Datong, located in the northern part of Shanxi Province, is a famous historical and cultural city in China. It was once the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty and has rich historical sites and natural scenery. The following is a detailed travel guide to help you enjoy Datong:
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### **1. Recommended must-see attractions**
1. Yungang Grottoes
- **Features**: A world cultural heritage, one of the four major grottoes in China, with 45 existing main caves and more than 51,000 statues, it is the pinnacle of Northern Wei Buddhist art.
- **Tips**: It is recommended to hire a tour guide or rent an electronic guide, focusing on visiting Caves 5-6 (gorgeously painted) and Cave 20 (open-air Buddha).
- **Tickets**: 120 yuan (peak season: April to October), 100 yuan (off-season: November to March).
2. Hanging Temple
- **Features**: This thousand-year-old temple is built on a cliff and is famous for its “strangeness, suspension and ingenuity”. It integrates Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.
- **Tips**: You need to buy a separate ticket (100 yuan) to climb the mountain. People who are afraid of heights should be careful; it is recommended to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- **Transportation**: It is about 80 kilometers away from Datong city. You can charter a car or join a day trip.
3. Hengshan
- **Features**: The Northern Peak of the Five Sacred Mountains, a Taoist holy place, can be visited on the same day as the Hanging Temple.
- **Route**: Take the cable car up the mountain + walk down the mountain to visit the temple complex (such as Hengzong Hall and Huixian Palace).
- **Ticket**: 45 yuan, cable car one-way 70 yuan.
4. **Huayan Temple**
- **Features**: This is a royal temple of the Liao and Jin Dynasties. The Mahavira Hall is large in scale, and the "Buddha with Palms Folded and Teeth Bared" in the Bhagavatara Hall is a national treasure.
- **Ticket**: 50 yuan, it is recommended to visit in the early morning or evening for a quiet atmosphere.
5. Datong Ancient City Wall
- **Features**: The city wall was restored from the Ming Dynasty and can be cycled or walked around. The night scene is brightly lit.