Why come to Datong, a city in northern Shanxi province, China? It is transitioning into a cultural tourism destination with some remarkable historical sites. It is about a two hour high speed train ride west of Beijing. I would recommend spending two to three days here.

We were here to visit the Hanging Monastery. The next day we took a taxi for one and a half hours from central Datong to Mount Hengshan in Hunyan County 80 Km away. The scenery on the way is austere but beautiful in its rawness. It was October and bitterly cold. If you are planning to visit do not underestimate the cold – bring warm clothing.

Suddenly there it was. The Hanging Monastery appears almost unreal at first glance – a gravity defying structure clinging precariously to the side of a sheer cliff. Supported by slender wooden stilts, it looks as though it has been delicately pinned to the rock face. It has 40 rooms linked by mid-air walkways. My advice is to stay close to the walls whilst walking round. Not only is it famous for its precipitous location, but it’s the only existing temple which is dedicated to three religions – Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.

We were told it ranks among the most dangerous buildings in the world, and it’s easy to see why. In fact it closes during rain due to the risks of rockfalls. Even in dry conditions, exploring it requires care. The number of visitors is limited at any one time; I recommend visiting in the morning to be among the first group. The ascent involves climbing steep, uneven and sometimes crooked steps while gripping railings firmly. We made it to the top and admired the sheer audacity of its construction but every step was worthwhile. If you suffer from vertigo this might not be the best place for you to visit.

Top Tips

Where to stay in Datong? – Try the Pipa Inn, a beautifully renovated Chinese wooden building in the heart of the old city within the old walls. It is scrupulously clean with original and interesting artefacts.

On the way back from the Hanging Monastery, take a short visit to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. It is the oldest and tallest wooden structure in China and was built in 1056 without using any nails.

Also visit the UNESCO listed Yungan grottoes mountain side caves filled with 51,000 buddhas.

Datong features historical walls originally built during the Ming Dynasty, with walking paths, bike rentals and panoramic views, you can also visit the Nine-Dragon wall which is a type of screen wall with reliefs of nine different Chinese dragons typically found in Imperial Chinese palaces and gardens.