Datong, once known as the “coal capital of China,” has transformed into a stunning cultural destination with over 1,600 years of history. If you’re wondering how to book Datong attraction tickets, you’re in the right place. This ancient city was once the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty and today offers travelers a rich blend of Buddhist heritage, frontier charm, and industrial modernity.
1. Datong Travel Overview
Datong lies in northern Shanxi Province, right next to Inner Mongolia. Historically, it served as a key frontier where Chinese dynasties met northern nomadic cultures. Today, it’s famous for three world-class attractions that blend culture and nature.
First, the Yungang Grottoes rank among China’s four greatest Buddhist cave temples. They hold over 45 main caves and more than 51,000 stone carvings—many dating back to the 5th century. Next, the Hanging Temple clings dramatically to a cliffside. Built over 1,500 years ago, it’s considered one of the world’s most daring architectural wonders. Finally, there’s Mount Heng (Hengshan), one of China’s Five Great Mountains and a sacred Daoist site. It offers a mix of rugged peaks and ancient temples.
The best time to visit Datong is in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, summer can be hot, though indoor spots like the grottoes offer cool escapes. Meanwhile, winter is cold and dry—but fewer tourists mean peaceful sightseeing and a unique winter vibe.
2. Basics for Booking Datong Attraction Tickets
If you’re wondering how to book Datong attraction tickets, the process is easier than you might think. Several reliable options are available to help you secure your spot and skip the lines.
🔗 Booking Channels
First, check the official WeChat accounts for key attractions:
- Yungang Grottoes: “云冈石窟官微” (Yungang Official Official WeChat Account)
- Hengshan and Hanging Temple: “恒山景区” (Hengshan Official Official WeChat Account)
Next, popular Chinese apps like Ctrip, Meituan, and Tongcheng are good options. International travelers can also use Trip.com, Klook, or Viator, which often include transport and guide services in ticket bundles.
👉 All Datong Tours & Excursions (Viator)
You may also book through travel agencies, which provide all-in-one services. Additionally, many hotels—especially mid-range and above—offer concierge booking help. Finally, although some attractions still sell tickets on-site, it’s best to book online to avoid long queues.
💳 Payment Options
Most international travelers can pay with:
- Visa or MasterCard (on supported platforms)
- Alipay or WeChat Pay, linked to an international card or topped up at hotels
- Cash (RMB), available for on-site purchases only
📌 Ticketing Reminders
- Major sites like Yungang Grottoes require real-name booking. Bring your passport.
- Yungang Grottoes limit daily visitors to 46,250—reserve at least 7 days in advance.
- The Hanging Temple only releases 1,960 tickets per day in high season.
- Seniors 60+ can enter free at many sites, but still need to reserve a ticket.
- Children under 6 years old or 1.2 meters usually enter free.
Most attractions accept e-tickets. Some scan directly at the gate, while others may need to be exchanged for paper. During holidays like May Day or National Day, it’s best to book 3–5 days ahead—especially for the Hanging Temple.
3. Top Datong Attractions You Should Book in Advance
Some of Datong’s most iconic attractions are incredibly popular or have strict visitor limits. If you’re planning your trip, it’s essential to know how to book Datong attraction tickets early. These two standout sites are best reserved online to guarantee entry and avoid long waits.
1) Yungang Grottoes (云冈石窟)
The Yungang Grottoes are one of the largest and most impressive ancient cave complexes in China. Carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty (460–525 AD), the site took about 65 years to complete. It features 45 main caves, 252 shrines, and over 51,000 Buddhist statues. Highlights include the majestic “Five Tanyao Caves” (Caves 16–20), the musical-themed Cave 12, and the stunning carved tower in Cave 6.
Important: Starting January 1, 2025, all tickets must be booked online with real-name registration. On-site ticket counters have been fully closed.
