Datong, a city in northern China, boasts two architectural marvels that draw visitors from around the world. On a private day tour, travellers can explore the awe-inspiring Hanging Temple and the magnificent Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. With expert guidance, they’ll uncover the unique construction and rich history of these ancient sites, while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and a delicious local lunch. For those captivated by China’s architectural legacy, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the country’s cultural treasures.
Key Points
- Offers a private 8-hour day tour of Datong’s iconic Hanging Temple and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Includes guided tours, lunch, and transportation, with flexibility to explore at one’s own pace.
- Visitors can learn about the unique architectural marvels and the intermingling of Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist philosophies.
- The Hanging Temple, built in 491 A.D., defies gravity, hanging over a 50-meter gorge, while the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is the oldest and tallest wooden multi-story building.
- Requires passport, and the itinerary is subject to change, but the tour provides an immersive experience with no additional costs for tipping.
Tour Overview
The "Datong: Private Day Tour to Hanging Temple & Yingxian Pagoda" offers an 8-hour experience that includes hotel pickup and departure from Datong.
Priced from $168 per person, the tour is conducted in English and provides flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Visitors will explore the architectural wonders of the Hanging Temple and the renowned Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
The tour includes guided tours, lunch, and transportation.
Travelers are advised to bring their passport and expect itinerary changes.
This tour allows visitors to learn about the history of China’s three major religions at their own pace.
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Hanging Temple
Built in 491 A.D., the Hanging Temple is an architectural marvel that hangs over 50 meters above the Jinxia Gorge.
It’s the only temple that hosts worship for Taoists, Confucians, and Buddhists.
Visitors can marvel at the temple’s unique construction, with wooden pillars and beams cantilevered into the cliff face.
The guided tour allows you to explore the temple’s halls, shrines, and sculptures, learning about the intermingling of the three major Chinese philosophies.
Whether you’re a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, the Hanging Temple offers a captivating and unforgettable experience.
Architectural Wonders
Datong’s architectural wonders captivate visitors with their striking designs and ingenious constructions. At the Hanging Temple, devotees worshipping three religions defy gravity as the temple defies nature, hanging precariously over a 50-meter gorge. Nearby, the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, built in 1056, stands as the oldest and tallest wooden multi-story building in the world, a marvel of engineering.
| Architectural Wonders | Hanging Temple | Yingxian Wooden Pagoda |
| — | — | — |
| Built | 491 A.D. | 1056 |
| Height | 50 meters above gorge | Tallest wooden multi-story building |
| Religions | Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism | – |
These icons of ingenuity showcase Datong’s rich heritage and draw visitors from around the world.
Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Towering over the landscape, the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda stands as a remarkable feat of engineering. Built in 1056, it’s the oldest and tallest wooden multi-story building in the world.
Its unique design and construction techniques have endured for centuries. Visitors can marvel at the intricate woodwork and explore the pagoda’s nine stories.
The guided tour provides insight into the pagoda’s history and architecture. Travelers will appreciate the opportunity to witness this architectural wonder, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese craftsmen.
The guided tour provides insight into the pagoda’s history and architecture. Travelers will appreciate the opportunity to witness this architectural wonder, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese craftsmen.
The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is a must-see destination on the Datong tour.
More Great Tours NearbyItinerary Highlights
After meeting your guide in the hotel lobby, you’ll travel to the Hanging Temple, located about 1.5 hours from Datong.
Once there, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of this architectural marvel, built in 491 A.D. and hanging over 50 meters above Jinxia Gorge.
Following the temple visit, you’ll have lunch at a local restaurant.
Afterward, you’ll visit the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the oldest and tallest wooden multi-story building in the world, for a 1-hour guided tour.
The tour will then return you to your hotel or the Datong railway station.
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Inclusions
This private day tour includes an English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. The guide will provide insights into the history and cultural significance of the Hanging Temple and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. Private transportation is included, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience. Plus, the tour package offers the flexibility of including or excluding entrance fees and lunch, allowing you to customize your experience based on your preferences.
| Inclusions | Included | Not Included |
| — | — | — |
| English-speaking guide | ✓ | |
| Private transfer | ✓ | |
| Entrance fees | Optional | |
| Lunch | Optional | |
| Gratuities | ✓ | |
Important Information
When visiting the Hanging Temple and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, it’s important to bring your passport.
Itineraries are subject to change, so travelers should be flexible. The tour allows you to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed, providing an immersive experience in the history of China’s three major religions.
Gratuities are included, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs. Remember, this is a private tour, so you can customize the experience to your interests.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can easily book now and pay later.
Exploring Three Major Religions
The Hanging Temple is unique in that it hosts worship for Taoists, Confucians, and Buddhists, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the interplay of China’s three major religions.
Within this sacred site, visitors can observe the harmonious coexistence of these belief systems, each represented through distinct architectural elements and spiritual practices.
The tour offers insights into the historical significance and cultural significance of this interfaith phenomenon, allowing guests to gain a deeper understanding of the complexity and diversity of religious expression in China.
This experience is a highlight of the Datong tour, broadening perspectives on the country’s rich spiritual heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers to reserve now and pay later. This provides flexibility for travelers’ plans.
Can I Bring Children on This Tour?
Yes, children can join this tour. The tour allows flexibility, so families with kids can explore the sites at their own pace. However, the Hanging Temple’s steep paths may not be suitable for young children.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary. Customers can contact the tour provider to discuss any special requests or modifications to the standard tour program to suit their preferences.
Are Special Dietary Requirements Catered for During Lunch?
The tour provider can accommodate special dietary requirements during the included lunch, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should inform the provider of any dietary needs in advance to ensure the lunch meets their preferences.
What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?
If the tour is cancelled due to weather, travelers will receive a full refund. The tour operator will notify them in advance and assist in rescheduling the tour or providing alternative options if possible.
The Sum Up
This private day tour in Datong offers a unique opportunity to explore two remarkable architectural marvels of ancient China. The Hanging Temple and the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda showcase the impressive engineering and craftsmanship of the past. With hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tours, and a delicious lunch included, this experience provides an immersive and seamless way to discover these iconic sites.
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