[2025 Datong ] Travel Guide for Scene from Black Myth: Wukong (Updated May)

#Mainland Travel “See Shanxi for its cultural relics” is not just talk. In Shanxi, history does not lie on the pages of books. Instead, it stands before you in a thousand-year-old posture. If you want to see ancient buildings, you must come to Shanxi! I prepared a 4-day tour guide for Shanxi. I hope this helps those of you who like ancient buildings. - 🚗【My 4-day trip to Shanxi detailed itinerary】 : Linfen 🔸Xiaoxitian This is the Little Western Paradise that appeared in the Black Myth: Wukong. It is also a thousand-year-old art palace hidden in Shanxi. The hanging sculptures in the palace are lifelike. Don't miss it when you come to Shanxi. 🔸Guangsheng Temple This place has survived two major earthquakes without any damage! The pagoda decorated with colored glaze is also exquisite, and the countless sculptures are gorgeous. It is also the filming location of the 1986 version of "Journey to the West". . 𝘿𝙖𝙮𝟮: Pingyao 🔸Shuanglin Temple This is a small gem hidden outside the ancient city of Pingyao. The colored sculptures inside are called "the pinnacle of clay sculptures". Each of the 2,052 colored Buddha statues in the temple tells a historical story. 🔸Pingyao Ancient City Pingyao Ancient City is a living ancient city that not only retains the urban layout of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, but also carries the wisdom and glory of Shanxi merchants. It is a stop not to be missed when getting close to ancient Chinese economy and culture. . 𝘿𝙖𝙮𝟯: Datong 🔸Yungang Grottoes The Yungang Grottoes are an epic solidified on the rock wall. If you love art, history and culture, this is a soul-stirring journey. 🔸Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple If you are visiting the ancient city of Datong, don't miss these majestic ancient temples that have been around for thousands of years. Take a quiet walk around and you'll seem to be able to hear the echoes of Buddhist chants from thousands of years ago. . 𝘿𝙖𝙮𝟰: Datong surrounding area 🔸Hanging Temple It is built on the mountain, with the temple body hanging on the steep cliff. The whole temple seems to be attached to the cliff. From a distance, it looks like a flying bird perching on the rock, which is breathtaking and amazing. 🔸Yingxian Wooden Pagoda The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is not built with bricks, but with wood. It has been waiting for us in Shuozhou for nearly a thousand years without collapsing. - 🗺️【Travel 𝙏𝙞𝙥𝙨】 The journey in Shanxi is long, so you can bring snacks and drinks with you to feel more at ease on the road. You can carry a backpack and put all kinds of small items in it, which is more convenient.

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.

Why not visit Taiyuan, Shanxi? This ancient city has a history of over 2,500 years and was the filming location for the movie "Red River Valley". The city is home to many historical buildings and has a clear cross-street layout and well-preserved streets and lanes. It is shaped like a phoenix with its head to the north and tail to the south, hence its nickname "Phoenix City". "One city to see Shanxi, one street for 5,000 years", you must visit Taiyuan Ancient County City! For accommodation, we recommend Home Inn Taiyuan World Trade Center Changzhi Road Wangcun South Street Subway Station. Experience a different kind of service and experience. Come and feel it!

The first thing I did when I arrived in Datong was to visit the Yungang Grottoes in the west of the city, It's simply spectacular! The caves stretch for about 1 km from east to west, The tallest statue is 17 meters high! Because it was carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty, The style of the statues has changed over time, From Hu style and Hu rhyme to Han style and fusion, Therefore, there are many highlights in the structure of the caves, the costumes and appearance of the statues, etc., There are many double caves and two Buddhas sitting opposite each other, It is indeed a treasure house of Chinese art❗️ - ♾️「Visiting Guide」 The Yungang Grottoes are mainly divided into 3 periods according to the shape of the caves, the style and content of the statues: Early, Middle and Late. ►Early: Caves 16～20 (Dayao Five Caves) ►Middle (Most prosperous): 1, 2, 5～13, and the unfinished Cave 3, this stage can see the changes from Hu style to Han style and Han style to Hu style ►Late: Caves 4, 14, 15 and the caves west of Cave 20 (fewer large caves, more small caves, Han style) - 🔆「Amazing caves that will wow you! Must-see!」 ✔️Cave 3: Although the cave was carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty, there are also statues from the Sui, Tang and Liao Dynasties. The north wall is carved with the "Three Saints of the West", and there is a skylight opposite that shines light on the statue, giving it a sense of destiny! . ✔️Caves 5 and 6: This is a pair of caves. The two walls of the entrance to Cave 5 are carved with the classic style of two Buddhas sitting opposite each other under a Bodhi tree. I even bought a refrigerator magnet with the same design! The north wall is the tallest Buddha statue in Yungang Grottoes, with vibrant colors; Cave 6 is carved with large and small stone carvings, known as "Yungang's First Great Spectacle" . ✔️Caves 7 and 8: The earliest double caves in Yungang, with the "Six Beauties of Yungang" and multi-headed and multi-armed statues. . ✔️Cave 12: The famous Music Cave, the front room is carved with musicians and dancers, the instruments in their hands are lifelike and colorful, which is a feast for the eyes! (Caves 9-12 are commonly known as the Five Flower Caves, all with later mud-painted murals, visually rich) . ✔️Caves 16～20 (Dayao Five Caves): Overall tall and complete, mainly with Three Generations of Buddhas, representing the five emperors of the Northern Wei Dynasty, the statues have Western Region characteristics, high noses and long eyes, tall and strong. Cave 20, the White Buddha Cave, is open-air and the best place to take photos! - 📸「Photography Guide」 Go early, take photos of Cave 20 first, then return to Cave 3, and finally view in order, avoid the main group viewing order, the least people, the best photos～ - 🚗「Transportation Recommendations」 🚌Bus No. 3 can go directly, frequent departures, the road is also very smooth 🚕Taxi, about 17 km from the city center, not too far - 📌Small tips: ✔️It is recommended to choose a scenic electric car before, 15 yuan round trip, save a lot of time and effort, return can be parked at Mimi Main Creative Store, get Black Goku Pass, stamp ✔️Currently no need to book in advance, buy tickets anytime ✔️Watch the official website introduction, documentaries, etc. in advance to increase your knowledge. You can find a tour guide on the spot, 180-380, expert explanation needs to be booked in advance, more people are more cost-effective, electronic explanation 💰10

