[2025 Datong Attraction] Travel Guide for Datong Ancient City (Updated Feb)

Datong Ancient City • History: With a history of over 2,200 years, dating back to the Qin and Han dynasties, it served as the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty, the secondary capital of the Liao and Jin dynasties, and a major town during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The existing city walls were mainly built in the fifth year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty by Xu Da, based on the old earthen walls. • Architectural Features: The city has a square shape, 1.8 km long from east to west and 1.82 km long from north to south, with a circumference of 7.24 km and an area of about 3.45 sq km. The city walls are 14m high, 12m wide at the top, and 18m wide at the bottom. They are built with stone strips, slabs, and blocks as the foundation, rammed with "three-in-one earth," and covered with green bricks. There are four main city gates, as well as military facilities such as a moat, drawbridge, and arrow towers. • Restoration and Protection: In 2008, Datong City made a decision to implement a large-scale protection, restoration, and environmental improvement project from 2009 to 2016, which basically formed the current layout of the ancient city. • Cultural Value: Datong City ranks third among the 24 national historical and cultural cities and is the ninth largest ancient capital of China. Within the ancient city, there are four national key cultural relic protection units, two provincial-level units, and 18 municipal-level units, with a total of 109 immovable cultural relics. Hanging Temple • Overview: Located on the cliffs of Cuiping Peak, west of the main peak of Hengshan Mountain in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province, it is a temple integrating Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. It was first built in the fifteenth year of the Taihe reign of the Northern Wei Dynasty, over 1,500 years ago. The existing buildings were mainly constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasties. • Architectural Structure: It adopts a wooden frame structure. The Three Religions Hall is the highest point, originally 90m above the ground, now only 58m. It uses half-inserted beams as the base, supported by hidden rocks, and applies mechanical principles to maintain stability. It has a unique form of grottoes connected to the temple halls, with half of the building being halls and the other half being grottoes. • Layout Features: Facing east towards Hengshan Mountain, it consists of the Buddha Hall Courtyard, South Tower, North Tower, Hanging Plank Road, and the platform in front of the temple. The overall structure gradually rises from south to north along the mountain, forming a multi-layered horizontal layout, breaking the traditional symmetrical layout of temples. • Cultural Value: It was listed as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 1982, rated as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction in 2002, and selected as one of the "World's 10 Most Precarious Buildings" by Time magazine in 2010. It was praised as a "wonder of the world" by Xu Xiake.

The world is vast, and there are always some places that can make us feel like we've traveled through time and returned to the past. Datong Ancient City is such a charming place. Datong Ancient City is located in Datong City, Shanxi Province. It is one of the most complete ancient cities in China. With its long history, magnificent architecture, and rich cultural heritage, it exudes a unique charm. Datong City Wall: Tall and sturdy, with a circumference of about 7.2 kilometers, you can stroll around and enjoy the scenery of the ancient city. Tickets are about 50 yuan. Huayan Temple: A Buddhist temple built during the Liao and Jin dynasties, with magnificent architecture and exquisite Buddha statues. Tickets are about 80 yuan. Shanhua Temple: The layout is rigorous, and it is the most complete temple among the Liao and Jin dynasties. Free. Food experience: Datong Copper Hotpot: The soup base is delicious and the ingredients are rich. We recommend Fenglin Pavilion, with a per capita cost of about 100 yuan. Huanggao: Sweet and delicious, it is a local specialty. Any small shop will do, with a per capita cost of about 15 yuan. Accommodation recommendations: Datong Hotel: Located in the city center, convenient for travel, standard room is about 400 yuan per night. Hotel: Elegant environment, complete facilities, standard room is about 300 yuan per night. The best time to travel is spring, summer, and autumn. Transportation is convenient, and you can choose to take a bus or a taxi. Please pay attention to the protection of cultural relics during your visit. Travel route: First, climb the Datong City Wall and overlook the entire ancient city. Then, visit Huayan Temple and Shanghua Temple in turn. During your time in Datong Ancient City, you will have a deep dialogue with history. Come here and explore its unique charm! Datong Ancient City Travel Historical and Cultural City Shanxi Datong

🚗🚗🚗Travel Route Day 1: Jinshan Mountain Foot of the Great Wall Day 2: Jinshanling Great Wall → Gubei Water Town Day 3: Yungang Grottoes → Jinhua Palace Mine Downstream Scenic Area → Datong City Museum → Datong Ancient City → Orange Hotel (Datong Ancient City Branch) Day 4: Datong Loess Plateau → Hanging Temple → Yingxian Wooden Pagoda Day 5: Taiyuan → Ninghua Fu Yiyuan Qingcu Acetic Acid Headquarters → Jinci Temple Scenic Area → Shanxi Museum → Qiao Family Courtyard Day 6: Pingyao Ancient City → Baoding City 🚄Must-see attractions: Jinshanling Great Wall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Yungang Grottoes: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Pingyao Ancient City: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Qiao Family Courtyard: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Hanging Temple: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (advance reservation of tickets required) ⚠️Notes: When traveling from Shenyang to Shanxi, vehicles with non-local license plates passing through the Beijing area should pay attention to the no-entry zones!