👉 Book Your Yungang Grottoes Entrance Ticket with Optional Tour Services (Viator)
- 🌐 Booking:
- “Yungang Research Institute” WeChat mini program
- Yungang Official WeChat Account
- Chinese OTAs: Ctrip, Meituan
- International: Trip.com, Klook, Viator (ticket + transport bundles)
- 🎫 Ticket Prices:
- Adult: ¥100
- Combo (ticket + shuttle): ¥115
- Discount (students/children): ¥50
- Free: Children under 6 or under 1.2m; Seniors 60+
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Year-round, 09:00–17:00
- 📍 Address: Yungang Town, Yungang District, Datong
- 📞 Phone: 0352-79926226
- 🌐 Official Website: www.yungang.org
- 🚇 Transport:
- Bus: Line 3, 10, 12, or Tourist Line 601
- Taxi: ~¥40 from downtown, 30-minute ride
- Self-drive: Navigate to “Yungang Grottoes” (ample parking available)
2) Hanging Temple (悬空寺), Hengshan Scenic Area
Perched on a cliff face of Mount Heng, the Hanging Temple has stood for over 1,500 years. Built in 491 AD, it balances 60 meters above the ground on wooden stilts—earning its place among the world’s “Top 10 Most Dangerous Buildings.” The temple honors Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism, all under one roof. Walking the narrow plank paths is thrilling and unforgettable.
Direct Bus: Available in peak season from Datong to Hanging Temple
👉 Book your Private Datong Day Tour Arranged by Local Tour Guide Nancy ( including Hanging Temple and Yungang Grottoes)
🌐 Booking: “Hengshan Scenic Area” WeChat official account; Chinese OTAs: Ctrip, Tongcheng; International: Trip.com, Klook, Viator
🎫 Ticket Prices:
Entry: ¥15 (low season) – ¥25 (high season)
Cliff Access: ¥100 (limited availability)
Seniors 60+: Entry is free; cliff access requires a “¥0 ticket” reservation
🕒 Opening Hours:
High Season (Apr 1 – Oct 31): 08:00–18:00
Low Season (Nov 1 – Mar 31): 08:30–17:00
📍 Address: Foot of Mount Heng, southeast of Hunyuan County, Datong
📞 Phone: 0352-8327799
🚇 Transport:
Bus: Take a coach from Datong Bus Station to Hunyuan (~2 hours), then taxi
Car/Taxi: ~1.5 hours from Datong city
4. Datong Attractions with On-Site Tickets (But Booking Ahead Is Still Better)
Some attractions in Datong allow on-site ticket purchases. However, if you’re serious about avoiding crowds and saving time, it’s still smart to book online. Here’s how to book Datong attraction tickets for these popular spots that often get busy—especially during peak seasons.
1) Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (佛宫寺释迦塔)
Built in 1056, the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is the oldest and tallest wooden pagoda in the world. Known as one of the “Three Great Leaning Towers of the World” (along with the Eiffel Tower and Leaning Tower of Pisa), this towering structure stands 67.3 meters tall.
Remarkably, it uses no nails—just 54 kinds of traditional wooden joints. Inside, it houses relics of the Buddha and precious Liao Dynasty sculptures and murals.
👉 Book your All-Inclusive Private Day Tour to Wooden Pagoda and Hanging Temple from Datong
- 🌐 Booking:
- Official: “Travel Shanxi” WeChat mini program (real-name required)
- OTAs: Ctrip, Meituan (some offer e-tickets)
- International: Trip.com, Klook, Viator (package deals available)
- 🎫 Tickets:
- Adult: ¥50
- Half-price: ¥25 (ages 6–18 or full-time students)
- Free: Kids under 6 or 1.2m; seniors 60+ (with ID)
- 🕒 Hours:
- High Season (Apr–Oct): 08:00–18:00 (last ticket 17:30)
- Low Season (Nov–Mar): 08:30–17:00 (last ticket 16:30)
- 📍 Address: Inside Fogong Temple, NW Yingxian Town, Shuozhou City
- 📞 Phone: 0349-5088889 (info); 0349-50888585 (complaints)
- Travel Tip: Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is a highlight of Shanxi’s ancient architecture. It’s best to pair it with a visit to the Hanging Temple for a one-day tour that showcases both historical depth and architectural wonder.
2) Huayan Temple (华严寺)
Huayan Temple, first built in 1038, is one of the best-preserved Buddhist temple complexes from the Liao and Jin dynasties. Its grand Mahavira Hall is the largest of its kind from that era.
Inside, you’ll find exquisite murals and solemn Buddha statues. Don’t miss the “Smiling Bodhisattva” in the Sutra Hall—often called the “Venus of the East.”
