Wondrous delights in NW Shanxi
Updated: 2016-08-29 07:23
By Sun Ruisheng, Yang Cheng and Roger Bradshaw(China Daily)
|
|||||||||
Residents transport visitors by horse to the Hanging Village, with the Hanging Temple seen just above their heads. [Photo by Jiang Dong/China Daily] |
There is, however, a unique one built into a cave on the cliff, during the Tang dynasty, supported by wooden pilings.
It took members of our group more than 20 minutes to climb the steep steps to the hanging temple, which has two floors.
It gained its name from its location and, interestingly enough, the temple is not only for Buddhists but also for devotees of Confucius, making it somewhat of a rarity. The simple local folks worship different gods in hopes of improving their lives.
There is a similar but more famous temple in Hunyuan county, about 180 km to the north of Ningwu, which was built in Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534). But, during the popular season it sees many tourists flocking there and making the stairway, which is narrow, exceedingly crowded.
This temple in Ningwu, which is less known, provides an opportunity to enjoy the temple view in a much more relaxed way even if it can be somewhat unnerving for some to be up there on the narrow cliff face.
The temples got their name, xuan kong si, because of a dream the emperor had of having a temple up in the clouds, with the added benefit that it can represent the heavenly, noble thoughts contained in the sutras.
Related Stories
Shanghai Disney Resort regular season pricing begins in September 2016-08-25 10:20
Arctic life 2016-08-24 07:38
China to ban poorly-behaved tourists from traveling 2016-08-22 13:37
World's longest, highest glass bridge opens in Hunan 2016-08-21 09:47
Altyn Mountains nature reserve: Paradise for plants and wild animals 2016-08-17 17:16
Today's Top News
Attaker killed in blast on China embassy in Kyrgyzstan
Six emerge after yearlong Mars simulation
DNA tests lead police to Gansu 'Ripper'
G20 should talk about inclusiveness of growth
Italy plans state funeral for quake victims; 268 dead
China rescue team rushes to Italy for earthquake relief
Poland: 1st European state to issue RMB debt in China
Italy rescuers toil as death toll hits nearly 250
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Hollywood snaps up rock star's dog film |
Chinese people welcome dispossessed |
The can-do generation to the fore |
Riding the wave |
Leisure giants buoy cruise market |
She followed her heart |