The Best Places to Visit in Datong
Datong is not only a city of Buddhist attractions, but also the closest to Mount Hengshan, one of the four sacred mountains of Taoism in China. Here we present some of the best places to visit in Datong, to help you explore the untouched beauty of this charming and mysterious area. Let us be your guide and join us to discover the charms between grottoes and temples.
Yungang Grottoes
The Yungang Grottoes, one of the World Cultural Sites, are recognized as the best preserved sites in China. With 53 caves containing more than 51,000 stone carvings of Buddha and Buddhist art, these grottoes represent an exceptional feat of Buddhist rock art from the Northern Wei Dynasty, built mainly between 460-525 AD.
The fusion of Asian Buddhist religious art with Chinese cultural tradition is a highlight of the site. Located about 16 km southwest of Datong, the Yungang Grottoes are a must-visit for those who want to explore the architectural brilliance of the ancient world.
Hanging Temple
The Hanging Temple, the most famous site on Mount Hengshan, has stood at the foot of the mountain for more than a thousand years. Built in a unique way, the temple buildings are supported by wooden pillars inserted into holes carved into the mountain. From afar, it appears to miraculously hang in the air, hence its name. Visitors can climb a steep stone path to explore some 40 exquisite and unique halls in the temple.
This special monastery combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, with around 80 sculptures carved from copper, iron, terracotta and stone. A visit to the Hanging Temple is a worthwhile adventure.
Nine Dragons Wall
The Nine Dragons Wall, being the oldest and largest glass screen in China, is still in perfect condition despite being more than 600 years old. This wall was built with tiles and engraved with nine dragons painted in different colors, vividly depicting the dragons flying quickly upward. Among the dragons are carvings of stones and floating grasses, and at the bottom of the wall are 41 groups of images of two dragons playing with a pearl. The waist of the wall is composed of 75 pieces of reliefs of animals such as cattle, horses, sheep, dogs, deer and rabbits, made of colored enamel bricks. The Nine Dragons Wall is an impressive display of architecture and craftsmanship that is worth visiting.
These places in Datong offer a rich and varied experience, from exploring ancient grottos and temples, to admiring an exceptional work of art at the Nine Dragons Wall.
