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Hanging Temple

Introducing Datong Hanging Temple
Hanging Temple is known as Xuankong Temple. Hanging Temple is an architectural marvel. Hanging Temple is nestled within a cliff. Legend has it that the construction of this temple commenced during the waning years of the Northern Wei dynasty by a solitary monk named Liao Ran. Over the span of 1,400 years, numerous renovations and expansions have contributed to its current grandeur. What sets the Hanging Temple apart is not just its precarious perch but also its unique amalgamation of three traditional Chinese religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Its structural integrity relies on sturdy oak crossbeams intricately placed into crevices carved into the cliff face, with the primary support system ingeniously concealed within the bedrock. Nestled within a narrow canyon basin, the temple's edifice hangs suspended from the cliff's midpoint beneath the towering summit, shielded from the elements of rain and sunlight. Through the successive reigns of various dynasties, the temple's vibrant hues have been meticulously maintained, lending it an enduring allure.

Datong Hanging Temple Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Xuan Kong Si 悬空寺
• Best Time to Visit: April, May, Jun, Sept & Oct
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 2 hours
• Things to Do: Buddhist, Taoist & Confucius culture, tradtional Chinese architecture
• Opening Hours: 8:30 - 16:30 (Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec), 8:00 - 17:00 (Mar, Apr, Oct), 8:00 - 18:00 (Aug & Sept)
• Entrance Fee: CNY15; Ascending the Temple: CNY100.
• Address: Hengshan, Hunyuan County, Datong

Why Visit Datong Hanging Temple
Datong Hanging Temple stands out as one of the few temples globally that embraces multiple religions, harmoniously integrating the philosophies of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

What to Expect at Datong Hanging Temple
The entirety of the Hanging Temple comprises 40 halls and pavilions, all perched on cliffs towering over 30 meters (98 feet) above the ground. Stretching longer from north to south than from east to west, the terrain ascends progressively from the southern gate towards the northern end along the mountain slope. Among its concise layout are noteworthy structures such as the Qielan Hall (Hall of Sangharama), Sanguan Hall (Hall of Three Officials), Chunyang Hall, Hall of Sakyamuni, Hall of Three Religions, and Guanyin Hall. Of particular fascination is the Hall of Three Religions, where statues of Confucius, Lao Tzu, and Shakyamuni Buddha sit in close proximity, symbolizing the three distinct faiths of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, respectively.

How to Get to Datong Hanging Temple
• The Hanging Temple is located 65 km (40 miles) away from Datong city center.
• Rent a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Datong to the Hanging Temple.

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