Compared to the Pingyao Ancient City which is now a tourist attraction, I prefer the Zhenguo Temple and Shuanglin Temple outside the ancient city. There are no bustling tourists here, only an immersive dialogue with the ancients. No wonder it became the filming location of "Black Myth: Wukong". · After leaving Zhenguo Temple, I headed straight to Shuanglin Temple, which was the most anticipated place for my second visit to Pingyao. Although it dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is not very prominent in Shanxi, which has many ancient buildings, the 2,052 Ming Dynasty painted clay sculptures scattered throughout the temple's halls are indeed top-notch in the country and are known as the "treasure house of oriental colored sculpture art." · At first glance, Shuanglin Temple is much larger than Zhenguo Temple, and there is a circle of tall rammed earth and brick walls around the temple, which looks a bit like a castle. The temple is divided into two parts, the western part is the temple courtyard, with more than ten halls and three courtyards; the eastern part is the Zen temple and scripture room, which are now basically destroyed. · When you enter Shuanglin Temple and follow the central axis, the first thing that comes into view is the Heavenly King Hall. Compared with the Heavenly Kings and Bodhisattvas in the hall, what impressed me more were the Four Great Vajras lined up under the eaves of the Heavenly King Hall. As images of guardian warriors, the four statues here are no longer the ferocious and terrifying Vajra in people's impression. Instead, they adopt a more realistic modeling technique. In addition to the grand posture in the space and the nearly 3-meter-tall body, in addition to the heroic spirit of "strength to pull mountains and courage to conquer the world", there is also a sense of closeness to the human world. · The Sakyamuni Hall is one of the main halls of the temple, with a width of five rooms and a depth of three rooms. In addition to the statues of the Three Holy Ones of Huayan in the hall, what is even more impressive is the use of hanging sculptures on the four walls of the hall, which adopt a layered combination and chain wall sculpture form to project the life of Sakyamuni into this hall. The Guanyin Crossing the Sea behind the screen wall is also a wonderful work of colored sculpture in Shuanglin Temple. · The Great Hall is the tallest building in the temple. The main statues are the Three Bodies of Buddha. Unfortunately, these statues were redecorated in the Qing Dynasty and are slightly inferior to the statues in other halls. Therefore, what is more worth seeing in the Main Hall is the mural "Worshiping Buddha" painted in the Ming Dynasty, but it is also a pity that it was covered with white powder in the early years of the Republic of China and was not partially washed out until 1982. Today, you can still see a glimpse of the mural, with upright line drawing and bright colors, which has the style of the Yuan Dynasty. · The Niangniang Hall is the last building on the central axis of the temple and was built during the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty. The statue of "Goddess of Childbirth" in the hall was sculpted based on folk legends and was redecorated in the Qing Dynasty. There is also a small hall on the east side named Zhenyi Temple, which contains statues of "Sleeping Aunt" and "Medicine Granny", which were rebuilt during the Republic of China period. Because the light in this hall is dim and many of the statues have their eyes damaged, they appear a bit ghostly. · Personally, I think the most wonderful colored sculptures of Shuanglin Temple are not in the main halls on the central axis, but in the Thousand Buddha Hall and Bodhisattva Hall, which are easily overlooked. There are more than 500 colored sculptures in the Thousand Buddha Hall alone, accounting for a quarter of the entire temple. There are two of Shuanglin Temple’s most popular colored sculptures here. One is the Guanyin with a serene and charming face and a comfortable and natural posture. One is a statue of Weituo, which is known as "the first Weituo in China". The statue is very individual, with both martial arts and culture, and is quite dynamic. It is a rare artistic masterpiece among the Ming Dynasty colored sculptures. In addition, the hanging sculptures and wall sculptures around the hall are also extremely splendid. Their clothing and accessories are even valuable materials for studying the development and evolution of Ming Dynasty clothing. · The most outstanding figure in the Bodhisattva Hall is the Thousand-armed Thousand-eyed Guanyin, who sits cross-legged in the center, with a gentle and graceful demeanor and ever-changing gestures. If it weren't for the many arms extending from behind, this Guanyin would look more like a beautiful, elegant, graceful and generous young woman. The hanging sculptures in this hall are also not to be underestimated. There are more than 400 Bodhisattvas, all with their feet on colorful clouds, giving a feeling that the walls are full of wind. · 🏠Name | Shuanglin Temple 🎫Tickets | 35 yuan ⛳Address | No. 28, Shuanglin Main Street, Pingyao County 🚗Transportation | Just use the "Shuanglin Temple" navigation system for self-driving

Seven destiny check-in spots discovered in northern Shanxi 🔗P1: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, Shanxi Built in 1056 AD (the second year of Liao Qingning, the third year of Northern Song Zhihe), the pagoda is 67.31 meters high, with a base diameter of 30.27 meters and a total weight of about 7,400 tons. It is the tallest and oldest existing pure wooden structure pagoda-style building in the world. 🔗P2: Foguang Temple, Wutai Mountain, Shanxi It is the only palace-style building from the Tang Dynasty that has been preserved to this day, fully embodying the essence of Tang architecture. The grand dougong (bracket sets) and deep eaves give the impression of a great roc spreading its wings, creating a light and graceful atmosphere despite the otherwise oppressive architecture. 🔗P3: Hanging Temple, Datong, Shanxi The Hanging Temple was built in the late Northern Wei period (491 AD), over 1,500 years ago. It is a unique temple that integrates Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The architecture of the "Hanging Temple" is highly distinctive, known for its perilous position as if it were on the brink of an abyss. It is famously described in the saying, "Hanging Temple, halfway up the sky, suspended by three horse tails," highlighting its precarious and lofty position. 🔗P4: Chongfu Temple, Shuozhou, Shanxi Chongfu Temple faces south and is grand in scale, with its main buildings located along the central axis of the temple, extending longitudinally from north to south. Despite the changes in dynasties, Chongfu Temple retains the memory of traditional architecture and the craftsmanship of various dynasties, continuing the architectural history and reflecting the technological and cultural levels of the times. 🔗P5-P7: Yungang Grottoes, Datong, Shanxi As the first royal-authorized grotto in China, the Yungang Grottoes reflect the political ambitions of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Compared to other grotto temples in China, the Yungang Grottoes are most influenced by Western styles, with strong elements of Indian and Central Asian art, as well as Greek and Roman architectural forms, decorative patterns, and facial features. This unique blend highlights the connections with major world civilizations and is unparalleled in the treasure trove of Chinese art, significantly influencing the development of Chinese culture and art in later periods. 🔗P8-P10: Huayan Temple, Datong, Shanxi Built in the eighth year of Liao Qingning (1062 AD), Huayan Temple is one of the earliest and most well-preserved Liao and Jin temple complexes in China, and one of the three major Liao temples still existing in China. 🔗P11-P12: Shanhua Temple, Datong, Shanxi The architecture of Shanhua Temple is staggered in height, with a clear primary and secondary structure, and symmetrical layout. It is the largest and most complete Liao and Jin period architectural complex still existing in China.

As the name suggests, Mount Wutai means that there are five terraces in the mountain group. If you turn your palm upwards, it is like five fingers. The one on the palm is called "Taihuai Town". There are many temples along the Pusa Ding scenic area in the town, which is suitable for slow walking and slow shooting ❤️ One of the more interesting ones is the "Wuye Temple", located at the end of the downhill road. Wuye, who is said to answer all wishes, is the fifth son of the Dragon King. Every day from 6:00 to noon, there are a lot of devout believers. It is more prosperous than the "Great Manjusri Hall". Many of them come the day before and leave before noon. What they are thinking about is nothing more than seeking wealth, career, health, offspring, etc.☝️ According to the tour guide, you don’t need to fulfill general wishes, but you do need to fulfill specific wishes, such as “get admitted to Tsinghua University or Peking University” or “give birth to a son this year”. Haha #May1stHoliday #BuddhistRelics #Where to Go for May1st #Mount Wutai #BlackMythWukongFilmingLocation

Shanxi is a province with many historical relics. In addition to the famous Yungang Grottoes, there are many amazing ancient buildings and the few remaining Tang Dynasty wooden structures in the country. Last year, the hit game Black Myth Wukong launched several famous check-in routes, attracting many tourists. Highly recommended ❤️ Foguang Temple is a relatively small tourist attraction due to its remote location. The entire temple is built along the central axis, which is very symmetrical and magnificent. The most famous is the East Hall on the steps, which is one of the only three complete wooden structures from the Tang Dynasty that survived the An-Shi Rebellion. In addition, the Manjusri Hall is also very distinctive. It was built using the column reduction method, with only four pillars supporting the entire roof. It is not only quiet and elegant but also very cool👍 There is also a big dog named Erliang in the temple. It got its head stuck in the door that it had bitten through. It’s so funny! #ShanxiTourism #Where to go for May Day #May DayGoldenWeek #May DayShort Holiday #BlackMythWukongFilmingLocation #BuddhistRelics

Guanyin Temple, also made famous by Black Myth: Wukong. It's renowned for the Guanyin Hall, the main hall in the courtyard. Although the hall is less than 30 sq m, it houses over 500 suspended sculptures. Three walls and the roof beams are covered with gilded, painted, and suspended sculptures. Here, you'll find not only Buddhist figures like the three great Bodhisattvas including Guanyin, the Eighteen Arhats, and the Twenty-Four Devas, but also Taoist figures such as the Jade Emperor, the Queen Mother of the West, and the Eight Immortals. Look over there, statues of Confucius and his disciples are hidden in a corner, representing Confucian elements. Unlike the purely Buddhist culture found at Xiaoxitian Temple, the sculptures here blend Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist cultures. Among the sculptures, you'll also find figures like market vendors, farmers, weavers, and opera characters interspersed throughout. Look, there's a performance on the stage; Sun Wukong hiding in a crevice, and depictions of historical events like the Tumu Crisis. Though small, it's exquisite, captivating visitors and making them reluctant to leave.

