Hanging Temple
The Hanging Temple, also known as Xuankong Temple. This temple is not only one of the oldest and best-preserved wooden buildings in the world but also a rare example of a temple that combines three religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
The Hanging Temple is located on the cliffs of Mount Heng. The temple was built in the late Northern Wei Dynasty by a monk named Liaoran and has been renovated and expanded many times over the centuries.
The temple consists of 40 halls and pavilions, connected by winding corridors and bridges, and supported by wooden beams inserted into holes chiseled into the rock. The Hanging Temple hangs about 75 meters above the ground, which protects it from floods, snow, rain, and sun. The temple also has a sophisticated drainage system that prevents the wooden structure from rotting.
The most amazing feature of the Hanging Temple is that it houses statues and images of deities from three different religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The main hall, called the Hall of Three Religions, has statues of Sakyamuni Buddha, Laozi, and Confucius, representing the harmony of the three teachings in Chinese culture. The temple also has halls dedicated to various bodhisattvas, immortals, and emperors from different religions.
Visiting the Hanging Temple is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. You can walk along the narrow corridors and bridges that cling to the cliff face, admire the stunning views of the valley below and the mountain above, and feel the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. You can also learn more about the history, culture, and religion of China from the informative guides and signs.
The Hanging Temple is not only a masterpiece of architecture and engineering but also a place of spiritual significance and cultural heritage. It reflects the diversity and tolerance of Chinese religious beliefs, as well as the creativity and wisdom of ancient Chinese people. It is one of the best Buddhist temples in China that will leave you amazed and inspired.
History: 491 SCN
Visiting Time: Time: 8:00 to 18:00 from June to October, and from 8:30 to 17:30 from November to May.
Location: Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province
