China, Hanging Monastary near Datong, Against mountainside on stilts

Getty Images/Perspectives

Hanging Monastery

Datong


Built precariously into the side of a cliff, the Buddhist Hanging Monastery is made all the more stunning by its long support stilts. The halls hug the contours of the cliff face, connected by rickety catwalks and narrow corridors, which can get very crowded in summer. It's a sight to behold.

Many buses departing for Hunyuan (浑源) from Datong’s main bus station (¥31, two hours) come to the monastery. If you want to go on to Mùtǎ, there are frequent buses from Hunyuan (¥14, one hour), or shared taxis make the run from the monastery car park for ¥50 per person (when full).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Datong attractions

1. Yong‘an Temple

2.93 MILES

Yong‘an Temple at the foothills of Heng Shan (恆山) only unlocks its halls when there are visitors and for a good reason – this poised and serene 13th…

2. Yingxian Mùtǎ

28.89 MILES

Built in 1056, this riveting five-storey tower is the world’s tallest (67m) and China's oldest wooden pagoda. Constructed with red pine without a single…