Getting to Datong
Travelers can reach Datong by both air and rail, with the city serving as an important regional hub. If arriving by plane, the local airport is located approximately 18 km outside of the city center. Note that flights from Beijing are not available; travelers coming from the capital should instead utilize the extensive high-speed rail network.
The rail network provides several options for reaching the city:
- High-speed trains arrive at Datong South Railway Station, offering fast connections from cities such as Beijing, Hohhot, and southern Shanxi locations like Taiyuan and Pingyao.
- Conventional trains stop at the main Datong Railway Station for standard rail travel.
Navigating the City
Datong offers several modes of transport to help visitors navigate between local sights and surrounding landmarks.
Buses
The city has a frequent bus system that serves as a primary mode of local transport. While many Chinese cities offer integrated mobile payment options, Datong requires a mainland Chinese ID number to link a bus card to apps like Alipay. Consequently, international visitors should prepare to pay with cash. It is recommended to have plenty of 1-yuan notes available, as the system does not provide change.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
For more direct travel or when visiting sites outside the main urban area—such as the Hanging Monastery or the Wooden Pagoda—taxis are a practical option. The ride-hailing service DiDi is widely available throughout the city for convenient point-to-point transport.
Walking
Walking is a viable way to explore the areas within the Ancient City walls. However, visitors should exercise caution when walking outside these walls; the city layout follows a typical northern Chinese pattern where distances can expand quickly. A short walk may take significantly longer than expected due to the sprawling nature of the urban layout.
Key Sites and Distances
When planning your itinerary, keep in mind that some major landmarks are located outside the immediate city center:
- The Yungang Grottoes are situated approximately 16 km west of Datong.
- Other notable historical sites within the city include the Nine-Dragon Wall, Huayan Monastery, and Shanhua Temple.