2025 Datong Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

China not only has the most impressive historical spots and its natural sceneries are truly breathtaking. But I was attracted by the colourful Chinese lanterns that used to decorate every corner of Datong Ancient City, local residential areas and restaurants. Datong Gulou East Street has the most lanterns used to decorate shops and restaurants along the street. It looks beautiful at day time. At night the entire street looks more attractive and impressive. #travel #datong #lantern #china

Photo 1: Yungang Grottoes · Open-air Giant Buddha (Cave 20) The iconic landscape of the Yungang Grottoes, the seated statue of Shakyamuni is 13.7 meters tall, carved into the mountain with magnificent grandeur. The Buddha’s face is full and kind, the drapery flows naturally, blending Gandhara art with Central Plains aesthetics. After thousands of years of weathering, it remains vivid and lifelike, representing the pinnacle of Northern Wei stone carving art. Photo 2: Hanging Temple (The Top Scenic Spot of Hengshan’s Eighteen Views) Built on the cliffside of Cuiping Peak in Jinlong Gorge on the west side of Mount Heng in the Northern Yue, about 50 meters above the ground, it is famous for being “strange, hanging, and ingenious.” The entire temple is built against the cliff, with pillars suspended in midair and plank roads connecting the halls and pavilions in a staggered arrangement. It integrates Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, making it a marvel of ancient architectural engineering. Photo 3: Huayan Temple · Mahavira Hall The core building of the Liao Dynasty royal temple Huayan Temple, it is the largest existing Liao-Jin Buddhist hall in China. The hall is nine bays wide and five bays deep, with a gently sloping roof and large, rustic dougong brackets. Inside, the Five Direction Buddhas are enshrined, and the Liao Dynasty paintings and murals on the beams have faint colors after a thousand years, fully displaying the grandeur of Liao architecture. Photo 4: Datong Ancient City Wall · East City Gate The restored Datong Ancient City Wall is about 7.2 kilometers in circumference, with the East City Gate “Heyang Gate” being the most spectacular. The gate tower is majestic and upright, with blue bricks, black tiles, and vermilion pillars. The gate opening is wide and tall, and the horse path on the wall is smooth. Walking here offers a panoramic view of the ancient city and a deep sense of the historical significance of this frontier stronghold. Photo 5: Shanhuasi Temple · Three Saints Hall Shanhuasi Temple is the most complete surviving Liao-Jin period temple complex in China, with the Three Saints Hall as one of its main buildings. Inside the hall are the “Huayan Three Saints” statues, dignified in form and richly adorned. The beams and dougong brackets retain their original Liao-Jin style. Outside, ancient cypress trees stand strong, incense smoke lingers, fully expressing the quiet solemnity of the ancient temple. Photo 6: Datong Volcanic Cluster · Haotian Temple Volcano A rare Quaternary volcanic cluster in northern China, Haotian Temple Volcano is the most representative one. The volcanic cone is intact, composed of volcanic rock, with Haotian Temple built on the summit. The red walls and green trees contrast with the dark volcanic landscape. Climbing up offers a panoramic view of the continuous volcanic cluster, showcasing the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship. Photo 7: Nine-Dragon Wall (The Top of China’s Three Nine-Dragon Walls) Built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, it was the screen wall of the mansion of Zhu Gui, the thirteenth son of Ming Taizu Zhu Yuanzhang. The wall is 45.5 meters long and 8 meters high, made of glazed tiles pieced together. The surface is carved with nine dragons in various poses, their bodies winding, scales and claws flying, accompanied by waves, rocks, and clouds. The colors are brilliant and lifelike, a treasure of ancient Chinese glazed tile art. Photo 8: Fahua Temple · White Pagoda A landmark building in the eastern part of Datong’s old city, the White Pagoda is a stupa in the shape of an inverted bowl, 43 meters tall. The tower is pure white and upright, with gilded decorations on top shining brightly in the sunlight. The temple’s overall layout is rigorous, with halls complementing the pagoda. The temple also houses the largest indoor seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in Datong, with bustling incense offerings. Photo 9: Earth Forest (Datong Earth Forest National Geopark) Located in Duzhuang Township, Datong County, it is a unique landform formed by long-term water erosion and weathering of loess hills. The earth pillars, cliffs, and terraces vary in height and shape, some resembling ancient castles, others fierce beasts. In the morning or evening light, the Earth Forest displays rich colors of red, yellow, and brown, like a magical maze in the Gobi Desert. Photo 10: Datong Ancient City · Drum Tower West Street The liveliest old street in the ancient city, with bluestone roads flanked by Ming and Qing style courtyard houses and shops, full of antique charm. The street gathers Datong’s specialties such as knife-cut noodles, millet jelly, and shaomai, along with handicraft shops and teahouses scattered throughout. It is bustling during the day and brilliantly lit at night, fully showing the vibrant life of the ancient city.

Who hasn’t stayed in such a "Zen Aesthetic Sanctuary" yet!✨ The moment you step into the lobby, the city's noise is instantly shut out～🎋 The warm light from the bamboo woven chandeliers gently falls, intertwining with the original stone walls and swaying tree shadows to create a stunning wabi-sabi vibe🌿 Every corner quietly says: "Slow down, feel the true essence of life"💫 Brew a pot of tea here🍵 Sit quietly and daydream Even your breath carries a healing scent Ah～this design that engraves Eastern aesthetics into its DNA Really makes you want to stay forever!🙈 【Check-in Highlights】: • Stunning bamboo woven chandelier clusters - perfect for sunset photos • Natural stone feature wall - uniquely textured • Tatami by the floor-to-ceiling window - ideal for reading poetry and drinking tea 【Tranquil Sanctuary Tips】: √ Best for photos during morning light or sunset √ Solid colors or modern Chinese-style outfits look best in photos √ Fewer people and beautiful scenery during afternoon tea time

Datong Ancient City has always been a mysterious place in my heart. This time, I traveled with my child and chose the Wyndham Grand Datong Hotel, which turned out to be a hidden gem for families! 🏨 Family Experience Revealed This hotel really gets kids! We stayed in a family suite, with two theme options: yellow and purple, or white and blue. The design I loved the most was the slide right inside the room! Kids can slide directly onto the bed—so much fun~ The room also comes with kids’ exclusive toiletries and little slippers, full marks for attention to detail. 💯 Complete Facilities Guide 1. Smart Rooms for Ultimate Convenience • Voice control for smart devices in the room, even the toilet is smart • L’Occitane toiletries smell amazing, boosting happiness • The biggest surprise: the minibar is completely free! Enjoy your favorite drinks every day 2. Children’s Entertainment Paradise • Indoor heated pool where little ones can splash around freely • Kids’ play area with various toys and picture books • Looking at the kids’ eyes, they don’t want to go out at all 📍 Excellent Location • Only a 15-minute drive to Datong Ancient City • A 5-minute walk to popular restaurants • A 12-minute taxi ride to the museum We slept in naturally the next day, leisurely had breakfast, then headed out 🍳 Breakfast is a Little Surprise Must-try dishes: • Freshly pan-fried steak with fried eggs • Authentic lamb offal noodles • Local specialty shumai I recommend going before 9 AM to avoid crowds and get a window seat 🏷️ Thoughtful Tips: • You can request an extra bed for children in advance • The front desk provides kids’ toiletry kits • The executive lounge on the 18th floor offers amazing views • Free and convenient underground parking

Located about 16 kilometers west of Datong city, at the southern foot of Wuzhou Mountain and the northern bank of Wuzhou River, the Yungang Grottoes were built during the Northern Wei dynasty when Pingcheng was the capital. They are a brilliant gem among cultural landscapes and have impressively risen to seventh place on the list of 5A scenic spots dominated by natural landscapes. Here, you can find not only traditional Chinese artistic styles but also a fusion of ancient Indian, Western Regions, and Central Plains ethnic art characteristics. For example, Cave 20 features an open-air seated Shakyamuni statue standing 13.75 meters tall, with a half-round face, deep-set eyes, and a high nose, retaining typical facial features of Western ethnic minorities and Indians. The clothing lines reflect the concise style of early Northern Wei art, distinctly different from the style of the Longmen Grottoes' giant Buddha. The Yungang Grottoes scenic area is divided into the landscape area and the grotto group, which is split into eastern, central, and western sections according to the mountain terrain. Currently, about 40 caves are open to the public. Visitors can follow the traditional route starting from Cave 1 in the east and proceed westward in order. If you have two hours to visit, focus on Caves 5 and 6, the Wuhua Caves (Caves 9-13), and the Tanyao Five Caves (Caves 16-20). Come to the Yungang Grottoes to explore historical traces and experience the unique charm of multicultural integration!