This place was once the imperial city of Northern Wei Dynasty and the auxiliary capital of Liao and Jin Dynasties, a "treasury of ancient architecture" that Liang Sicheng visited four times for research in Shanxi. With over 30 densely distributed national heritage sites, it truly deserves the title "open-air museum of cultural relics"! 🚉【Transportation Guide】 🚗 Self-driving: Direct access via Beijing-Datong Expressway, 4.5 hours through millennia of history 🚄 High-speed rail: 2 hours via Beijing-Zhangjiakou High-speed Railway (Beijing North/Qinghe → Datong South) ✈️ Flight: Datong Yungang Airport connects to 21 cities 🏛️【Three-Day Cultural Feast】 Day1️⃣ Stone Cave Art Tour Yungang Grottoes → Southeast Historical District → Grand Mosque Day2️⃣ Museum and Art Journey Datong Museum → "Three Venues" Cultural Area (Library/Art Gallery/Grand Theater) → Shanhua Temple → Nine Dragon Screen Day3️⃣ Ancient Architecture Pilgrimage Route Huayan Temple → Jingtu Temple → Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (1-hour drive) 📍【Must-Visit Cultural Landmarks】 ❶ Yungang Grottoes｜🎫120 "Milestone of Chinese cave art" with 45 caves and 59,000 statues, witnessing Buddhism's eastward spread and Hun-Han cultural fusion. Some statues from the "Five Caves of Tan Yao" are now housed in museums abroad, including the Metropolitan Museum in New York. ❷ Huayan Temple｜🎫50 A royal temple of Liao and Jin Dynasties. The Main Hall features a rare "column-reduction" structure, while the Bhagavata Sutra Hall houses the "Smiling Bodhisattva with Palms Together," praised by Guo Moruo as the "Oriental Venus." ❸ Shanhua Temple｜🎫Free A masterpiece of Jin Dynasty colored sculptures, with 34 statues in flowing robes. The mineral pigments like cinnabar and malachite remain vibrant after 800 years. ❹ Datong Museum｜🎫Free Among its 170,000 collections, the lacquer paintings from Sima Jinlong's tomb of Northern Wei and the glazed coffin of Liao Dynasty are "national treasure" level artifacts. ❺ Nine Dragon Screen｜🎫Free A remnant of the Ming Dynasty Prince's Mansion and the foremost of China's three existing Nine Dragon Screens. Its 9 coiling dragons composed of 426 glazed components predate the Forbidden City's Nine Dragon Screen by over 300 years. ❻ Jingtu Temple｜🎫15 One of Yingxian County's three treasures, its Jin Dynasty caisson ceiling uses an octagonal "dou-ba" structure. Each layer of the octagonal caisson is carved with celestial palaces, creating a "miniature heavenly palace." ❼ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda｜🎫48 The world's oldest existing wooden pagoda (67.31 meters), and a real-world location featured in "Black Myth: Wukong" game. The entire pagoda employs 54 types of bracket structures, aligning with the philosophical concept that "Dao begets one, one begets two."

After the domestic game "Black Myth: Wukong" became popular, there was a saying in the academic community: "If you want to understand ancient Chinese architecture, start with Nanchan Temple." In April 1937, when Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin were investigating ancient buildings in Shanxi, they discovered Wufoguang Temple but missed Nanchan Temple. Nanchan Temple is quietly located in a rural corner of Wutai County. It is the oldest existing wooden structure in my country. It is rare that it has been spared from wars and human destruction throughout the ages. Although the exact date of its construction is unknown, the ink inscription under the flat beam on the west side of the main hall reveals that it underwent a grand reconstruction in the third year of Jianzhong in the Tang Dynasty (782 AD), which undoubtedly means that Nanchan Temple was founded earlier, but not earlier than the early Tang Dynasty. Nanchan Temple is not large in area. The Great Buddha Hall, which is 11 meters wide and deep, is built on a high platform, highlighting the main position of the hall. The main hall has a single-eaved hip roof, a grey tubular tile base and nine ridges. The gargoyles on the ridges are simple and majestic. The huge brackets and upturned eaves draw a powerful solitary line and outline a distant melody. The 17 Tang Dynasty sculptures in the hall combine movement and stillness, with natural and dynamic postures, lifelike expressions, harmonious and smooth movements, and are exactly the same as the Tang Dynasty statues in the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang. Although these statues are religious images of Buddha, Bodhisattva, Heavenly King, etc. in Buddhism, their identities are clear and there is order between master and servant. There are noble ladies, palace girls, generals, and foreign people. Their clothing and headdresses are closely related to the social life at that time, allowing people to see the shadow of reality. As an artistic carrier, colored sculpture is the material embodiment of ancient cultural information. It is not only a valuable artistic heritage, but also a vivid record of the social outlook and social life of ancient China. It is engraved with the memory of national culture and embodies the soul of national spirit. Unfortunately, in the 1990s, Nanchan Temple was robbed and the criminals stole the Shuo statue in Figure 5. It has not been found to this day, which is a pity.

#discoverchina Home to 531 national heritage sites, Shanxi is an architectural and cultural treasure trove. With Black Myth: Wukong featuring 27 filming locations here, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and gamers alike. 🌟 Must-See Landmarks: 🔹 Huayan Temple – Stunning Liao-Jin murals and the largest Great Buddha Hall 🎨 🔹 Xiaoxitian – A breathtaking Buddhist sanctuary with intricate suspended sculptures 🏛️ 🔹 Wang Family Courtyard – A grand "folk Forbidden City" spanning over 300 years 🏠 🔹 Yungang Grottoes – Majestic Northern Wei cave carvings, a spiritual masterpiece 🙏 🔹 Pingyao Ancient City – One of China's best-preserved ancient towns, frozen in time ⏳ Shanxi isn't just a destination—it's a journey through centuries of artistry and history.✨ #myitinerary #familytravel

|Check in at the sea in Changzhi. Changzhi Binhu Cultural Tourism Service Center | Check in at the Changzhi Sea Hotel real evaluation recommendation Changzhi, due to the popularity of Black Wukong, has become a popular choice for checking in the famous historical sites and attractions in Changzhi City. Changzhi Binhu Cultural Tourism Service Center Hotel is located next to Zhangze Reservoir and Wetland Park. It is not only a paradise for migratory birds, but also an exclusive place for receiving migratory bird experts and distinguished guests. Hotel Room The room we booked is a family room. The interior space is very spacious and equipped with bunk beds and a large bed, which perfectly meets the accommodation needs of family travel. The bathroom is full of details, with a bathtub thoughtfully prepared for the children. The services are thoughtful and meticulous, and small gifts and fruit plates are given as gifts, making people feel the warmth of home. Hotel Dining The hotel's breakfast is excellent, with rich variety and excellent taste. The restaurant enjoys a prime location. Through the windows, one can see the sparkling lake and the picturesque snow scene, allowing one to enjoy a double feast of vision and taste while dining, and feel extremely relaxed. Hotel Surroundings After dinner, take a stroll in the park and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Especially in the evening, the afterglow of the setting sun shines on the lake, complementing the surrounding natural scenery. Every shot you take will be a beautiful blockbuster, and the success rate of taking photos is super high. If you also want to follow Black Wukong to travel to Changzhi, this is definitely an accommodation option not to be missed

