Datong: One of the cities with the largest year-on-year increase in foreign tourists in 2026 so far

In the 2026 boom of China’s inbound tourism, an ancient city carrying a thousand years of history has stood out—Datong. As of now, it leads the country with a 735% growth rate in inbound tourism popularity, becoming one of the cities with the largest year-on-year increase in foreign tourist volume since the beginning of this year.

Located in the northern part of China’s Shanxi Province, this ancient capital was once the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty and the Western Capital of the Liao and Jin Dynasties, enjoying the reputation of “Capital of Three Dynasties and a Strategic Town of Two Dynasties.” It is also the birthplace of the ideal of “Great Unity” (Tian Xia Da Tong). Different from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist cities, Datong attracts foreign tourists from all over the world with its profound history, stunning cultural landscapes, authentic northern frontier cuisine, and the unique charm of blending ancient rhythm with new trends, becoming the biggest “dark horse” of China’s inbound tourism in 2026.

This blog will fully unlock Datong for you and help you easily plan an ancient city trip that combines cultural depth with leisure fun.

Part 1: Why did the number of foreign tourists in Datong surge year-on-year in 2026?

As of March 2026, data from the Qunar platform shows that Datong’s inbound tourism popularity has grown by 735% year-on-year. This amazing growth is the result of deep cultural heritage, precise innovation, and convenient travel guarantees.

• Cultural IP Explosion: Since the 2026 Spring Festival, the filming location effect of Black Myth: Wukong has continued to ferment. Sites like the Yungang Grottoes and Ancient City Wall have become the first choice for “sacred site pilgrimages” for global players, attracting tourists from Europe, America, Japan, and South Korea. As one of China’s first 24 famous historical cities, Datong’s world-class heritage—like the Hanging Temple—satisfies the desire to explore traditional culture. Innovative forms like the “Tan Mi Yungang” immersive digital light show make the thousand-year culture tangible and participatory.
• Abundant Activities: During the 2026 Spring Festival, Datong launched 160+ activities under the theme “Datong Year, Very Different,” holding events like the Ancient Capital Lantern Festival and historical parades. 46 sets of themed lanterns integrated digital technology, combining traditional customs with trendy gameplay. Additionally, hosting the main venue of the Yellow River Folk Song Spring Festival Gala further expanded its international influence.
• Transportation and Service Upgrades: Datong Yungang Airport opened more domestic transfer routes, making it easy to reach Datong via Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. The city perfected multi-language signage, and scenic spots, hotels, and restaurants are now equipped with English-speaking staff. Overseas payment is widespread, and some spots offer English audio guides. Combined with China’s visa-free and visa-on-arrival policies, Datong has become a convenient choice for international travelers.

Part 2: Datong Transportation and Accommodation Guide

Datong’s attractions are concentrated, transportation is convenient, and accommodation choices are abundant. Whether you are a backpacker on a budget or a tourist seeking comfort, everyone can find a suitable way to travel and stay.

I. Transportation Guide (Arriving + City Travel)

1. How to arrive in Datong (External Transportation)

• Plane: Datong Yungang Airport (DAT) is the only civil airport. It has direct flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Xi’an. Foreign tourists can transfer via these hubs (1-2 hours). The airport is 15km from the city. You can take the airport bus (15 RMB/person, 30 mins) directly to core areas like the Drum Tower or Huayan Temple; a taxi costs 50-80 RMB (20-30 mins). The airport has English signs, currency exchange, and English service desks.
• High-speed Rail/Train: Datong has two core stations—Datong Station and Datong South Station. Datong South is the high-speed rail station, connecting to Beijing (2 hours) and Taiyuan (1.5 hours). This is the most convenient way. Datong Station mainly stops ordinary trains, suitable for those with limited budgets and plenty of time. Both stations have English guidance and ticketing services. After exiting, you can take buses, subways, or taxis to various attractions.
• Long-distance Bus: Suitable for travelers from Taiyuan, Zhangjiakou, or Hohhot. The main stations are Datong Terminal and Xinnan Passenger Station. Buses are frequent and affordable (50-100 RMB), but take longer. It’s recommended to check schedules in advance using translation software. Simple English signs are available.

2. Transport within Datong and Surrounding Areas (Internal Transportation)

• Taxi/Ride-hailing: The most convenient way. Starting fare is ~8 RMB. Drive between core city attractions takes 10-15 mins (10-20 RMB). Ride-hailing apps (Didi, Amap) allow ordering via mobile and support overseas payments. Most drivers know the scenic routes, and some can communicate simply in English.
• