Discover the Underrated Beauty of Shanxi, Regret Not Visiting the Filming Location of “Black Myth: Wukong”

Shanxi is a treasure trove that has been severely underestimated. This province boasts half of China’s ancient architecture, including murals, wooden pagodas, and clay sculptures that span over a millennium. It’s rare for me to use the word “breathtaking” to describe a place.

Recently, “Black Myth: Wukong” made its debut, featuring 27 out of 36 real-life filming locations in Shanxi. From Xiaoxitian and Shanhua Ancient Temple to the Yungang Grottoes and the Hanging Temple, these in-game scenes can now be experienced in reality, showcasing the millennium-long romance of Chinese aesthetics.

Huayan Temple:
This millennium-old Liao and Jin dynasty temple complex boasts exquisite murals comparable to the Mogao Grottoes, representing a perfect fusion of tradition and reality.

Shanhua Ancient Temple:
Comprising three Liao and Jin dynasty buildings and numerous Ming and Qing dynasty structures, it is the largest and most intact architectural complex from the Liao and Jin periods in China.

Yungang Grottoes:
Built in the 5th century BC and spanning several decades, this site contains 53 grottoes and over 59,000 Buddha statues, serving as a treasure trove of grotto art that leaves visitors in awe.

Hanging Temple:
Located in Hunyuan County, Datong, this temple is perched on a cliff and consists of 40 interlaced halls, giving off an otherworldly vibe.

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda:
Standing at 67 meters tall and built without a single nail, this pagoda has withstood wars and still stands strong, even captivating the renowned architect Liang Sicheng.

Yong’an Zen Temple:
Nestled at the foot of Mount Heng, this hidden gem of an ancient temple is perfect for photo opportunities with the solemn “majestic” inscription on its main hall.

Xiaoxitian:
The colorful sculptures adorning the halls of Xiaoxitian in Xixian County are a masterpiece in the history of Chinese sculpture, exuding lifelike realism that is truly awe-inspiring.

Guangsheng Temple:
The Buddhist pagoda at Guangsheng Temple, known as the Feihong Pagoda, is one of China’s four famous pagodas and holds the record for being the world’s tallest polychrome glazed pagoda.

Shanxi is indeed a land of wonders waiting to be explored. Its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes make it a destination not to be missed. If only I had known earlier that these stunning locations were the backdrop for “Black Myth: Wukong,” I would have regretted not visiting sooner.