Datong may not be as famous as other Chinese cities, but it surprises many travelers with its stunning Buddhist cave art, ancient temples, and off-the-beaten-path feel. It is located on the way between Beijing and Xi'an, to the west of Beijing.
Home to the magnificent Yungang Grottoes and the jaw-dropping Hanging Temple, Datong is a rewarding stop for culture lovers, photographers, and anyone curious about early Chinese history.
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What to Do in Datong
Though not as famous as Xi'an or Luoyang, Datong surprises many travelers with its cultural richness and stunning heritage. From cliffside temples to ancient Buddhist carvings, Datong's key attractions are both unique and rewarding.
Uncover the Majesty of the Yungang Grottoes
The Yungang Grottoes are the crown jewel of Datong and one of the finest Buddhist cave complexes in China. Carved into sandstone cliffs between AD 453 and 495 during the Northern Wei dynasty, the grottoes feature more than 50,000 statues.
The Buddha statues of Yungang GrottoesThere are 45 main caves, with Caves 1–20 being the most significant. Caves 21–45 are smaller and less detailed, but still worth a quick look if time allows.
The craftsmanship here is extraordinary. Many carvings show clear influences from India, Persia, and Greece, giving the statues distinctive facial features and exotic robes. Among the highlights are Cave 5 and Cave 6, richly decorated with color and carvings.
- Cave 5, known as the "Great Buddha Cave", houses the largest statue, a majestic golden Buddha with blue hair and glassy eyes, seated in serene meditation.
- Cave 6, the largest in scale, is covered in over 33 painted relief panels that vividly depict the story of the historical Buddha.
Cave 5 of Yungang GrottoesThe grottoes stretch across a wide area and require a fair amount of walking. You can take shuttle buses which run between the main entrance and the key caves to save time and energy.
Plan to spend 3–4 hours here. The site is about 40 minutes by car from downtown Datong. Arrive early to enjoy a quieter, more contemplative visit.
Tip:
Datong's major sights like the Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda are spread out. For flexibility and time efficiency, we highly recommended our private transfer. Taxis can be hard to hail in remote areas.
Explore the Hanging Temple (Xuankong Si)
Clinging to a sheer cliff face near Mount Heng, the Hanging Temple is one of the most astonishing architectural wonders in China, and the world.
The Hanging TempleBuilt more than 1,500 years ago, this gravity-defying wooden monastery suspended 50 meters above the ground. True to its name, it seems to "hang" on the cliffside. The unique structure and breathtaking setting have earned it a place on UNESCO's World Heritage list.
What's even more remarkable is that it's the only temple in China that combines Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism under one roof.
As you walk along the narrow wooden walkways, breathtaking views of the valley stretch out beneath your feet.
People climbing the templeLook at the thin wooden pillars supporting the temple, you will find some appear crooked, but don't worry. These are mostly for visual effect. The real support lies in deep horizontal beams anchored into the rock behind the temple.
It's about 1.5 hours from Datong by car, so we recommend combining this with a stop at Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
Tips:
- If you only want to admire the Hanging Temple from below, the entrance fee is just RMB 15 (USD 2 / SGD 3). To climb the wooden walkways and explore inside, a full access ticket costs RMB 100 (USD 14 / SGD 19).
- Only 3,200 climbing tickets are sold each day to preserve the fragile structure, so advance booking is highly recommended if you wish to go inside.
Admire the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Located about 75 kilometers south of Datong, the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is the tallest and oldest wooden pagoda in the world. Built in 1056 without a single nail, this 67-meter-high structure has stood firm through earthquakes, wars, and centuries of wind and rain.
Its design features traditional Chinese joinery, a technique called sunmao, where wooden pieces interlock without metal fasteners. The structure blends elegance and strength. It's is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Chinese architecture.
Yingxian Wooden PagodaSurrounded by green trees, it has a peaceful, dignified presence. You may spot cats around the grounds, they are local guardians that help keep birds and rodents away from the historic building.
In recent years, this tower has begun to tilt and deform. Due to preservation efforts, you can only explore the first floor of the pagoda.
It's a perfect half-day trip when paired with a visit to the nearby Hanging Temple, especially for those interested in history and ancient architecture.
Visit the Nine-Dragon Screen Wall
Datong's Nine-Dragon Wall is the oldest and largest glazed screen of its kind in China. Originally part of the residence of a Ming dynasty prince, it was built over 600 years ago and remains one of the few surviving relics from the now-vanished palace.
The wall stretches 45 meters long, stands 8 meters high, and is 2 meters thick. It is decorated with 426 vividly glazed tiles, forming nine colorful dragons that appear to leap through waves and clouds.
