Private day tour to Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple in Datong
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Meet guide in the hotel lobby in Datong or Datong train station, you will visit Yuangang Grottoes and Hanging temple,after tour drop to hotel in Datong.
it was carved out of a mountain side and about 1 km in width, is one of the four famous treasure troves of Chinese grotto art The grotto area was excavated along the mountain, imposingly stretching 1 kilometer with rich contents. Covering over 18,000 square meters engraving area, there are existing 45 main caves, 209 subsidiary caves, more than 1,100 niches, and more than 51,000 stone statues, among which the largest statue measures 17 meters and the smallest only 2 centimeters.
Hanging temple bulit on the cliff, it is the national key cultural unit, which is unique as it includes Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. The temple was constructed in the Northern Wei Dynasty (AD 386-534) with a history of 1500 years. The Hanging Temple was selected as one of "The Top 10 Unique and Precipitous Architectures" by Times magazine in 2010.
Available options
Private day tour to Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple& lunch
Pickup included
Only private transfer
No entrance fee no guide : For this option we only offer private transfer, no guide, no lunch, no entrance fee, driver will pick up & drop you at hotel.<br/>Pickup included
Only private transfer
No guide no entrance: Pls send us your passport front page by mail/whats app so we can help you to book your ticket,you may pay driver cny 290 p.p <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transfers
English speaking guide
1 bottle of water p.p
Round way battery car at Yungang grottoes
Main gate entrance fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Yungang Grottoes, imposingly carved out of a mountain side and about 1 km in width, is one of the four famous treasure troves of Chinese grotto art. Located at the southern foot of Wuzhou Mountain, the grotto area was excavated along the mountain, imposingly stretching 1 kilometer with rich contents. Covering over 18,000 square meters engraving area, there are existing 45 main caves, 209 subsidiary caves, more than 1,100 niches, and more than 51,000 stone statues, among which the largest statue measures 17 meters and the smallest only 2 centimeters. One of the largest stone caving art treasury famous both home and abroad, the Yungang Grottoes was inscribed as a key cultural relic under the state protection in 1961, a world heritage site in 2001, and a 5A national Scenic Area in 2007.
2
Stop 2
The Hanging Temple, also called the Hanging Monastery,it is in Hunyuan County, Datong, Shanxi Province. Built over 1,500 years ago, and suspended on the cliffs of Hengshan Mountain, about 50 meters above the ground, the Hanging Temple is a truly amazing feat of engineering and one of the world's forgotten wonders.
The building's features can be summarized as "strange, cliff and ingenious". Strange- Looking up Hanging Temple in distance, it seems as an exquisitely carved anaglyph set in steep bluffs; if you observe it closely, it looks as if it is flying to the sky. Cliff- A total of 40 cabins were suspended, which seems to be supported by several wooden columns. In fact, some columns didn't bear the weight.
What's not included
Personal things
Dinner
Tips
Hotel
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
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.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
