Private Custom Tour: Datong City in One Day

Datong , China

Private Custom Tour: Datong City in One Day

Active

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the best of Datong city on a full-day tour that includes top attractions. Accompanied by a private guide, tour the Nine Dragon Screen, Huanyan Temple, Drum Tower and the City Wall, learn the history.

If you are interested in visiting other city sites not listed above, please feel free to discuss with your guide directly or you can submit your request upon booking.

Lunch, attraction entrance ticket, and private transfer are all inclusive.

Available options

Price for per person

Pickup included

What's included

Tour guide

Lunch

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

Meet your friendly tour guide at 8:30am in your hotel lobby and traveled by an air-conditioned vehicle, head to Nine Dragon Screen.It was built over 600 years ago,made up of 426 specially-fired glazed bricks, with a height of 8 meters, 2.02 meters thick and 45.5 meters long. The Screen is presently the oldest and largest glazed screen in China today, three times larger than that in Beihai Park, Beijing City.

Then continue to Huanyan Temple,a Buddhist temple located on the south western side of Datong City, Shanxi Province.It was built during the Liao Dynasty (907 - 1125),has been burned down and rebuilt several times. It is the largest and best preserved monastery of the Liao Dynasty in existence in China.

After enjoy a nice local lunch,visit Datong Drum Tower, located in the cross road of south Danan Street.It was built in Ming dynasty and underwent several renovations during the Qing dynasty.This building has three storeys. The first storey is built of bluestones, and the second and the third storey are built of wood and bricks. Taking a overlook, the whole Datong City is taken a glance.

After visiting the Drum Tower, drive to Datong City Wall.The City Wall was built as a clay building by the Northern Wei state (386-534) during the Southern and Northern Dynasties(420-589).It is tall and majestic, solid and steep. The base was made from stone strips, slates and blue bricks.

After the tour, you will be transfered back to your hotel in Datong city.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

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

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.