Datong is a city with a long history and rich cultural heritage, offering a wealth of tourist attractions. 1. Main Attractions Datong Ancient City Wall Address: Heyangmen Inner Street, Datong Ancient City, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Features: Datong Ancient City Wall is one of the most well-preserved ancient city walls in China, allowing visitors to experience the historical charm of the ancient city. The ancient city wall has several gates, and visitors can choose to enter from any gate, stroll along the city wall, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the ancient city. Recommended Visiting Time: Evening to night, to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the ancient city wall at sunset and the night light show. Yungang Grottoes Address: No. 1, Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Features: Yungang Grottoes is one of the four major grottoes in China, carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty, mainly featuring Buddhist themes, with exquisite carving techniques and high artistic value. The grottoes contain a rich variety of statues with different shapes, serving as important physical materials for studying ancient Chinese art and religious culture. Recommended Visiting Time: All day, it is recommended to reserve half a day to a full day for the visit. Datong Museum Address: No. 506, Taihe Road, Wenying Lake Street, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Features: Datong Museum is a comprehensive museum integrating collection, protection, research, and exhibition, with a rich collection of ceramics, bronzes, paintings, and calligraphy, among other categories. Visitors can learn about the history, culture, and artistic treasures of Datong here. Recommended Visiting Time: Morning or afternoon, it is recommended to reserve about 2 hours for the visit. Northern Wei Culture Park Address: West side of the intersection of Beidu Street and Yuhe West Road, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Features: Northern Wei Culture Park is a park themed on the history and culture of the Northern Wei Dynasty, with buildings and sculptures from the Northern Wei period, showcasing the political, economic, and cultural achievements of the Northern Wei period. Visitors can experience the unique charm of Northern Wei culture here. Wenying Lake Ecological Park Address: Intersection of Wenying North Road and Xijing Street, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Features: Wenying Lake Ecological Park is a city park integrating leisure, entertainment, and sightseeing, with picturesque lake and mountain scenery, lush greenery, and fragrant flowers. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, fishing, and more, experiencing the tranquility and beauty of nature. 2. Food Recommendations Mulan Restaurant (Datong Ancient City Drum Tower Branch) Address: Drum Tower East Street, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province Special Dishes: Stir-fried tofu and other Shanxi specialties Average Cost: About CNY 64 per person Longjuxiang Shaomai Restaurant (Drum Tower Branch) Address: Northwest corner of the intersection of Drum Tower West Street and Yongtai Street, Pingcheng District, Datong City, Shanxi Province (inside Datong Ancient City) Special Dishes: Shaomai and other local specialties Average Cost: About CNY 68 per person Heyangju Old Datong Restaurant Address: 50 meters west of the south gate of Fahua Temple, Heyang Street, Datong City, Shanxi Province Special Dishes: Offers a variety of local Datong specialties Average Cost: About CNY 68 per person

As night falls, the streetlights cast a golden glow over the ancient streets, and the stone-paved roads lead us into a historical painting. The ancient city walls stand tall, bearing the marks of time. The warm yellow lights of the small shops on the street, the aroma of coffee, and the scent of traditional snacks fill the air. In the distance, the sound of opera can be heard, as a girl sings softly in the night. Surprises are hidden in every corner and every glance, as history and modernity intertwine to create a unique landscape. City walk here, and though the cold wind may blow, your heart will be gently touched.

With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, Datong Ancient City Southeast Yi has already begun hosting a variety of exciting events. To ensure you don't miss out on any of the fun, I've put together a detailed travel guide for you. Let's explore together! Lunar New Year Market Time: During the Lunar New Year Location: Southeast Yi Historical and Cultural Block (Guangfu Jiao, Caijia Lane, Nianxia Fang Area) The Lunar New Year Market is one of the highlights you won't want to miss. It features a wide variety of stalls, including cultural and creative products, snacks, toys, desserts, and more. You can shop, eat, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Art Exhibition Time: During the Lunar New Year Location: Nianxia Art Center Zhengfu Lane Square During the Lunar New Year, Southeast Yi is offering a series of free exhibitions for art and culture enthusiasts: • Trendy Toy Exhibition: Showcasing exquisite trendy toys. • Central Academy of Fine Arts Year of the Snake Print Series Exhibition: Celebrating the Year of the Snake with a series of unique prints. • Datong Good Grain Agricultural Special Exhibition: Learn about Datong's specialty agricultural products. • Ice Sculpture Art Exhibition: Admire the crystal-clear ice sculptures. Photo Opportunities Time: During the Lunar New Year Location: Nianxia Fang Area This year is the Year of the Snake, and Southeast Yi has designed many cute and fun snake-themed photo spots. Giant snakes slither between rooftops and alleys, adding to the festive atmosphere. There are also interactive games where you can earn coins to exchange for snake-themed cultural and creative gifts. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or a regular tourist, you'll be able to take beautiful photos here. New Store Guide During the Lunar New Year, Southeast Yi welcomes a batch of new store openings. Here are a few new stores worth checking out: 1. Zhang Zhang Tea and Snacks • Location: Inside Courtyard No. 2, Guangfu Jiao • Features: A new Chinese-style tea shop with visually appealing and delicious tea and snacks. Highly recommended. 2. Fo Xiaoban Cultural and Creative Store • Location: No. 14 Zhengfu Lane • Features: In addition to the classic models that have taken the internet by storm, there are many new cultural and creative products making their debut. 3. Half-Day Collection Store • Location: Nianxia Fang Area • Features: A lifestyle aesthetics collection store with unique designs in utensils, accessories, decorations, and interior design. Every corner is photogenic. 4. Sweet One Classroom • Location: Nianxia Fang Area • Features: A popular dessert shop in Datong specializing in handmade egg tarts with a variety of flavors to choose from. Fish Lantern Parade Time: From the third to the eighth day of the first lunar month, every evening from 6:00 to 9:00 Location: All areas of the Southeast Yi Historical and Cultural Block The Fish Lantern Parade is a traditional event during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing smooth sailing and good fortune in the coming year. You can join the parade to pray for blessings and experience the festive atmosphere. Itinerary Suggestions • Day 1: Visit the Lunar New Year Market in the morning, explore art exhibitions in the afternoon, and join the Fish Lantern Parade and take photos in the evening. • Day 2: Visit new stores in the morning, continue taking photos in the afternoon, and join the Fish Lantern Parade again in the evening to end a delightful day. Summary Visiting Datong Ancient City Southeast Yi during the Lunar New Year not only allows you to experience the festive atmosphere but also enjoy a variety of cultural and entertainment activities, as well as food and shopping experiences.

Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Datong is from May to October, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities, and you can avoid the spring sandstorms. 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Datong Ancient City and Ancient Architecture Tour Morning: After arriving in Datong, head to the Datong Ancient City Wall, stroll along it, enjoy the scenery inside and outside the ancient city, and feel the weight of history. Datong Ancient City Wall Noon: Taste Datong's special delicacies in the ancient city, such as knife-cut noodles, which are chewy and smooth, and the soup is fresh and rich. Datong Knife-Cut Noodles Afternoon: Visit Huayan Temple and admire the architectural style and exquisite Buddha statues of the Liao and Jin Dynasties. Evening: Head to the Daiwang Mansion to watch a wonderful performance and experience the luxury of the ancient mansion. Datong Daiwang Mansion Day 2: Grottoes and Natural Scenery Tour Morning: Head to the Yungang Grottoes to visit the exquisite Buddha statues and murals and feel the precipitation of a thousand years of culture. Yungang Grottoes Noon: Taste local specialties near the scenic area, such as Datong yellow wine. Datong Yellow Wine Afternoon: Head to the Datong Earth Forest to admire the unique geological landscape, as if you were in the "Devil City". Datong Earth Forest Evening: Return to the city to rest and adjust. Day 3: Grassland and Folk Experience Tour Morning: Head to the Datong Grassland to admire the vast grassland scenery and experience traditional activities such as horseback riding and archery. Noon: Taste special delicacies at the grassland resort, such as Datong sauerkraut. Datong Sauerkraut Afternoon: Enjoy the herdsmen's performance and feel the boldness and enthusiasm of the grassland people. Evening: Stay in a yurt at the grassland resort and experience the grassland style. Datong Grassland Yurt Food Recommendations Datong Knife-Cut Noodles: The noodles are chewy and smooth, and the soup is fresh and rich. Datong Yellow Wine: The taste is mellow and the aftertaste is long. Datong Pigeon: The meat is tender and nutritious. Datong Sauerkraut: Sour and delicious, it is a local specialty dish. Notes Sun protection and warmth: The Datong Grassland is at a high altitude, with strong ultraviolet rays and strong winds, so pay attention to sun protection and warmth. Respect customs: On the grassland, respect the customs of the herdsmen and do not enter the herdsmen's yurts at will. Bring mosquito repellent: There are many mosquitoes on the grassland, so it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent. I hope this guide will help you better experience the unique style of Datong!

The ancient city of Datong is full of festive atmosphere during the Lunar New Year. Adults and children enjoy skating outside the moat. The streets and buildings are decorated with colorful lights at night, adding to the festive atmosphere. Restaurants and cultural and creative shops are booming. There are cultural performances every night at the lantern festival in the ancient city. People are bustling and laughing, creating a lively festival scene.

Datong, a city of harmony and beauty. Datong Ancient City, a cultural city with a history of thousands of years, is not only an important historical site in Shanxi Province, but also an outstanding representative of ancient Chinese defensive architecture. Here, every brick and tile carries the weight of history, and every city tower bears witness to the passage of time. 🏞Attractions 1. Huayan Temple: The royal temple of the Liao Dynasty, with high artistic value in architecture, sculpture, painting, religion, and other aspects. The murals and glazed beasts in the Mahavira Hall are the highlights not to be missed. 💰Ticket: CNY 50/person, half price for students ⏰Opening hours: Peak season 8:00–18:30, off season 8:30–17:30 2. Nine-Dragon Wall: The earliest, largest, and most exquisite five-colored glazed screen wall, which is the screen wall in front of the residence of Zhu Gui, the 13th son of Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. 💰Ticket: Free ⏰Opening hours: 8:00–20:00 3. Sipailou: As the city center of the old city, Sipailou has witnessed the rise and fall of the ancient city. Each archway is supported by four vermilion wooden pillars and decorated with glazed yellow tiles, which are beautiful and elegant. 💰Ticket: Free ⏰Opening hours: All day 4. Drum Tower: One of the landmark buildings of Datong Ancient City, the morning bell and evening drum were once the rhythm of life for the residents of the ancient city. 💰Ticket: Free ⏰Opening hours: All day [Food recommendations] Sliced noodles, shaomai, cold noodles, lamb offal, Datong hot pot, etc. - [Transportation] ▪️Fly to Yungang Airport, take a high-speed train to Datong Station/Datong South Station, convenient transportation

Taiyuan Food Street History: This was the commercial center of Taiyuan during the Song dynasty. It was called "Yuanmenqian" during the Qing dynasty, and "Maoer Alley" after the founding of the People's Republic of China. It was renamed "Food Street" in 1986, and was renovated and upgraded in 2012. It officially opened for business in May 2013. Street features: The street runs from Fudong Street in the north to Zhonglou Street in the south. It is 552 meters long and 10 meters wide, with more than 120 stores. The street is paved with bluestone and houqing stone, and the buildings are in the style of ancient Ming and Qing architecture. Food recommendations: The street offers Shanxi specialties such as Laoshuku Yuanxiao, Shangdi Fried Chicken, and Vinegar Ice Cream, as well as snacks from all over China. It is a unique leisure street that combines dining, sightseeing, and relaxation. Datong Ancient City Lantern Festival Event time: The 2025 Datong Ancient City Lantern Festival will begin on December 31, 2024. The festival will run from January 1 to February 16, 2025, and will transition to normal operations on February 17. Themed lantern areas: There will be nine themed lantern areas, including the "Ancient City Spring Charm Area," "Wukong Carnival," and "Colorful Spring Festival Area." The main exhibition area will be the southeast city wall and its interior, and a large lantern group will be set up in Huayan Square. Special features: During the Spring Festival, there will be a variety of performances, including dance and song medleys, and shows such as "City Opening Ceremony" and "Datong Under Heaven" will be staged in turn. In addition, there will be lantern groups in the shape of Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple, as well as displays of local specialties such as Datong Knife-cut Noodles and Hunyuan Cold Noodles.

