City Highlights: Yungang Grottoes, Nine Dragon Screen, and City Wall

Yungang Grottoes - In the morning, guests will be picked up from their hotel lobby in downtown Datong or from the Datong train station, where a welcome sign will be displayed.

The journey to Yungang Grottoes takes approximately 30 minutes. The tour guide will share fascinating histories and stories along the way, and guests are encouraged to ask any questions they may have.

Situated at the southern base of Wuzhou Mountain, the Yungang Grottoes stretch about one kilometer (0.62 miles) from east to west, featuring 252 caves and 51,000 statues within an 18,000 square meter carved area.

Yungang Grottoes exemplify the remarkable achievement of Buddhist cave art in China during the 5th and 6th centuries. The Five Caves, created by Tan Yao, showcase a classical masterpiece of Chinese Buddhist art with their cohesive layout and design.

While influenced by Buddhist cave art from South and Central Asia, Yungang Grottoes have uniquely interpreted this art form with a distinct Chinese character and local essence. Consequently, Yungang Grottoes have played a crucial role among early Oriental Buddhist grottoes and have significantly impacted Buddhist cave art in China and East Asia.

In December 2001, Yungang Grottoes were inscribed on the World Cultural Heritage List.

Guests will explore the grottoes and niches with their tour guide, learning about its history and culture. As this is a private tour, questions are welcome throughout the visit.

Nine Dragon Screen - Next, guests will follow their tour guide to visit the oldest and largest glazed screen in China. Constructed over 600 years ago, the Nine Dragon Screen in Datong is the oldest and largest glazed screen in China today. Guests can admire the impressive screen and learn about its history and significance with their tour guide.

Datong City Walls - After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, guests will follow their tour guide to explore the city wall.

The Datong City Wall, with a history dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–557), is truly magnificent. Historically, Datong has been a place of strategic importance, especially during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), when it served as the gateway to the country’s capital, through the protective screen of Shanxi province, and as a safeguard of the Yellow River Plain.

At the end of the tour, guests will be transferred back to their hotel in Datong.

Hengshan Hanging Temple and Yingxian Pagoda

Hengshan Hanging Temple (Xuankong si) - Guests will meet their tour guide in the hotel lobby before heading to Hengshan Hanging Temple, a 1.5-hour journey, enjoying the scenic countryside views along the way. The tour guide will share interesting histories and stories, and guests are encouraged to ask questions.

The Hanging Temple is the only existing temple that hosts worship for Taoists, Confucians, and Buddhists. Built in 491 A.D., the Hanging Temple is an architectural marvel, suspended on the west cliff of Jinxia Gorge more than 50 meters above the ground. A unique mechanical theory was applied in its construction, with crossbeams half-inserted into the rock as the foundation, while the rock behind serves as support. From below, it appears as a castle in the air. Inside, it offers the same ambiance as other temples. The architecture represents a significant cultural achievement of the Chinese people.

Guests will follow their tour guide to experience this 1400-year-old architectural wonder, learning about the history of the three major religions in China and how these beliefs are reflected in the architecture.

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda - After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, guests will head to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.

Upon arrival, guests will follow their tour guide to explore this architectural gem, renowned for its long history, unique design, and exceptional construction techniques.

Built in 1056, the 957-year-old Wooden Pagoda of Yingxian County is the oldest and tallest wooden multi-storey building in the world. The pagoda holds a significant place in the history of ancient Chinese architecture. It embodies the wisdom of ancient craftsmen and has withstood numerous seismic tests over nine centuries. It is truly a marvel in the history of Chinese architecture.

After the tour, guests will be transferred back to their hotel in Datong or to the Datong railway station.

• Hotel/Railway Station pickup and drop-off
• Private vehicle during the tour
• English speaking tour guide
• Lunch
• Entrance fee (if you choose the related option)

• Gratuites
• Accommodation
• If you choose the basic tour, the entrance fee and lunch are not included

Make the most of your time in the extraordinary city of Datong with an all-encompassing 2-day private tour of its key attractions and historical sites. With the guidance of an expert, visit three stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, and Ying Xian Wooden Pagoda. Additionally, explore the Nine Dragon Screen and Datong City Wall, gaining deep insights into the city’s rich history. When booking, you can opt for a basic tour that includes an English-speaking guide and private transportation, with entrance fees and lunch at your own expense, or choose a private tour package that covers all entrance fees and lunch.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.