Last year, the game "Black Myth: Wukong" made Shanxi popular, and this year I finally came during the National Day holiday. There are no direct flights from Dalian to Datong, so my route was Linfen - Pingyao - Datong - Taiyuan. 📍Day 1 (6th) Landed in Linfen the night before on the 5th, stayed near the Drum Tower. The next day, I hired a car to visit Hukou Waterfall + Xiaoxitian + Guangsheng Temple. Highly recommend my driver, a powerful female driver from Linfen. It was Hao’s husband who took us there. The car was spacious and comfortable, no smoke smell, smooth driving, very thoughtful and attentive! Took the high-speed train to Pingyao that evening. 📍Day 2 (7th) Early morning took the high-speed train to Lingshi East, 16 minutes, then taxi to Wang Family Courtyard. Joined a live guided tour, just a quick look around, saw brick carvings, stone carvings, and wood carvings. Shared a ride back to Pingyao and headed straight to Shuanglin Temple and Zhenguo Temple. Be sure to get a guide for both temples: Shuanglin Temple for the polychrome sculptures, Zhenguo Temple for the architecture. Strolled around Pingyao Ancient City in the evening. 📍Day 3 (8th) Took the high-speed train to Datong, stayed at the Orange Hotel outside the ancient city, highly recommended! Newly opened in 2024, rooms are super large! Clean and quiet! Arrived at noon, went to eat at Longjuxiang! In the afternoon visited Datong Museum (booked seven days in advance), and walked around Datong Ancient City at night. Xijin Dao is super delicious! 📍Day 4 (9th) Hired a car to first visit Hanging Temple, smoothly got the climbing ticket seven days in advance, then went nearby to see Yong’an Zen Temple, after that headed straight to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, and finally visited Jingtusi Temple. Had Shanxi copper hotpot at Yunjinhui in Datong Ancient City for dinner, so delicious! A full pot, very satisfying! Then went to stroll around Dongnanyi. Strongly recommend driver Mr. Niu! Enthusiastic and attentive, great driving skills, spacious and clean car! We took our time to explore at our own pace! 📍Day 5 (10th) Morning at Yungang Grottoes, afternoon at Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple. Also recommend guide Mr. Leng from Datong! We had a male guide, very knowledgeable, lively and interesting explanations, easy to understand! Had lunch at Liu Laolao Doumian, dinner at Zini 369! I’m still savoring Datong’s food: crispy sweet and sour pork tenderloin coated in sweet and sour sauce, yellow millet cold cake, shaomai, and the flavorful knife-cut noodles from Xijin Dao. Took the high-speed train to Taiyuan at night. 📍Day 6 (11th) Visited the Northern Qi Murals Museum in the morning (walk-in booking), a museum built on an ancient tomb, with free guided tours once in the morning and once in the afternoon on non-holidays. Listened to the guide first, then explored on my own. In the afternoon, went to Shanxi Provincial Museum (booked three days in advance), official guide costs 38 RMB per person, the explanation was excellent! Had dinner at Xinghualang, delicious! 📍Day 7 (12th) Early morning took a taxi to Jin Temple, be sure to hire a guide! Continuing to recommend guide Mr. Tian! Very knowledgeable, well-versed in history and culture! Jin Temple is beautiful, fun to explore, and great for photos! (Guides for Shuanglin Temple and Jin Temple are both selected by Xiaoyaoyou Wenbo) In the afternoon, headed straight to the Botanical Garden, only had time to visit the indoor pavilion, the popular big elevator is super photogenic! It’s just a 40-minute subway ride to Taiyuan Airport, trip ended! Sorry Shanxi, I came late! Shanxi can’t be fully explored in one trip, I will definitely come back!

👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 No matter how busy work gets, make time to explore the world with your loved ones~ 🔥 Shanxi is truly a paradise for architecture enthusiasts!⛩ From the Hanging Temple to the Wooden Pagoda of Yingxian, every site is like a living history book. Worried about the hassle of traveling with elders? Don’t fret! This guide has got you covered! 🌟 Why Choose Shanxi?‌ ✅ Architectural Marvels: Yungang Grottoes, Foguang Temple… even locations from the game "Black Myth: Wukong"! ✅ Culinary Delights: Knife-cut noodles, fried pork, oat noodles… the ultimate carb-lover’s haven! 🔥 Must-Visit Top Attractions‌ 1⃣ Xiaoxitian: A "Paradise of Gods and Buddhas," with sculptures so detailed you can see the eyelashes! 2⃣ Shuanglin Temple: Over 2,000 painted sculptures, a true treasure trove of Eastern art! 3⃣ Hanging Temple: A "sky pavilion" perched on a cliff—enter at your own risk if you’re afraid of heights! 4⃣ Yungang Grottoes: A grand Northern Wei imperial project, with the Great Buddha in Cave 20 smiling for over a thousand years. 💡 Helpful Tips‌ 👉 Attractions are spread out! Joining a tour can save you 3 hours of planning. 👉 Prepare comfortable shoes for elders, as many sites require walking. 👉 Temperatures vary greatly in October-November, so don’t forget to pack a warm coat.

. I love the courtyard design here, which exudes the artistic conception of Eastern aesthetics everywhere. At night, light the candles at the bar; their reflections on the glass resemble Buddha statues worshipped in grottoes 🙏 Opening the door and entering the room, the window frames the view, presenting different elegance with the changing seasons. The texture of the materials is warm and friendly, with the grain of wood and stone bringing safety and tranquility. The spatial scale is perfectly balanced, combining the "inner charm" and privacy of a Jinbei courtyard with the comfort and spiritual belonging expected in modern living. 1️⃣ Excellent location, just a left turn after entering the East City Gate. Descend the stairs on the south side near the not-yet-opened Yungang Art Museum, and you can quickly immerse yourself in the bustling night market at the southeast corner of the ancient city. 2️⃣ The opening service team is in great condition, enthusiastic and polite, from the front desk to the housekeeping staff, all genuinely wanting to do a good job. 3️⃣ A small but exquisite breakfast experience, especially the desserts, which are of very high quality, even surpassing those of typical five-star hotels. This advantage could easily support launching an afternoon tea service by the pastry chef. Every brick and tile here, every piece of decor, every corner— I love it all and want to take photos everywhere. Amid it all, there is a tranquility far from the city's hustle and bustle, and every detail is worth savoring. Truly a masterpiece crafted by a master.

