1 Day Datong Yungang Grottoes & Hanging Temple Tour/from Beijing

Datong , China

1 Day Datong Yungang Grottoes & Hanging Temple Tour/from Beijing

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About this experience

Datong is one of the nine ancient capitals in China with numerous historic relics in its territory. It’s a low-key city beyond the tourist trail but implies great energy. Take this one-day private tour to visit the famous Yungang Grottoes, one of the Chinese four grotto art treasures, and the Hanging Temple, the earliest and best preserved high-altitude wooden cliff-building in China. With our professional tour guide and driver, you will make the largest value of this day to learn the background knowledge of the relics.

Available options

Day Tour from Beijing by Train

This package includes the round-way second-class high-speed train tickets.<br/>Pickup included

Datong Day Tour

One Day Classic Datong Tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transfer service in Beijing (if you choose the option)

English-speaking guide in Datong

Second-class high-speed train tickets (if you choose the option)

Entrance fees as list in the itinerary

Private transfers in air-conditioned vehicle with licensed driver in Datong

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Note: If you choose the option with the high-speed train from Beijing, your Beijing driver will pick you up from your hotel, and then transfer you to Beijing railway station for a 2-hour high-speed train to Datong (second class).

Upon arrival, a private Datong guide will pick you up on time and start your Datong tour.

In the morning at 8:30 am, meet your guide and driver who will hold a board with your name in your Datong downtown hotel lobby. Firstly, we drive westwards to Yungang Grottoes. As the first batch of key cultural relics under state protection, also on the world heritage list, Yuagang Grottoes has a highly cultural and artistic meaning. It not only shows the traditional Chinese artistic style, but also incorporates the art characteristics of ancient India, the western regions and the Central Plain. Yungang Grottoes is the beginning of the "sinicization" of Chinese grotto art, which mainly stores 45 grottoes and 51,000 stone statues.

Stop 2

After lunch (not included), you will be transferred to Hanging Temple. Located between the cliffs of Mt. Hengshan, it is the only unique temple in China that integrates Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. The whole monastery is built in wooden framework structure. Though not very big, it astonishes people by the building design that relies on a mortise joint and embeds into the cliff without falling down. Owning a history over 1,500 years, many notable literati and poets have left words to show their amazing feeling.

When finishing all sites, you will be transferred back to your Datong downtown hotel.

If you choose the option with the bullet train to Beijing, you will be escorted to Datong train station for a high-speed train back to Beijing. Upon arrival, a Beijing local driver will pick you up and transfer you back to your hotel in Beijing. (During peak season, in order to catch up with your high-speed train back to Beijing, we will not visit the Hanging Temple.)

What's not included

Personal expense

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour guide will contact you the evening before the tour date

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Tour guide for other languages is available, please advise to note and pay extra 50 USD per group

If you have dietary demands please leave a special requirement when booking the tour

Children must be accompanied by an adult

About Datong

Datong is a historic city in northern China known for its rich cultural heritage and significant role in China's coal industry. It offers a unique blend of ancient Buddhist architecture and modern industrial development, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and adventurous travelers alike.

Top Attractions

Yungang Grottoes

The Yungang Grottoes are a series of ancient Buddhist temple caves featuring intricate carvings and statues. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most significant historical attractions in Datong.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥150

Hanging Monastery

The Hanging Monastery, also known as Xuankong Temple, is a unique Buddhist temple built into a cliff face. This remarkable structure is a testament to ancient Chinese engineering and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Historical Half-day trip ¥80

Shanxi Museum

The Shanxi Museum is a comprehensive museum showcasing the rich history and culture of Shanxi Province. It features a wide range of exhibits, including ancient artifacts, calligraphy, and paintings.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Datong Coal Mine

The Datong Coal Mine is one of the largest coal mines in China and has played a significant role in the city's industrial development. Visitors can take a tour of the mine to learn about its history and operations.

Historical Half-day trip ¥50-100

Must-Try Local Dishes

Datong Flatbread (Da Tong Bing)

A type of flatbread that is crispy and slightly sweet, often served with various toppings such as scallions, sesame seeds, and chili oil.

Snack Vegetarian

Lamb Skewers

Grilled lamb skewers marinated in a blend of spices, offering a smoky and flavorful taste.

Snack Contains meat

Shanxi Noodles

Hand-pulled noodles served with a variety of sauces and toppings, such as beef, lamb, or vegetables.

Main Course Vegetarian and meat options available

Popular Activities

Hiking and trekking in nearby mountains Exploring ancient temples and grottoes Visiting tea houses and enjoying local tea culture Strolling through local parks and gardens Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Experiencing winter sports in nearby ski resorts Enjoying the unique winter charm of the city

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Datong as the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The city's attractions, such as the Yungang Grottoes, are best explored during this period.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Datong is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as markets and public transportation.
• Bargain for prices in markets and street stalls to avoid overcharging.

Getting there

By air

Datong Yungang Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Datong Railway Station

By bus

Datong Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The public bus system in Datong is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a budget-friendly way to get around and are widely used by locals and tourists alike.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Yungang District Chenghuang Temple Shanxi University District

Day trips

Hanging Monastery

65 km from Datong • Half-day to full-day trip

Mount Wutai

130 km from Datong • Full-day to overnight trip

Mount Wutai is a sacred Buddhist mountain known for its stunning natural beauty and ancient temples. It is one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism and is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Festivals

Datong Coal Festival • Annual, typically in September Datong International Photography Festival • Annual, typically in October

Pro tips

Visit the Yungang Grottoes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and enriching experience when visiting historical sites and attractions.
Try local specialties, such as Datong Flatbread and lamb skewers, for an authentic taste of the region's cuisine.
Explore the city's tea culture by visiting local tea houses and enjoying a cup of tea with friends or family.
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Datong Coal Festival and the Datong International Photography Festival, for a unique and memorable experience.