Third time visiting Datong Ancient City, travel guide! ----------------------------------------- 1. Recommended route in the ancient city: Drum Tower → Huayan Temple → Sipailou → Daiwang Mansion → Nine-Dragon Wall → Fahua Temple → Datong Sculpture Museum → North City Wall 2. Transportation in the ancient city: Bus: Fare is CNY 1–2, operating hours are 6:00–22:00 Taxi: Datong taxi starting fare is CNY 7 (ride-hailing services available) Shared: Shared bikes 🚲 are not allowed in the ancient city 🚳! Please pay attention! 3. Where to stay in the ancient city? Economy: You can search for accommodation near Central Park (homestay) (hotel) or near Yongtai Xuefu (homestay) (all hotels are luxury) 4. What to bring to Datong! Summer: Light jacket! Light jacket! (Datong is cold in the morning and evening, hot at noon) ID card, student ID, sun umbrella, heatstroke medicine, charger, power bank, camera, selfie stick, earphones Winter: Thick down jacket, cotton pants, snow boots! 5. What to pay attention to in Datong‼️ Taxi drivers shouting near the train station (avoid) Noodle restaurants in the ancient city (normal price is CNY 7–10 per bowl) Most attractions in the ancient city are free (some require reservations) Photos with Jinshang Grandma are very photogenic❗(pay attention to the price) ----------------------------------------- Highly recommended: Shanxi knife-cut noodles, lamb offal soup, sea buckthorn ice bread, sea buckthorn juice, dried apricots.

Babies 🥰Walking in Datong Ancient City is a must! The historical charm and joyful atmosphere are full🎉The New Year’s goods gathering in Chaishijiao Shijing District is even more of the highlight. Remember this guide to take your baby to the weekend🌟 👨‍👩‍👧Must visit attractions Exploration of ancient rhyme culture Huayan Temple: The royal family temple of the Liao Dynasty, with shocking murals in the Main Hall. Please explain it to your child and listen to stories along the way to experience Buddhist culture. Shanhua Temple: An architectural treasure of the Liao and Jin Dynasties, let your children get to know the Internet celebrity Guangmu Tianwang, and the entire visit is free. Daiwangfu: vermilion gate, majestic palace, telling stories about feudal kings; during the Spring Festival, there are more wonderful performances, the most worth mentioning is that here is an immersive performance, you can fully integrate into the plot, five core programs, five A series of performing arts, where you are not only an audience, but also a "trendy" person in the show. 👨‍👩‍👧Special activities in Chaishijiao During the Spring Festival, from the second to the eighth day of the Lunar New Year, there is a large New Year temple fair. Chaishi Corner is transformed into a sea of ​​joy, and children can experience the excitement of traditional New Year customs. All free! 👨‍👩‍👧Fun historical check-in Nine Dragon Wall: The earliest colorful glazed screen wall in the country, with nine lifelike dragons, you can weave dragon stories with your children. Admission is free. Chunyang Palace: The only Quanzhen Taoist temple in Datong. Free to visit! Datong City Wall: Take a stroll to see the panoramic view of the ancient city, and climb the west and north city walls for free. 👨‍👩‍👧Special food, delicious and knowledgeable Remember to check in at the Whole Foods Restaurant: try the local specialties, including signature eggplant, oatmeal noodles, potatoes, etc., and teach your children about whole grains. Shaomai Restaurant: Try Datong’s specialty Shaomai. The shaved noodles are indispensable: chewy noodles, fragrant sauce, and authentic local flavor. Liang Noodles: Soft and chewy, with fragrant chili oil. If you feel like you can’t get enough, they are also packaged and can be taken home directly. 🥳Travel route planning In the morning, you can have a bowl of noodles first, and then go to Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple At noon, go to the coarse grain restaurant to taste local specialties In the afternoon, we went to Chai Shi Kok to visit the big market. You can go eat shaomai in the evening After eating, we went directly to Daiwang Mansion to watch the brightly lit show! During the Spring Festival: Visit the Chai Shi Kok New Year Temple Fair and there are performances that circulate throughout the day. Intimate TIPS - Keep temples and palaces quiet and teach children to respect customs. - Pay attention to the opening hours and adjust the itinerary in case of bad weather. - Datong cuisine has a strong taste, please communicate in advance to make adjustments for your children. Darlings, bring your kids to Datong Ancient Town and create happy memories! Datong Ancient City  Datong Supply and Sales Market  Family-Child Tour  Walking Guide for Kids  Datong Real-time Performing Arts in the Imperial Palace of the World 

In the past, my understanding of Datong was only that there is Yungang Grottoes in Datong. Later, I gradually learned that Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and Xuankong Temple are not far from Datong. Until I went back to Datong, I didn’t know much about Datong. I checked the information about Datong before going there, and I realized how powerful Datong is, and the ancient city of Datong is even more treasure-like. There are so many Liao and Jin buildings, murals and statues gathered in this small ancient city. The two national treasures of Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple are worth spending a whole day looking at. In addition to these two temples, there are Huayan Temple, Daiwang Mansion, Nine Dragon Wall, Four Archways, etc. in the ancient city. There are so many things to see.

📍Address: Enter from Yongtai Gate on the south city wall of Datong Ancient City 🕙Opening hours: January 1, 2025 to February 16, 2025 (47 days) 🗺Tour route: Enter from Yonghe Gate → Guancheng (main stage) → Climb the city wall to see the panoramic view → Yanta direction → Exit from the east city wall🔚 (This route ensures that you don't have to backtrack and can efficiently see the highlights of the entire lantern festival) 🎫Tickets: Official QR code ticket purchase 🌟Themed lantern areas: "Ancient City Spring Charm Area," "Wukong Carnival," "Colorful Spring Festival Area," "Charming Datong Area," "Spring Festival Charm Area," "Childlike Fun Area," "Festive Prosperity Area," "Honor of Kings Area," and "Auspicious Blessing Area" - nine themed lantern areas. The festival focuses on cultural, artistic, and storytelling elements, highlighting representative elements of the Spring Festival, regional folk customs, and urban fashion through novel methods, showcasing the unique charm of "form, color, sound, light, and movement." 💡Tips: There are many visitors during the lantern festival, so please take care of your personal belongings and pay attention to safety. Follow the signs and visit in an orderly manner.

