. 【Practical Tips】—Enjoy Hassle-Free Travel📝 - **Transport:** Convenient train/bus stations; rely on buses/taxis in the city. Download the *Datong Tong* app for real-time bus info. - **Accommodation:** Try *Ancient City Inn* or *Yungang Hotel*—affordable, elegant, and well-located. - **Best time to visit:** Spring & autumn (Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct)—pleasant weather, stunning scenery. - **Essentials:** Comfy shoes, camera, sunhat, sunscreen, spare cash. 4. 【Positive Vibes】🌟 Datong isn’t just about ancient relics—it’s also brimming with youthful creativity! Every historic site tells a story of resilience and heritage, and you’re the witness and storyteller. Travel with gratitude, and let each step nourish your soul!💖 5. 【Closing】—Let’s Embrace Datong’s Beauty Together!🌈 What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on a cultural journey through millennia! Like, save, and share to inspire others to explore this ancient-yet-vibrant city!✨🧳

🌄 Shanxi Datong 2-day walking tour! Experience the millennia-old frontier charm and a carb feast~ 📅 Day 1 Ancient City Exploration + Grotto Adventure 🌅 Morning: Datong Ancient City Walk ✳️ Datong Ancient City Wall (Free) The "Little Chang’an of the North" city wall is full of stories! 🏯 Ride a shared bike around the wall, feel the breeze through the wild grass growing in the Ming Dynasty brick cracks, the kid waves a small flag shouting, "Mom, is this the live set of ‘The Longest Day in Chang’an’?" 🏮 Must-do: Climb the corner tower for a panoramic shot, at dusk the wall looks like it’s coated in honey! 🌞 Noon: Knife-cut Noodles with Millet Jelly Cake ✳️ Dongfang Knife Noodles (25 RMB per person) Must order: Signature knife-cut noodles! 🍜 The noodle slices spin in the air like divers before landing in the pot, biting into them is so chewy it could bounce a ping pong ball! Hidden tip: Add a spoonful of aged vinegar, the sour aroma hits your crown chakra 🌶️ Hidden gem: Pack some millet jelly cake for afternoon tea, the red bean paste is sweeter than first love~ 🌇 Evening: Night Tour of Huayan Temple ✳️ Huayan Temple (50 RMB ticket) The Liao Dynasty Buddhist pagoda is breathtaking at night! 🌌 The "Smiling Bodhisattva with Hands Joined" statue in the Mahavira Hall seems to be smiling, the kid touches the murals and asks, "Mom, is this a fairy who time-traveled here?" 👸 Must-do: Touch the "Thousand-year-old Ginkgo" to make a wish, it’s said to help you get into Tsinghua University! 📅 Day 2 Hanging Wonder + Fresh Air at Mount Heng ☀️ Morning: Hanging Temple Thrill ✳️ Hanging Temple (100 RMB climbing fee) "The cliff-hanging aerial pavilion"! 🪂 Walking on the wooden plank walkway makes your legs shake, below is a bottomless abyss, the kid curls up and shouts, "Mom, is this the set of ‘The Lost Tomb’?" 🏞️ Must-do: Find the temple’s "Three Hanging Wonders" — Hanging Pillar, Hanging Stele, Hanging Monk! 🍱 Noon: Hunyuan Cold Noodles with Rabbit Head ✳️ Little Wife Cold Noodles (15 RMB per person) Must order: Intangible cultural heritage Hunyuan cold noodles! 🍲 Red chili oil poured over translucent noodles, sprinkled with fried lotus beans, sour, spicy, and crispy enough to shake your pupils 🌶️ Hidden tip: Pair with braised rabbit head, spicy, numbing, and fresh, one bite and you’re hooked! 🌆 Evening: Mount Heng Sunset Zen ✳️ Mount Heng (45 RMB ticket) The northern peak of the Five Great Mountains is stunningly beautiful at dusk! 🌄 The cable car stops running after 6 pm, but the sense of achievement from hiking to the top is overwhelming! The kid chases the temple’s flying eaves shouting, "Mom, is this the alchemy furnace from a cultivation novel?" 🧪 Must-do: Touch the "Bittersweet Well" to pray, legend says one sip brings sweetness all year! 🏨 Accommodation Recommendation 👉 Hilton Hampton by Hilton Datong ✔️ Features: Smart room controls + 24-hour hot spring ✔️ Reason: The terrace offers a view of the ancient city at night, the kid says "Bathing feels like soaking in a river of milk" 🛁 Robot food delivery is super cool, and you can control the lights by voice! 🚌 Transportation Tips ✅ High-speed train + taxi: Beijing North Station → Datong South Station in 2 hours, taxis between attractions cost 30-50 RMB, very convenient 💢 Hard part: Climbing Mount Heng’s steps makes you question life, going down feels like dancing mechanical ballet 🩰 💡 Tips ❗️ Book a guided tour for Yungang Grottoes in advance! Otherwise, it’s just a quick glance at stone pillars ❗️ Wear sports shoes! The exercise from the ancient city and mountain trails is like a gym workout ❗️ Bring cash! Some snack stalls only accept cash, don’t cry if your phone has no signal 🍜 Must-eat Food List 1️⃣ Knife-cut noodles: noodles spin into the pot, biting into them is like unwrapping a gift 🎁 2️⃣ Hunyuan cold noodles: sour, spicy, and crispy, spicy enough to make your soul leave your body 🌶️ 3️⃣ Millet jelly cake: red bean paste soft as clouds, sweeter than first love 💘 4️⃣ Rabbit head: spicy and flavorful, can’t stop gnawing 🐰 5️⃣ Lamb offal noodles: fresh and tasty soup, you’ll want to lick the bowl clean 🥣 6️⃣ Sea buckthorn juice: sweet and sour burst of juice, a perfect palate cleanser 🍹 💰 Expense Summary Accommodation: 600 RMB (1 night) Food: 700 RMB (350 RMB per day) Transportation: 300 RMB (high-speed train + taxi) Tickets: Yungang 120 + Hanging Temple 100 + Mount Heng 45 = 265 RMB Others: 125 RMB (Hanfu rental + jelly cake souvenirs) Total: about 1990 RMB (over budget but worth the time-travel experience!) Datong is just that cool! In 2 days you become a "little history expert + food champion," the bricks in the ancient city wall hide millennia of stories, and the Hanging Temple’s thrill cures all fear of heights! Hurry and bring your kid to be a "frontier little heroine"! 🏮 Remember to bring extra power banks, taking photos uses more power than work~ PS: Huayan Temple offers ancient-style stamps, the kid’s journal feels so accomplished 📔 Hanging Temple lets you pick up red blessing ribbons, hang them on your backpack as lucky charms! 🧧 Book your room now, you might even catch the ancient city night tour with iron flower fireworks! 🔥✨ The wind in Datong can recite Buddhist scriptures 📜 The snow on Mount Heng can compose poems 🎶 Here you can fulfill all your martial arts and immortal fantasies! The kid shouts at Hanging Temple, "Mom, I want to become a little Taoist and live here!" 👨🦲 Are you tempted? Pack your bags and set off now~ 🚀