What to Expect
1. Morning Departure
Start your adventure with a convenient pickup from your Beijing hotel at around 6:15 AM. Transfer to Beijing North Railway Station to board the high-speed train G2529 (7:19 AM–9:28 AM) to Datong.
Upon arrival, meet your Datong guide and driver at the station lobby exit to begin your journey.
2. Visit Yungang Grottoes
Your first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Yungang Grottoes, a masterpiece of ancient Chinese carving art with over 1,500 years of history from the Northern Wei Dynasty. Highlights include:
- Over 59,000 Buddha Statues: From monumental 17-meter-high sculptures to intricate carvings just a few centimeters tall.
- Cave 20 (“Big Open Buddha”): A breathtaking landmark of Datong with an exposed colossal Buddha statue.
Spend approximately three hours marveling at the one-kilometer-long series of caves filled with stunning carvings.
3. Lunch and Hanging Temple Exploration
Enjoy a traditional Datong lunch, famous for its rich flavors. Then, travel about 70 kilometers to the awe-inspiring Hanging Temple.
- Unique Structure: Built 1,500 years ago, this temple clings to a sheer cliffside using a half-cave, half-wooden frame design.
- Global Recognition: Listed as one of the “Top Ten Dangerous Buildings in the World” by Time magazine.
- Thrilling Experience: Ascend the temple’s heights and admire the breathtaking views while learning about its historical significance.
Spend another three hours exploring this iconic site.
4. Evening Return to Beijing
Conclude your Datong adventure by taking the high-speed train G2542 (7:08 PM–8:53 PM) back to Beijing. Upon arrival, a driver will transfer you back to your hotel, wrapping up your day trip around 9:30 PM.
Departure and Return Details
- Start Location:
- Hotel Pickup: Available for centrally located Beijing hotels. Exact pickup time confirmed during checkout.
- End Location:
- Return to the original meeting point or your hotel.
Highlights
- Seamless transportation with round-trip high-speed train tickets.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes, home to over 59,000 Buddhist carvings.
- Visit the Hanging Temple, a remarkable structure perched on a cliffside.
- Enjoy a traditional Datong lunch with local specialties.
- Learn about Datong’s rich cultural heritage with an expert guide.
Tips for Travelers
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, water, and a light jacket for the train.
- Physical Requirements: Moderate walking and stair climbing at the Hanging Temple.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the best weather for exploring these sites.
