Datong, one of the ancient capitals of China, is a gateway to the past, sitting amidst the rugged terrain of Shanxi Province. Known for its rich historical significance, the city is home to the awe-inspiring Yungang Grottoes, a testament to Buddhist artistry and devotion, and the Hanging Temple, an architectural marvel defying gravity as it clings to the cliffside. The imposing Nine-Dragon Wall stands as a colorful reminder of the city’s imperial past, while the Datong City Walls invite visitors to walk the perimeters of history. With its ancient monasteries, old-world charm, and proximity to the Great Wall’s less-traveled stretches, Datong offers a journey into the profound depths of China’s historical and spiritual legacy.
Quick facts
– Population: As of 2022, this ancient city is home to about 130,000 souls.
– Area: Covering a substantial 11,613 km², Datong’s landmass can be compared to nearly half of Switzerland.
– Languages spoken: The majority communicate in Mandarin, with a local influence from the Datong dialect, a form of Jin Chinese. Some older residents might still converse in this dialect.
Most important spots to visit & how long to stay
– Major historical sites and visits: Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, Nine-Dragon Wall, Datong City Walls, Huayan Temple, Wooden Pagoda, Shanhua Monastery.
– Recommended duration for exploration: A minimum of 1 days is essential to cover the basics..
Where to stay
For luxury travelers, there are no luxury international hotels in the city. The Yunzhong Traditional Courtyard, Holiday Inn, and a former Howard Johnson are the only hotels we recommend to our clients.
Unique and exclusive experiences
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Culinary Delights
– Datong Yogurt: A creamy, sour yogurt, often enjoyed chilled.
– Shaomai: Steamed dumplings with a thin skin and meaty filling.
– Yellow Cake: A sweet pastry made from yellow rice and filled with red bean paste.
– Fried Strip: Crispy deep-fried dough, often enjoyed as a snack.
– Noodle Soup with Mutton: Hearty noodle soup with tender pieces of mutton.
Local Tips & Recommendations
– Best modes of transport within the city: XXXX.
– Weather: Datong features a semi-arid climate. Summers are warm and short with temperatures between 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F). Winters are cold and long, with temperatures from -12°C to 1°C (10°F to 34°F). The city’s weather variations offer travelers the chance to experience its historical sites in different atmospheric conditions.
A few curiosities most people don’t know about the city
– The city is more than 2,300 years old and was the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty.
– Datong has a famous “hanging” temple, Xuankong Temple, which clings to a cliff face.
– Yungang Caves were primarily excavated under the patronage of one emperor, Emperor Wenzong.
– The city once served as a political and military center on the frontier between agricultural and pastoral areas.
– The Nine Dragon Screen in Datong is the oldest and largest glazed screen in China.
– The city is known as the “City of Coal” due to its abundant coal resources.
Final thoughts & conclusion
In the embrace of northern Shanxi, Datong is a testament to resilience, constantly reinventing itself through centuries. Home to the awe-inspiring Yungang Grottoes and the gravity-defying Hanging Temple, the city is a crucible of cultural and religious amalgamation. Datong, though deeply rooted in its Buddhist and imperial heritage, is a phoenix that has risen repeatedly, each time showcasing the indomitable spirit of its people and the richness of its history.