National Day Shanxi 6-Day Tour: An Immersive Journey into Jin Culture 💥 Say no to rushed sightseeing! Truly understand Shanxi's 5,000 years of history! Recommended Attractions: Wang Family Courtyard 👉 What does the brick carving "Deer and Crane in Spring" symbolize? 👉 Photography tip: Capture the "Wang" character layout from the Red Gate Fort wall Hukou Waterfall Get close to the waterfall at Chonglong Cave; best time for photos is 3:00 PM when the light is optimal, capturing rainbows through the mist Xixian Xiaoxitian Explore the secret beams with thousands of suspended sculptures and listen to the guide explain the Ming Dynasty craftsmen's "honey gold leaf" technique Pingyao Ancient City Climb the city wall at dusk to enjoy the sunset, and stroll along Ming and Qing Streets at night to experience the night watch Mount Wutai Tour 👉 Visit the Dailuo Summit for a mini pilgrimage; take the cable car for a panoramic view of autumn colors 👉 Climb the 108 steps to the Bodhisattva Summit Stay overnight at Mount Wutai to enjoy the sunset and catch the sunrise the next morning Hanging Temple: 👉 Marvel at the architectural wonder; not recommended to climb during National Day due to long queues Yungang Grottoes 👉 Why does the Buddha in Cave 20 smile with teeth? Where did the musical instruments in Cave 12 come from? Yanmen Pass: 👉 Hike to the Bianjing Tower and hear the stories of the Yang Family Warriors 👉 Capture stunning "Great Wall + Autumn Scenery" photos

Datong, this ancient city, really amazed me! As the former capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty, it has a rich historical and cultural heritage, tons of attractions, and the weather in September is super comfortable—perfect for traveling! My three-day itinerary was packed, sharing it here for your reference～😉 🏯 Super detailed three-day tour route Day 1: Experience the grottoes and ancient temples • Morning: Head straight to the Yungang Grottoes. Carved during the Northern Wei, the Buddha statues are stunning. • Noon: Find a nearby restaurant in the scenic area to try Datong knife-cut noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth flavorful, very satisfying! 🍜 • Afternoon: Visit Huayan Temple. The Liao and Jin dynasty architecture and statues inside are very precious. • Evening: Climb the Datong Ancient City Wall. Ride a bike or stroll on the wall at dusk, watch the sunset light up the ancient city, the night view is also beautiful. Day 2: Thrilling architecture and mountain sightseeing • Morning: Go to the Hanging Temple. This thousand-year-old temple is embedded in a cliff, extremely steep, walking around up there feels very exciting (remember to go early to avoid crowds). • Noon: Try the local cold noodles in Hunyuan County, refreshing and cooling. • Afternoon: Climb Mount Hengshan (Northern Peak). As one of the Five Great Mountains, the scenery is beautiful, and you can experience Taoist culture on the hiking trail. • Evening: Return to Datong city center, stroll around the ancient city, and find a restaurant to enjoy the Old Datong assorted hot pot. Day 3: Deep ancient city exploration and museum tour • Morning: See the Nine-Dragon Wall. This is the screen wall in front of the Ming dynasty prince’s mansion, with exquisitely crafted glazed tiles, the nine dragons are vivid and lifelike. • Noon: Try Old Datong fried pork slices. The pork is tender inside and soft outside, paired with wood ear mushrooms and scallions, savory and delicious, very appetizing. • Afternoon: Visit Datong City Museum. The collection is very rich, with many exquisite cultural relics from the Northern Wei, Liao, and Jin periods. • Evening: Wander near the ancient city wall or watch the “Great Datong” city opening grand performance (tickets need to be purchased), to feel the charm of the ancient city at night. 🌟 Must-visit local spots • Yungang Grottoes: A treasure trove of Buddhist art, with very exquisite carvings. • Hanging Temple: A wooden structure miracle built on a cliff, very unique. • Huayan Temple: Liao and Jin dynasty temple complex, the Main Hall and Buddhist Scripture Hall are highlights. • Datong Ancient City Wall: Ming dynasty city wall, majestic and grand, great for cycling and night viewing. • Nine-Dragon Wall: Exquisite glazed screen wall, the dragon images are vivid and powerful. • Datong City Museum: Free admission, a window to deeply understand Datong’s history and culture (remember to book in advance). 🛌 Accommodation recommendations I stayed at two hotels this time, both were great experiences: • Datong Pingcheng Manxin Hotel: Good location, relatively new facilities, with smart room controls and screen casting TV, plus a little yellow duck themed family room, suitable for families with kids. • Jinjiang Inn (Datong Ancient City Wudingmen Branch): High cost-performance, close to the ancient city, warm service, clean, with free parking. 🚌 Transportation tips Public buses in Datong city are very convenient, fare is 1 yuan. Take bus No. 3 to Yungang Grottoes. For Hanging Temple and Mount Hengshan, it’s recommended to charter a car or join a day tour, as public transport is less convenient. Datong city is not very large, taxi fares between city attractions are also affordable. 🍜 Food recommendations (mouth-watering) 1. Knife-cut noodles: Chewy noodles with rich broth, a signature dish of Datong. 2. Old Datong assorted hot pot: Rich ingredients, delicious broth, eating around a copper pot is very atmospheric. 3. Old Datong fried pork slices: Savory and tasty, tender meat, a classic local dish. 4. Feng Pa Wo: Interesting name, whole chicken cooked until tender and fragrant, great for banquets. 5. Red-braised mutton: Mutton stewed until soft and flavorful, with rich soup, warming and satisfying. 😖 Tough part: Hanging Temple is crowded in peak season, narrow passages, slow movement once up there, and if you’re afraid of heights, it can be more stressful. 💰 Rough estimate of three-day expenses • Accommodation: Two nights at mid-range hotels, about 600 yuan. • Food: Sampling various delicacies over three days, about 400 yuan (ate very well!). • Transportation: City buses, taxis, and round-trip transport to attractions, about 300 yuan. • Tickets: Yungang Grottoes (120 yuan), Hanging Temple (entry fee 100 yuan), Huayan Temple (50 yuan), Hengshan (mountain entry fee possibly 45 yuan), total about 315 yuan (subject to official prices). Overall, Datong’s expenses are not very high, especially food, which is both good and affordable; ticket costs are the main expense. 💡 Friendly tips • September in Datong has a big temperature difference between morning and evening, remember to bring a jacket 🧥. • Students should bring their student ID, many attractions offer discounts. • It’s recommended to book museum visits in advance through official channels. • Datong has strong UV rays, pay attention to sun protection. • Respect cultural relics and follow attraction rules. This trip to Datong was really amazing! History and modernity intertwined, delicious food and beautiful scenery coexist, I sincerely recommend it to everyone～ Do you have any questions or better suggestions? Feel free to chat in the comments! 😘

Newly Opened Luxury Five-Star Hotel The hotel retains the original architectural layout while integrating Zen aesthetics, making every breath filled with cultural essence. ◆ Courtyard Pavilion: A world of its own, sitting here and daydreaming is a pure pleasure ◆ Hidden Urban Luxury: Large areas of blank space design instantly relax the mind ◆ Thoughtful Service: 24-hour butler on call, attentively catering to every need Must-Visit Spots Ink wash mural by the spiral staircase Ancient-style pavilion in the courtyard Rooftop terrace with views of the ancient city sunset

