Asia-Pacific

Datong

Discover top-rated Datong tours, excursions, and activities powered by AI. Explore the Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery, uncovering the ancient wonders of China's heritage treasure.

Why Visit Datong?

Discover ancient Buddhist art carved into sandstone cliffs, a UNESCO gem near Datong.

Explore the spiritual heart of Yungang Grottoes, an unparalleled historical marvel.

Experience the Yellow River's cultural cradle and Shanxi's rich heritage in Datong.

Uncover centuries of history at the magnificent Hanging Temple, a true architectural feat.

Savor hearty Shanxi cuisine and witness traditional opera performances unique to Datong.

Journey into China's past and marvel at its enduring artistic and architectural spirit.

Getting Around

Getting around Datong is relatively straightforward. Taxis are readily available and affordable for longer distances or to reach sites like the Yungang Grottoes. Within the city center, buses are an economical option, though routes can be confusing for first-time visitors. For independent exploration, renting a car might be considered, but parking can be challenging. Many tourists opt for organized tours or hiring a driver for day trips to attractions outside the main urban area, which simplifies logistics considerably when getting around Datong.

Prefer renting a car? See options here.

Must-See Attractions

  • The Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Datong, boast thousands of Buddhist statues carved directly into sandstone cliffs, showcasing exquisite artistry from the 5th to 8th centuries.
  • Marvel at the Xuankong Si (Hanging Temple), an incredible architectural wonder precariously built into a cliff face, offering breathtaking views and a unique historical experience.
  • Wander through the ancient Datong City Wall, meticulously restored, offering a glimpse into Ming Dynasty military architecture and panoramic city views.
  • Visit the Nine-Dragon Screen, one of China's oldest and largest, a vibrant ceramic masterpiece that's a testament to ancient Chinese artistry and imperial power.
  • Explore the Datong Earth Forest, a unique geological park with towering, naturally formed sandstone pillars, creating an otherworldly landscape unlike any other.
  • Don't miss a chance to try Datong's famous knife-cut noodles (Dao Xiao Mian); experiencing this local culinary staple is a must-do for any visitor.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Datong experiences a continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and can be humid, while winters are long, cold, and dry with significant snowfall. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.

Best Months

The best months to visit Datong are typically April to May in spring and September to October in autumn, offering comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and exploring the historical sites.

Peak Season

The peak tourist season generally falls during the summer months (June to August) and major public holidays like the National Day Golden Week in October. Expect larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices during this period.

Off Season

The off-season, from November to March, is characterized by cold winter weather, with average temperatures well below freezing. While sightseeing can be challenging due to the cold, you'll encounter fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for travel and accommodation.

Popular Datong Tours & Activities

Discover the best tours and activities in Datong with our AI-powered recommendations

Tours are loading or no tours found at the moment.

Try browsing all tours to see what's available.

Browse All Tours & Activities

Plan Your Datong Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Datong is relatively straightforward. Taxis are readily available and affordable for longer distances or to reach sites like the Yungang Grottoes. Within the city center, buses are an economical option, though routes can be confusing for first-time visitors. For independent exploration, renting a car might be considered, but parking can be challenging. Many tourists opt for organized tours or hiring a driver for day trips to attractions outside the main urban area, which simplifies logistics considerably when getting around Datong.

Car Rental Deals in Datong

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Datong adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Datong

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Frequently Asked Questions About Datong

What is the best time to visit Datong?

Datong experiences a continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and can be humid, while winters are long, cold, and dry with significant snowfall. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.

How do I get around Datong?

Getting around Datong is relatively straightforward. Taxis are readily available and affordable for longer distances or to reach sites like the Yungang Grottoes. Within the city center, buses are an economical option, though routes can be confusing for first-time visitors. For independent exploration, renting a car might be considered, but parking can be challenging. Many tourists opt for organized tours or hiring a driver for day trips to attractions outside the main urban area, which simplifies logistics considerably when getting around Datong.

Why should I visit Datong?

  • Discover ancient Buddhist art carved into sandstone cliffs, a UNESCO gem near Datong.
  • Explore the spiritual heart of Yungang Grottoes, an unparalleled historical marvel.
  • Experience the Yellow River's cultural cradle and Shanxi's rich heritage in Datong.

What types of tours are available in Datong?

Datong offers a variety of tour experiences including:

Yungang Grottoes Tours
Datong Historical City Exploration
Shanxi Cultural Heritage Tours
Hanging Temple & Surrounds

What are the must-see attractions in Datong?

  • The Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Datong, boast thousands of Buddhist statues carved directly into sandstone cliffs, showcasing exquisite artistry from the 5th to 8th centuries.
  • Marvel at the Xuankong Si (Hanging Temple), an incredible architectural wonder precariously built into a cliff face, offering breathtaking views and a unique historical experience.
  • Wander through the ancient Datong City Wall, meticulously restored, offering a glimpse into Ming Dynasty military architecture and panoramic city views.
  • Visit the Nine-Dragon Screen, one of China's oldest and largest, a vibrant ceramic masterpiece that's a testament to ancient Chinese artistry and imperial power.
  • Explore the Datong Earth Forest, a unique geological park with towering, naturally formed sandstone pillars, creating an otherworldly landscape unlike any other.
  • Don't miss a chance to try Datong's famous knife-cut noodles (Dao Xiao Mian); experiencing this local culinary staple is a must-do for any visitor.

Ready to Explore Datong?

Discover the best tours and activities in Datong with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.