Dapong, sorry, tong.
Trip Start
Jul 17, 2010
1
3
24
Trip End
Ongoing
Datong, Shanxi, China
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
There was no way we were wandering the rubbish-strewn streets of Datong late at night with full packs, so we went for the 'That'll Do' option and ended up somewhere that was the equivalent of ₤8 a night. We got just what we paid for! We have photos. We'll say no more about it.
So why put ourselves through it? Yungang Caves! Just a couple of short bus rides from the city centre of the Armpit of China, are the most stunning man-made grottoes. They were carved in the 5th century and contain over 50,000 ancient Buddhist statues. Definitely one of those days you pray your camera's battery does not run out of juice! (It didn't thankfully, but we almost did! It was one of the hottest days we've ever experienced, so we probably consumed our own weight in bottled water and ice-lollies!)
The majority of caves were set with thousands of tiny Buddhas in the walls, about the size of your little finger, and each in its own personal little niche. Every cave contained a beautiful carving, each seemingly more intricate than the last. It was a thoroughly enjoyable, yet humbling way to spend an afternoon. It took our breath away.
We made friends with a Danish couple on the day. It was bound to happen, as Lucinda and I always answer, “Denmark”, whenever some little Herbert we don't like the look of asks us where we're from. (We find it takes the wind out of their sails a bit. Well, we don't know any Danish, do you!?) It was good to meet some English-speaking people who were experiencing China for the first time too. We found we'd encountered the same minor annoyances and we'd all been victims of the intense staring!
The Chinese take staring to the next level. We appreciate that foreigners may not be an everyday sight for the people we pass on the street, but sometimes we're treated like we just fell from the moon! It was hilarious at first, but you can't help but feel a little uncomfortable when everyone you pass does an impression of a goldfish. I've decided to stop wearing the Tanga briefs and high heels to see if it helps.
We learned alot in Datong. Not just to always watch what you're treading, but practical travel skills like asking where buses stop, and the importance of booking the next city's accommodation in advance!
Next stop Wutai Shan, one of China's holiest mountains. Lucinda was just itching to ride the cable car...
Comments
lovely,lovely pictures. You were very privilaged to stand on that ground in the caves.It's the pilgrims that make a place holy, and there must have been thousands who marvelled as you did. Jealous, moi?
Hey guys..
Thank you so much for that day, it sure became more funny whit some company..
Hope you're having a wonderful time filled with fantastic experiences.
Se yousome day i GB.
Best regards
Tine and Bjarke