🇨🇳 Datong Ancient City｜Look up and see the gods and Buddhas! A divine ancient city that cures cervical spondylosis in 2 days 🛕 A must-visit! The ancient capital of the Northern Wei dynasty, bathed in a thousand years of Buddha’s light 🏯 A magical ancient city where "temple density is higher than convenience stores," with national treasure-level ancient buildings right above your head! 🚗 Transportation tips: 📍 Core area location: inside Datong Ancient City (enclosed by the city wall!) 🚌 Free shuttle buses in the ancient city: four routes connecting all attractions (operating until 10 PM!) 💡 Walking tip: Shared bikes + walking is the most reliable; the ancient city’s municipal works are amazing—stone slab roads are so smooth you can wear Hanfu without worry! ⚡️ Soul-stirring walking route: 1️⃣ Huayan Temple → Shanhua Temple → Chunyang Palace 👉🏻 Huayan Temple: Liao and Jin dynasty royal temple! The "Eastern Venus" Bodhisattva with hands clasped and teeth showing in the Buddhist scripture hall is stunning (remember to find the 30-degree upward shooting spot) 👉🏻 Shanhua Temple: Tang dynasty relic with the Mahavira Hall + the largest outdoor bronze Buddha statue group in the country (Buddha’s light shines through the hall at 4 PM!) 2️⃣ Ancient City Wall → Fahua Temple → Confucian Temple 👉🏻 South City Wall Yongtai Gate: Perfect for sunset! Drone views of the entire ancient city (recommended to shoot the golden glazed tile waves at 6 PM) 👉🏻 Fahua Temple White Pagoda: Yuan dynasty white pagoda + temple full of Lotus Sutra stone inscriptions (behind the pagoda in a small alley is "Er Nu Liangfen," so delicious it’s heavenly) 📸 Divine photo spots: ✅ Huayan Temple Mahavira Hall roof ridges: Use a 200mm telephoto lens to compress the imposing scale of this Tang dynasty masterpiece ✅ Shanhua Temple Three Saints Hall corner: Use 0.5x ultra-wide on your phone to capture the dougong brackets and flying eaves together 🍜 Taste of Buddha’s light: • Zini 369 Coarse Grain Season: Yellow millet jelly with sea buckthorn juice is killer • Longjuxiang Shaomai Restaurant: Juicy three-flavor shaomai that’s shockingly delicious • Shunyi Liangfen: Chili oil so fragrant it feels like your soul leaves your body ❗️ Pitfall prevention guide: 1. Don’t get scammed by rental cars! The 30 RMB/hour sightseeing cars can actually be reached by free shuttle buses 2. The underground palace of Huayan Temple is a modern reconstruction; focus on the Mahavira Hall instead 3. Ancient city restaurants mostly close from 2 PM to 5 PM, so eat off-peak!

Here’s the firsthand report on the Wyndham Grand Hotel kids' room! 👨‍👩‍👧 🛏️ Room Experience: - The children's themed room is absolutely stunning! No wonder the kids were screaming with joy💕 - The room is super spacious, much bigger than expected - Fully equipped with all kinds of kids’ facilities: little tents, dolls, cartoon bedding, everything included 🍽️ Dining Review: - The buffet breakfast has fewer options compared to other five-star hotels - But the taste is okay, and basically all the kid-friendly dishes are available - Each guest received a welcome fruit🍎 (I saw some reviews saying there wasn’t any, but I can confirm there was) 🚧 Notes: 1. The whole room is smart-enabled but has some small bugs: Xiaodu said the air conditioner was on when it actually wasn’t🤖 2. Our room didn’t have a night light, so it’s recommended to bring a small night lamp💡 3. Only a 10-minute drive to Fantawild Adventure! Super convenient for taking the kids out🚗 💁 Service Experience: The service was pretty standard, not especially warm But all basic needs were met, especially the front desk was smooth in helping us call a car and find a charger ✨ Overall Recommendation: Definitely worth staying for families with kids! Couples or young people might prefer the upscale homestays in the ancient city~

#chinatravel The Yungang Grottoes near Datong are one of China’s best-kept secrets. These massive Buddhist caves carved into sandstone cliffs feature over 50,000 statues ranging from a few inches to several stories high. I was completely in awe of the artistry—especially the gigantic Buddhas and intricate carvings that date back to the 5th century. The contrast between the peaceful statues and the stark cliffs is dramatic and moving. It's a bit off the typical tourist trail, but that only adds to the magic. Fewer crowds mean more time to connect with the history and silence of this incredible site. Don’t miss it.

#chinatravel 📍Yungang Grottoes, Datong, China A UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into cliffs over 1,500 years ago. More than 51,000 statues tell the story of Buddhist devotion, cultural exchange, and ancient craftsmanship. If you love history, sculpture, or just standing in awe—this is your place. 🌄 Best Time to Visit: Spring or Autumn 🧘♀️ Vibe: Peaceful | Spiritual | Majestic #chinatravel #travelchina #china #travel #malaysiatochina #myitinerary #familytravel #chinatrip #datong #北京 #beijing

🌄 Shanxi Datong 2-day walking tour! Experience the millennia-old frontier charm and a carb feast~ 📅 Day 1 Ancient City Exploration + Grotto Adventure 🌅 Morning: Datong Ancient City Walk ✳️ Datong Ancient City Wall (Free) The "Little Chang’an of the North" city wall is full of stories! 🏯 Ride a shared bike around the wall, feel the breeze through the wild grass growing in the Ming Dynasty brick cracks, the kid waves a small flag shouting, "Mom, is this the live set of ‘The Longest Day in Chang’an’?" 🏮 Must-do: Climb the corner tower for a panoramic shot, at dusk the wall looks like it’s coated in honey! 🌞 Noon: Knife-cut Noodles with Millet Jelly Cake ✳️ Dongfang Knife Noodles (25 RMB per person) Must order: Signature knife-cut noodles! 🍜 The noodle slices spin in the air like divers before landing in the pot, biting into them is so chewy it could bounce a ping pong ball! Hidden tip: Add a spoonful of aged vinegar, the sour aroma hits your crown chakra 🌶️ Hidden gem: Pack some millet jelly cake for afternoon tea, the red bean paste is sweeter than first love~ 🌇 Evening: Night Tour of Huayan Temple ✳️ Huayan Temple (50 RMB ticket) The Liao Dynasty Buddhist pagoda is breathtaking at night! 🌌 The "Smiling Bodhisattva with Hands Joined" statue in the Mahavira Hall seems to be smiling, the kid touches the murals and asks, "Mom, is this a fairy who time-traveled here?" 👸 Must-do: Touch the "Thousand-year-old Ginkgo" to make a wish, it’s said to help you get into Tsinghua University! 📅 Day 2 Hanging Wonder + Fresh Air at Mount Heng ☀️ Morning: Hanging Temple Thrill ✳️ Hanging Temple (100 RMB climbing fee) "The cliff-hanging aerial pavilion"! 🪂 Walking on the wooden plank walkway makes your legs shake, below is a bottomless abyss, the kid curls up and shouts, "Mom, is this the set of ‘The Lost Tomb’?" 🏞️ Must-do: Find the temple’s "Three Hanging Wonders" — Hanging Pillar, Hanging Stele, Hanging Monk! 🍱 Noon: Hunyuan Cold Noodles with Rabbit Head ✳️ Little Wife Cold Noodles (15 RMB per person) Must order: Intangible cultural heritage Hunyuan cold noodles! 🍲 Red chili oil poured over translucent noodles, sprinkled with fried lotus beans, sour, spicy, and crispy enough to shake your pupils 🌶️ Hidden tip: Pair with braised rabbit head, spicy, numbing, and fresh, one bite and you’re hooked! 🌆 Evening: Mount Heng Sunset Zen ✳️ Mount Heng (45 RMB ticket) The northern peak of the Five Great Mountains is stunningly beautiful at dusk! 🌄 The cable car stops running after 6 pm, but the sense of achievement from hiking to the top is overwhelming! The kid chases the temple’s flying eaves shouting, "Mom, is this the alchemy furnace from a cultivation novel?" 🧪 Must-do: Touch the "Bittersweet Well" to pray, legend says one sip brings sweetness all year! 🏨 Accommodation Recommendation 👉 Hilton Hampton by Hilton Datong ✔️ Features: Smart room controls + 24-hour hot spring ✔️ Reason: The terrace offers a view of the ancient city at night, the kid says "Bathing feels like soaking in a river of milk" 🛁 Robot food delivery is super cool, and you can control the lights by voice! 🚌 Transportation Tips ✅ High-speed train + taxi: Beijing North Station → Datong South Station in 2 hours, taxis between attractions cost 30-50 RMB, very convenient 💢 Hard part: Climbing Mount Heng’s steps makes you question life, going down feels like dancing mechanical ballet 🩰 💡 Tips ❗️ Book a guided tour for Yungang Grottoes in advance! Otherwise, it’s just a quick glance at stone pillars ❗️ Wear sports shoes! The exercise from the ancient city and mountain trails is like a gym workout ❗️ Bring cash! Some snack stalls only accept cash, don’t cry if your phone has no signal 🍜 Must-eat Food List 1️⃣ Knife-cut noodles: noodles spin into the pot, biting into them is like unwrapping a gift 🎁 2️⃣ Hunyuan cold noodles: sour, spicy, and crispy, spicy enough to make your soul leave your body 🌶️ 3️⃣ Millet jelly cake: red bean paste soft as clouds, sweeter than first love 💘 4️⃣ Rabbit head: spicy and flavorful, can’t stop gnawing 🐰 5️⃣ Lamb offal noodles: fresh and tasty soup, you’ll want to lick the bowl clean 🥣 6️⃣ Sea buckthorn juice: sweet and sour burst of juice, a perfect palate cleanser 🍹 💰 Expense Summary Accommodation: 600 RMB (1 night) Food: 700 RMB (350 RMB per day) Transportation: 300 RMB (high-speed train + taxi) Tickets: Yungang 120 + Hanging Temple 100 + Mount Heng 45 = 265 RMB Others: 125 RMB (Hanfu rental + jelly cake souvenirs) Total: about 1990 RMB (over budget but worth the time-travel experience!) Datong is just that cool! In 2 days you become a "little history expert + food champion," the bricks in the ancient city wall hide millennia of stories, and the Hanging Temple’s thrill cures all fear of heights! Hurry and bring your kid to be a "frontier little heroine"! 🏮 Remember to bring extra power banks, taking photos uses more power than work~ PS: Huayan Temple offers ancient-style stamps, the kid’s journal feels so accomplished 📔 Hanging Temple lets you pick up red blessing ribbons, hang them on your backpack as lucky charms! 🧧 Book your room now, you might even catch the ancient city night tour with iron flower fireworks! 🔥✨ The wind in Datong can recite Buddhist scriptures 📜 The snow on Mount Heng can compose poems 🎶 Here you can fulfill all your martial arts and immortal fantasies! The kid shouts at Hanging Temple, "Mom, I want to become a little Taoist and live here!" 👨🦲 Are you tempted? Pack your bags and set off now~ 🚀

