Just about 4 hours drive from Beijing is Datong, a historic city, which used to be the capital for 3 Chinese dynasties. Even thou it is located in the "coal capital" of the country, Datong has valuable historic treasures to display for its visitors.
Just about 4 hours drive from Beijing is Datong, a historic city, which used to be the capital for 3 Chinese dynasties. Even thou it is located in the "coal capital" of the country, Datong has valuable historic treasures to display for its visitors.
Due to its strategic location, the Yanmenguan Pass of the Great Wall is considered to be one of the most important gates. It was initially built during the Warrior States period and continuously reconstructed since. The name means "wild goose" as there are many geese to be seen in the area.
The temple was originally built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). However it was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times since then due to warfare and change in dynasties. It features a beautiful Five Dragon Screen, considered one of the Dragon treasures of Datong.
Located in the heart of Datong, Huayan Monastery is a great example of Liao Dynasty architecture. It consist of two parts. The upper one, Grand Hall, houses beautiful Buddha statues while the lower one, Sutra Temple, houses a large library of Buddhist writings.
Built without a single nail, the wooden pagoda is an architectural beauty and a cherished place of religion.
Mount Heng (Hengshan) is one of the Five Great Mountains of China. It is a sacred mountain with strong significance for Taoists. It is a beautiful place to hike and enjoy the wonderful nature. The Hanging Monastery is on the slope of Hengshan and an amazing place to visit while there.
As an ancient city, Datong also has it very own City Wall. A great place for a walk during the day or at night when the lights are out. Even though the wall is brand new (a replica of what it used to be) it is still a nice spot to explore.
Datong used to be the capital city for 3 dynasties. However very few artifacts remain intact from those days... The solution? Rebuilt it! The government of the city began an enormous project to construct the center in a traditional Chinese style architecture. It is an interesting place to visit and experience! There are also some nice restaurant to enjoy the local cuisine.
This beautiful masterpiece of ancient China is one of the 3 Nine Dragon Walls - Forbidden City, Beihai Park and Datong. It is crafted in an exquisite way with beautiful glazed tiles and artfully done dragons chasing the suns and the moons, playing with pearls and displayed in beautiful movements.
Built in 491, the Hanging Monastery is an architectural wonder. It is astonishing how in such early times, the mechanics were so well worked out that this monastery still hangs at the side of Mt. Hengshan. It is a scared place for Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. There are 40 halls containing sacred treasures along with outstanding sculptures and carvings.
The massive Yungang Grottoes are an outstanding masterpiece of Buddhist cave art in China. The complex dates back to the 5th century AD and contains 252 caves with 51 000 statues. It is so extraordinary and fascinating that the visit will always be present in your mind.
Every first time visitor to China has to experience the most famous, most significant and most historic places along the Golden Triangle: Beijing - Xian - Shanghai. That is the cradle of ancient history, modern society and diverse scenery. Yes, we know it is a tough choice how to experience such a vast country in such a short time... That is why, we suggest to start from the classics - those that will astonish you and leave you wanting more!
The 10 days trip itinerary below is ordered according to location, proximity and convenience of exploration: Beijing (5 days); Xian (2 days); Shanghai (3 days)
Every first time visitor to China has to experience the most famous, most significant and most historic places along the Golden Triangle: Beijing - Xian - Shanghai. That is the cradle of ancient history, modern society and diverse scenery. Yes, we know it is a tough choice how to experience such a vast country in such a short time... That is why, we suggest to start from the classics - those that will astonish you and leave you wanting more!
The 10 days trip itinerary below is ordered according to location, proximity and convenience of exploration: Beijing (5 days); Xian (2 days); Shanghai (3 days)
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Natural wonders, man made wonders, architecture, modernity, antiquity, art, culture... There is so much to see and experience within this one country! Each landscape amazes with its uniqueness, sheer beauty and magic. You can spend an eternity wondering the land and discovering more and more hidden gems, untouched places and long-standing ancient walls. It is a true challenge picking the best places to see in China but here they are.
Natural wonders, man made wonders, architecture, modernity, antiquity, art, culture... There is so much to see and experience within this one country! Each landscape amazes with its uniqueness, sheer beauty and magic. You can spend an eternity wondering the land and discovering more and more hidden gems, untouched places and long-standing ancient walls. It is a true challenge picking the best places to see in China but here they are.
There is so much history and beauty surrounding the "north-capital" of China, Beijing! So much to see, explore, learn and admire... walking along the paths of history and standing in awe before some of the most astonishing wonders of the Oriental world.
There is so much history and beauty surrounding the "north-capital" of China, Beijing! So much to see, explore, learn and admire... walking along the paths of history and standing in awe before some of the most astonishing wonders of the Oriental world.
Myrtle Beach is the ultimate family vacation destination! The center and entertainment mecca of the Grand Strand with miles of beautiful brown-sugar colored sandy beaches that invite for all day fun-in-the-sun and reveal breathtaking scenery at night for all romantics taking a quiet walk. Sit by the water and enjoy an outstanding meal or go on a shopping spree. Take the family and venture to the classic amusement parks or learn while you play at the cool museums. Why not a great round of golf by the scenic oceanfront?! Whatever you do, you'll create wonderful memories for a lifetime!
Myrtle Beach is the ultimate family vacation destination! The center and entertainment mecca of the Grand Strand with miles of beautiful brown-sugar colored sandy beaches that invite for all day fun-in-the-sun and reveal breathtaking scenery at night for all romantics taking a quiet walk. Sit by the water and enjoy an outstanding meal or go on a shopping spree. Take the family and venture to the classic amusement parks or learn while you play at the cool museums. Why not a great round of golf by the scenic oceanfront?! Whatever you do, you'll create wonderful memories for a lifetime!
Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is an architectural treasure of a city where Neoclassical, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings shape the mesmerizing outlook of Hungary's capital. Not by accident is it called "Paris of the East"! The outstanding cuisine, hipster ruin pubs, chic cafes and trendy restaurants welcome visitors and provide a place to sit back, enjoy and take in the unique atmosphere of Budapest. Famous for its thermal baths, Budapest has been a favorite healing and pleasurable soaking place ever since the Romans. The rich history of the country is also concentrated and commemorated throughout the capital where traces of World War II, communism and turmoil can still be seen but they are overshadowed by the new beginnings, symbols of liberty and prosperity.
Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is an architectural treasure of a city where Neoclassical, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings shape the mesmerizing outlook of Hungary's capital. Not by accident is it called "Paris of the East"! The outstanding cuisine, hipster ruin pubs, chic cafes and trendy restaurants welcome visitors and provide a place to sit back, enjoy and take in the unique atmosphere of Budapest. Famous for its thermal baths, Budapest has been a favorite healing and pleasurable soaking place ever since the Romans. The rich history of the country is also concentrated and commemorated throughout the capital where traces of World War II, communism and turmoil can still be seen but they are overshadowed by the new beginnings, symbols of liberty and prosperity.