Just 2 hours from Luoyang to this stunning "Black Myth: Wukong" filming location! ✨A Visual Feast Spanning 600 Years Hidden in a small village in southeastern Shanxi, this national treasure temple takes your breath away the moment you open its doors—24 suspended Devas sculptures descend from the ceiling, wrathful Vajras with flowing robes, Bodhisattvas with lowered eyes and gleaming ornaments. Ming Dynasty craftsmen created an eternal dreamscape using clay and mineral pigments. 🔥Dark Aesthetics at Its Finest Unlike traditional Buddhist statues' solemnity, the colored sculptures here are full of dramatic tension: ▪️ "Skull Deva" wearing a necklace of bones with explosive muscle definition ▪️ "Red-faced Judge" with vermillion skin + gilded armor creates an overwhelming presence ▪️ Suspended auspicious clouds like blood-red waves, deities arrayed in an apocalyptic scene 📸Photo Tips ▪️The main hall is dimly lit, recommended shooting at 10am (stunning Buddha's light effect when sunlight streams through the latticed windows) ▪️Use 0.5x wide-angle on phone to capture the entire 13m high suspended sculpture group ▪️Wear black and white plain clothes to create contrast with the vibrant sculptures 💡Practical Guide 📍Navigation: Tiefo Temple, Mishan Town, Gaoping City, Shanxi (no direct bus, driving/chartered car recommended) 🎫Admission: Free (make reservation by following "Wenlu Gaoping" WeChat account) 🚗Nearby: Kaihua Temple with Song Dynasty murals 5km away, perfect for a day of art pilgrimage ⚠️Notes ▪️No flash photography in the hall! The mineral pigments have oxidized for 600 years and need protection ▪️Not a tourist area, please stay quiet and don't disturb villagers ▪️Recommended to watch "Chinese Culture Code" documentary for background knowledge "The deities here breathe"—when 24 pairs of glass eyes suddenly meet yours in the shadows, you'll understand what it means to "see a thousand years in one glance" ❤️

🌈Highlights: The Shuanglin Temple in Pingyao is the "Dunhuang of painted sculptures"🎨, originally built in the Northern Wei Dynasty and renamed in the Song Dynasty, becoming a sacred Buddhist art temple🏯! The temple houses more than 2,000 painted sculptures from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties and is known as the "Treasure House of Oriental Painted Sculpture Art"✨. The Four Heavenly Kings in the Hall of Heavenly Kings have an angry and majestic look⚡️, the Guanyin Bodhisattva in the Thousand-Buddha Hall has a lively and elegant charm🧘♀️, and the S-shaped posture of the Weituo Bodhisattva is a masterpiece of sculpture🌟! The interplay of light and shadow among the red walls and gray tiles, the thousand-year-old temple, and the realistic painted sculptures create a stunning visual feast📜, even featured in the game *Black Myth: Wukong*🎮! 📅Tour Route: 🔹Half-day Express Tour: Hall of Heavenly Kings (Four Heavenly Kings) → Sakyamuni Hall (murals of Buddha's life) → Mahavira Hall → Thousand-Buddha Hall (Guanyin & Weituo) → Bodhisattva Hall (Thousand-hand Guanyin) 🔹One-day In-depth Tour: Shuanglin Temple morning chanting experience → painted sculpture explanation → take photos of the morning light and shadow before 9:00 am📸 → lunch at a local restaurant outside the temple → Pingyao Ancient City in the afternoon (ancient city wall + Rishengchang Exchange Shop) → stay overnight in the ancient city and watch the light show🌃 🚗Driving Information: ⚠️Navigate directly to "Shuanglin Temple Road". Parking spaces at the scenic spot are limited! Recommended parking: 1️⃣ Shuanglin Temple parking lot (200m walk) 2️⃣ Qiaotou Village temporary parking lot (free shuttle bus) 🚫During peak season (April–October), it is recommended to arrive before 8:30 am to avoid peak tourist bus hours. ⛱️Must-see Attractions: 1️⃣ Thousand-Buddha Hall: Surrounded by more than 500 painted sculptures, the Guanyin Bodhisattva with flowing robes, and the Weituo Bodhisattva with a "dynamic" sense of stillness⚡️ 2️⃣ Sakyamuni Hall: More than 200 continuous painted sculptures depict the life of Buddha, and the Guanyin Bodhisattva crossing the sea with red lotus flowers underfoot is stunning🌊 3️⃣ Hall of Heavenly Kings: The 3m-high Four Heavenly Kings subvert tradition, holding a sword/pipa/umbrella/snake, symbolizing "favorable weather"🌪️ 4️⃣ Bodhisattva Hall: The Thousand-hand Guanyin Bodhisattva is in the center, with more than 400 Bodhisattvas hanging like scattered flowers🌸 (perfect for wide-angle shots) 🏨Accommodation Guide: 🔸Ancient Style Immersion: Nanshunyuan Inn (approx. CNY 100 per person): Triple courtyard + ancient costume night photography📷, a budget traveler's dream Pingyao Hotel: Century-old Shanxi merchant courtyard, with a view of the city tower night scene from the window🌇 🔸Artistic Niche: Meet Pingyao Again Themed Hotel: Theater combined ticket package, immersive time-travel experience🎭 🔸High-end Resort: Yunjin Chenggongguan: Renovated Ming and Qing Dynasty official residence, private experience of ancient polishing lacquerware techniques🖌️ 💗Other Tips: ✅Reservation: Book tickets 1 day in advance during peak season on the "Pingyao Ancient City Scenic Area" official account (full price CNY 35, half price for students) 🚌Transportation: Take bus No. 108 north line directly from Pingyao Station (CNY 1) or take a taxi for CNY 13🚖 📸Photography: Wear Hanfu/plain long skirts! Take photos of the painted sculptures when the morning and evening light penetrates the window lattices🌅, and shoot from a low angle looking up to highlight the grandeur of the architecture📷 🙏Etiquette: Flash photography is prohibited inside the halls❗️Do not touch the painted sculptures. You can bring a cold light flashlight to observe the details🔦 🍜Food: Try the "Wantu + Pingyao beef" combo at Qiaotou Village outside the temple, approx. CNY 20 per person for a filling meal😋 ✨Bonus: Every year on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, there is a temple fair🎪, where you can watch Shehuo performances/eat vegetarian meals, and experience the thousand-year-old folk customs～

To understand the development of ancient Chinese architecture, one must visit Shanxi. On this loess plateau, thousands of years of history and culture are embedded in every brick, tile, wood, and stone, forming cultural treasures. What's more, another county in Shanxi is becoming a hot destination, even though most people don't know its name. This county, however, boasts a thousand years of history! Curious friends might ask, where is this county in Shanxi? What unique scenery does it offer? With these questions and curiosity in mind, let's explore the story of Xixian County. Xixian, formerly known as Xizhou, is a county under the jurisdiction of Linfen City, Shanxi Province, covering a total area of 1413.22 square kilometers. 隰 (xí) is pronounced as "xi." Xixian is located amidst the eroded gullies of the Loess Plateau. Nestled at the southern foot of the Lüliang Mountains, this low-lying county sits where surrounding rivers converge before flowing into the Yellow River. This low-lying, wetland area, surrounded by rivers on three sides, is known as Xixian. Despite its name being unfamiliar to many, it's a county with a rich, thousand-year history! Surrounded by mountains, the scenery is picturesque. Xiaoxitian, one of the filming locations for the domestically produced AAA game masterpiece "Black Myth: Wukong," is located here, bringing significant attention and prosperity to the area.