Embark on a millennium-old journey through this ancient city! Datong, where history meets modernity, will transport you straight to the Northern Wei Dynasty era ⏳ 🚩2-Day Essential Itinerary: DAY1: 📍Hanging Temple (at the foot of Mount Heng, southeast of Hunyuan County) Finally saw this "hanging in mid-air" marvel with my own eyes! Arrive early to avoid crowds. Climbing up lets you experience ancient wisdom from 1500 years ago (not for those with acrophobia) 📍Mount Heng (15-minute drive from Hanging Temple) One of China's Five Great Mountains. The cable car makes ascending easy, and the summit offers spectacular views of the winding Ming Great Wall ruins in the distance 🍜Lunch recommendation: Hunyuan Little Wife Liangfen (Yong'an West Street, Hunyuan County) - local specialty cold noodles with smoked eggs are amazing DAY2: 📍Yungang Grottoes (16km west of Datong) Breathtaking! Definitely get a guide or you'll miss too many details. Cave 20's giant Buddha is a must-see - best visited in morning light 📍Huayan Temple (within Datong Ancient City) A royal temple from Liao-Jin period. The main hall's owl-tail ornaments are unique, and the underground palace's Thousand-Buddha bronze statue is stunning 📍Datong Ancient City Wall (enter at Yongtai Gate on south wall) Sunset views from the wall are incredibly romantic. Renting a bike for a ride is delightful 🍖Must-try foods: ✔Fenglinnge Hundred-Flower Shaomai (in ancient city) ✔Dongfang Knife-Cut Noodles (multiple branches) ✔Old Datong Hot Pot (old store on Gulou East Street) 💡Practical tips: 1. Bring a jacket for significant day-night temperature differences 2. Reserve Yungang Grottoes audio guide in advance 3. Walking is best in ancient city - taxis take longer routes 4. Hanging Temple has visitor limits - arrive before 7am in peak season History & Culture

