“The Most Dangerous Temple in China” Perched on a Cliff for Over 1,500 Years

Huyền Không Tự, also known as the “most dangerous temple in China,” has stood atop the Hang Son Mountain for over 1,500 years. This wooden architectural marvel is built on the highest and best-preserved cliff in China.

A Testament of Strength and Survival

From a distance, the temple, weighing dozens of tons, appears to be precariously supported by a few columns on the steep cliff. This is why Huyền Không Tự is regarded as the “most dangerous temple in China.”

A Masterpiece of Architecture

The temple was designed and built by a monk named Liễu Nhiên at the end of the Northern Wei dynasty (386-535). It consists of 40 wooden structures arranged in three overlapping tiers, with the lowest point about 50 meters above the ground and the highest point reaching approximately 90 meters.

Weathering the Test of Time

Over its 1,500-year history, Huyền Không Tự has withstood numerous storms, earthquakes, and even two earthquakes measuring over 6 on the Richter scale in the past 40 years. Despite the collapse of one-third of the nearby Hồn Nguyên district’s buildings, the temple still proudly stands on the cliff.

A Hidden Fortress

The majority of Huyền Không Tự is hidden within the mountain, providing additional stability to the temple. The surrounding rock formations act as a shield, protecting the temple from the harmful effects of weathering, ensuring its longevity.

A Tourist Attraction

Despite its treacherous location, Huyền Không Tự remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Son Tay Province, China.

Article Source: VTC News