- Hengshan Hanging Temple (Xuankong si) - The Hanging Temple, a national AAAA level tourist attraction, is situated on the cliffs of Cuiping Peak on the west side of Jinlong Gorge in Hengshan, Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province. Initially named “Xuankong Pavilion,” the term “Xuan” comes from Chinese Taoist teachings, while “Kong” is derived from Buddhist teachings. It was later renamed “Hanging Temple” because the entire structure appears to hang from the cliff. In Chinese, “Xuan” and “Xuan” are homophones, which led to the name. [15]
The Hanging Temple was originally constructed in the late Northern Wei Dynasty (491 AD) and boasts a history of over 1500 years. It is a rare temple that integrates Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The architecture of the “Hanging Temple” is highly distinctive, known for its precariousness as if it is facing an abyss. It is famously described as “Hanging Temple, half a day high, three horse tails hanging in the air,” emphasizing its dramatic and perilous position.
- Yungang Grottoes - The Yungang Grottoes were carved over 1500 years ago during Alexander’s Eastern Expedition. Presently, there are 45 main caves, 252 niches of various sizes, and over 59,000 stone sculptures, making them a rich repository of Chinese cave art.
The Yungang Grottoes, as the first royal-sanctioned cave in China, reflect the political aspirations of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Compared to many other grotto temples in China, the Yungang Grottoes exhibit the most westernized style. They incorporate elements of Indian and Western Asian art, as well as Greek and Roman architectural styles, decorative patterns, and visual features, highlighting their connections with major civilizations around the world. This uniqueness makes them an invaluable part of Chinese art history and holds significant importance for the development of Chinese culture and art in future generations.
In 2001, the Yungang Grottoes were designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
- Driver
- Parking fees
- Pickup & Dropoff in Datong
- Driver waits for you in the parking lot
- Gratuity for the driver
- Meals , food and drinks
- Tour guide service
Enjoy a comfortable, convenient and worry-free private transfer service between any location in Datong and Yungang Grottoes & Hanging Temple. Explore the amazing sightseeing sites at your own pace. Datong hotel or railway station to Hanging Temple 1.5 hours on the way. Datong Hanging Temple to Yungang Grottoes 2 hours on the way. Yungang Grottoes to hotel or railway station 1 hour on the way. Vehicle Type: A 4-seater car for 1-3 travelers A 7-seater car for 4-6 travelers A 14-seater car for 7-10 travelers You need show everyone’s passport to buy the entrance tickets here. RMB Cash, WeChat and Alipay are available, but bank card is not available at the entrance tickets office.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