3-Day Datong Itinerary | Exploring the Ancient Capital, a Journey Through Millennia Day 1: Yungang Grottoes + Huayan Temple Morning: Arrive in Datong and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site [Yungang Grottoes] (120 CNY), admiring the Buddhist art treasures of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Focus on exploring Cave 5, Cave 6, and the Tanyao Five Caves. Afternoon: Return to the city center and explore [Huayan Temple] (50 CNY), experiencing the architectural beauty of the Liao and Jin dynasties. Climb the Huayan Pagoda for a panoramic view of the ancient city. Food recommendations: Try Datong's signature knife-cut noodles for lunch (recommended: Dongfang Knife-Cut Noodles), and sample Fenglingge's steamed dumplings for dinner. Day 2: Hanging Temple + Mount Heng Morning: Drive 1.5 hours to the [Hanging Temple] (125 CNY entrance fee, 100 CNY climbing fee) to experience the breathtaking "temple in the air." Afternoon: Hike or take the cable car up [Mount Heng] (45 CNY), one of China's Five Great Mountains, and visit its temple complex and Guolao Ridge. Tips: The Hanging Temple has visitor limits, so arrive early. Wear comfortable shoes for Mount Heng. Day 3: Datong Ancient City Wall + Shanhua Temple Morning: Stroll along the [Datong Ancient City Wall] (free), cycling or walking around for a full city view. Afternoon: Visit the exquisite but lesser-known [Shanhua Temple] (free) before ending your trip with a photo stop at the Nine-Dragon Wall (free). Transport: Taxis or buses can take you to city attractions. Before departure, buy Hunyuan cold noodles as souvenirs. Accommodation: Stay at hotels within the ancient city for convenience. For luxury options, consider Yungang Hotel. Best season: May-October, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Datong: A Millennium of Splendor from the Northern Wei Ancient Capital Harmonized with Industrial Civilization Keywords: Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, Northern Wei Culture, Frontier Customs, Coal Capital Transformation, Noodle Paradise 1. Why Choose Datong? A "Living Fossil" of History and Culture: - Northern Wei Capital: In 398 AD, the Tuoba Xianbei tribe established Pingcheng (modern-day Datong) as their capital, marking China's first major ethnic integration and leaving behind world-class heritage sites like the Yungang Grottoes and Huayan Temple. - Strategic Frontier: Known as the "Northern Key" since ancient times, it witnessed historical events like King Wuling of Zhao's adoption of nomadic attire and archery, Emperor Gaozu of Han's siege at Baideng, and the Yang Family Generals' border defense. - Religious Sanctuary: A melting pot of Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity, with over 200 temples and shrines, earning it the title "Eastern Buddhist Capital." Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture: - Hengshan Foothills: Part of the Five Sacred Mountains, Hengshan boasts geological wonders like the Hanging Temple and Earth Forest. - Sanggan River: A tributary of the Hai River, nurturing vast wetlands and farmlands, creating a unique "half-city, half-countryside" landscape. Industrial and Artistic Fusion: - "Coal Capital" Transformation: From a coal-heavy city to a new energy hub, Datong leads a green revolution with solar panels and wind farms. - Contemporary Art Rise: Venues like the China Sculpture Museum and Datong Art Museum infuse modernity into this ancient city. 2. Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Yungang Grottoes: The Millennium Smile of Northern Wei Royalty** Highlights: - UNESCO World Heritage: 53 major caves with 51,000+ statues, ranging from a 17-meter-tall Buddha to 2-centimeter miniatures, dubbed the "Eastern Sculpture Museum." - East-Meets-West Art: Early Gandharan style blends with Han culture, mid-period "loose robes and wide sashes" reflect ethnic fusion, and late-period folk carvings exude vitality. - Tanyao Five Caves: Symbolizing five Northern Wei emperors as Buddhas, merging religion and politics. Experiences: - Expert-guided tours (≈¥100/session) for deep historical insights. - Summer night tours with dramatic lighting. - Cultural souvenirs like "Yungang Smile" fridge magnets and statue rubbings. 2. **Hanging Temple: A Cliffside "Floating Pavilion"** Highlights: - Architectural Marvel: Built into Hengshan's Jinlong Gorge cliffs, supported by 27 wooden beams, appearing to hover mid-air. - Tri-Religion Harmony: Honors Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, showcasing Northern Wei inclusivity. - Engineering Feat: No nails used—just mortise-tenon joints and lever principles, surviving 1,500 years of earthquakes and storms. Experiences: - Climb (wear grippy shoes!) the narrow walkways for a thrilling "cloud-walking" feel. - Drone shots capturing the temple framed by Hengshan and Cuiping Mountain. - Hike Hengshan (≈2 hours to Tianfeng Peak, 2,016m). 3. **Huayan Temple: Pinnacle of Liao-Jin Architecture** Highlights: - Bhagavat Sutra Hall: Liao-era structure with 29 painted statues, including the famed "Smiling, Barefoot Bodhisattva." - Celestial Pavilion Ceiling: A wooden miniature based on *Yingzao Fashi*, China's oldest "heavenly palace" model. - Huayan Pagoda: Bronze pagoda with a relic-filled underground chamber and panoramic city views. Experiences: - Golden-hour photography of red walls and gilded tiles. - Sutra-copying in the tea house for Zen immersion. - Nighttime folk performances (Jin opera, yangge) at the temple square. 4. **Datong Ancient City: A Ming Dynasty Time Capsule** Highlights: - Ming Walls: 7.2km-long, 14m-high restored ramparts (2008) with four gates, ideal for cycling. - "Four Streets, Eight Alleys": A grid of Ming-Qing landmarks like Drum Tower and Chunyang Palace. - Nine-Dragon Screen: China's largest, oldest glazed dragon wall (45.5m long, 8m high). Experiences: - Bike atop the walls for old-new city contrasts. - Friday/Saturday light shows with music fountains. - Workshops on Datong knotting, Guangling paper-cutting, or Hunyuan cold jelly-making. 3. Unmissable Experiences 1. **Northern Wei Cultural Deep Dive** Itinerary: - Yungang Grottoes → Northern Wei Mingtang Ruins Park (holograms revive imperial rituals) → Datong Museum (Xianbei artifacts) → Sima Jinlong Tomb exhibits (lacquer screens revealing elite Hu-Han fusion). 2. **Frontier Adventures: Great Wall & Forts** Sites: - Desheng Fort: Ming-era gateway with "gate-opening" reenactments. - Shoukou Fort: Great Wall meets Sanggan River—spring apricot blossoms or autumn vineyards. - Li’erkou Great Wall: The "First Bend" due to terrain shifts. Activities: - Hanfu-clad photoshoots as border soldiers or traders. - 5km hike along Ming brickwork. 3. **Noodle Paradise Food Crawl** Must-Eats: - Datong Knife-Cut Noodles: Hand-shaved, chewy strips with pork/ lamb broth, eggs, tofu. - Hunyuan Cold Jelly: Slippery potato starch noodles with spicy toppings. - Guangling Millet Porridge: Thick, fragrant yellow gruel. - Huanggao (Sticky Rice Cake): Steamed millet cake with savory or sweet fillings. - Minbagu: Corn-flour noodles pressed into boiling water, served with lamb sauce. Food Streets: - Fenglin Ge: Century-old "Hundred-Flower Shaomai" (dumplings). - Lao Chai Knife-Cut Noodles: Local favorite (¥10/bowl). - Drum Tower East Street: "Kaige Restaurant" for Datong specialties. 4. Practical Tips Best Time: - Year-round: Spring apricots, summer escapes, autumn Great Wall, winter noodles. - Culture buffs: May-June (Yungang Festival) or Sept-Oct (Ancient Lantern Festival). Transport: - Flights: Datong Yunqiang Airport to Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou. - Trains: Datong South Station (2hrs to Beijing by HSR). - Buses/Taxis: Cheap and efficient within the city. Hotels: - Luxury: Datong Yunqiang Jianguo Hotel (near Huayan Temple, ¥600-1,200/night). - Mid-range: Datong Weidu Int’l Hotel (near Drum Tower, ¥300-600). - Budget: Datong Int’l Youth Hostel (≈¥50-100/bed). Etiquette: - Dry climate: Pack moisturizer and layers. - Temple rules: No touching statues, quiet voices, remove hats indoors. - Eco-rules: No littering at heritage sites (fines apply). - Bargaining: 20% discounts common in markets. Epilogue Datong’s beauty lies in Yungang’s eternal smiles, the Hanging Temple’s gravity-defying drama, Huayan’s divine sculptures, and the steam rising from knife-cut noodles. Here, Northern Wei grandeur meets frontier resilience, coal-dusted history shakes hands with green energy, offering every traveler—history nerds, architecture geeks, foodies, or adventurers—a multidimensional chapter of China’s story. *Tips: Visit Yungang at dawn/dusk to avoid crowds; Hanging Temple’s walkways may unsettle acrophobes!*