Datong, a city in northern Shanxi Province, is like a shining pearl with its unique charm. The long river of history has left a deep mark here. As one of the nine ancient capitals of China, Datong has a history of thousands of years. In the ancient Northern Wei Dynasty, it was the political, economic, and cultural center of the north. Today, as a city that combines ancient and modern elements, Datong is rich in tourism resources and is popular with tourists. This winter, I came to Datong, Shanxi Province. Traveling to Datong in winter and avoiding the peak season, I not only experienced the ice and snow sports culture of Datong and enjoyed skiing and skating, but also easily visited cultural attractions such as the ancient city and grottoes. There were not many tourists at the attractions during the off-season, so I could visit and take photos more freely. Here is a four-day, three-night travel guide for you. Travel Route Huayan Temple - Bell Tower - Sipailou - Drum Tower - Nine-Dragon Wall - Chunyang Palace - Shanhua Temple - Fuwen Temple - Guandi Temple - Nine-Dragon Wall - Fahua Temple - Climb the city wall to watch the sunset - Night tour of Datong Ancient City Accommodation Recommendation: I highly recommend this homestay, which is located around the attractions, so you can travel efficiently without taking detours! If you want to join a group tour, it is also very close. In general, it is convenient to go anywhere! It only cost the four of us a little over 100 yuan. Who would believe it! I will definitely come back next time! This homestay is really cheap, but the room is really big. I really don't like rooms that look cramped and crowded, which makes me feel suffocated! The mattress is super comfortable. I asked the owner and found out that it is a 3D silk mattress. 🛏️ It's so cheap and of such high quality that I was moved to tears. The owner is really conscientious! The room is very clean and equipped with a smart door lock, which is a blessing for forgetful people like us. The high-definition projector is great. After traveling, I lay on the bed, ordered takeout, and watched a movie. It was so wonderful! Food Sliced noodles, assorted copper hot pot, cold noodles, lamb offal, oil cake, iron pot cake, Baihua Shaomai...

Day 1: Hanging Temple - Mount Heng - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Datong Ancient City. If you have the same itinerary, we recommend carpooling for convenience. 1. The Hanging Temple was built in the late Northern Wei Dynasty, more than 1,500 years ago. The entire temple is suspended on a cliff, which is very impressive. You don't have to worry about crowds in the off-season. 2. The scenery of Mount Heng is quite ordinary. It takes about two and a half hours to go up and down. Just take a quick look. 3. If you only have time to visit one place during your two-day trip, we recommend the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. It is a rare cultural relic and a typical example of wooden architecture in the world. Day 2: Datong Ancient City City Walk - Datong Museum Huayan Temple - Drum Tower - Sipailou - Daiwang Mansion - Nine-Dragon Wall - Fahua Temple - Guandi Temple - Shanhua Temple - Chunyang Palace - Drum Tower. The attractions are very close to each other. You can visit Huayan Temple and take a quick look at the others. We highly recommend the Garden Hotel. The service is excellent. The Chinese restaurant and breakfast buffet are amazing. The braised pork, garlic chicken wings, shumai, cold cake, walnut pie, lamb offal noodles, and knife-cut noodles are all delicious. The price is very reasonable. The hotel is located in the ancient city, which is very convenient.

Here is a travel guide to Datong Ancient City: Attractions - Huayan Temple: The royal temple of the Liao Dynasty, with high artistic value in architecture, colored sculptures, paintings, etc. The murals in the Mahavira Hall and the glazed roof ridge beasts are the highlights. Tickets are CNY 50, half price for students. - Nine-Dragon Wall: The earliest, largest, and most exquisite five-color glazed screen wall, which is the screen wall in front of the Prince's Mansion, is open to the public for free. - Sipailou: The city center of the old city, witnessing the rise and fall of the ancient city, is open to the public for free. - Drum Tower: A landmark building of the ancient city, you can overlook the panoramic view of the ancient city from the tower, which is open to the public for free. - Chunyang Palace: The only existing Quanzhen Taoist temple in Datong, with exquisite architecture and a strong cultural atmosphere. - Shanhua Temple: A building of the Liao and Jin Dynasties, with vivid statues of the Four Heavenly Kings at the mountain gate, and a clear distinction between the main and secondary buildings, is open to the public for free. - Ancient City Wall: You can feel the vicissitudes of history of the ancient city when you climb it. The west and north city walls are free to climb. Tour routes - One-day tour route A: Arrive at the ancient city wall at around 7 am, and stroll along the wall to feel the historical atmosphere in the morning light; visit Huayan Temple and Nine-Dragon Wall in the morning; taste Datong knife-cut noodles, lamb offal, and other local delicacies at noon; visit Shanhua Temple and Drum Tower in the afternoon; and visit the night market of the ancient city in the evening. - One-day tour route B: Liang Sicheng Memorial Hall → Fahua Temple → Taiping Tower → Nine-Dragon Wall → Sipailou → Drum Tower → Huayan Temple → Climb the ancient city wall to enjoy the sunset. - In-depth tour route: Two days, you can visit according to route B on the first day, and visit the Prince's Mansion, Confucian Temple, Emperor Temple, Guandi Temple, and other attractions on the second day. You can go to the bar street to experience the nightlife of the ancient city in the evening. Food recommendations - Zini 369 Coarse Grain Season: Signature eggplant, cold mixed daylily, and shallot oil-poured oat noodles are worth a try. - Longjuxiang Shaomai Restaurant: Authentic lamb shaomai. - Xijindao Knife-Cut Noodles: Chewy noodles with rich and fragrant minced meat. - Shunyi Cold Noodles: Opposite Guandi Temple on East Drum Tower Street, with chewy and delicious rice noodles. Accommodation options - Datong Jinshi Homestay: Located at the entrance of the Ancient Culture Street on Jiaochang Street in the center of Old Datong, 300 meters from the city wall and only 500 meters from Huayan Temple, with convenient transportation. - Datong Yunzhong Yizhan: A Chinese garden art courtyard with a beautiful environment. - Northern Wei Yunqi: Breakfast and afternoon tea are carefully prepared, and the rooms are spacious and bright. Transportation guide The attractions in the ancient city are relatively concentrated, and you can easily visit them on foot. Some attractions in Datong City can be reached directly by bus, and you can also choose to travel by taxi or online car-hailing.

