Defying gravity: The spectacular Hanging Temple in China that has been suspended 246-feet above ground for 1,500 years

For some travellers the phrase 'seen one temple you've seen them all' rings true, but The Xuan Kong Si Hanging Temple in China would impress even the most cynical among them.

Also known as the Suspension Temple, this unique monument was built into a cliff by monks near Mount Heng, near Datong, more than 1,500 years ago.

'Hanging' 246 feet (75 metres) above the ground, it's also notable for being the only temple left that represents a combination of traditional Chinese religions Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

Far from form over function, the structure was said to have been built to avoid floods and was placed cleverly beneath an overhang to shelter it from rain, snow and sun - which goes a way to explaining its excellent condition today.

The temple of 40 rooms connected by a series of corridors, bridges and walkways defies gravity due to oak crossbeams which plug into holes chiseled into the cliff-side, with the buildings' main support structure deep in the bedrock.

More than 80 statues of bronze, iron and clay are found in the temple representing the range of dynasties which have occupied and maintained it over the years.

(Defying gravity: The Hanging Temple near Datong in China 'stands' 246 feet - or 75 metres - above the ground)

(Cliffside: The temple was built in a small canyon near Mount Heng in Hunyuan County more than 1,500 years ago)

(Detail: Deliberately place below a rock overhang, the structure is protected from rain, snow and sun)

(Easy access: The temple's 40 rooms are connected by an impressive series of walkways and bridges)

(Out of place: The temple would blend into the cliff were it not for the elaborate and well-preserved traditional roof construction)

(Mini city: Even though it's built on a cliff, getting around The Hanging Temple is a relative breeze)

(Breaking barriers: It is the only temple remaining that has a combination of elements from three traditional Chinese religions - Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism)

(Fixed in place: Oak beams fitted into holes chiseled in the cliff hold the structure together)

(Going nowhere: The main supportive element of the structure is deep in the bedrock)

Ref: Defying gravity: The spectacular Hanging Temple in China that has been suspended 246-feet above ground for 1,500 years (dailymail)