Tourism GuideHanging Temple
An architectural marvel suspended on a cliff face blending Buddhism Taoism and Confucianism
Key Information
Construction Period
Northern Wei Dynasty 491 AD
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese Cliffside Architecture
UNESCO Status
Part of Mount Heng Scenic Area
Best Time to Visit
April to October
Altitude
75 meters above ground level
Number of Halls
40 halls and pavilions
Religious Significance
Buddhism Taoism Confucianism Fusion
The Hanging Temple also known as Xuankong Temple is a unique architectural wonder built into a cliff face at the foot of Mount Heng in Hunyuan County Datong City Shanxi Province Although administratively located in Shanxi Province it is often associated with Shijiazhuang due to its proximity and popularity among tourists visiting the region This temple is remarkable for being the only existing temple that combines Buddhism Taoism and Confucianism Built more than 1500 years ago during the Northern Wei Dynasty the temple appears to hang precariously on the vertical cliffside about 75 meters above the ground The structure is supported by oak crossbeams fitted into holes chiseled into the cliffside with the main supportive structure hidden inside the bedrock The temple consists of 40 halls and pavilions connected by a series of corridors bridges and boardwalks all seemingly defying gravity
Things to Do
- Explore the three main sections dedicated to Buddhism Taoism and Confucianism
- Walk along the narrow cliffside corridors and bridges for breathtaking views
- Admire the intricate wooden architecture built without nails
- Visit the Hall of Three Religions featuring statues of Buddha Laozi and Confucius
- Photograph the dramatic cliffside setting against Mount Heng
- Learn about the engineering techniques used to construct this gravitydefying structure
- Experience the cultural fusion of Chinas three major philosophical traditions