Top reasons to visit Datong
- Rich Historical Sites: Explore ancient temples and the historic neighbourhood of Pingcheng Datong, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.
- Natural Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and scenic biking routes that showcase the stunning surroundings of Datong.
- Engaging Local Culture: Experience vibrant dragon dances and local traditions, providing a unique taste of Datong's cultural identity.
- Adventure Activities: Visit thrilling water parks and relaxing spas, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking leisure.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
Find great hotels in Datong
Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Datong, Shanxi, catering to both business and leisure travellers. Whether you seek a family-friendly guesthouse or a luxurious hotel with spa-themed experiences, Datong offers an array of options. Popular choices include the renowned Pipa Hotel and various hotels in Datong that provide essential amenities for a comfortable stay, making your visit to this historic city both convenient and enjoyable.
- Datong Pipa Hotel: A charming 3.5-star guesthouse renowned for its homely atmosphere and excellent guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Located in the heart of Datong, this hotel caters to visitors looking for comfort and convenience. Guests can relish a complimentary daily breakfast, along with various dining options including an on-site restaurant. With multiple televisions available for entertainment, this hotel offers a relaxed environment that appeals to those wishing to unwind after a day of exploration.
- Garden Hotel: This elegant 4-star hotel, also boasting a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, is well-suited for business travellers seeking a refined experience in Datong. The hotel features modern amenities and well-appointed rooms designed to provide a conducive atmosphere for work and relaxation. Its strategic location makes it easy for guests to access key business districts and attractions, ensuring that your professional commitments can be met without compromise on comfort.
- Yungang Jianguo Hotel: A luxurious 4-star establishment tailored for those who appreciate both relaxation and business functionality. With a guest rating that reflects its quality, this hotel features a full-service spa and a swimming pool, offering guests the perfect retreat after a busy day. The spa facilities are particularly noted for their extensive range of treatments, making it an ideal choice for travellers wishing to indulge in some pampering while taking care of business needs in Datong.
Where to stay in Datong
Datong offers a captivating blend of adventure and culture, making it a perfect destination for those seeking outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. Explore the vibrant Datong downtown and the historical neighbourhood of Pingcheng Datong, where friendly locals add to the charm. Don’t miss the highlights of Datong, including its rich heritage and picturesque Yong'an Town, ensuring a memorable stay filled with unique atmospheres and fascinating discoveries.
- Datong City Center: Nestled in the heart of Datong, this vibrant neighbourhood is a cultural hotspot for travellers seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. Its visitor numbers peak from August to October, thanks to the temperate climate and numerous local events. Here, you can explore ancient temples and fascinating cave systems that showcase the area’s rich history. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the local culture, as the city centre offers a variety of places of worship and cultural landmarks that provide insight into the region’s heritage.
- Hunyuan County: Located just outside Datong, Hunyuan County is a lesser-known gem that attracts visitors year-round, particularly in January and during the late summer months. Known for its cultural significance, the county is home to stunning temples that reflect the area's spiritual heritage. This tranquil setting allows for a more relaxed travel experience, where you can delve into the local customs and traditions while enjoying scenic landscapes and serene atmospheres.
- Chengqu District: Chengqu District is a lively area perfect for families seeking entertainment and leisure activities. With visitor numbers peaking in the autumn months, the district is home to popular theme parks that cater to all ages, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone. The array of family-friendly attractions makes it an ideal destination for those looking to create memorable experiences while enjoying the vibrant local culture and offerings.
Things to do in Datong
Shopping
In the heart of Datong, you can explore local shops at the lively Datong Market for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Datong Wanda Plaza offers a modern shopping experience with a variety of international brands and dining options.
Recreation
In Datong, the Yungang Grottoes Spa offers tranquil wellness treatments amidst stunning historical surroundings, providing a serene escape. The Datong Hot Springs Resort features natural thermal pools and spa services, inviting you to relax while soaking in the healing waters after a day of exploration.
Adventure
The Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features stunning ancient Buddhist cave art and sculptures carved into cliffs. Explore the intricate carvings while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. For a thrill, visit the Hengshan Hanging Monastery, perched on cliffs, offering breathtaking views and a unique walking experience along its suspended pathways.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Datong by visiting local bars like the lively Blue Sky Bar for cocktails or the relaxed atmosphere at the Old Town Tavern. Don’t miss out on the charming night markets, where you can savour street food and enjoy the bustling vibe of the city after dark.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Datong
To save money during your visit to Datong, consider travelling in January, March, or November, when accommodation rates are lower. Book your hotel 1-3 months in advance for the best deals, and check Expedia for last-minute offers. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to find eco-friendly hotels and sort options by price. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal can also lead to significant savings. Look for special offers and discounts to enhance your travel budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Datong are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Datong is usually 1-3 months out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Datong is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Datong is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Datong hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Datong
Datong, renowned for its adventure and scenic beauty, is an ideal destination for those seeking cultural and outdoor experiences. Highlights include the ancient city and town, as well as the Datong Museum, where visitors can delve into the region's rich history. Whether you're exploring historic temples or indulging in local attractions, Datong promises a captivating vacation filled with adventure and discovery.
- Datong King Jin of Tang Dynasty Li Keyong Tomb: This historic site is the final resting place of Li Keyong, a prominent military leader of the Tang Dynasty. Visitors can appreciate the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the period.
- Northern Wei Dynasty Empress Feng Grave: A remarkable burial site, this grave offers insights into the life of Empress Feng and the Northern Wei Dynasty. The tomb's design and surrounding landscape provide a glimpse into ancient customs and royal traditions.
- Yungang Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Yungang Grottoes feature stunning rock-cut sculptures and intricate carvings. These ancient Buddhist art pieces showcase the artistic prowess of the Northern Wei Dynasty and offer a spiritual ambience.
Best time to go to Datong
The best time to visit Datong can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Datong falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Datong falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Datong
Accessing Datong, Shanxi, is convenient via several major airports. Shuozhou Zirun Airport (SZH) is situated 111km away, while Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET) lies 193km from Datong. Notable hotels near Hohhot include the 5-star Shangri-La Huhhot and Xincheng Hotel, both within 14km. Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW) is located 198km away, with good accommodation options like the 4-star Golden Star Holiday Hotel, 18km from the airport, offering complimentary airport transportation. The Fenni Music Video Hotel is 8km away, and Ji Hotel is a mere 483m from SJW, providing easy access for travellers.