The ancient city of Datong packs a powerful one-two punch of Buddhist treasures and architectural marvels.
Two standout tours rise above the rest: The full-day Yungang Grottoes & Deshengbao Great Wall excursion delivers the city’s greatest hits, combining magnificent 5th-century Buddhist cave art with a less-touristy stretch of the Great Wall.
For history buffs, the 2-day guided circuit hits all the key spots, including the intricate Nine Dragon Screen and the gravity-defying Hengshan Hanging Temple.
Both tours come with expert English guides and handle all the logistics – exactly what you want in this historically rich but sometimes challenging-to-navigate city.
Let’s explore the best tour options for experiencing Datong’s cultural riches.
Key Points
- The Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Datong’s UNESCO-listed sites and 5th-6th century Buddhist art.
- The Datong City Exploration tour provides an opportunity to discover the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Nine Dragon Screen and Datong City Wall.
- The Private 2-Day Guided City Highlights Tour covers the Yungang Grottoes, Nine Dragon Screen, Datong City Wall, Hengshan Hanging Temple, and Yingxian Wooden Pagoda.
- Tour options in Datong offer flexible booking, expert guidance, complimentary transportation, and an immersive cultural experience.
- The unique features of Datong’s tours include the Deshengbao Great Wall, which differs from the well-preserved sections in Beijing.
Datong: Yungang Grottoes&Deshengbao Great Wall or City Tour
For those seeking to uncover Datong’s rich history, the “Datong: Yungang Grottoes & Deshengbao Great Wall or City Tour” offers a captivating exploration of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Priced at $238 per person, this 7-hour tour allows visitors to enjoy over 1,400 years of architectural wonder.
Guests will start by admiring the breathtaking Buddhist cave art at the Yungang Grottoes, followed by a visit to the Deshengbao Great Wall, a Ming Dynasty fortress. While this section of the Great Wall differs from the well-preserved sites near Beijing, it provides a unique opportunity to discover the ruins and local villages.
Alternatively, visitors can opt to explore Datong City’s historic sites, including the Nine Dragon Screen and the Datong City Wall.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, private transportation, entrance fees, and lunch. Guests are encouraged to bring their passports and take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to book now and pay later.
Read our full review: Datong: Yungang Grottoes&Deshengbao Great Wall or City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Datong: Private 2-Day Guided City Highlights Tour
This 2-day private guided tour offers an immersive exploration of Datong’s city highlights, allowing visitors to uncover the region’s rich history and architectural marvels.
Beginning with a visit to the awe-inspiring Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring intricate 5th-6th century Buddhist cave art, the tour then showcases the Nine Dragon Screen, the oldest and largest glazed screen in China.
Travelers will also have the chance to stroll along the historical Datong City Wall before heading to the Hengshan Hanging Temple on the second day. This unique structure, built over 50 meters above the ground, seamlessly blends Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist elements.
The tour culminates with a visit to the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the oldest and tallest wooden multi-story building in the world.
With flexible booking options, complimentary transportation, and an expert English-speaking guide, this 2-day tour provides an enriching and hassle-free experience for visitors to discover the cultural wonders of Datong.
Read our full review: Datong: Private 2-Day Guided City Highlights Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Datong offers visitors a chance to explore its rich cultural heritage through guided city tours. The Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall are must-see attractions, providing a glimpse into the region’s history. Alternatively, a private 2-day guided city highlights tour covers the city’s top sights, giving travelers a comprehensive understanding of Datong’s unique charm. Whether you prefer a focused or comprehensive experience, Datong has tour options to suit your interests and needs.