​​🌄Datong June Travel Guide｜2 Days to Eat Through the Northern Wei Ancient Capital! Grottoes + Hanging Temple + Carb Bomb Adventure Record​​ Datong, the "hardcore ancient capital" in northern Shanxi🏯, nestled between Inner Mongolia and Hebei, just 3 hours by high-speed train from Beijing! In June, it’s 20℃+ with cool breezes, the blue sky looks freshly washed, and the streets are filled with the wheat aroma of knife-cut noodles～By day, watch the grotto Buddha statues smile for a thousand years, by night, hang out on the ancient city wall gnawing on rabbit heads, instantly transported to the set of "The Longest Day in Chang’an"! ​​🚶‍♀️【Two-Day Walking Route】​​ ​​Day 1: Grottoes + Ancient City Walking Day​​ 🌅​​Morning​​: Head straight to the Yungang Grottoes🪷 (ticket 100 RMB), opens at 9:00, rush to Cave 20’s outdoor giant Buddha, sunlight on the Buddha’s face looks like it’s gilded! Join a guided tour to hear Northern Wei royal gossip, the painted flying apsaras in Cave 5 are breathtakingly beautiful. 🌞​​Noon​​: Dash to Xijin Dao Noodle House🍜, knife-cut noodles thick in the middle and thin on the edges, every strand soaked in braised meat sauce, paired with garlic cloves for a heavenly bite! On the way, visit Huayan Temple (40 RMB), the smiling Bodhisattva with hands clasped is sweeter than first love, the view from the pagoda top overlooking the city is stunning. 🌙​​Evening​​: Datong Ancient City Wall🏮 (free!), rent a bike to chase the sunset, hit the South Gate night market for skewers with sea buckthorn juice, sour and refreshing to cut the grease! For late-night snacks, go to Shuaifu Street Rabbit Head, spicy rabbit brain makes your lips numb, you’ll want to chew the bones too. ​​Day 2: Hengshan + Hanging Temple Screaming Day​​ 🌅​​Morning​​: Charter a car to the Hanging Temple🏔️ (entry ticket 150 RMB), opens at 7:30, be the first batch! Walking on the creaky wooden plank paths, the cliff wind blows your skirt wildly, shaky hands taking photos look like movie scenes. 🌞​​Noon​​: Hunyuan County’s Little Wife Cold Noodles🥢, slippery noodles slurp down the throat, chili oil so fragrant it makes you sneeze! On the way, buy Hunyuan crispy soybeans, sweet and crunchy like old-fashioned popcorn～ 🌙​​Evening​​: Back in the city for Fenglingge Shaomai🥟, the thin-skinned shaomai is translucent, crab roe filling so fresh it makes your head spin! Stroll to East Drum Tower Street, when the lanterns light up it feels like traveling back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. ​​🌟【Must-Visit Checklist】​​ 1️⃣ Yungang Grottoes: 100 RMB worth every penny! Caves 5-6 have exquisitely preserved paintings, remember to toss a coin into the lotus pond to make a wish✨. 2️⃣ Hanging Temple: 150 RMB heart-pounding experience! Limited entry, be sure to arrive early, not for the faint-hearted (but hey, you’re here now!). 3️⃣ Huayan Temple: 40 RMB to see Liao dynasty statues, the mortise and tenon structure of the heavenly palace in the Buddhist hall will make any carpenter bow in admiration. 4️⃣ Datong Ancient City Wall: Free! Recommended to go after 7 PM, the night lights outline the complete walled city, perfect for photos📸. 5️⃣ East Drum Tower Street: Free! Night snack street, yellow rice jelly drizzled with osmanthus honey, sweet and glutinous enough to make your mouth smile wildly. ​​🏨【Stay in Northern Wei Style】​​ 👉 Datong Hualu Hotel: Prime spot in the ancient city! Tatami rooms with antique-style lamps, 5 minutes walk to Huayan Temple, a delight for night owls. 👉 Pipa Old Inn: Same style as Wang Zhaojun’s ancient house! Carved bed + bronze mirror, wear Hanfu for photos and instantly become a refined lady. ​​🚌【Transportation Tips】​​ Bus 603 goes directly to Yungang Grottoes🚍, shared bikes inside the ancient city; for Hanging Temple, carpool recommended (about 60 RMB per person round trip). 😊​​Perks​​: Attractions are concentrated, taxi starting fare only 10 RMB, super cheap! 😫​​Downsides​​: The mountain road to Hanging Temple has many twists and turns, bring a plastic bag if you get car sick… ​​💡【Hard-Earned Tips】​​ ✅​​Come!​​ June is less crowded and cool, grottoes + Hengshan guarantee winning your friends’ photography contests🏆～ ❌​​Don’t come!​​ If you hate noodles or fear the sun, beware of the double carb attack from knife-cut noodles + scorching sun🍜☀️! ​​🍖【5 Tongue-Blasting Foods】​​ 1️⃣ Knife-cut noodles: Xijin Dao’s braised meat topping is so thick it sticks to your lips, noodles so springy you could play ping pong with them🏓! 2️⃣ Hunyuan cold noodles: Little Wife’s chili oil is soul-stirring, noodles so slippery chopsticks can’t hold them😱! 3️⃣ Baijia Shaomai: Fenglingge’s crab roe filling is like liquid gold, biting into it instantly freshens your mind💥! 4️⃣ Rabbit head: Shuaifu Street’s spicy rabbit brain, slurping the marrow is like opening a blind box, the more you chew the more addictive👻! 5️⃣ Yellow rice jelly: Zini 369’s jelly drenched in osmanthus honey, cold and sticky like chewing clouds☁️～ ​​💰【Two-Day Expense Record】​​ Day 1: Yungang Grottoes 100 RMB + knife-cut noodles 25 RMB + bike rental 30 RMB + rabbit head 40 RMB ≈ 195 RMB Day 2: Hanging Temple 150 RMB + cold noodles 15 RMB + shaomai 60 RMB + carpool 60 RMB ≈ 285 RMB Feeling: Tickets are the biggest expense but unforgettable! The leg weakness from Hanging Temple and the fresh sweetness of shaomai, spent money on Northern Wei exclusive happiness🎑～ Datong in June is the gentle gaze of the grotto Buddha statues🪔, the thrilling creak of the Hanging Temple’s wooden pillars🪚, the stubborn last drop of braised sauce at the bottom of the knife-cut noodle bowl… Two days is never enough! Like this post, next time let’s watch the Hengshan sunrise together🌅!

This trip to Shanxi Datong was nothing short of a soul-stirring cultural feast—truly worth every moment! **Stepping into** the Yungang Grottoes, I was instantly captivated by the grandeur and exquisite carvings that have stood the test of 1,500 years. The solemnity of the Buddha statues and the profound sense of history were overwhelming. Climbing up to the **Hanging Temple of Mount Heng**, I marveled at the ancient ingenuity and audacity that brought to life the saying, "A perilous tower a hundred feet high, where stars can be plucked by hand." The wooden structure, miraculously embedded into the cliffside, felt both thrilling and awe-inspiring as I walked through it. Finally, at **Huayan Temple**, I was immersed in the majestic atmosphere of this Liao and Jin dynasty royal temple. The sheer scale of the Mahavira Hall and the unparalleled beauty of the "Eastern Venus" statue in the Pavilion of Buddhist Scriptures left me breathless. These three world-class treasures, each with its unique style and profound heritage, perfectly illustrate the diversity and brilliance of Chinese civilization. Datong offered not just stunning sights but also an indelible imprint of millennia-old culture on my heart.

Shanxi is a paradise for architecture enthusiasts. There's a saying, "Look underground in Shaanxi, look above ground in Shanxi," and it truly holds up 👍. Today, we visited the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, one of the world's three extraordinary towers. The other two? The Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Eiffel Tower 🗼—isn't that impressive? Recently, it gained renewed fame thanks to Black Myth: Wukong. So, what makes it so remarkable? The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda was constructed during the Liao Dynasty, and the entire structure was built without using a single nail, relying solely on mortise-and-tenon joints—an incredible feat 👍. However, due to its age, the pagoda has started to tilt slightly, and visitors can no longer access floors above the second level, which is a pity. Still, it's absolutely worth a visit. It's genuinely fascinating ❤️.

Hanging Temple Travel Guide: ✅I. Basic Information - Address: West side of Cuiping Peak cliff in Jinlong Gorge, Hengshan Mountain, Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province - Opening Hours: - Peak season (April-October): 8:00-18:00 - Off-season (November-March): 8:30-17:30 - Admission: - Peak season: 125 yuan (including climbing fee) - Off-season: 117 yuan (including climbing fee) - Park entry without temple access: about 15 yuan (for distant viewing) - Recommended visit time: 2-3 hours ✅II. Transportation 1. From Datong: - Self-driving🚘: Navigate to "Hanging Temple," about 1.5 hours (80 km). - Bus: Take "Datong-Hunyuan" bus from Datong Bus Station (about 25 yuan/person), then take a taxi or shuttle bus (10 yuan/person) from Hunyuan. - Charter/shared car: About 200-300 yuan round trip (can be combined with Hengshan Mountain visit). 2. From Taiyuan: - High-speed train🚄 to Datong South Station (about 2 hours), then transfer to bus or charter car. ✅III. Highlights 1. Suspended Wonder: 40 halls connected by wooden walkways, supported only by beams inserted into the cliff face, appearing like "buildings in the air" from a distance. 2. Three Religions in One: The temple houses statues of Sakyamuni (Buddhism), Laozi (Taoism), and Confucius (Confucianism), a rare cultural fusion. 3. Must-see spots: - Three Religions Hall: Core building, embodying harmony among the three religions. - Leyin Hall: Buddhist hall preserving Tang Dynasty style murals. - Walkways: Experience the thrill of walking along cliff paths (queuing required during visitor control periods). ✅IV. Important Notes 1. Visitor limits: Daily climbing numbers are restricted (about 200-300 people/hour), during peak season it's recommended to **arrive before 7:30am** or make reservations in advance. 2. Safety tips: - Walkways are narrow, wear non-slip shoes, those with fear of heights should be cautious. - Large backpacks prohibited, storage facilities available at the scenic area. 3. Weather impact: May close temporarily during rainy days, check scenic area announcements before departure. 4. Photography tips: Best shooting spot is at the plaza near the entrance, best lighting in early morning or evening.📷 ✅V. Nearby Attractions 1. Hengshan Mountain: About 3 km from Hanging Temple, one of China's Five Sacred Mountains, accessible by cable car or hiking (admission 45 yuan). 2. Datong Ancient City: On your return trip, you can visit Yungang Grottoes, Huayan Temple, and Datong City Wall (1.5 hours drive from Hanging Temple). ✅VI. Accommodation Recommendations - Hunyuan County: Many budget hotels (such as Hengshan International Hotel), convenient for visiting Hengshan Mountain the next day. - Datong City: More options, recommended to stay near the Ancient City (such as Datong Yungang Meigao Hotel).🏠 ✅VII. Food Recommendations - Hunyuan Liangfen: Local specialty, served with chili oil and broad beans, refreshing in hot weather. - Datong Knife-cut Noodles: Recommended at "Dongfang Knife-cut Noodles" or "Laochai Knife-cut Noodles." - Hengshan Astragalus: Available for purchase as a specialty product (energy-boosting herb). ✅VIII. Travel Tips - Best season: May-October (winter is cold but snow scenes are unique). - Avoid crowds: Extremely crowded during holidays, try to visit on weekdays. - Cultural interpretation: Guide services available at the scenic area (about 100 yuan/time), or use audio guide apps. ✅The precarious position of Hanging Temple and the wisdom of ancient people are truly awe-inspiring. Planning ahead will greatly enhance your experience! ☀️