A trip to Datong is something that photos cannot capture! Shanxi is truly a place to see cultural relics above ground. DAY 1: 🌟 First stop: Yungang Grottoes (p1, 4-13) Time: 4 hours ↔️ 🎫: CNY 120 🚗: CNY 30 for a one-way ride ↔️ CNY 15 for a round-trip ride in the scenic area. I recommend buying a ticket! The ride to the scenic area takes only 3 to 4 minutes, but the return trip is very long. This is a must-see in Datong‼️ A World Heritage Site‼️ Be sure to watch the documentary "A Thousand Years of Yungang" before you go. There is a theater on the left side of the entrance that shows a film about Yungang (p11). You can take a break and cool off there. About stamps: This is the first time I've seen so many free stamps. Almost every cultural and creative store has them! Be sure to bring a notebook📒 🌟 Second stop: Datong Ancient City (p2-3) 🎫: 🈚️ No matter what time you finish visiting the Yungang Grottoes, this is a great place to visit next (the Nine-Dragon Screen and Daiwang Mansion are nearby). Datong Ancient City is bigger than I imagined. I went there late and thought it was beautiful at night (locals say it feels different during the day). DAY 2: Hanging Temple - Yuanjue Temple - Yong'an Zen Temple - Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (p14-18) ❗️Yuanjue Temple and Yong'an Zen Temple are only one street apart. They are located between the Hanging Temple and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, so you can visit them on the way. 🎫: Hanging Temple (CNY 100 to climb, CNY 15 to view from below, tickets to climb are hard to get) Yuanjue Temple (CNY 0) Yong'an Zen Temple (CNY 20) Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (CNY 50) 🚗: Be sure to plan your transportation in advance! The distances are very far, and it is not easy to get a ride. Transportation is also inconvenient. I thought they were similar temples, but each one has its own characteristics. I recommend doing your research on each one, so I won't go into detail. ☁️: Be sure to bring an umbrella! It's not hot at all in the summer when you use an umbrella. It gets dark very late, after 8:00 pm, and it gets a little chilly at night. 🍝: A local driver said that Datong people are very picky about food, and bad restaurants don't last long. So I just ate whatever I wanted, and it was all delicious. Shanxi has a lasting impact. It took me several days to digest the experience after I got home. Shanxi is an overlooked treasure trove of tourism. Datong Ancient City

In the long river of time, Datong, the pearl of the northern frontier, is like a vast history book, with every page engraved with the vicissitudes and glories of history. In the Northern Wei Dynasty, Pingcheng was a place of great importance. The neighing of Xianbei horses and the dust raised by their hooves witnessed the rise of the dynasty. In the Yungang Grottoes, the Great Buddha looks down with compassion, and the marks left by craftsmen's chisels are a devout depiction of faith. Each statue embodies the spirit and courage of that era. Walking into Datong Ancient City, the towering city walls and mottled bricks and stones seem to tell the story of the past. The arrow towers and corner towers, like loyal guards, have weathered the storms and protected the memories of time. Inside the city, the ancient streets crisscross, and the courtyards are scattered. The legendary stories of Shanxi merchants are still being told in the carved beams and painted rafters. The history of Datong is the echo of the morning bell and evening drum of Huayan Temple, and the pause of time in front of the Nine-Dragon Wall. It carries the integration and change of the nation. As time goes by, the profound historical heritage always shines brightly, attracting people to explore.

🚘Carpool tour, CNY 90 per person👉Datong Ancient City🔜Hengshan Hanging Temple🔜Yongan Temple/Yuanjue Temple🔜Yingxian Wooden Pagoda/Jingtu Temple🔜Datong Hotel Pickup and Drop-off ✅️Depart at 7 am, return to the ancient city at around 6 pm ✅️Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, a high-rise building on flat ground, and the hanging building on the cliff, it is really worth the trip ✅️If you didn't buy the ticket to the Hanging Temple and don't want to queue, you don't need to buy the ticket, just look outside ✅️You can try the local specialty Hunyuan jelly, there are also many delicious foods in Hengshan Food Plaza ✅️There are many ancient buildings near Yuanjue Temple and Yongan Temple, if you don't like climbing, you can see the ancient buildings ✅After visiting Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, go out from the east gate, walk a few hundred meters to Jingtu Temple, the caisson is really exquisite

Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong: A 6-day travel guide! A route that combines history and natural scenery, definitely worth a visit. Don't miss it! . 🌟Route Overview: DAY 1: Guangzhou✈️Linfen Depart from Guangzhou and fly directly to Linfen to start your Shanxi trip. DAY 2: Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area - Xiaoxitian Explore the spectacular Hukou Waterfall and feel its grandeur. Then visit Xiaoxitian to appreciate the beauty of ancient Buddhist architecture. DAY 3: Mount Wutai Climb Mount Wutai, a famous Buddhist mountain, to experience its profound cultural heritage and tranquil mountain scenery. DAY 4: Hanging Temple - Yungang Grottoes - Datong Ancient City - Nine-Dragon Screen Visit the thrilling Hanging Temple and the artistic treasures of the Yungang Grottoes. Stroll through Datong Ancient City to feel its historical vicissitudes. Finally, admire the exquisite Nine-Dragon Screen. DAY 5: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - Yanmen Pass - Xinzhou Ancient City Visit the ancient legend of Yingxian Wooden Pagoda and the majestic Yanmen Pass. Enjoy a night tour of Xinzhou Ancient City to savor its night scenery and charm. DAY 6: Qiao Family Courtyard - Shanxi Museum - Taiyuan Ancient County Scenic Area Visit the Shanxi merchant culture of Qiao Family Courtyard and the treasures of Shanxi Museum. End your trip at Taiyuan Ancient County Scenic Area to feel the prosperity of the ancient city and the accumulation of history. . Travel Preparation: 🧳 Going to Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong? Don't forget to bring these essentials! 👚 Clothing: The temperature in November is moderate. Wear light long sleeves during the day and bring a jacket for the night. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for long walks. 🎒 Accessories: Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget your charger and data cable. Bring a camera to capture beautiful moments. 💳 Documents: ID card, student ID, and other discount cards, as well as cash and bank cards, just in case. 🍪 Food: Bring some snacks and water to replenish your energy. There are also many local delicacies to try and buy. 🧴 Daily Necessities: Sunscreen is a must. Bring toiletries according to your needs. Travel-size toiletries are recommended. 💊 Emergency Supplies: Band-aids, motion sickness medicine, etc., just in case, to ensure a smooth trip. 🎉 Others: Depending on the activities, you may need to bring a light first aid kit. Pay attention to the weather forecast for outdoor activities. . 🌟Don't forget to like and follow us to unlock more travel tips for Linfen, Xinzhou, and Datong, and make your trip more exciting!🌟