Nine Dragon Screen WallUnlike imperial five-clawed dragons, these four-clawed versions reflect the prince's status, offering insight into Ming dynasty symbolism and hierarchy.
Located about a 25-minute drive from Datong South Station, the wall is easy to visit as part of a city tour. Spend 20 to 30 minutes here, and if you visit at night, the golden light makes the wall especially photogenic.
Walk the Fortified Walls of Deshengbao
If you're looking to escape the crowds and discover a piece of authentic frontier history, Deshengbao is worth the short drive. The fortress can be reached in about 1 hour by car from Datong.
Built in 1539, this Ming-era fortress lies about 45 kilometers north of Datong and once guarded the vital border between Shanxi and Inner Mongolia. This castle is one a part of the Great Wall made of compacted soil and it is the best preserved of its type in the world.
Today, Deshengbao still preserves stretches of its original walls, gatehouses, and watchtowers. You can walk along the ramparts, explore weathered archways, and imagine the lives of soldiers who once stood guard here. The atmosphere is raw and peaceful with few visitors.
Step into the Tranquility of Shanhua Temple
Hidden in the heart of Datong, Shanhua Temple offers a quiet escape from the city. Dating back to the Tang dynasty and rebuilt during the Liao and Jin periods, this temple complex is one of northern China's finest examples of well-preserved ancient architecture.
As you walk through its peaceful courtyards and weathered wooden halls, time seems to slow down. The highlight here is the breathtaking statue of the Bodhisattva Lakshmi (Jixiang Tianü).
Her downcast glassy eyes and gentle, loving expression are unforgettable. There's a quiet power in her presence. The grooves on her cheeks catch the light just enough to resemble tear stains, adding to her air of compassion and grace.
Take your time to absorb the stillness, admire the intricate statues, and let the solemn beauty of the temple sink in.
Feel the Echoes of History at Huayan Temple
Huayan Temple is just a 10-minute walk from Shanhua Temple and is another must-visit temple in Datong. It's bigger than Shanhua Temple and has divided into two parts, the upper temple and the lower temple.
Huayan TempleOriginally built during the Liao dynasty and later restored in the Jin, it blends grand wooden architecture with a deep sense of spiritual calm.
Step inside the temple's grand halls and you'll be greeted by an unforgettable sight—entire walls covered in vivid Buddhist murals. These towering wall paintings are rich in color and detail, depicting celestial beings, mythical creatures, and scenes from ancient sutras.
Standing beneath them, you'll feel dwarfed by their scale and power. It's a surreal moment, as if you've stumbled through a crack in time, with the past looking down at you in full color.
Let your eyes adjust to the dim light, then slowly trace the brushstrokes and Buddhist statues that have survived for centuries. For anyone with an interest in Buddhism, art, history, or photography, Huayan Temple offers one of Datong's most quietly awe-inspiring experiences.
How Many Days to Spend in Datong?
Most travelers spend 1–2 days in Datong to see the city's main highlights, such as the Yungang Grottoes, the Hanging Temple, and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
If you want to explore at a relaxed pace or interested in ancient buildings and temples, including attractions like the Shanhua Temple and Huayan Temple, 3–4 days are ideal.
You can also extend your trip to Pingyao, a well-preserved ancient walled town full of Ming and Qing architecture. It's about 4–5 hours by train from Datong, and most travelers spend 2 days in Pingyao. That brings your total to 3–4 days for a Datong + Pingyao route.
Pingyao Ancient CitySuggested Itinerary: Datong + Pingyao
- Day 1: Arrive in Datong. Visit Yungang Grottoes and Nine-Dragon Screen.
- Day 2: Morning visit to Hanging Temple, afternoon to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, then take a train to Pingyao.
- Day 3: Explore Pingyao Ancient Town and city wall.
- Day 4: Visit family courtyards or Shuanglin Temple, then depart.
If you arrive in Datong early on the first day, you can head straight to the Yungang Grottoes. Spend around 3 to 4 hours exploring the site, then return to the city to see the Nine-Dragon Screen Wall before checking in and resting at your hotel.
On the second day, leave around 9 a.m. for the Hanging Temple. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, and you'll need 1 to 2 hours to visit the temple. In the afternoon, continue by car for another hour to reach Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
After your visit, drive straight to Datong South Railway Station to catch a high-speed train to Pingyao.
Spend your third day walking through Pingyao Ancient City. Explore its old city walls, stroll down streets lined with Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. You can even have the chance to learn how to make traditional noodles.