If you're traveling to Datong, I highly recommend the Jingshan Wenyuan Courtyard (Datong Ancient City Huayan Temple Branch)! This stay was so impressive that I have to share it with everyone ✨ 📍 Excellent location: The B&B is located in No. 2 Panyuan Courtyard, Qingyuan Street, Pingcheng District, Datong, right in the ancient city. The location is absolutely perfect! It's super close to Huayan Temple, just a few minutes' walk away. Attractions such as the Nine-Dragon Wall, Drum Tower, and Bell Tower are also nearby, so you can stroll around and see them all. It's super convenient 🚶‍♀️ Plus, there are tons of delicious foods nearby, with all kinds of Datong specialties, making this foodie feel completely happy~ 🏡 Chinese luxury style: As soon as you enter the B&B, it's like traveling back to an ancient palace. The entire B&B was built by a first-class design team over three years, with gold bricks paving the ground, just like the Forbidden City, giving it a luxurious feel. The furniture is made of precious wood such as high-grade rosewood and padauk, and the carvings are purely handmade in the southern style, with delicate textures and exquisite craftsmanship. Every detail shows Chinese luxury 🎋 The B&B has three courtyards: Yaxiang Courtyard, Yaju Courtyard, and Yajing Garden. The courtyards are connected to each other but are also independent, so you can enjoy the liveliness of the courtyard while also having your own private space. 🛏 Comfortable rooms: There are many types of rooms, including king rooms and suites, as well as family rooms, so families with children don't have to worry at all. The room I stayed in had a smart Xiaodu, so I could just shout to turn on/off the lights, adjust the air conditioner temperature, etc. It was super smart. The bed was very soft and comfortable to sleep on. The room also had a huge screen for screen mirroring. After a tiring day, I could go back to the room, lie in bed, and watch a movie. It was so pleasant~ The bathroom had a wet and dry separation design, and the toiletries were of good quality, with attention to every detail💯 💁‍♀️ Thoughtful service: The service here is impeccable! The front desk staff was very enthusiastic, check-in was quick, and they carefully introduced the fun places and delicious restaurants nearby. They even gave me a small gift when I checked in 🎁 I was really touched. The B&B also provides breakfast. Although it's a fixed menu, it's varied and tastes good, with both Chinese and Western options to satisfy different tastes. 💕 This B&B really fulfills all my fantasies about staying in Datong Ancient City, with a good environment, great location, and thoughtful service. If you're traveling to Datong, be sure to experience it!

The Yungang Grottoes are so famous that I don’t need to introduce them to you. I am happy that after this visit, I have completed the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, Luoyang Longmen Grottoes, and Datong Yungang Grottoes. The final puzzle of China's three major grottoes - Yungang Grottoes There are a total of 45 large and small caves in Yungang, which were built during the Northern Wei Dynasty, 500 years later than Mogao Grottoes but earlier than Longmen Grottoes. Currently, Caves 1 to 20 are open to the public, and the most famous Caves 5 and 6 are selected for opening each year. The tour guide said we were lucky, the sixth cave opened this year is more beautiful than the fifth cave 👍 However, the most famous one now is the internet-famous Grotto 19, where you can take a high-five with the Bodhisattva, or ask Him some funny questions to make a kuso picture. There are also 20 caves with Bodhisattvas’ side faces, which are super beautiful when the light and shadow are right. Highly recommended! #Where to go for May Day #Where to go for May Day #Shanxi Tourism #Black Myth Wukong Filming Location #Grotto Tour #Yungang Grottoes

The Hanging Temple has always been on the travel list and was also the filming location for last year’s hit Black Myth: Wukong. The small temple built on the mountain wall has been here for 1,500 years. There is a daily limit on the number of visitors. In addition to the scenic spot ticket, you need to buy a 100 yuan boarding ticket if you want to climb to the top. You also need to reserve more than an hour of queuing time. Only when I stepped onto the slightly flimsy wooden stairs did I realize that I was a little afraid of heights. As I walked along the route, I truly admired the architectural wisdom of the ancients. It turns out that the slender wooden poles under the building are just for decoration and to relieve psychological fear. The only thing that supports the stability of the entire building is a few wooden foundations embedded in the mountain wall. Another thing worth seeing is Li Bai's calligraphy "湛" (Gorgeous). There are several explanations for the extra dot in the word "壮". One is that Li Bai accidentally added it when he was drunk, and the other is that it was too spectacular to describe, so he simply added a dot to indicate that it was more spectacular than 湛. Haha #ShanxiTourism #Where to go for May Day #Where to go for May Day #Black Myth Wukong Filming Location #Hanging Temple

As the name suggests, Mount Wutai means that there are five terraces in the mountain group. If you turn your palm upwards, it is like five fingers. The one on the palm is called "Taihuai Town". There are many temples along the Pusa Ding scenic area in the town, which is suitable for slow walking and slow shooting ❤️ One of the more interesting ones is the "Wuye Temple", located at the end of the downhill road. Wuye, who is said to answer all wishes, is the fifth son of the Dragon King. Every day from 6:00 to noon, there are a lot of devout believers. It is more prosperous than the "Great Manjusri Hall". Many of them come the day before and leave before noon. What they are thinking about is nothing more than seeking wealth, career, health, offspring, etc.☝️ According to the tour guide, you don’t need to fulfill general wishes, but you do need to fulfill specific wishes, such as “get admitted to Tsinghua University or Peking University” or “give birth to a son this year”. Haha #May1stHoliday #BuddhistRelics #Where to Go for May1st #Mount Wutai #BlackMythWukongFilmingLocation

Shanxi is a province with many historical relics. In addition to the famous Yungang Grottoes, there are many amazing ancient buildings and the few remaining Tang Dynasty wooden structures in the country. Last year, the hit game Black Myth Wukong launched several famous check-in routes, attracting many tourists. Highly recommended ❤️ Foguang Temple is a relatively small tourist attraction due to its remote location. The entire temple is built along the central axis, which is very symmetrical and magnificent. The most famous is the East Hall on the steps, which is one of the only three complete wooden structures from the Tang Dynasty that survived the An-Shi Rebellion. In addition, the Manjusri Hall is also very distinctive. It was built using the column reduction method, with only four pillars supporting the entire roof. It is not only quiet and elegant but also very cool👍 There is also a big dog named Erliang in the temple. It got its head stuck in the door that it had bitten through. It’s so funny! #ShanxiTourism #Where to go for May Day #May DayGoldenWeek #May DayShort Holiday #BlackMythWukongFilmingLocation #BuddhistRelics