If you’re captivated by the game of “Black Myth: Wukong” and admire its scenic and artistic designs, why not embark on a journey to explore the real-life Chinese locations that inspired the game’s design? This game has drawn countless players with its unique artistic style and rich cultural foundation. However, every mountain, river, and building in the game has a real-world prototype and story.
Next, we’ll design a 7-day itinerary for you to delve into the real world of “Black Myth: Wukong”. From ancient temples to majestic mountain ranges, from serene lakes to bustling cities, we’ll unveil the mysteries of these locations, allowing you to witness firsthand the breathtaking scenes from the game.
This isn’t just an extension of the game; it’s a deep exploration of Chinese culture and natural landscapes. Let’s embark on this journey together to experience the true charm of “Black Myth: Wukong”.
Day 1: Datong – A Millennial Dialogue at Yungang Grottoes
Morning:
Arrive in Datong and head directly to one of the key filming locations of Black Myth: Wukong—the Yungang Grottoes (云冈石窟). Walking through these thousand-year-old caves feels like traveling through a time tunnel. Every statue and mural tells the story of the Northern Wei Dynasty’s splendor and decline.
Here, you can admire the intricate carvings that have survived centuries of weathering, evoking a sense of timeless beauty and awe.
Afternoon:
After leaving the grottoes, visit Shanhua Temple (善化寺). This ancient temple attracts countless visitors with its unique architectural style and profound cultural heritage. Shanxi served as a major filming location for Black Myth: Wukong, with the Shanhua Temple in Datong being one of the most crucial sites.
From the outside, the Main Hall (Daxiong Baodian) of Shanhua Temple exudes a sense of simplicity and antiquity, bearing the marks of time. However, stepping inside leaves visitors profoundly amazed. Five enormous Buddha statues sit serenely in place, making anyone standing before them feel incredibly small, evoking a sense of reverence.
The temple’s statues of the Four Heavenly Kings and Hariti (the demon mother goddess) are also uniquely crafted, fitting perfectly as elements for Black Myth: Wukong.
Evening:
Return to Datong’s city center to savor local delicacies and soak in the charm of this ancient city.
Day 2: The Thrill of Hanging Temple & the Wonder of Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Morning:
Drive to the Hanging Temple (悬空寺), an ancient structure perched on a cliffside. This temple served as a source of inspiration for Black Myth: Wukong. Looking up from below, you cannot help but marvel at the wisdom and courage of the ancient builders. Climbing the temple is thrilling, but it also fosters a deep respect for the harmony between nature and architecture.
Afternoon:
Next, visit the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (应县木塔)—the world’s tallest surviving wooden structure. Known for its extraordinary design and craftsmanship, the pagoda echoes with the whispers of history. Standing beneath it, you can feel the endurance and brilliance that span across centuries.
Evening:
Arrive in Shuozhou, where you’ll stay overnight to recharge for the next day’s adventure.
Day 3: The Radiance of Buddhist Light at Mount Wutai
All Day:
Depart from Shuozhou for Mount Wutai (五台山), a sacred Buddhist site renowned for its scenic beauty and abundance of temples. Your main destination is the renowned Foguang Temple, famous for its exquisite architecture and rich Buddhist culture. Here, you can immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere, listen to the monks’ chants, and feel as though you are practicing alongside Wukong under the temple’s radiant light.
Mount Wutai is one of the Four Sacred Mountains of Chinese Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its five flat-topped peaks, it is home to numerous ancient temples and monasteries, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The mountain’s serene landscape, combined with its deep spiritual significance, makes it a revered destination for both meditation and exploration.
Evening:
Drive to Taiyuan to prepare for the next day’s journey.
Day 4: A Cultural Feast in Taiyuan
Morning:
Upon arrival in Taiyuan, your first stop will be the Shanxi Museum. As a gateway to understanding Shanxi’s history and culture, the museum’s vast collection of artifacts will take you on a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the region’s historical depth.
Afternoon:
From the museum, travel to the ancient city of Pingyao (平遥古城). As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Pingyao is known for its well-preserved ancient walls and unique Ming and Qing-era architecture. Wander through its old streets and alleys to experience the city’s rustic charm and peaceful ambiance.
Evening:
Stay in a traditional inn within Pingyao, enjoying the unique experience of ancient-style lodging.
Day 5: The Ancient Elegance of Pingyao and the Mysteries of Linfen
Morning:
Continue exploring Pingyao, focusing on two key temples—Zhenguo Temple (镇国寺) and Shuanglin Temple (双林寺). These temples are not only architectural marvels but also treasures of cultural heritage, providing insight into ancient Chinese architecture and Buddhist culture.
Afternoon:
Depart for Linfen, stopping en route to visit Xiao Xitian (小西天), a scenic area themed around Buddhist culture. Its distinct architectural style and rich cultural elements will leave a lasting impression.
In the game, Yellowbrow (黄眉) disguises himself as the Future Buddha, with thousands of divine Buddhist sculptures as the backdrop, presenting a grand and majestic scene. The phrase “Since you have seen the future, why not pay homage?” draws everyone’s attention to the original scene’s location — Xi County’s Xiao Xitian (Small Western Heaven) in Shanxi Province.
Evening:
Arrive in Linfen and settle into a hotel for the night.
Day 6: A Journey Through Ancient Architecture from Linfen to Jincheng
Morning:
Visit Fusheng Temple (福胜寺) and Erxian Temple (二仙庙) in Linfen, each boasting unique features in their design and cultural significance. Take time to appreciate their intricate architecture and explore the stories embedded in their history.
Afternoon:
Drive toward Jincheng (晋城), visiting smaller yet equally exquisite ancient structures along the way—such as hidden villages or small temples.
Evening:
Stay overnight in Jincheng, resting for the final day of the tour.
Day 7: A Grand Finale in Jincheng
Morning:
Explore Qinglian Temple (青莲寺), known for its tranquil surroundings and distinctive architectural style. This temple provides an ideal setting for reflection and spiritual renewal.
Afternoon:
Visit Yuhuang Temple (玉皇庙) and Tiefo Temple (铁佛寺). The Yu Huang Temple is one of the most representative Taoist temples in Jin Cheng, located on the northern ridge of Fu Cheng Village, 13 kilometers southeast of Jin Cheng City.
The temple was established during the Sui Dynasty, and the existing layout is a remnant from the reconstruction in the Ming Dynasty. The Taoist sculptures inside are one of the references for the design of the scene featuring the Black Myth: Wukong.
Evening:
Conclude the seven-day tour of Shanxi’s hidden gems. Return to Jincheng’s city center or head directly home, reflecting on the beautiful memories etched in your heart from this extraordinary journey.
Conclusion
Although this 7-day journey cannot cover all the locations in “Black Myth: Wukong”, it has given us a precious opportunity to experience firsthand the breathtaking scenes from the game.
Through this journey, we have not only gained a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and natural landscapes but also developed a new appreciation for the game’s design and artistry.
This journey is an extension of the game and a self-discovery. Although the journey has come to an end, the charm of “Black Myth: Wukong” will forever remain in our hearts, inspiring us to continue exploring and discovering.
