Shanhua Monastery, Shanxi, China
4.5 (36 reviews) Monday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Spent Ranking #8 in Datong Ancient Ruins • Religious Sites
Good experience
Honestly, in China it is so very easy to get “Templed-out” from all the temples and monasteries there are. They all follow the same patterns, architecture, style and colours. Eventually you dread going to yet another “famous” temple, because they all start to look the same. That all being said, I’m happy I paid a visit to this place. It doesn’t feel like many other temples that came from the same temple factory. Yes, the place has been around for 1000 years and has likely been rebuilt a dozen times in that period, including recently, but there are some buildings here that look and feel, “old”. It’s a nice change. There are great opportunities here for some photos. There is a wonderful water area that makes for great photos. Very few people as it is away from the main tourist area. Free admission. There is a 5-dragon wall outside. If you only have time for one temple or monastery on your trip, head to this one.
Address
Southwestern, Urban Area, Datong 037006 China
Mobile
Website
http://www.dtshs.com/
Working hours
Monday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday : 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Current local date and time now
Monday, April 29, 2024, 19:27
User Ratings
4.5 based on (36 reviews)
Reviews
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5Scentedlotus? 5:00 PM Mar 25, 2015
Datongs' Sacred Treasure
Overlooked by the crumbling ruins of the Great Wall, the Shanhua temple has sat in its sublime state since the pre-Jin era.The massive wooden halls which wait to be discovered at the last courtyard of the temple complex, house exquisite paint flaked wooden Buddhas and deities, whose towering majesties will forever leave an indelible imprint on any pilgrim who ventures there. In Datong,this hidden treasure transported us back to a time when Buddhism graced this gateway to the Silk Road.... If you ever stop in this Chinese City be sure to visit the Shanhua Temple.
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5Edward T 5:00 PM May 4, 2016
Amazing Tang Architecture
A highlight of Datong. An amazing example of Tang architecture. The wood carvings are top rate, especially the dozen heavenly kings. The entrance carvings are also well preserved. Don't miss this 1,000 year old or so monastery in Datong
