Where the past still feels present

Beyond sacred places

Further beyond the ancient towns, Shanxi's temples reveal another important part of Chinese cultural history: the relationship between people, spirituality and nature.

Yong'an Temple in Datong's Hunyuan county, with its remote setting and remarkable artwork, offers a powerful example. Its painted interiors and historic architecture reflect the artistic achievements and religious beliefs of the time. But its location also raises deeper questions.

Why was this temple built here? Why did people choose this landscape as a place of worship?