Discover Datong, Shanxi: A Living Tapestry of Ancient Architecture and Wukong’s Mythical Saga
As the first stop of “Black Myth: Wukong”, Datong in Shanxi province is a place where ancient architecture and mythological legends come together in harmony. The caves, temples, murals, clay sculptures, hanging sculptures, and ancient streets here seem to be the real-life portrayal of Wukong’s legendary story, exuding a strong cultural atmosphere at every turn.
I had the privilege to visit Datong, and the experience was truly awe-inspiring!Here’s a suggested 3-day, 2-night itinerary for your visit:
Day 1: Datong Ancient City
- Huayan Temple
- Bell Tower
- Wang’s Courtyard
- Nine Dragon Screen
- Four Memorial Arches
- Great Mosque
- Shanhua Temple
- Drum Tower
- Fahua Temple
- Guangfu Corner
Day 2: Yungang Grottoes, Datong Museum, Datong Art Gallery
Day 3: Datong Forest Park, Hanging Temple, Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Now, let’s delve into some highlights of these attractions:
- Huayan Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple boasts a magnificent Main Hall and unique architecture, immersing visitors in a sense of historical grandeur.
- Nine Dragon Screen: A major attraction in Datong, this exquisite glazed Nine Dragon Screen shines brightly in the sunlight, showcasing the masterpiece of ancient royal architecture.
- Shanhua Temple: Another representative Buddhist temple, the architecture and murals within the temple display the unique charm of ancient Chinese culture, allowing visitors to experience tranquility and witness the legacy of history and culture.
- Drum Tower: A landmark building in Datong, the Drum Tower offers a panoramic view of the city, allowing visitors to appreciate the charm of this ancient city.
- Fahua Temple: With ancient towering trees and a serene environment, this temple is an ideal place for leisure and spiritual contemplation, offering a blend of Buddhist culture and natural beauty.
- Yungang Grottoes: One of Datong’s famous attractions, the grottoes showcase exquisite stone carvings and profound historical and cultural significance, allowing visitors to admire the superb craftsmanship and endless creativity of ancient artists.
- Hanging Temple: Built on a cliff, this temple presents a captivating and challenging architectural feat, providing visitors with a sense of the building’s allure and humanity’s reverence for nature.
- Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: As a representative of ancient architecture, this pagoda’s unique style and exquisite carvings demonstrate the unique charm of ancient Chinese architecture, allowing visitors to feel the essence of ancient buildings and the weight of history.
Datong offers numerous attractions, and the ones mentioned above are just a part of the whole. I hope that your trip to Datong will be filled with joy and wonderful memories!