Hey friends! Want to explore the unique Shanxi temples featured in *Black Myth: Wukong*? Shuozhou is the place to be! From the Xiaoxitian clay sculptures to the Hanging Temple and the Yungang Grottoes, we've got you covered! Check out this 6-day itinerary! 🚩Recommended Route: Discover Shanxi, Savor Ancient Charm Day 1: 🛫Fly from Shanghai to Shuozhou, embarking on a journey through ancient Shanxi. Day 2: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda🏯—Marvel at the millennium-old wooden structure and the ingenuity of ancient architecture. Jinci Museum🎨—Explore Shanxi's history and culture, savoring the essence of Sanjin. Pingyao Ancient City🏰—Stroll through the ancient streets and alleys, experiencing the rich historical and cultural atmosphere. Day 3: Shuanglin Temple🛕—Visit the ancient Buddhist temple and admire the beauty of religious art. Wang Family Courtyard🏡—Discover the culture of Shanxi merchants and learn about historical heritage. Day 4: Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River💦—Witness the spectacular waterfall and feel the majestic power of nature. Xiaoxitian🌄—Explore the temple featured in *Black Myth: Wukong* and admire the unique Shanxi temple architecture. Day 5: Mount Wutai🏔️—Make a pilgrimage to the famous Buddhist mountain and experience tranquility and solemnity. Xiantong Temple🏯—Visit the ancient temple and immerse yourself in the profound Buddhist culture. Day 6: Hanging Temple🕍—Visit the ancient temple perched on cliffs, marveling at this architectural wonder. Yungang Grottoes🗿—Admire the exquisite stone carvings and appreciate the ancient craftsmanship. 🛬Conclude your delightful Shanxi journey and return home. Packing List: 🧳 Essentials for Your Trip to Shuozhou and Beyond! 👗 Clothing: Pack mainly spring/autumn clothes, with a warm jacket for cool evenings. Don't forget comfortable sneakers! 🎒 Accessories: Sunglasses and a hat are essential for sun protection and style. Bring a small backpack for daily outings. 📷 Photography: A phone or camera is fine, but don't forget chargers and spare batteries to capture every beautiful moment! 🪪 Documents: Bring your ID card, student ID, etc., to take advantage of any discounts. Keep them safe! 💊 Medicine: Pack some cold and stomach medicine, just in case. If you're prone to motion sickness, bring motion sickness medication too. 🧴 Skincare: Sunscreen and lip balm are a must for staying radiant. You can also bring a face mask to pamper yourself on your trip! 💰 Wallet: Bring some cash and bank cards. While mobile payments are convenient, some places still require cash. That's all for your Shuozhou trip! I hope this guide is helpful! Follow me for more exciting journeys🌈

📍 Attraction Introduction Chongqing Temple, a thousand-year-old temple nestled on the slopes of Ziyun Mountain in Changzi County, Changzhi, Shanxi Province, was first built in the ninth year of the Dazhong Xiangfu reign of the Northern Song Dynasty (1016) and was designated as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 1996! Not only is it a filming location for "Black Myth: Wukong," but it is also a "living museum of Song Dynasty painted sculptures." Surrounded by mountains on three sides and embraced by pine and cypress trees, the temple boasts a compact layout resembling a courtyard house. The Song and Ming Dynasty architecture complements the painted sculptures, making it a true "gem of ancient Chinese architectural art." ✨ Must-See Highlights 1️⃣ The Pinnacle of Song Dynasty Painted Sculptures: The 18 Arhat statues from the Northern Song Dynasty (the earliest dated group of Arhat statues in China!) in the Hall of the Three Great Bodhisattvas are renowned for their realistic muscle lines and lifelike expressions, earning them the title of "Crown of Song Sculptures" by experts! The statues of Guanyin, Manjusri, and Samantabhadra, riding their divine beasts with flowing robes, are breathtakingly detailed. 2️⃣ Marvels of Ming Dynasty Hanging Sculptures: The hanging sculptures of the Ten Kings of Hell and the Buddhist realm in the Ksitigarbha Hall are vibrant in color and bursting with three-dimensionality! The wrathful and majestic figures of the Kings of Hell and their judges, along with the celestial maidens in the upper pavilions, transport you to a mythical world. 3️⃣ Millennium-Old Wooden Architectural Miracle: The main hall, the Thousand Buddha Hall, retains its original Northern Song Dynasty structure, featuring a hip-and-gable roof, angled pillars, and Song Dynasty glazed windows. Its intricate beam structure is so precise that not a single nail is superfluous, a delight for ancient architecture enthusiasts! 📖 Historical Stories The temple has weathered the storms of a thousand years, miraculously surviving even the "Cultural Revolution," thanks to the desperate protection of the local people. During the Ming Dynasty restoration, artisans left behind "time codes" in the form of glazed inscriptions, allowing us to clearly read the construction records from the Jiajing period. 💭 Personal Experience Stepping into the temple is like pressing the pause button on time! The eyes of the Song Dynasty Arhats seem to pierce your soul, and every corner of the Ming Dynasty hanging sculptures tells a story. Here, there is no commercial hustle and bustle, only the tranquility of Zen under the shade of ancient pines, where even your breath carries the dust of history. 🚗 Practical Information Location: On the slopes of Ziyun Mountain, Ju Village, Setou Town, Changzi County, Changzhi City. Navigate to "Chongqing Temple." Tickets: 25 yuan, free during certain periods. Opening Hours: 8:30-17:00.

Follow "Black Myth: Wukong" to Shanxi, first stop—Nanchan Temple 📍Nanchan Temple is located in Lijiazhuang, Yangbai Township, Wutai County, Xinzhou, Shanxi With the popularity of "Black Myth: Wukong," public attention has turned to the historically rich land of Shanxi. Shanxi boasts the highest number of ancient architectural structures in China. Why are there so many ancient buildings in Shanxi? Perhaps the best answer lies in the fact that this grand hall, having endured over a thousand years, still stands before us today. In Shanxi, almost every village has a temple, and Wutai is even more unique, with every household practicing Buddhism. Burning incense and worshipping Buddha are integral parts of their daily lives. Shanxi is situated on the Loess Plateau, and Wutai is surrounded by mountains. The people living in these mountains built temples at the foot of the mountains with piety and reverence. It is precisely because of the region's relative isolation that these buildings nestled deep in the mountains have been preserved. When they become a part of daily life, their existence becomes more natural and unassuming. Upon setting foot in Nanchan Temple, a single-eave, gray-tiled hip-and-gable roof hall appears at the end of a winding path. It stands quietly like an old man, the oldest extant Tang Dynasty wooden structure in China. It seems as if the passage of a thousand years has left no trace of time on it. It is a privilege and a blessing to witness it. 🚗 Transportation: Chartering a car or self-driving is recommended (buses are available, but wait times can be long). 🎫 Tickets: 20 yuan (can be purchased on the official WeChat account / can be purchased on-site) ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30–17:00 [Entry stops at 16:30 (winter and spring), 17:00 (summer and autumn)]. Closed every Monday (open on national holidays, open on Mondays from July 1 to August 31). Open from Tuesday to Sunday.

📍 Yanqing Temple is located in Shanwen Village, Wutai, Xinzhou, Shanxi. Yanqing Temple, a temple little known even to locals, was originally built in the Tang Dynasty. Our trip focuses on the innermost single-eave, hip-and-gable, gray-tiled, Jin Dynasty Grand Buddha Hall. It was the popularity of "Black Myth: Wukong" that brought this hidden gem to light, allowing us to unveil its mysterious face and witness its true beauty. Hidden in the river of history, it stands quietly and solemnly. Every detail of the hall seems to tell the story of the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans of the time, and the erosion of wind and rain has added a unique flavor. The most distinctive feature is the beast head attached to the doorposts. Known as "Tun Kou," these beast heads serve to protect the temple and ward off evil spirits. Their glaring eyes and horns add a layer of mystery to the hall. 📌Cultural Relic — Scripture Pillar The round base of the scripture pillar in front of Yanqing Temple has a diameter of nearly 1 meter and is carved with a clear lotus pattern. Above the base is a nearly 2-meter-high pillar inscribed with the characters "Buddha's Ushnisha-Vijaya-Dharani Pillar." Atop the pillar is a damaged platform with nothing else on it. The scripture pillar dates back to the Song Dynasty or even earlier. 🚗 Transportation: Chartering a car or self-driving is recommended. There is ample parking space outside the temple (public transportation is not convenient in the village where Yanqing Temple is located). 🎫 Tickets: Free (with the popularity of "Black Myth: Wukong," the doors of many national treasures, long sealed, have been opened, making access easy). ⏰ Opening Hours: No specific time, it's better to go early. ⬆️This niche attraction is suitable for ancient architecture enthusiasts. Now we can only see this ancient hall. The passage of time prevents us from witnessing its former glory. We hope it will not disappear into the river of history.