- 🌐 Booking:
- On-site ticket window
- OTAs: Recommended
- International: Trip.com, Klook, Viator
- 🎫 Tickets:
- Adult: ¥65
- Discounted: ¥32 (students)
- Free: Kids under 6 or 1.2m; seniors 65+
- 🕒 Hours:
- High Season (Apr 1–Oct 31): 08:00–18:00
- Low Season (Nov 1–Mar 31): 08:30–17:00
- 📍 Address: No. 459 Xiashipo Street, Pingcheng District, Datong
- 📞 Phone: 0352-2054188
- 🚇 Transport:
- Bus: Lines 27, 35, or 38 to “Huayan Temple” stop
- Taxi: ~¥10 from city center
- Walk: 10 mins from South Gate of Ancient City Wall
3) Datong Ancient City Wall (大同古城墙)
Built in 1372, the Datong City Wall stretches 7.24 km and stands 14 meters tall. It remains one of China’s best-preserved ancient city walls.
You can walk or rent a bike on the ramparts to get sweeping views of the old town. Come at night for the spectacular light show that brings the wall to life.
- 🌐 Booking:
- On-site ticket counter
- OTAs: Available
- 🎫 Tickets:
- Wall Entry: ¥30
- Bike Rental: ¥30–50/hour (optional)
- Free: Kids under 6 or 1.2m; seniors 65+
- 🕒 Hours:
- High Season: 08:00–22:00
- Low Season: 08:30–21:00
- 📍 Address: Pingcheng District, Datong City
5. Free Datong Attractions Worth Visiting (No Booking Needed)
Datong isn’t just about paid tickets—some of its best cultural treasures are absolutely free to enter. These sites are easy to explore, full of history, and perfect for a relaxed stroll between major attractions. Here’s where to go when you’re not figuring out how to book Datong attraction tickets!
1) Shanhua Temple (善化寺)
Built during the Tang Dynasty (713–741 AD), Shanhua Temple is one of the most complete and largest surviving Liao-Jin Buddhist temple complexes in China. The site features beautifully preserved halls like the Mahavira Hall and the Three Saints Hall.
Inside, you’ll find intricate murals and lifelike statues, including the Five Direction Buddhas and 24 Heavenly Guardians. The peaceful temple grounds, lined with ancient trees, offer a calming atmosphere for cultural reflection.
- 🕒 Hours: 08:30–17:30
- 📍 Address: No. 6 Nansi Street, Pingcheng District, Datong
- 📞 Phone: 0352-2053399
- 🚇 Transport:
- Bus: Line 27 or 35 to “Shanhua Temple”
- Walk: About 10 minutes from Huayan Temple
2) Nine-Dragon Screen Wall (九龙壁)
Built in 1392 during the Ming Dynasty, Datong’s Nine-Dragon Wall is the oldest and largest of its kind in China—older than the famous one in Beijing by over 350 years.
The glazed-tile wall stretches 45.5 meters long and 8 meters high, featuring nine colorful dragons, each in a different pose. The vivid detail showcases the height of Ming-era craftsmanship.
- 🕒 Hours: 08:30–17:30
- 📍 Address: No. 18 Dadong Street, Pingcheng District, Datong
- 🚇 Transport:
- Bus: Line 17 or 27 to “Nine-Dragon Wall”
- Walk: Located in the old city center—an easy walk from other main sights
3) Datong Museum (大同博物馆)
Datong Museum is a modern landmark with a striking design and a rich collection. The exhibits focus on local history, Silk Road culture, and the Liao and Jin dynasties. It holds over 17,000 artifacts, including national treasures like lacquer screens from the Northern Wei Dynasty and rare Liao porcelain. Best of all, entry is free—making this your ideal first stop to understand the city’s past.
- 🕒 Hours: 09:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:00)
- Closed Mondays (except public holidays)
- 📍 Address: 506 Taihe Road, Yudong New Area, Datong
- 📞 Phone: 0352-5398111
- 🚇 Transport:
- Bus: Line 65 or 70 to “Museum”
- Taxi: ~¥15 from the Ancient City
4) Datong Drum Tower (鼓楼)
The Drum Tower, built in the Ming Dynasty, is one of Datong’s most iconic landmarks. Standing about 20 meters tall, it has three tiers and four eaves, with a unique cross-shaped structure allowing people and vehicles to pass beneath.
Climb to the top for views over the old town, or visit at night to see it beautifully lit—perfect for photographers.
