2 Days Private Yungang Grottoes-Hanging Temple-Pingyao Tour From Datong

Set out on a captivating 2-day private journey from Datong, where you’ll learn about the cultural wonders of northern China. Explore the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes, home to over 51,000 intricate Buddha statues, before marveling at the architectural marvel of the Hanging Temple, blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. Conclude your experience in the well-preserved ancient city of Pingyao, whose Ming and Qing dynasty architecture will transport you through time. With a knowledgeable private guide by your side, you’re in for an enriching and intimate exploration of these remarkable sites. What secrets and stories will you uncover?

This experience made our list of the 4 Best 2 Day Tours In Datong.

Good To Know

• This private 2-day tour covers the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, and the ancient walled city of Pingyao.
• Explore over 51,000 ancient Buddhist cave carvings at the Yungang Grottoes and marvel at the engineering of the Hanging Temple.
• Experience the integration of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian influences in the temple design and the well-preserved historical architecture of Pingyao.
• Enjoy a hassle-free experience with convenient pickup options, private transportation, and an English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
• The tour is designed for an intimate and customized exploration, catering to travelers who want to explore China’s rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Yungang Grottoes

After a scenic drive from Datong, visitors arrive at the majestic Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive Buddhist cave art dating back to the 5th century.

Carved into the cliffs, the 53 major caves and thousands of smaller niches feature over 51,000 statues, many of which depict Buddha in various forms.

Guests explore the intricate carvings and learn about the site’s rich history and cultural significance.

From the towering statues to the delicate relief work, the Yungang Grottoes offer a captivating glimpse into China’s ancient Buddhist heritage.

Visiting Hanging Temple

Leaving the Yungang Grottoes behind, the tour continues to the Hanging Temple, a captivating structure that defies gravity. Nestled on the side of Mount Heng, the Hanging Temple appears to cling to the sheer cliff face, seemingly suspended in mid-air.

Visitors can explore this architectural marvel, which features 40 halls and pavilions constructed with a unique blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian influences. The temple’s intricate wooden carvings and stunning vistas make it a must-see destination on this Datong tour.

As the group navigates the narrow walkways and bridges, they’ll be in awe of the temple’s remarkable engineering and the breathtaking natural surroundings that frame this incredible site.

Discovering Pingyao’s Old Town

Upon completing their awe-inspiring visit to the Hanging Temple, the tour continues its journey to the ancient city of Pingyao. Pingyao’s Old Town is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, admiring the intricate facades and traditional courtyard houses. The city offers a glimpse into China’s past, with numerous temples, theaters, and traditional shops to explore. To help visitors make the most of their time, the following table outlines some of the top attractions in Pingyao’s Old Town:

Attraction	Description
Rishengchang Former Bank	One of the oldest financial institutions in China, now a museum.
Confucian Temple	A well-preserved example of traditional Chinese temple architecture.
Pingyao Ancient City Wall	Offers stunning views of the old city and its surroundings.
Mingqing Street	A lively commercial street lined with shops and local eateries.

Highlights of the Tour

The Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivate visitors with their impressive array of ancient Buddhist cave carvings.

Carved into the sandstone cliffs over 1,500 years ago, the grottoes feature over 51,000 statues showcasing the evolution of Buddhist art.

Next, the Hanging Temple, a marvel of architectural engineering, clings to the side of a sheer cliff.

This 1,500-year-old temple features:

1. Intricate wooden structures supported by daring cantilever beams.
2. A blend of three major Chinese belief systems – Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
3. Stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

After exploring these two iconic sites, the tour concludes in the ancient walled city of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkably well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.

Pickup and Meeting Options

Where can travelers be picked up for this tour? The tour offers several convenient pickup options. Guests can be picked up directly from Datong Railway Station in the morning when the train arrives around 6:00 AM, or from Datong Airport when a morning flight arrives at 8:00 AM. Alternatively, the guide can meet travelers at their hotel lobby in Datong around 8:00 AM. The tour concludes in Pingyao, where guests can be dropped off at their Pingyao hotel, the Pingyao Railway Station, or the Pingyaogucheng Railway Station.

Pickup Options	Location	Pickup Time
Datong Railway Station	Datong	Around 6:00 AM
Datong Airport	Datong	8:00 AM
Hotel Lobby	Datong	Around 8:00 AM
Pingyao Hotel	Pingyao	–
Pingyao Railway Station	Pingyao	–
Pingyaogucheng Railway Station	Pingyao	–

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The inclusions cover all the essential aspects of the tour, such as:

1. Entrance fees for the listed sights, including the Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple.
2. A private English-speaking guide to provide insights and share the rich history of the destinations.
3. Comfortable private transportation with a reliable driver, ensuring a stress-free journey.

Plus, the package covers toll, parking, and fuel fees, as well as gratuities.

Accommodation and meals are also provided, making this tour a hassle-free experience for the travelers.

Tour Duration and Itinerary

This private tour from Datong lasts 2 days.

On the first day, you’ll visit the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring over 50,000 Buddhist statues carved into the mountainside.

Next, you’ll explore the Hanging Temple, an architectural marvel clinging to the side of a cliff.

On the second day, you’ll discover the ancient walled city of Pingyao, a UNESCO-listed town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have a private English-speaking guide to provide insights and handle all logistics, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Traveler Information

Travelers on this private tour can expect a seamless and hassle-free experience.

The tour includes pickup options from Datong Railway Station, Datong Airport, or a Datong hotel, providing convenience for guests.

The tour concludes in Pingyao, with the option to end at a Pingyao hotel, the Pingyao Railway Station, or the Pingyao Railway Station.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but does offer infant seats and is near public transportation.

Most travelers can participate in this private tour, which ensures an intimate and customized experience.

Here are 3 things travelers can enjoy:

1. Entrance fees for all listed sights are included.
2. An English-speaking private guide accompanies the group.
3. Comfortable private vehicles with a reliable driver are provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the schedule or activities based on the traveler’s preferences and interests.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel the tour and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. There are no penalties for cancellations made within this window.

Is Photography Allowed at the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited on this tour. However, visitors should check with the guide or local authorities for any specific restrictions or rules regarding photography at each location.

Can We Purchase Additional Optional Activities?

Based on the tour details, it seems additional optional activities can be purchased. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about available options and pricing. The tour itself includes the listed sights and services in the itinerary.

How Flexible Is the Pickup and Drop-Off Location?

The tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off locations. Customers can choose to be picked up at the Datong Railway Station, Datong Airport, or their hotel in Datong. The tour concludes in Pingyao, with options to end at the hotel, railway station, or Pingyao Gucheng Railway Station.

Sum Up

This 2-day private tour from Datong offers a captivating glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will be awestruck by the intricate Buddha statues of the Yungang Grottoes, marvel at the architectural wonder of the Hanging Temple, and enjoy the well-preserved ancient city of Pingyao. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, this intimate experience ensures an enriching journey through some of China’s most iconic landmarks.