Sacred Splendor: China’s Medieval Architecture from Its Golden Age
Discover Timeless Pagodas, Monasteries, and Divine Statues across Shanxi and Henan
The Story
The journey sets off from the windswept plains of Datong in Shanxi, weaving through time to the sacred lands of Luoyang and Dengfeng in Henan. More than a classic trail of China’s architectural marvels, this path echoes the footsteps of Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei Dynasty who, 1,500 years ago, steered his empire’s capital from the northern frontier deep into the Central Plains. Here, you won’t just witness history—you’ll walk through the living tapestry of cultural, religious, and architectural fusion.
As you wander through ancient pagodas, silent temples, and cavernous grottoes, the zenith of Buddhist spatial art unfolds from its golden age. Feel the weight of seven centuries as Northern Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, Tang, and Liao dynasties whisper through stone and timber—a continuous lineage of religious architecture unique to northern China. Before you, a magnificent scroll of Buddhist artistry and engineering genius unfurls, in earth and mountains.
Highlights
8-Day Historical China Tour with World Heritage Sites, Architecture Marvels, and Bullet Train Experience.
Include 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Longmen Grottoes, Yungang Grottoes, Mount Wutai, and Historic Monuments of Dengfeng in "The Centre of Heaven and Earth".
Visit the essence of Chinese ancient architecture
Masterpieces of exceptional historical, artistic, and scientific significance, with 9 sites inscribed among the first list of China's National Protected Heritage Sites.
Walk in the footsteps of warrior monks at Shaolin Temple
The sacred cradle of Chinese Zen Buddhism and Chinese Kung Fu, the world's most legendary monastic sanctuary. Enjoy Chinese Kung Fu performances.
Witness the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
A 67-meter-tall structure in timber that has defied earthquakes for 10 centuries, standing proud among the historical wondrous towers of the world.
Admire the Foguang Temple
Liang Sicheng, the father of modern Chinese architecture, commented on “China's First National Treasure”.
Take an astonishing photo of the Hanging Temple
Integration of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Xu Xiake, a geographer and explorer in Ming Dynasty, called it the “Great View of the World”.
Enjoy immersive traditional cultural shows
Itinerary
Accommodation
Dates & Price
Date: December 1 – December 7, 2025
Looking for private tours?
Our tours can also be offered as private tours on your preferred dates and be customized for each client.
If you have your own interests for cities or themes, we will personalize everything according to your preferences and interests. Contact us to start planning for your journey.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Important Information
- The tour guide may adjust the itinerary due to official closure of the museums or sites.
- Arrival transportation to Datong and departure at Zhengzhou are not included, but can be booked at extra expenses if you want us to help with booking.
- Your seat on high speed train can be upgraded with extra fee.
Inclusions:
- Professional Tutor Specialized in Architecture/Historical Studies
- English-Speaking Licensed Local Guides
- Admission fees to sitesand activities specified in the Itinerary
- Accommodation: hotels based on double/twin occupancy as specified.
- Meals: as specified in the itinerary.
- Transportationthroughout the tour: coach/van and drivers, train between Taiyuan and Luoyang (second class seat).
- Travel Agency Liability Insurance during the tour.
- Government taxes and fees.
Exclusions:
- International flights to/from China.
- China visa fees.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers and any expense of a personal nature.
- Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase travel insurance before your trip to protect for any unforeseen circumstances.