Datong Highlights Sightseeing: Hanging Monastery and Wooden Pagoda

Datong , China

Datong Highlights Sightseeing: Hanging Monastery and Wooden Pagoda

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About this experience

With accompany of professional tour guide and private transfer, spend full day to explore the historical relics and Chinese architecture in Datong. You will visit the peculiar wood-structured Hanging Monastery on the cliff at the foot of Mt. Hengshan, and the oldest and highest wooden structure in China - Yingxian County Wooden Pagoda.

Available options

Datong Highlights Sightseeing: Hanging Monastery and Wooden Pagoda

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Chinese Lunch

Hotel pickup & drop-off

Professional tour guide

Entrance ticket fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Tour starts at 9:00 am, local tour guide will pick you up from your Datong hotel and transfer you to the first stop of Hanging Monastery.

Because of the numerous pagodas in Datong it has been known as the 'City of Pagodas'. The peculiar wood-structured Hanging Monastery on the cliff at the foot of Mt. Hengshan gives a breath-taking view of Chinese architecture. Built in 491, Hanging Monastery has survived more than 1400 years. It is an architectural wonder. Seen from below, it appears to be a tumble-down castle in the air. Walk into the Monastery to explore this rare architecture and discover its history.

After having lunch in a local restaurant, move on to visit the Wooden Pagoda in Ying County. Regarded as the 'First Pagoda in the World', the Wooden Pagoda has about 900 years of history and is attractive for its exquisite design and delicate appearance. The Pagoda appears as a five-storey structure, but in fact it has a total of nine storeys with four hidden inside. And large Buddha statues hosted in the Wooden Pagoda are particularly impressive.

Afterwards, the tour guide will transfer you back to Datong hotel to conclude the trip.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

Voucher is for booking confirmation only, local tour guide will help you to get the entrance ticket on site

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.