How-to & Go-to Guides of All Things Around China.
In 2024, the gaming world was set ablaze with the release of “Black Myth: Wukong,” a Chinese action RPG that has since become a global sensation. But what makes this game truly stand out is its painstaking recreation of ancient Chinese architecture and landscapes. The developers didn’t just conjure up these visuals from thin air; they traveled across China to capture the essence of real-world locations, breathing life into the game’s fantastical world. If you’ve been mesmerized by the game’s scenery and want to experience it in person, here are some of the key filming locations to add to your travel bucket list.
1. Shanxi Province: The Heart of “Black Myth: Wukong”
1.1 Xiaoxitian Temple, Linfen
Nestled on Phoenix Mountain in Linfen, the Xiaoxitian Temple, also known as Qianfo’an, is a sight to behold. Built in the Ming Dynasty, its crowning glory is the Mahavira Hall, which houses over 1,900 exquisitely crafted colored sculptures. These sculptures, ranging in size from as large as 3.2 meters to as small as a thumb, adorn the walls and beams, creating a breathtaking “western pure land” that was masterfully recreated in the game. This is the very location that inspired the iconic “既见未来、为何不拜” scene in “Black Myth: Wukong,” where the game’s stunning visuals meet the real-world splendor of Chinese art.
1.2 Yuhuang Temple, Jincheng
The Yuhuang Temple in Jincheng is a must-visit for fans of the game. Dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty, this Taoist temple covers an area of over 3,500 square meters and is home to 110 smaller temples. But it’s the unique and delicate painted statues that steal the show, especially the twenty-eight star gods in the west wing. These statues are so lifelike that they were highly replicated in the game, making the Yuhuang Temple one of the main filming locations. The developers’ attention to detail in capturing these statues has brought a piece of Chinese religious art to life within the game.
1.3 Hanging Temple, Datong
Suspended perilously on the cliffside of Cuiping Peak in Datong, the Hanging Temple is a marvel of ancient architecture. With a history spanning nearly 1,600 years, it seamlessly blends Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Its all-wooden structure, seemingly defying gravity as it clings to the cliff, is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient builders. Time Magazine even named it one of the world’s ten most precarious buildings in 2010. In “Black Myth: Wukong,” the Hanging Temple’s likeness appears, allowing players to experience its grandeur in a virtual setting, and enticing them to visit the real thing.
1.4 Yungang Grottoes, Datong
As one of China’s four major grottoes, the Yungang Grottoes are a treasure trove of Buddhist art. Carved out during the Northern Wei Dynasty, they house 45 main caves, 252 small niches, and nearly 60,000 exquisitely detailed stone statues. The grottoes represent the harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, with their construction spanning over 150 years and continuing through various dynasties. In the game, the statues from the Yungang Grottoes are meticulously recreated, transporting players back in time to an era of great religious and artistic significance.
1.5 Fogong Temple Wooden Pagoda, Shuozhou
Standing tall in Shuozhou, the Fogong Temple Wooden Pagoda is the world’s oldest and tallest wooden pagoda-style structure. Built during the Liao Dynasty, its complex architecture and advanced construction techniques are a wonder to behold. The pagoda’s design is so intricate that modern engineers find it challenging to replicate. Alongside the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, it is one of the “three wondrous towers in the world.” In “Black Myth: Wukong,” the pagoda’s presence adds a touch of historical grandeur to the game’s virtual world, inviting players to explore its real-life counterpart.
2. Other Notable Filming Locations
2.1 Dazu Rock Carvings, Chongqing
The Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chinese Buddhist art. Spanning from the early Tang Dynasty to the Song Dynasty, these carvings represent the pinnacle of world grotto art from the 9th to 13th centuries. The game features the “Golden Thousand-Armed Guanyin” and other iconic scenes from the Dazu Rock Carvings, such as the “View of Amitayus Sutra” and “Hell Scenes,” bringing the rich cultural heritage of Chongqing to a global audience.
2.2 Kaiyuan Temple, Quanzhou
In Quanzhou, the Kaiyuan Temple is a landmark of the city. The temple’s East and West Pagodas are architectural marvels, reflecting the creativity and artistry of the Song Dynasty. Built in the Tang Dynasty, the temple is the largest and most prominent Buddhist temple in Quanzhou. The pagodas’ design, with their intricate carvings and unique construction, has been hailed as a “sacred and supernatural art” of the Song Dynasty. In the game, the image of the pagodas appears, adding an air of authenticity and historical charm to the virtual environment.
2.3 Shimen Hanging Coffins, Xinzhou
The Shimen Hanging Coffins in Xinzhou are a mysterious and unique cultural relic. These coffins, suspended on the cliffs, have puzzled historians and tourists alike. Their origin and the methods used to hang them remain a mystery. In “Black Myth: Wukong,” the Shimen Hanging Coffins add an element of intrigue and mystery to the game, making players curious to learn more about this real-world wonder.
3. Planning Your “Black Myth: Wukong” Filming Location Tour
3.1 Transportation
Getting to these filming locations varies depending on your starting point. For Shanxi Province, major cities like Taiyuan have well-connected airports and train stations. From there, you can take buses or hire cars to reach specific attractions. For example, to get to the Xiaoxitian Temple in Linfen, you can take a train to Linfen Station and then transfer to local transportation. For locations outside Shanxi, such as the Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing, major airports in Chongqing provide convenient access, and local public transportation or taxis can take you to the site.
3.2 Accommodation
Near each filming location, you’ll find a range of accommodation options. In touristy areas like Datong (where the Hanging Temple and Yungang Grottoes are located), you can choose from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in local inns near the temples, which often offer a taste of traditional Chinese hospitality. In less-developed areas, such as the vicinity of the Shimen Hanging Coffins, you may find simpler accommodation, but they usually provide a cozy and authentic stay.
3.3 Local Cuisine
While exploring these filming locations, be sure to savor the local cuisine. In Shanxi, you can indulge in specialties like Shanxi noodles, which come in a variety of shapes and flavors, from the chewy hand-pulled noodles to the intricately cut knife-shaved noodles. In Chongqing, the famous hot pot is a must-try. The spicy, numbing broth filled with an array of meats, vegetables, and noodles is a culinary adventure. In Quanzhou, you can sample local seafood dishes and unique pastries that reflect the city’s coastal culture.
4. SEO Optimization and Strategic Insights
- Focus Keywords: “Black Myth: Wukong filming locations,” “travel to Black Myth: Wukong sites,” “Chinese ancient architecture in Black Myth: Wukong”
- Meta Title: “Discover the Real-Life Filming Locations of ‘Black Myth: Wukong'”
- Meta Description: “Embark on a journey to explore the real-world locations that inspired the stunning visuals of ‘Black Myth: Wukong.’ From Shanxi’s ancient temples to Chongqing’s rock carvings, learn about these cultural treasures and plan your visit.”
- Internal Links: China’s Cultural Heritage Sites, Travel Guide to Shanxi
- External Links: Official “Black Myth: Wukong” Website, China National Tourism Administration
Conclusion
“Black Myth: Wukong” has not only redefined the gaming experience but has also served as a virtual ambassador for China’s rich cultural heritage. By visiting these filming locations, you can bridge the gap between the virtual and the real, immersing yourself in the beauty and history that inspired the game. Whether you’re a die-hard gamer or a culture enthusiast, these locations offer a unique opportunity to experience the magic of “Black Myth: Wukong” in person. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey through the real-world wonders that brought this epic game to life.