My dears, in addition to the ancient city of Pingyao, Zhenguo Temple is definitely a treasure attraction that you cannot miss! This is a thousand-year-old wooden structure without iron nails, a ceiling with colorful sculptures from the Five Dynasties, and a photo-taking paradise with few people and beautiful scenery... Even "Black Myth: Wukong" came here to film, and every shot is a historical blockbuster! Keep this guide and unlock the hidden oriental architectural aesthetics of Jinzhong! Zhenguo Temple·A time capsule that travels through thousands of years ▫️ The low-key "World Heritage" was built in the seventh year of Tianhui in the Northern Han Dynasty of the Five Dynasties (963 AD). It was originally named Jingcheng Temple and was renamed Zhenguo Temple during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. In 1997, it was listed on the World Cultural Heritage List together with Pingyao Ancient City and Shuanglin Temple, but because it is far away from the hustle and bustle of the ancient city, it remains a niche secret. ▫️ A textbook of wooden structure miracles. The entire temple building is spliced ​​with mortise and tenon joints, without any iron nails! The Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas is one of the oldest existing wooden structures in China. Its roof is supported by 12 eaves columns, with an eaves of nearly 3 meters. The brackets spread out like an umbrella. Its simple shape has remained stable for thousands of years, and it can be called the "ceiling of oriental architectural mechanics." ▫️ The swan song of Five Dynasties colored sculptures There are 11 Five Dynasties colored sculptures in the Wanfo Hall, the only one in the country that is completely preserved! The main Buddha Shakyamuni has a compassionate face, the Bodhisattvas dance in graceful robes, the warriors have angry eyes and are majestic, and even the details such as the nail patterns are clearly visible. The colored sculptures inherit the realistic style of the Tang Dynasty, and they are both realistic and vivid, and can be called "the frozen aftertaste of the prosperous Tang Dynasty" 🎫Tickets: 23 yuan, which can be purchased on site or booked online in advance. 🕙Opening hours: 08:00 - 18:00 🚗Transportation: If you are driving🚗, navigate directly to Zhenguo Temple If you choose public transportation🚌, you can first go to Pingyao Ancient City, and then take a rural bus to Zhenguo Temple from Pingyao Ancient City or take a taxi. It takes about 30 minutes by taxi. You can experience the local customs by taking the rural bus, but the number of buses may be less, so remember to plan your time in advance. 🏯 Must-visit guide 1️⃣ Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas: Five Dynasties wooden ceiling * Nail-free magic: The entire hall is only connected with mortise and tenon joints, and the seven-layer brackets are like blooming lotus flowers, with an eaves of nearly 3 meters. When the light and shadow fall, it seems to travel through thousands of years. * Treasure colored sculptures: 11 colored sculptures from the Five Dynasties stand quietly in the hall. The main Buddha, Sakyamuni, has a compassionate face, and the attendant Bodhisattvas dance in graceful robes. The details are so exquisite that even the nail lines are clearly visible. * Light and shadow aesthetics: On a sunny afternoon, the sun shines through the lattice windows onto the paintings. The mottled light and shadows come with filters, and you can take photos with your mobile phone! 📸 2️⃣ Heavenly King Hall: The rugged beauty of Yuan Dynasty architecture * Four Heavenly Kings: The 3-meter-tall guardian statues are angry and majestic, symbolizing "good weather and good harvests". The wide-angle shot gives a full sense of oppression. * Painted relics: The Yuan Dynasty painted patterns on the beams are still clear even though they have faded. The lotus patterns on the archways are simple and vivid. Remember to take photos from above to take details! 3️⃣ Ksitigarbha Hall & Guanyin Hall: Exquisite Ming and Qing Dynasty Architecture * Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva: The Ksitigarbha Hall on the west side of the backyard enshrines the Ten Kings of Hell. The murals depict cause and effect and reincarnation, full of mystery. * Secret camera position: The round hole door in the backyard frames a corner of the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas. The frame composition creates a sense of dialogue between ancient and modern times, which is niche and high-end! There is no noise here, only the thousand-year-old whispers of mortise and tenon joints and colored sculptures. If you are tired of the crowds in Pingyao Ancient City, you might as well come here and touch the true soul of oriental architecture!

When my love for ancient Chinese architecture was awakened, I decided to skip the crowded tourist spots in Taiyuan and Datong, and embark on a less-traveled journey. Unexpectedly, I stumbled upon a hidden gem of ancient architecture in Changzhi! Changzhi, a low-key city, boasts over a thousand well-preserved historical sites, the earliest dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Each site is like a silent historian, quietly telling stories of the past millennium. The carvings, painted sculptures, murals, and various ancient architectural styles here are unique, many of which are the only examples in the country, exuding a one-of-a-kind charm. Now, follow my itinerary and embark on this wondrous journey through thousands of years of history, experiencing the profound depth of the past and appreciating the beauty of Changzhi's ancient architecture. 🚘Changzhi 2-Day Itinerary Changzhi's attractions are scattered, so self-driving or renting a car is recommended for a more flexible exploration of its architectural beauty. D1 Chongqing Temple — Xiahuo Huguo Lingkuang Temple — Guanyin Temple (Must-see) — Faxing Temple — Zhongzhang Fuxi Temple — Zhengjue Temple After visiting these sites, be sure to sample the local cuisine: Cat Ear Noodles, Donkey Meat Pancakes, Changzi Pig's Head, Shortbread, Fried Pancakes, and Huguan Lamb. Each bite offers a unique taste of Changzhi. D2 Zhuozhang River Valley: Tiantai Convent — Yuanqi Temple — Dayun Temple — Fotou Temple — Chunhua Temple — Huilong Temple — Dayu Shrine — Longmen Temple The attractions on this route are concentrated in the Zhuozhang River Valley, but dining options are limited. It's advisable to bring your own food. Stay overnight in the city center, or you might end up like me, eating instant noodles. 🌟Highlights - Longmen Temple: A veritable museum of ancient architecture, with one courtyard spanning five dynasties. For just CNY 20, you can travel through time and admire the architectural charm of different eras. - Tiantai Convent: One of the few remaining wooden structures from the Later Tang Dynasty and Five Dynasties period. Stepping inside feels like touching the veins of history. - Guanyin Temple: A unique temple blending Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. It's also a key filming location for the game Black Myth: Wukong, adding to its mystique. - Chongqing Temple: The Northern Song Dynasty statues inside are lifelike, especially the Eighteen Arhats, each with a distinct expression, as if imbued with life. - Dayun Temple: Home to the only surviving Five Dynasties murals in Chinese temples and monasteries. The Seven Treasures Pagoda at the entrance, built during the Later Zhou Dynasty, holds immense historical value. For accommodation, choose the city center of Changzhi. It offers affordable prices and convenient transportation, providing a comfortable resting place for your architectural adventure.

