Built on the cliff of the Golden Dragon Canyon at the foot of Mt. Heng, about 80 kilometers away from Datong, the temple has a history of more than 1,400 years. 

The temple was gradually built on pillars that were thrust into natural or man-made holes in the rock face behind. Despite being built upon one of China's four most sacred Taoist mountains, Hengshan, the monastery has also had many influences in its belief system. This is no better highlighted than in the Three Religion's Hall (Sansheng dian) where Buddha, Confucius and Laotzu (Taoism's founder) sit side by side. 

The monastery, seeming to cling half way up the cliff, is approached over a bridge and up a stone staircase that has been chiseled from the rockface. The total of 6 main halls and various side rooms above are linked by winding corridors, bridges, and boardwalks, with some amazing glimpsed views of the world below. The temple contains a good, although small, collection of bronze & iron work, various collections of wood and stone carvings and some clay statues.