Echoes of Wukong: A Journey of Living Archaeology in Shanxi

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7 Days
Datong
Pingyao
About this Journey

There is a common saying that “China’s above-ground treasures are mostly in Shanxi”. In Black Myth: Wukong this statement holds true, as 27 out of the 36 historical places featured in the game are in Shanxi, three of them even listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  

In the 1930s, the renowned architect couple Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin undertook an extensive archaeological survey across Shanxi province, where they meticulously documented over 500 historic structures through detailed sketches, maps and photographs. 

Retrace Liang and Lin’s footsteps of the romantic yet rigorous fieldwork to explore the historical sites featured in Black Myth: Wukong. Unravel the mysteries of Shanxi’s archaeological wonders and learn how the studies helped establish the foundations of historic preservation in China.

 

What we love
  • Scaling up the magnificent cliffs at Hanging Temple
  • Visiting the oldest, tallest, and (arguably) most beautiful Wooden Pagoda in the world
  • Venturing through Pingyao Ancient Town, the Qing Dynasty’s “Wall Street of China”
Map
Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Datong

• Upon arrival, your WildChina guide will welcome you at the airport/train station and take you to your hotel for check in.

Day 2Datong

• Embark on this archeological journey, starting from the Yungang Grottoes, where thousands of statues carved into 252 caves tell the story of 1,500 years of Buddhist art and history • Step back in time at the Huayan Temple – the largest and best-preserved Liao Dynasty monastery, and Shanhua Temple – the largest scale of structures from the Liao and Jin dynasties. Admire the intricate murals, sculptures, and architectural details • Visit the Nine-Dragon Wall, a retelling of ancient cities with modern vibrancy.

Day 3Datong - Mount Wutai

• Climb up the steps of Hanging Temple, a breathtaking temple clinging precariously to a sheer cliff face • Drive to Ying County and immerse in the serene atmosphere of Jingtu Temple, admiring its unique cassion ceiling and rich cultural significance (1.5h) • Witness the architectural prowess of the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the oldest and tallest entirely wooden pagoda in the world, and marvel at its intricate design and historical legacy • Transfer to Mount Wutai (3h) and after hotel check in, enjoy some free time to explore the area at your own pace. 

Day 4Mount Wutai

• Join pilgrims from across Asia on the spiritual journey to Mount Wutai, a sacred Buddhist enclave with dazzling temples like Xiantong and Nanshan. • Breathe in the crisp mountain air, witness the serene rituals, and be captivated by the breathtaking landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 5Mount Wutai – Pingyao

• Wander amidst the ancient halls of Foguang Temple, gazing upon its venerable wooden beams and the second oldest pagoda which has miraculously endured the march of time since the Tang Dynasty • Delve into the Zhenguo Temple’s rich past, marked by the lasting legacy of the Wanfo Hall—the sole surviving structure from the Northern Han dynasty • After checking into your comfortable accommodation, unwind and enjoy a restful evening. 

Day 6Pingyao

• Visit the once-grand city of Pingyao. Pass through one of the six barbican gates and exploring the cobbled alleys, getting a glimpse into life during the Pingyao’s history as the “Wall Street of China” • Journey to the ancient monastery of Shuanglin Temple, discovering the awe-inspiring collection of carved and painted statues dating back to the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties • Walk into the sprawling courtyard of the Wang Residence, a testament to the family’s glided prosperity, it’s now aged appearance reflecting on the impermanence of wealth and status. 

Day 7Depart from Pingyao

• Bid farewell to this captivating province as your WildChina guide takes you to the airport/train station.

Hotels
Datong Yunzhong Inn
Local Boutique

A cozy retreat near city attractions, offering historic charm with courtyard-view rooms, unique art, a garden, a restaurant, and friendly service.

Wutai Mountain Marriott Hotel
5 stars

Wutai Mountain Marriott Hotel offers spacious rooms with beautiful views, a sauna, pool, and Shanxi cuisine for a relaxing stay.

Jing's Residence
Local Boutique

A boutique hotel in a Qing dynasty mansion with stone pathways, bamboo, and ponds for a historic charm.

Details

What’s Included

  • Services of an English-speaking WildChina local guide
  • Accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts included
  • All overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments
  • All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
  • Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
  • Private chauffeur service to and from airport at start and end of your trip

What’s Excluded

  • International and domestic flights, domestic trains, plus relevant taxes
  • Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
  • Expenses of a personal nature
  • Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
  • Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
Next Steps

How do I book this tour?

Please use the inquiry form on the right-hand side of this page or email info@wildchina.com to get started. One of our travel designers will be in touch accordingly to start the process of planning your custom China trip!

What is the payment schedule?

1. Deposit:

Once you are ready to book, a $500 USD per person planning fee is required to begin reserving your arrangements. This will go towards your total trip costs and will be taken off your final balance amount.

For bookings made in China: Once you are ready to book, a ¥1,000 RMB per person planning fee is required to begin reserving your arrangements. This will go towards your total trip costs and will be taken off your final balance amount.

2. Full payment:

Full trip payment will be requested 60 days prior to departure. If you’re booking within 60 days of your departure, you may be asked to pay make the full payment straight away.

Payments can be made via credit card, bank transfer, WeChat or Alipay.

 

What is your cancellation policy?

Why WildChina

We’re on the ground with you

Our team of advisors will design every detail of the trip with you through close consultation, then orchestrate your entire journey while on the ground. We’re in the same time zone as you, so we can fulfill requests and handle issues without a hitch. With over 40 staff in China and an expansive network of operational partners across the country, we have the manpower to ensure your journey is safe, reliable and comfortable from beginning to end.

Your trip, your way

Flexibility is our highest-ranking compliment. We pull off journeys for pioneers with a 6-hour layover to Hollywood’s elite, and everywhere in between. Our team regularly pulls off unprecedented logistical feats; nearly any time frame or budget is within our realm. No matter how you wish to experience China, we are here to bring that dream to life.

We embody passion

WildChina guides are carefully handpicked for their knowledge and charisma, then meticulously trained to maintain our exceptional service standards. They are expert storytellers and passionate natives of the regions where they guide, having the perfect combination of local insights and service know-how to bring you seamless once-in-a- lifetime moments all across China.

The little things, the big picture

Supporting inspired local economies allows you to experience the soul of the destination, while also protecting and cultivating China’s artisanal culture. From watching artisans creating their handcrafts, to picking organic vegetables for dinner on a local farm, our tours are designed to showcase and protect China’s heritage, both natural and human.

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