The recent popularity of the game *Black Myth: Wukong* has also brought attention to its filming location, Little Western Paradise in Xixian County. This one-day chartered tour will immerse you in the unique charm of Little Western Paradise. Located atop Fenghuang Mountain, west of Xixian County in Linfen City, Shanxi Province, Little Western Paradise is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces a river, boasting a strategic location and beautiful scenery. It is renowned for its Ming Dynasty colored hanging sculptures and is known as the Museum of Chinese Hanging Sculpture Art and a "masterpiece of hanging sculptures" in the history of Chinese sculpture. Within a space of just over 1,100 square meters, there are 20 buildings of varying sizes and heights. The main hall, Daxiong Baodian, in the upper courtyard houses over a thousand colorful sculptures, each with vivid shapes and unique postures. [Opening Hours] 🕘🕘🕘 Summer: 7:30 am–6:30 pm Winter: 8:00 am–5:00 pm Recommended visiting time: 1–2 hrs [Ticket Prices] 💴💴💴 Tickets are CNY 35 per person. Half-price tickets are CNY 18 per person. Certain groups, such as children under 6, seniors over 60, and people with disabilities, can enter for free. Family members of active military personnel and full-time university students can enjoy half-price tickets. [Things to Do] ⛺⛺⛺ Wu Liang Dian (Hall of Immeasurable Life): The main hall of the lower courtyard, dedicated to the Amitabha Buddha. Inside, there are exquisitely crafted Ming Dynasty wooden carvings of celestial palaces and pavilions. Daxiong Baodian (Great Hero Hall): The main hall of the upper courtyard and the highlight of Little Western Paradise. The beams and rafters are decorated with colorful paintings, gilded and inlaid. The hall is filled with hanging sculptures, with over a thousand clay figures of various sizes arranged according to the 33 layers of heaven, reflecting a hierarchical order. Wei Tuo Dian (Hall of Skanda): Located opposite Wu Liang Dian, it houses a lifelike statue of Skanda, carved from a single piece of nanmu wood in the fifth year of the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty. [Nearby Attractions] 🚌🚌🚌 The Xixian Drum Tower, built in the 45th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, has a unique design and is listed as a seventh-batch National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit. You can also visit local orchards and experience the joy of picking Yulu Xiang pears. [Things to Prepare] 👉👉👉 Bring a valid ID, such as your ID card, to enjoy relevant discounts. Take sun protection measures in summer and keep warm in winter. Wear comfortable shoes for easy hiking and walking within the scenic area. Little Western Paradise

Located on the slopes of Xiaoshi Mountain southeast of Jincheng City, Qinglian Temple, the same filming location as Black Myth: Wukong, was our fourth stop of the day. The temple complex, divided into upper and lower sections, stands against the mountain, with the clear Danshui River flowing below. Its halls and pavilions are nestled among the lush greenery, and the surrounding mountains resemble lotus flowers emerging from the water, commanding a breathtaking view. It is one of the earliest temples of the Maitreya Pure Land Sect of Buddhism in China and is renowned as the "scholarly Qinglian, martial Shaolin." The six Tang Dynasty painted sculptures in the Maitreya Hall of the lower temple are unparalleled and unique. The four "Corner Gods" in the Sutra Repository of the upper temple are the only ones in the country and are jokingly called the "hardest workers" of Qinglian Temple. But the Corner Gods are not just chosen laborers; they are the pillars of Qinglian Temple, bearing the weight of the thousand-year-old temple through the storms of time. The Tang sculptures of Qinglian Temple are precious, and the Song Dynasty statues of the Eighteen Arhats in the Sakyamuni Hall of the lower temple and the Arhat Hall of the upper temple are equally exquisite. The Ming Dynasty stupa is solemn and majestic, and ancient trees tower within the temple grounds. The affectionate Mother and Son Cypress and the 1,400-year-old male and female ginkgo couple invite visitors to draw near and listen to their thousand-year-old love story. Beautiful Qinglian Temple offers boundless scenery.

Follow me❗This is a journey to visit ancient sites in southeastern Shanxi. It's a 6-day trip through ancient architecture, colorful sculptures, and the filming locations of *Black Myth: Wukong*✨ 📌Full itinerary: 6 days and 5 nights, Taiyuan-Pingyao-Linfen-Changzhi-Gaoping-Taiyuan 🚗Driving is essential! Take my advice! ⚠️Don't count on public transport! 90% of the state-protected ancient buildings are hidden in remote mountain villages (taxis can't get there at all). ⚠️The attractions are so scattered that you'll question your life choices (average 200 km+ driving per day). ⚠️Peak season car rental fees ≈ taxi fees (cheaper than high-speed rail for 4 people). 🌟DAY 1 Detailed Guide (Taiyuan) Wusu Airport → (25 min taxi ride) Shanxi Grand Hotel → (walking distance) Liu Xiang Street → Shanxi Grand Hotel (lunch break) → Jinci Temple → Taiyuan Ancient County Town → Lin Xiang Zhai → (walking distance) Shanxi Grand Hotel 📸Jinci Temple Guide 🎫Tickets: Museum 80 RMB, park free. The park can be skipped. 🦶Must-follow route: Check in at the Three Treasures, Three Wonders, and Three Plaques along the central axis. ✅Three Treasures 1️⃣Hall of Offerings: Original Jin Dynasty structure, a "natural refrigerator" for offerings. 2️⃣Fish Marsh Flying Bridge: The originator of overpasses, praised by Mr. Liang Sicheng. 3️⃣Shrine of the Holy Mother: The only surviving ancient building in China that conforms to the *Yingzao Fashi* hall-style structure. The pillars in front of the hall feature China's earliest wood-carved coiled dragons, including the noticeable "Yeah Dragon" and "Thumbs-up Dragon." ✅Three Wonders 1️⃣Song Dynasty painted sculptures: Inside the Shrine of the Holy Mother, the original Song Dynasty painted sculptures of court ladies are masterpieces in the history of Chinese sculpture. Master Mei Lanfang observed one of the maid statues for three days and commented that her "every frown and smile seems to tell a story of her life." 2️⃣Zhou Cypress and Tang Dynasty Locust Tree: Over a thousand years old, they're almost "spirits." 3️⃣Nanlao Spring: Northern Qi style, the source of the Jin River. ✅Three Plaques 1️⃣Shui Jing Tai: Taken from the *Book of Han*, "Clear water and bright mirrors cannot escape form." 2️⃣Nanlao: Taken from the *Book of Songs*, "May you enjoy enduring longevity." 3️⃣Dui Yue: Taken from the *Book of Songs*, "Facing the heavens, the noble steeds run in the temple." 👉🏻Friendly advice: Hire an official guide! You won't understand anything on your own. 👉🏻Taiyuan Ancient County Town is far from the city center and can be visited after Jinci Temple. It's not worth a special trip. 🍜Taiyuan Must-Eat List (Liu Xiang Street Walking Guide) ✅Ren Yi Li Steamed Dumplings: Intangible cultural heritage cuisine! Thin skin, big filling, juicy and oily, rich but not greasy, delicious. ✅Shun Liu Knife-Shaved Noodles: Locals queue up for this intangible cultural heritage braised pork noodles. Experience the daily noodle-slurping routine of Taiyuan people. ✅Lin Xiang Zhai: A century-old restaurant, sweet and sour meatballs, Guo You Rou (stir-fried pork slices), Taiyuan vinegar fish... all are dishes listed on Taiyuan's intangible cultural heritage list. There are also special dandelion dumplings🥟, the first time I've heard of such a unique filling. 🏰Accommodation Bonus: Shanxi Grand Hotel ‼️Taiyuan's own Peace Hotel ‼️A palace-level hotel converted from the Ming and Qing imperial examination halls ‼️Tagore/Chiang Kai-shek's same style of guest rooms ‼️Carved beams and painted rafters for less than 300 RMB/night (no price increase during Lunar New Year!) 👉🏻Tips: Be sure to get up early to photograph the eaves and brackets in the morning light! 🎁Bonus at the end Stay tuned for DAY 2 Pingyao Ancient City's must-try⚠️guide! (Eat and drink your fill at Pingyao's time-honored brands/stay in the former union club)

