Datong: Yungang Grottoes&Deshengbao Great Wall or City Tour

Datong, an ancient Chinese city, offers visitors a captivating blend of cultural heritage and historical significance. Travelers can enjoy the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes, marveling at the intricate Buddhist cave art, or explore the majestic ruins of the Deshengbao Great Wall. Alternatively, those seeking a deeper dive into Datong’s iconic landmarks can discover the historical importance of the Nine Dragon Screen and the city wall. Regardless of the chosen path, this comprehensive 7-hour journey promises an unforgettable experience, complete with an English-speaking guide, private transfers, and a delightful local lunch.

Key Points

• The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Datong, including the Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall.
• Visitors can choose between visiting the Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall, or exploring historical landmarks within Datong city.
• The Yungang Grottoes feature intricate Buddhist cave art from the 5th and 6th centuries, providing insights into China’s cultural legacy.
• The Deshengbao Great Wall, with its Ming Dynasty ruins, offers a unique historical perspective on the strategic significance of the area.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide, private transportation, entrance fees, and a traditional Datong cuisine lunch.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of two renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites in the historic city of Datong. Priced from €212.79 per person, the 7-hour experience takes visitors to the breathtaking Yungang Grottoes and the Deshengbao Great Wall.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour allows for flexibility. Travelers can choose to visit the Great Wall or explore Datong’s iconic sights, such as the Nine Dragon Screen and the Datong City Wall.

Inclusive of an English-speaking guide, private transfers, entrance fees, and lunch, the tour provides a hassle-free and enriching way to discover Datong’s remarkable cultural heritage.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

As the highlights of the tour, the Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall are both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering visitors a unique glimpse into China’s rich historical and cultural legacy.

The Yungang Grottoes feature outstanding Buddhist cave art from the 5th and 6th centuries, showcasing the impressive craftsmanship and artistry of the era.

In contrast, the Deshengbao Great Wall section primarily consists of ruins from the Ming Dynasty, providing a glimpse into the strategic significance of this fortification.

Both sites promise to captivate and educate visitors, making them essential stops on any Datong tour.

Yungang Grottoes Exploration

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases exceptional Buddhist cave art from the 5th and 6th centuries.

The guided exploration provides historical context, immersing guests in the rich cultural heritage. Key highlights include:

• Marveling at the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the cave walls, depicting Buddhist deities and motifs.
• Gaining insights into the artistic techniques and craftsmanship of the ancient artisans who created these masterpieces.
• Understanding the significance of the Yungang Grottoes in the spread of Buddhism throughout China and its influence on the region’s spiritual and artistic traditions.

The Yungang Grottoes offer a unique opportunity to step into the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of this remarkable UNESCO-recognized site.

Deshengbao Great Wall Visit

After exploring the captivating Yungang Grottoes, the tour continues to the Deshengbao Great Wall.

This section of the Great Wall primarily consists of ruins from the Ming Dynasty, offering a unique historical perspective. Visitors will learn about the strategic significance of the Deshengbao Fortress and explore the local villages surrounding the area.

The tour guide will provide insightful commentary, helping to bring the site’s history to life.

This part of the tour provides a chance to witness the grandeur of the Great Wall in a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path setting, allowing for a deeper appreciation of China’s rich architectural heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Following their guided exploration of the captivating Yungang Grottoes, the tour group enjoys a lunch at a local restaurant.

The restaurant offers a delightful selection of traditional Datong cuisine, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage.

The menu features:

• Steaming plates of "Datong Dumplings," delicate parcels of dough filled with savory meat and vegetables
• Fragrant "Shanxi Noodles," hand-pulled and served in a rich, flavorful broth
• A refreshing "Datong Salad," featuring locally-grown produce and a tangy vinaigrette

The team takes time to savor the flavors, gaining a deeper appreciation for the local food culture as they recharge for the next stop on the tour.

Datong City Alternative Options

For travelers who prefer not to visit the Great Wall, the tour offers an alternative option to explore Datong’s historical landmarks within the city itself.

One of the highlights is the Nine Dragon Screen, the oldest and largest glazed screen in China, measuring an impressive 45.5 meters long, 8 meters high, and 22 meters thick. It was built during the Ming Dynasty and showcases the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Another notable site is the Datong City Wall, which dates back to the North Wei Dynasty and holds strategic defensive significance.

These city-based options provide a unique glimpse into Datong’s past and complement the tour’s exploration of the renowned Yungang Grottoes.

Nine Dragon Screen Highlights

The Nine Dragon Screen stands as a testament to Datong’s rich architectural heritage, measuring an impressive 45.5 meters in length, 8 meters in height, and 22 meters in thickness.

This exquisite glazed screen, built during the Ming Dynasty, is considered the oldest and largest of its kind in China.

Its unique design features:

• Intricate carvings of nine intertwined dragons, each one meticulously crafted and painted.
• Vibrant colors that have stood the test of time, showcasing the exceptional skill of the artisans.
• A strategic location that once served as a protective barrier for the city, demonstrating the screen’s historical significance.

Tour Inclusions and Reminders

Included in the Datong tour package are an English-speaking guide, private transportation, entrance fees, and a local lunch.

These inclusions ensure a seamless and informative experience for travelers. The tour guide will provide historical context and insights throughout the day, while private transportation allows for a comfortable and efficient journey between sites.

Entrance fees to the Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall or Datong City Wall are covered, granting visitors full access to explore these UNESCO-recognized landmarks.

Lastly, a delicious local lunch offers a chance to savor the regional cuisine. Travelers are advised to bring their passport for identification purposes during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to meet the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers alternative options to explore Datong City sites if the Great Wall visit is not desired.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. Most private tours allow for flexible group sizes, often accommodating small to medium-sized groups. You’d want to inquire with the tour operator about their typical group sizes.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

There are no specific discounts mentioned for children or seniors on this tour. However, customers should check with the tour operator to inquire about any available discounts that may apply to their age group.

Can I Request a Different Pickup Location?

Yes, you can request a different pickup location. The tour provider is typically flexible and can accommodate pickup from a location other than the hotel lobby, as long as it’s within the tour’s coverage area.

How Extensive Is the Walking Required During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking at each attraction, approximately 30-60 minutes at each site. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully explore the Yungang Grottoes and Deshengbao Great Wall or Datong City sites.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating exploration of Datong’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the intricate Buddhist art of the Yungang Grottoes, hike along the historic Deshengbao Great Wall, and discover Datong’s iconic landmarks. With an English-speaking guide, private transfers, and a delicious local lunch, this comprehensive journey provides an immersive experience of Datong’s UNESCO-listed wonders and historic sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: