Top 10 China tours 2023/2024 for first visits and returns: embark on a lifetime experience. Learn more
Datong Nine-Dragon Screen Wall

Datong Nine-Dragon Screen Wall

Written by Candice SongUpdated Aug. 20, 2021

As one of three famous walls of this style in China (the other two are in Beihai Park in Beijing and in front of Taiji Gate of the Forbidden City in Beijing), Datong Nine-Dragon Wall is the oldest, largest and the most enchanting one among the three.

Built during the Ming Dynasty (1271-1368), this marvelous wall is 45.5 meters long, 8 meters high and 22 meters thick. Nine dragons, each playing with a pearl with the sun and moon aside, were carved in a very lifelike manner. Yellow, blue, purple and white are applied to the carvings to depict the writhing dragons, and make the wall very enchanting. Among the nine dragons, one heading to the front with imposing appearance is held in awe by other dragons. The left space is filled with patterns of mountains, rivers and trees, which serve as a contrast to make the dragons stand out. The whole wall was built on a 2.09-meter sumeru throne (须弥座), on which carved 41 patterns of "two dragons playing with a pearl". 

Datong Nine Dragon Screen WallDatong Nine-Dragon Screen Wall

In addition, on the waist of the sumeru throne, 75 pieces of vitreous brick constitute a grand relief with varieties of lively animals on it, such as cattle, horses, sheep, dogs, deer and rabbits. The wall reflects the superb carving skill of ancient China.

Besides, tourists can find many streets, gates, and places with imperial names in Datong, like "Huangchen Street (the Imperial City Street)", "Zhengdian Street (The Main Hall Street)", "Donghua Gate (East China Gate)" and so on. They are all ruins of imperial palaces in ancient China.

Travel Essentials

  • Ticket fare: 10 yuan per person
  • Opening time: 09: 00-17:00
  • Recommended visiting time: 30 minutes
  • Getting there: Travelers can take public bus No. 4 from Datong Railway Station to reach Nine Dragon Wall.
We are here to help you...
start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create Your Trip

The China Highlights Experience

1-to-1 Expert Planning

1-to-1 Expert Planning

Your tour will be tailor-made by your personal travel advisor — a destination expert. Every reply will be within 24 hours.

Personal Journeys

Personal Journeys

Enjoy your personal local guide and ride. Explore destinations at your own pace. Have unparalleled flexibility, which is impossible on a group tour.

Authentic Experiences

Authentic Experiences

Discover the hidden gems. Experience local culture by practicing it. Try new and exciting activities, and unveil the stories behind the sights and people.

Well-Selected Local Guides

Well-Selected Local Guides

Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!

China Highlights tailor-makes China tours to help travelers discover China their way. We're a passionate team of one hundred avid travelers who love to share our knowledge of China with those looking for a more authentic travel experience, more ...
China Highlights International Travel Service Co., LTD
Corporate Number: 914503003486045699
Featured on