At the foot of Mount Hengshan, one of the Five Sacred Mountains, there’s an architectural wonder called the Xuan Kong Si Hanging Temple. It hangs 264 feet above ground, and was constructed over 1,500 years ago with crossbeams inserted into the rock as the foundation.
It is believed that monks built the monastery on the cliffs to protect it from floods. The mountain peaks also provide a shield from snow and rain.
There are a total of 40 rooms and halls that hold 80 statues and stone carvings from different dynasties that have occupied the temple over the years.
It’s incredible that it has stood the test of time and still remains in top condition after 1,500 years.
It is the only temple remaining that combines three traditional Chinese religions – Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.
Wooden pillars are the only support of the temple.
The structure seems to defy gravity suspended on the side of Mount Hengshan.
It’s one of the main tourist attractions and historical sites in the Datong area.