- 🕒 Hours:
- Exterior: Open all day
- Interior: 08:30–17:30
- 📍 Address: Gulou East Street, Pingcheng District, Datong
- 🚇 Transport:
- Walk: In the center of the Ancient City, close to the Nine-Dragon Wall and Huayan Temple
6. Sample Itineraries for Foreign Visitors in Datong
Whether you have just a day or a few to explore, Datong offers layered experiences—from grand Buddhist caves to ancient city walls and wooden towers. Here are a few curated routes to help you make the most of your time.
🕒Datong 1-Day Essentials Tour (Great for Tight Schedules)
Morning
- 08:30–11:30: Explore Yungang Grottoes (book at least 7 days in advance). Focus on the majestic Tanyao Caves and the towering open-air Buddha in Cave 20.
- 12:00–13:00: Enjoy lunch nearby—try local favorites like Shanxi knife-cut noodles or lamb soup.
Afternoon
- 13:30–15:30: Visit Huayan Temple to see the “Smiling Bodhisattva.”
- 16:00–17:30: Cycle or walk along the Ancient City Wall for panoramic views.
Evening
- 18:30–20:00: Explore Gulou East Street Night Market. Don’t miss local snacks like Hunyuan jelly noodles and Baijia shaomai.
🕒 Datong 2-Day Classic Tour (Includes Yingxian Wooden Pagoda)
Day 1
- Morning: Visit Yungang Grottoes (3–4 hours with the museum included).
- Afternoon: Tour Huayan Temple and nearby Shanhua Temple (free and historic).
- Evening: Walk the city wall by night, then dine at Fenglin Pavilion—famous for “The First Steamer Basket Under Heaven.”
Day 2
- Morning: Drive ~1.5 hours to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, then explore for 2–3 hours.
- Afternoon: Head to the Hanging Temple for a thrilling cliffside walk.
- Evening: Return to Datong and visit the Nine-Dragon Wall or Datong Museum if time allows.
🕒 Datong 3-Day Culture Tour (For a Deeper Experience)
Day 1
- Morning: Visit Yungang Grottoes, focusing on Caves 5 and 6.
- Afternoon: Discover Datong Museum to understand Northern Wei history.
- Evening: Enjoy the city wall lights and stroll through the night market.
Day 2
- Full Day: Explore Mount Heng (Hengshan) and the Hanging Temple. Join a tour or rent a private car for ease.
- Evening: Return and dine on Kaige lamb noodles, a local delicacy.
Day 3
- Morning: Visit the iconic Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
- Afternoon: Stop at Jingtu Temple, a Jin Dynasty treasure nearby.
- Evening: Return to Datong or continue to Taiyuan or Beijing.
🕒 2-Day Beijing–Datong Round Trip (Efficient Plan)
Day 1
- 07:30: Take the high-speed train from Beijing North to Datong South (~2 hours).
- 09:30–12:30: Visit Yungang Grottoes (pre-book required).
- 13:00–14:00: Lunch at Dongfang Knife-Cut Noodles.
- 14:30–17:30: Explore Huayan Temple and Shanhua Temple.
- 20:00–21:00: Walk along the city wall under the stars.
Day 2
- 07:00: Depart for Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (1.5-hour drive).
- 08:30–11:00: Tour the pagoda—one of the world’s three architectural marvels.
- 11:30–12:30: Try local specialties like Yingxian jelly noodles and Diluo wraps.
- 13:00–15:00: End the trip with a walk at the Hanging Temple.
- 16:00: Return to Datong South Station and take the train back to Beijing.
👉 All Datong Tours & Excursions (Viator)
Datong is a fascinating city where Buddhist artistry, frontier history, and modern energy all meet. With its world-class cultural sites and dramatic landscapes, it continues to impress travelers from around the globe. By planning ahead and knowing how to book Datong attraction tickets, you’ll enjoy a smooth and enriching experience from start to finish.
We hope this detailed guide helps you easily plan the perfect trip. Whether you have just one day or several, Datong offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty that will leave a lasting impression. Wishing you a wonderful and fulfilling journey in this thousand-year-old capital of northern China!
Travel Tip: Datong’s travel policies and opening hours may change, so always check official sources before your visit. Also, keep an eye out—Datong often launches new cultural events and attractions worth exploring year-round.
📌 Further Reading
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