Datong Culture and history
		Datong lies in the north of Shanxi Province. It is one of famous historical and cultural cities of China. In the year 386 AD Datong became the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty until 494 AD. During the period of the Liao (907 AD - 1125 AD) and Jin (1115 AD - 1234 AD) dynasties, the rulers made Datong the second capital for about 200 years. Datong was an important center because of its strategic location. Datong has number of historic and cultural ruins, including the Paleolithic ruins of Qinciyao, the Neolithic ruins excavated in Gaoshanzhen, the ruin of Baideng ancient battlefield of the Han Dynasty, and the ruins of Xujiayao. There are also many historic relics in Datong. Yongguling is the tomb of Empress Wenming, one of empresses of Wenchengdi (the third emperor of the Northern Wei Dynasty). A great number of relics excavated from the tomb, including stone sculptures, bronze, iron, and jade wares, as well as silk costumes, exhibit the exquisite craftsmanship during that period. Yungang Buddhist Caves represent the peak of Buddhist cave art. Most of the caves were carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty between 460 AD and 494 AD. The Nine Dragon Screen is the largest in China. The Shanhua Temple, the Huayan Monastery, and the Hanging Monastery are all very famous for their distinctive structures. The Wooden Pagoda at Yingxian County is the oldest wooden building in China.