Datong Shanxi, China Travel Guide
Layers of history and artistry define this captivating destination. Discover the ancient heart of China.
Datong sits in northern Shanxi Province, on the edge of the Loess Plateau. It's elevation is around 1,050 meters (3,445 feet) above sea level. The urban area is in a basin surrounded by mountains in the northern direction, east, and west, with the Sanggan River flowing through the region.
This geographical position historically made Datong a strategic location, a frontier city guarding against northern invaders and a crossroads for trade. A dry, continental climate with distinct seasons shapes the local landscape, marked by vast plains and rolling hills. Proximity to Inner Mongolia influences local customs and cuisine.
Datong's history spans over 2,000 years, with periods of immense power and cultural exchange. Its prominent era was during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 AD), when it served as the capital for nearly a century. This period saw the flourishing of Buddhist art, leaving behind the spectacular Yungang Grottoes, a testament to the dynasty's artistic and religious devotion.
Later, Datong was a significant military stronghold during the Liao, Jin, and Ming Dynasties. The city's massive, well-preserved city wall, largely a Ming Dynasty construction, reflects this military importance. Throughout its history, Datong has been a melting pot of Han Chinese and northern nomadic cultures, contributing to its rich heritage and distinctive identity. The city's past as a coal mining hub also shaped its modern development, with recent efforts focusing on transforming it into a cultural and tourism destination.
Capital city; Yungang Grottoes created.
Strategic military outpost.
Continued importance as a frontier city.
City wall construction and fortification.
Transformation from coal hub to cultural tourism.
Datong today blends its ancient past with modern development. The ancient city center, enclosed by the reconstructed Ming Dynasty wall, has traditional architecture, temples, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Outside the wall, a bustling modern city thrives, complete with shopping malls, contemporary restaurants, and efficient transportation.
The city's main draws are its historical marvels: the grand Yungang Grottoes, the engineering wonder of the Hanging Temple, and the impressive Datong City Wall. Datong has a less-trodden path compared to China's megacities, offering a profound cultural experience.
Datong presents a true and profound cultural time without overwhelming crowds. The city is clean, welcoming, and easy to navigate for travelers focused on history and culture. Expect a peaceful journey through time.
Datong City Wall at sunset
Datong experiences a continental monsoon climate, featuring four distinct seasons. Each season has a different atmosphere for travelers, with varying temperatures and weather patterns.
Choosing your travel time can shape your Datong adventure, if you want mild weather for extensive outdoor exploration or wish to experience the distinct tranquility of winter.
Pleasant weather and extended daylight. More tourists and higher prices, especially during holidays.
Fewer crowds, moderate prices, comfortable temperatures. Dust storms can occur in spring.
Significantly fewer tourists, lower prices, unique winter scenery. Very cold temperatures.
Datong's summer monsoon brings concentrated rainfall in July and August. While not as heavy as southern China, this can occasionally cause localized flooding or alter outdoor plans. Heavy winter clothing is needed for extremely low temperatures.
Autumn (September-October) offers comfortable weather for outdoor sites. In winter you'll find unique photographic opportunities with snow. Outdoor activities are most enjoyable in late spring, summer (avoiding peak rain days), and early autumn.
Most foreign nationals require a visa for mainland China. The L Visa (Tourist Visa) is common. Start the application process well beforehand through your country's Chinese Embassy or Consulate General website. Complete the online form and schedule an in-person appointment. Submit documents, undergo biometric data collection, and allow 4-10 business days for processing. Consider services like IVisa or VisaHQ.
Passport valid for 6+ months with two blank visa pages, a completed and signed V.2013 application form, one recent 48x33mm passport-style photo (white background, no head covering unless for religious reasons, taken within 6 months), proof of legal stay/residence (if applicable), copies of previous Chinese visas, round-trip airline tickets, and confirmed hotel reservations or an invitation letter.
Visa application costs vary by nationality; payment typically happens upon visa collection. For example, a single-entry L-visa costs around $185 for US citizens, £151 for UK citizens, and CAD$100 for Canadian citizens. Upon arrival, show your passport and visa. Immigration officers verify documents and collect fingerprints for foreign nationals aged 14 to 70. A Health Declaration Form may be requested.
No specific vaccinations are mandatory for most countries, unless arriving from a yellow fever risk area. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Varicella, Polio, Influenza), Hep A and B, and Typhoid are widely recommended. Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis may be relevant for specific long-term travel or rural exposure.
Atmospheric Quality: Monitor reports. Wear an N95 mask on high pollution days. Food/Watervector-borne Diseases: Drink bottled or purified water. Don't drink tap water and ice. Eat well-cooked, hot food. Wash hands frequently or use Hand sanitizer. Altitude sickness is not a concern. Pollen in spring and autumn can trigger allergies; carry your medication.
Hospitals: Datong Third People's Hospital and Datong No. 1 People's Hospital are available, but English-speaking staff might be limited. Pharmacies: Widely available. Emergency: Dial 120 for medical transport. Crime: Datong is safe. Petty theft (pickpocketing) can occur in crowds. Use a Money belt. Natural Disasters: Earthquakes infrequent. Dust storms in spring. Localized summer flooding. Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended (World Nomads, SafetyWing).
Police: 110 | Fire: 119 | Ambulance: 120 | Traffic Accident: 122