On the fourth day, visit nearby temples such as Shuanglin Temple or Zhenguo Temple, or take a short trip out to see the grand family courtyards like Qiao Family and Wang Family. After that, continue to your next destination.
Shuanglin TempleCheck full itinerary here: 4-Day Essence of Datong and Pingyao Tour.
Planning a Bigger Trip: Beijing → Datong → Pingyao → Luoyang → Xi'an
If you're exploring more of northern and central China, this classic route allows you to enjoy history-rich cities at a comfortable pace, you can travel smoothly without wasting time backtracking.
Datong is the closest stop to Beijing, about 2.5 hours by high-speed train. From there, it takes around 2 hours to reach Pingyao, which sits between Datong and Luoyang.
After that, Luoyang is 1.5 to 2 hours from Pingyao by bullet train, and it's also on the way to Xi'an, which is about 1.5 hours farther.
We recommend 9–12 days in total for these stops: Beijing (3 days), Datong (1-2 days), Pingyao (1-2 days), Luoyang (1-2 days), and Xi'an (3 days). This route is best for history lovers and first-time visitors who want a well-rounded experience.
You can check our recommended tour: 14-Day North China on Train Tour.
How to Get to Datong from Beijing
By High-speed Train:
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Datong from Beijing is by high-speed train. Trains usually depart from Beijing North Railway Station (北京北站) or Qinghe Railway Station (清河站), arriving at Datong South Railway Station (大同南站) in 2 to 2.5 hours.
If you're on a tighter budget or enjoy scenic overland travel, regular (slow) trains also connect the two cities. These take 6–7 hours, so they're less ideal unless you're spending a night on the train.
By Flight:
There are no direct flights between Beijing and Datong. Most options require a layover and take longer than the train when you include airport transfers and waiting times. For this reason, we don't recommend flying.
Want a hassle-free trip? Our private tours include train tickets, hotel transfers, and a local guide to help you make the most of your time in Datong from the moment you arrive.
Best Times to Visit Datong
The best times to explore Datong are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).
If your main goal is to visit Datong's ancient architecture, you can really come any time of year. The city is generally dry with little rain, making it a reliable destination in all seasons.
- Spring (temperatures average 10℃/50℉) brings lush green hills and blooming landscapes, you can enjoy the lively scenery when hiking or walking through old towns. While the season can be dry and occasionally windy, a hat and scarf will keep you comfortable.
- Autumn (temperatures average 7℃/45℉) offers the most beautiful scenery. Golden leaves around ancient temples and pagodas offer a quiet elegance. The weather is mild, the crowds are thinner, makes sightseeing especially enjoyable.
Spring flowers and the Yixian Wooden PagodaOther Times
Summer (June–August) is pleasantly cool by Chinese standards. With average highs around 28℃ (82℉), it's a good choice if you're concerned about heat. You can explore all the top sites without worrying about scorching temperatures.
Winter (December–February) is cold with fewer crowds. The temperatures are usually below 0℃ (32℉), with frequent snowfall.
That said, snow-covered roofs on temples like the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda bring a serene beauty that's especially photogenic. Just be sure to dress warmly.
Hanging Temple in snowWhere to Stay in Datong
For a comfortable and convenient stay in Datong, we recommend choosing accommodations in either the Yingbinqiao area or the Ancient City area, depending on your travel style.
Yingbinqiao Area (near Ancient City): Great for Comfort and Day Trips
If your trip includes visiting sites like the Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, or Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the Yingbinqiao area is a fantastic base.
Just 10 minutes from Datong South Railway Station and close to the highway, it offers excellent access for both high-speed rail travelers and those self-driving.
You'll find a wide selection of high-end and mid-range hotels, many with modern comforts ideal for couples and families. The area is also close to popular malls like Baisheng and Walmart, and there are plenty of local eateries nearby.
Ancient City Area: For History and Atmosphere
Prefer something with a bit more old-world charm? The Ancient City area lets you stay within walking distance of Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple, and the Nine-Dragon Wall.
This district is perfect for those who enjoy a traditional setting, or prefer courtyard-style boutique hotels and heritage guesthouses.
Do note that traffic here can get congested, especially during peak travel seasons (June to August), and the area stays busy late into the night (may be noisy). If you're here for culture and enjoy walking, this area gives you the most immersive experience.
Other Areas to Consider
Dongxin Commercial District is bustling and packed with dining and shopping options, but its distance from major attractions and frequent traffic make it less ideal for sightseeing-focused trips.
Yudong New District has modern roads and hotels, and is excellent for self-driving visitors, but it feels more businesslike and remote from Datong's historic highlights.
Travel with China Highlights
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