The Hanging Monastery, also known as Xuankong Si or Hanging Temple, is one of China’s most extraordinary architectural marvels, perched precariously on a cliffside near Mount Hengshan in Shanxi Province. Built over 1,500 years ago, this UNESCO-recognized site blends Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in a stunning wooden structure that defies gravity. Located near Datong City, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking history, culture, and jaw-dropping views. Here’s a comprehensive guide to plan your trip.
A Travel Guide to the Hanging Monastery
Why Visit the Hanging Monastery?
The Hanging Monastery is a testament to ancient Chinese ingenuity, suspended about 75 meters (246 feet) above the ground on the west cliff of Jinlong Gorge. Its unique design—supported by wooden beams inserted into the cliff—has withstood earthquakes, floods, and time itself. The temple’s integration of three major Chinese philosophies (Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism) is rare, with statues of Sakyamuni, Laozi, and Confucius coexisting in its 40 halls. Beyond its historical and spiritual significance, the monastery’s dizzying location and intricate walkways offer an unforgettable adventure for photographers, history buffs, and thrill-seekers alike.
How to Get There
The Hanging Monastery is located in Hunyuan County, about 65 km (40 miles) southeast of Datong City, Shanxi Province. Here’s how to reach it:
Getting to Datong:
By Air: Fly to Datong Yungang Airport (DAT) from major cities like Beijing (1 hour), Shanghai (2.5 hours), or Xi’an (1.5 hours). Flights are frequent and affordable, starting at around $50–$100 one way.
By Train: High-speed trains connect Datong to Beijing (2.5 hours), Taiyuan (2.5 hours), and Pingyao (3.5 hours). From Beijing, tickets cost $20–$40. Datong South Railway Station is the main hub.
By Bus: Long-distance buses from Beijing or Taiyuan take 4–6 hours but are less comfortable than trains.
From Datong to the Hanging Monastery:
By Car/Taxi: The most convenient option is hiring a private car or taxi from Datong, a 1.5-hour drive costing $30–$50 round-trip. Many hotels or tour agencies can arrange this.
By Bus: Take a bus from Datong Bus Station to Hunyuan County (1 hour, ~$5), then a local taxi or minibus to the monastery (15 minutes, ~$3). Buses depart hourly from 7:30 AM.
By Tour: Guided day tours from Datong often combine the Hanging Monastery with Yungang Grottoes or Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, priced at $50–$100 per person, including transport and tickets.
Best Time to Visit
Seasons: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and vibrant scenery, ideal for exploring the monastery and nearby Mount Hengshan. Summer (July–August) is warm but can be crowded, while winter (December–March) is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, though the snow-draped cliffs are picturesque.
Timing: Arrive early (8:00–8:30 AM) to avoid crowds, especially in peak seasons. The monastery’s narrow walkways limit visitors at a time, so early visits ensure a smoother experience.
Duration: Plan 2–3 hours to explore the monastery, including time for photos and climbing the steep steps.
What to Do
The Hanging Monastery is both a cultural treasure and an architectural wonder. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Explore the Monastery:
Walk the narrow corridors and bridges connecting 40 halls, marveling at the wooden beams that anchor the structure to the cliff. Key highlights include the Hall of Three Religions, where statues of Buddha, Laozi, and Confucius stand side by side, and the South Pavilion, the largest hall with intricate sculptures.
Climb steep stairs to upper levels for panoramic views of Jinlong Gorge. Note: The climb may be challenging for those with a fear of heights or mobility issues.
Admire the Architecture:
Learn about the monastery’s engineering, which uses 27 cantilever beams drilled deep into the rock for support. The visible wooden pillars below were added later for aesthetics and reassurance, not structural necessity.
Photography:
Capture the monastery from below for its gravity-defying silhouette or from above for cliffside perspectives. The surrounding gorge and Mount Hengshan provide stunning backdrops.
Combine with Nearby Attractions:
Yungang Grottoes (16 km from Datong): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 50,000 Buddhist statues, a 1-hour drive from the monastery.
Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (50 km away): The world’s tallest and oldest wooden pagoda, built in 1056 without nails.
Mount Hengshan: Hike one of China’s Five Great Mountains, just 5 km from the monastery, for scenic trails and Taoist temples.
Tickets and Costs
Entrance Fee: CNY 125 (~$18) in peak season (April–October); CNY 117 (~$17) in off-season (November–March). A separate scenic area ticket (CNY 15, ~$2) is required for viewing from below.
Boarding Ticket: Highly recommended for climbing the monastery itself, as the standard ticket only allows viewing from the ground.
Tours: Guided tours from Datong, including transport and tickets, range from $50–$100 per person.
Tip: Book tickets online or through a tour agency to avoid long queues, especially in summer.
Where to Stay
Budget: Hostels like Datong Green Island Youth Hostel offer dorms for $10–$15 per night.
Mid-Range: Datong Garden Hotel or Holiday Inn Datong City Centre provide comfort for $40–$70 per night.
Luxury: Datong Yungang Meigao Hotel offers five-star amenities for $100–$150 per night.
For a unique experience, consider guesthouses in Hunyuan County near Mount Hengshan, though options are limited.
What to Bring
Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing steep steps and uneven paths. Layered clothing is ideal, as Shanxi’s weather can shift daily.
Essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, and water for sunny days; a light jacket for cooler seasons. Bring a small backpack for convenience.
Camera: The monastery’s dramatic setting is a photographer’s dream, but tripods may be impractical due to crowds.
Note: Avoid heavy bags, as the narrow walkways require agility.
Tips for a Great Experience
Book in Advance: Reserve tickets or tours early, especially during Chinese holidays like National Day (October 1–7) or Spring Festival, when crowds peak.
Safety First: The monastery’s walkways are narrow and high. Follow guides’ instructions, hold railings, and avoid leaning over edges. Those with acrophobia may prefer viewing from below.
Respect the Site: Refrain from touching statues or carvings, as the monastery is a protected cultural relic.
Combine Visits: Pair the monastery with Yungang Grottoes for a full day of exploration. A private car makes this efficient.
Local Food: Try Shanxi’s famous knife-cut noodles (daoxiaomian) or lamb dishes in Datong after your visit.
Final Thoughts
The Hanging Monastery is a bucket-list destination that blends architectural brilliance, spiritual harmony, and natural beauty. Its cliffside perch, ancient craftsmanship, and cultural significance make it a highlight of any Shanxi itinerary. Whether you’re climbing its precarious steps or gazing up from the gorge below, the experience is bound to leave you in awe of China’s historical ingenuity. Plan ahead, arrive early, and prepare for a journey into one of the world’s most improbable wonders.