My biggest surprise on this year's National Day road trip was Datong, Shanxi Province. 1. The most impressive site is the Yungang Grottoes (Image 9), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the first royal-authorized (Northern Wei) grotto in China and one of the three major grottoes in China (along with the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang and the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang). You can watch the documentary "A Millennium of Yungang" in advance to learn about the history of the Yungang Grottoes. The most worthwhile caves to visit are: Cave 3: The Three Western Saints - the largest cave in Yungang Cave 5: The Three Buddhas - the largest Buddha statue in Yungang Cave 7: The Six Beauties of Yungang Cave 12: The Music Cave Cave 17: The Cross-legged Maitreya Bodhisattva (Image 10) Cave 18: The Buddha in a Thousand Buddha Robe Cave 19: The Internet-famous Clapping Buddha (Image 4) Cave 20: The Internet-famous Open-air Buddha (Image 3) 2. Another must-see is the Hanging Temple (Image 14). It is as famous as the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy and has stood on a cliff for 1,500 years. It is one of the earliest and best-preserved wooden cliffside buildings in China. The Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai praised it as "spectacular," and the Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake marveled at it as a "great spectacle of the world." It is also the only remaining temple in China that combines Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Tickets to climb the temple during the National Day holiday are hard to come by. We bought tickets to enter the park and viewed it from a distance, which was still worth the visit. 3. Datong Ancient City (Image 17) Built during the Northern Wei Dynasty, it was also known as Pingcheng and was a famous military town in ancient China. It held a significant position in the northern frontier and was known as the "majestic town" and the "northern key." It has a layout of "four main streets, eight alleys, and seventy-two continuous lanes." Must-see attractions in Datong Ancient City: 1. Huayan Temple Built in the eighth year of the Liao Dynasty (1062), it is one of the earliest and best-preserved Liao and Jin temple complexes in China and one of the three remaining Liao Dynasty temples in China. Its architectural style is unique. Highlights: The mural art in the Puguangming Hall The Mahavira Hall and the Chiwen (Image 16) on the roof of the Mahavira Hall The Baogajiao Zang Hall The Heavenly Palace Pavilion The Eastern Venus The Huayan Pagoda 2. The largest Nine-Dragon Screen (Image 18) It is the largest and earliest Nine-Dragon Screen in China. 3. Daiwang Mansion, located next to the Nine-Dragon Screen. Unfortunately, we didn't have time to visit it this time. 4. The most interesting thing in the ancient city is riding a bicycle on the city wall. It is recommended to go up from the west or north city walls, which are free, namely Qingyuan Gate and Wuding Gate.

Day 1 1. Yungang Grottoes Recommended reason: A world cultural heritage site and a treasure of Buddhist art, it is famous for its exquisite carving art. Opening hours: 09:00–17:00 (subject to the announcement of the scenic area) Ticket price: About CNY 120/person (an additional ticket of CNY 30 is required for Yungang Museum) Note: Not all places allow photography. To protect cultural heritage, please consciously abide by relevant regulations. 2. Huayan Temple Recommended reason: One of the landmark buildings of Datong Ancient City, the temple preserves exquisite murals and Buddha statues. Opening hours: Depending on the specific season, generally 08:00–17:30 3. Datong Ancient City Wall Recommended reason: Feel the vicissitudes of the ancient city and enjoy the beautiful night view at night. Opening hours: Open all day Ticket price: Free (a sightseeing bus requires a fee) 4. Drum Tower Night Market Recommended reason: Taste local food in Datong and experience the nightlife of the ancient city. Day 2 1. Hanging Temple Recommended reason: A temple built on a cliff, with ingenious architecture and spectacular scenery. Opening hours: 08:00–17:00 (subject to the announcement of the scenic area) Ticket price: About CNY 15/person (an additional CNY 100 is required to reach the top) 2. Yingxian Wooden Pagoda Recommended reason: One of the three wonders of the world, a model of wooden architecture, showing the wisdom of ancient craftsmen. Opening hours: 08:00–17:30 4. Self-driving route Depart from Beijing, drive west along G6 Beijing-Tibet Expressway, pass through Zhangjiakou, Xuanhua, and other places, and arrive in Datong. The whole journey is about 350 kilometers, and the driving time is about 4–5 hours (the specific time depends on the road conditions).

Datong is one of China's nine ancient capitals, having been a fortress during the Han dynasty, the capital of the Northern Wei dynasty, an auxiliary capital during the Liao and Jin dynasties, and a major city during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Datong Ancient City Protection Zone is a precious historical and cultural heritage site, and there are many ancient buildings and museums worth visiting in the ancient city, including Huayan Temple, Fahua Temple (Figures 5–9), Shanhua Temple (Figures 10–13), the Nine-Dragon Screen (Figure 14), the Five-Dragon Screen from the Qing dynasty (Figure 15), the Five-Dragon Screen from the Ming dynasty (Figure 20), and the Liang Sicheng Memorial Hall (Figures 1–4).