🌈Highlights Shuozhou is a lesser-known city with a long history. Its rich cultural heritage and tranquil atmosphere attract more and more tourists. Compared with popular tourist cities, Shuozhou is quieter and more ancient, as if it can take you back in time to the era of horses and chariots. Now, only the wind blows here, blowing over the ancient city walls and the wind chimes of the wooden pagoda, telling stories of thousands of years. 🚗Transportation Although Shuozhou's transportation is not as convenient as that of big cities, self-driving tours are a good choice. Since Shuozhou's attractions are relatively scattered, especially those far from the city center, such as the Old Guangwu Ancient City and Guangwu Ming Great Wall, renting a car is more convenient. In addition, although public transportation in the city is limited, taxis and ride-hailing services are relatively convenient and can meet the basic travel needs of tourists. 👍️Must-visit Attractions 1. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda • Ticket: CNY 48 • Opening hours: 8:00–17:30 • Highlights: The wooden pagoda is 67.31 meters high and adopts an octagonal five-story pavilion-style design. It became popular online because it was a filming location for Black Myth: Wukong. Each floor of the wooden pagoda has eaves and a flat seat (balcony). The top is an octagonal spire with a pagoda finial on top. It is a treasure of ancient Chinese architecture. 2. Chongfu Temple • Ticket: Free • Opening hours: 8:30–17:00 • Highlights: Chongfu Temple is one of the only three remaining Jin Dynasty temples in China and is known as the "Art Treasure House of the Jin Dynasty". The Thousand-Hand Guanyin mural in the temple has more than 900 hands and 136 dharma instruments. It is the largest Thousand-Hand Guanyin mural painted in ancient China and is worth seeing. 3. Shuozhou Ancient City • Ticket: Free • Opening hours: All day • Highlights: The ancient city has preserved the architectural style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Walking is the best way to explore it. Recommended route: South Gate of the Ancient City ➡️ Wenchang Pavilion ➡️ Catholic Church ➡️ Confucian Temple ➡️ Mayi Museum ➡️ Chongfu Temple ➡️ East Gate Ancient City Wall Park. 4. Guangwu Ming Great Wall • Ticket: Free • Opening hours: All day • Highlights: The Great Wall here has preserved its original appearance, and the scenery on the top of the mountain is picturesque. Visitors can hike along the Great Wall and feel the traces of time. 🚩Queue Tips There are generally fewer tourists at Shuozhou's attractions, so there is no need to worry about queuing. However, during holidays or peak tourist seasons, popular attractions such as Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and Chongfu Temple may see an increase in tourists. To avoid long waiting times, it is recommended that tourists plan their itineraries in advance and arrange their time reasonably. 👍️Recommended Reasons As a lesser-known city, Shuozhou's unique charm lies in its rich historical and cultural heritage and tranquil atmosphere. Compared with popular tourist cities, Shuozhou has fewer tourists, allowing people to better appreciate the weight of history and the beauty of tranquility. In addition, Shuozhou's food and accommodation are relatively cheap, making it suitable for tourists on a budget. 📅Travel Tips Day 1: • Morning: Arrive in Shuozhou and visit Yingxian Wooden Pagoda to experience the charm of ancient Chinese architecture. • Afternoon: Visit Yingxian Pure Land Temple to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of Jin Dynasty architecture. • Evening: Taste local food in Shuozhou city and experience Shuozhou's nightlife. Day 2: • Morning: Visit Shuozhou Ancient City and walk to visit Wenchang Pavilion, Catholic Church, Confucian Temple, and other attractions. • Afternoon: Visit the Old Guangwu City and Guangwu Ming Great Wall to experience the grandeur and vicissitudes of the Great Wall. • Evening: Take a walk near the Ancient City Wall Park and enjoy the night view of the ancient city. 🍜Food Tips Shuozhou's food is mainly pasta and barbecue. The following local specialties are recommended: • Shuozhou Knife-cut Noodles: The noodles are chewy and smooth, and the soup is rich and delicious. It is a signature dish of Shuozhou. • Lamb Offal Soup: The lamb offal is cooked until tender, and the soup is delicious. It is the first choice for breakfast in Shuozhou. • Barbecue: Shuozhou has a wide variety of barbecue with unique flavors. It is a good choice for dinner parties. 🏨Accommodation Tips Shuozhou offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to high-end star hotels. It is recommended to choose hotels located in the city center or near attractions for easy sightseeing and travel. You can also consider staying in inns or homestays in the ancient city to experience the authentic Shuozhou style. 💗Other Tips 1. Weather: Shuozhou has a relatively dry climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Tourists should dress appropriately according to seasonal changes. 2. Safety: During the tour, take care of your personal belongings and avoid carrying too much cash and valuables. 3. Environmental Protection: Please keep the environment clean in the scenic area, do not litter, and work together to maintain a beautiful tourism environment.

With the popularity of the game Black Myth: Wukong, the ancient architecture of Shanxi has become a hot topic. I finally made my long-awaited trip to Datong, Shanxi. Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple in Datong Ancient City are both featured in the game, and I was pleasantly surprised by the free Shanhua Temple. · Shanhua Temple, also known as the "Southern Temple," was called "Dapuen Temple" during the Liao and Jin dynasties. It is located on Yongtai Street in Datong Ancient City. The temple faces south and is the most complete temple from the Liao and Jin dynasties in China. The Chinese architect Liang Sicheng praised it, saying, "The main hall, Puxian Pavilion, Sansheng Hall, and Shanmen Gate are all relics of the Liao and Jin dynasties. I never expected to find such precious relics in one temple." · [What are the highlights of Shanhua Temple?] Highlight 1: Five-Dragon Screen Wall Originally a screen wall in front of the Shanmen Gate of Xingguo Temple in Datong Ancient City, it was built in the 23rd year of the Wanli period of the Ming dynasty (1595). In 1980, it was moved to the west courtyard of Shanhua Temple for protection due to severe tilting. In 2009, it was moved to its current location. · Highlight 2: Shanmen Gate (Heavenly King Hall) A large official-style building from the early Jin dynasty, it is the largest existing Shanmen Gate in a temple. The Four Heavenly Kings represent the functions of wind, rain, and peace, symbolizing national peace and prosperity. Their expressions are so charming that they have become a popular photo spot at Shanhua Temple. · Highlight 3: Sansheng Hall Named after the "Three Saints of Huayan" enshrined there, it was built during the Tianhui period of the Jin dynasty, along with the Shanmen Gate. The lotus brackets are the largest known slanted brackets, resembling blooming lotus flowers. The Zhu Bian Stele in the hall is the "treasure of the temple," erected during the Jin dynasty and inscribed by Zhu Bian. Zhu Bian was the great-uncle of Zhu Xi, a master of Neo-Confucianism in the Southern Song dynasty. The stele is inscribed with the "Record of the Reconstruction of the Main Hall of Dapuen Temple in Xijing, Great Jin," and has stood in the temple for 848 years. It is also famous for its unique writing, calligraphy, and carving, earning the title of "Three Wonders Stele." · Highlight 4: Puxian Pavilion In 1953, Puxian Pavilion underwent a major renovation, during which a beam inscription was discovered: "Made in the second year of Zhenyuan." The inscription did not specify a dynasty, but was later identified as the second year of the Zhenyuan period of Emperor Dezong of the Tang dynasty (786), only a few years later than the oldest existing wooden structure in China, the main hall of Nanchan Temple on Mount Wutai. · Highlight 5: Mahavira Hall The main hall of Shanhua Temple, one of the eight existing Liao dynasty structures in China, the octagonal caisson is a model of Liao dynasty carpentry. The front of the Mahavira Hall features the magnificent golden Five Buddhas, with solemn expressions and elegant postures. On both sides of the hall are the 24 Heavenly Kings, each with a unique and lifelike appearance, considered the "pinnacle of Jin dynasty sculpture art." The Mahavira Hall also contains 190 square meters of Qing dynasty Buddhist murals, with every stroke and color depicting scenes of the Buddha preaching. · [Check-in Information] Shanhua Temple Tickets: Free Opening hours: 08:30–17:00 Address: No. 6, Nansi Street, Datong Ancient City, Pingcheng District, Datong, Shanxi Province

||. Datong in the off-season is really next level. Last year, I was attracted to Datong because of Wukong in Black Myth. At the beginning of the year, I flew to Shanxi without blinking. Exquisite murals and lifelike sculptures. Everywhere has traces of time. This is probably the aesthetic left by our ancestors~ 📍Huayan Temple