Exploring Shanxi with the Monkey King - Northern Shanxi Chapter

One of the game’s locations is Shanhua Temple, which is also situated in Datong, Shanxi. It was first established during the Tang Dynasty. Its main hall, the Daxiongbaodian, a masterpiece from the Liao Dynasty, sits atop a raised platform at the rear, making it the largest and most intact temple complex from the Liao and Jin Dynasties in China. The temple preserves valuable relics such as clay sculptures, murals, and inscriptions, with the clay sculptures of the Twenty-Four Protective Deities being national treasures.

One of the game’s locations, Chongfu Temple, is situated in Shuocheng District, Shuozhou City, Shanxi Province. It was built in 665 AD during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty, and the remaining structures are mainly from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The exquisite carvings on the doors of the Amitābha Hall and the original vertical plaque dating back to 1184 AD during the Jin Dynasty make this hall a masterpiece of its time.

One of the inspirational sources of game design is Shimen Hanging Coffins, found in Ningwu County, Shanxi Province. These coffins represent the earliest cliff burial sites discovered north of the Yangtze River and possess immense archaeological significance. Suspended from cliffs in various forms, they are numerous and rich in historical and cultural value.