This Datong hotel is really nest level! The location is great, right on the edge of the ancient city and only a 3-minute walk to Beicheng. You can also visit the museum easily, which is so worry-free~ 1. The location is very good. It takes about ten minutes to walk to Huayan Temple, Nine Dragon Wall and other attractions. The moment you enter the room, you feel that the decoration taste of the entire room is not inferior to that of a five-star hotel🏨, and it adds the warmth of home🏠 2. The environment is also great! The public space is decorated in a very stylish way, decorated with flowers and trees🌹, where you can drink tea🍵, read books📖, and interact with the small fish swimming around🐟. Children can also write diaries📔~ 3. Breakfast is also a highlight! Rich varieties, their shaved noodles 🍝 are so delicious! No matter how late you arrive at the store, you are welcomed warmly and there is no cold feeling❄️~.

| Shanxi Datong Mu Qingchen Homestay. Shanxi Datong Mu Qingchen Phase II Homestay. Located in the ancient city of Datong, Mu Qingchen aims to create a real, warm, and comfortable living scene, creating a secret and peaceful spiritual sanctuary for travelers. It is hoped that it can go beyond a short stay and leave travelers with an experience of a different ancient city. This is the origin of the design of Mu Qingchen. Mu Qingchen Phase II continues the design concept of Phase I, using the plasticity of some building spaces in Phase II to transform the space, further strengthening the atmosphere and texture of the space, and aiming to create a leisurely environment that is isolated from the hustle and bustle and integrated with the temperament of the ancient city. The design begins with a small courtyard on the basement floor, which is enclosed with glass and steel structures to form an indoor space that can be isolated from the wind, frost, rain, and snow, but still see the sun and moon. With this as the core, other functional areas are arranged in sequence, producing sequences, proportions, rhythms, and priorities of different spaces. The courtyard is adjacent to the guest rooms on both sides and connected to the public leisure area at the front, forming a secret little world. The morning light shines through the glass, and the warm sunlight is projected on the flowers and plants, making people feel relaxed and happy. During the day, the courtyard is full of vitality. Guests sit on the lounge chairs and chat or quietly enjoy a cup of tea. The small fish in the pool swim leisurely, adding a touch of life to the quiet space. How light enters every inch of space has been carefully considered, and light and structure complement each other. The twists and turns of the space, the ups and downs, and every place will have unexpected light and shadow.

😭|||I've been to Datong 4 times, and this affordable homestay is worth crying over. 😭😭 ✔ Great location ✔ Thoughtful service ✔ Amazing design If you're planning to visit Datong soon, don't miss this place! . 1⃣ The location is quiet and convenient for travel. It's nice to sit in the courtyard and enjoy the breeze at night. They offer coffee, fruit, snacks, and drinks, which makes for a relaxing experience. The homestay also helped us find a great driver. . 2⃣ The room is sparkling clean ✨ The slippers are super comfortable, just like home! The smart devices are easy to use, even for beginners. You can watch all the high-end movies and TV shows you want. It's a drama lover's paradise. 🎬 . 3⃣ The homestay is very detail-oriented. 👍🏻 The breakfast is delicious, and the fruit and snacks are plentiful. Kids especially love it. It's the top choice for family trips to Datong Ancient City. .

On October 2, 2024, I drove to Datong, Shanxi, and visited Datong Ancient City the next day. Chinese name: Datong Ancient City Location: Pingcheng District, Datong, Shanxi Climate: Temperate continental monsoon climate Opening hours: Spring and autumn: 6:00–24:00; Summer: 5:00–2:00; Winter: 7:00–22:00 Scenic level: Includes 3 AAAA scenic areas Ticket price: Free (Huayan Temple charges separately) Area: 3.28 km2 Famous attractions: Datong Ancient City Wall, Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple, Nine Dragon Wall, Drum Tower, Daiwang Mansion, Fuwen Temple, Dijun Temple, Chunyang Palace, Liang Sicheng Memorial Hall, China Sculpture Museum Datong Ancient City is located in Pingcheng District, Datong, Shanxi. It has a long history, and as early as the Northern Wei Dynasty, it was already a large city. In the early Ming Dynasty, it was a military stronghold, and in 1372, General Xu Da expanded it on the basis of the old city of the Northern Wei, Tang, Liao, and Jin Dynasties. It is roughly square, 1.8 km long from east to west, 1.82 km long from north to south, with a circumference of 7.24 km and an area of 3.28 km2. The city walls are made of stone slabs and bricks, with a height of 14 m, a width of 12 m at the top, and a width of 18 m at the bottom. There are 54 watchtowers and 96 bunkers around the city walls. There are 580 battlements, representing the number of villages under Datong's jurisdiction at that time. There are corner towers at the four corners of the city walls, and a military control platform outside each corner. There are four gates in the city, Heyang Gate in the east, Yongtai Gate in the south, Qingyuan Gate in the west, and Wuding Gate in the north. There are city towers above the four gates, and moon towers, arrow towers, watchtowers, and corner towers are interspersed. Outside the four gates, there are urn cities, moon cities, and moats. The city walls are tall and majestic, solid and steep, with tight defenses and complete defensive facilities. It is a unique military city in the history of ancient Chinese military architecture. Because of its important position in the northern frontier, it played an important role in many battles. Therefore, it has always been known as the "majestic town" and "northern key." In 2008, Datong City implemented a comprehensive historical and cultural revival and ancient city protection project, and Datong Ancient City Wall was restored again. The majestic ancient city wall, the rippling moat, and the beautiful and pleasant strip park complement the ancient temples, pavilions, and courtyards in the ancient city, and the glory of Datong Ancient City as the "Northern Wei Imperial Capital and Ming and Qing Town" is reappearing.

Visit this incredible place in shanxi Datong the sculpture of all the Buddha was amazing in detail and the history is more than five thousand years ago. I can sit on the places for hours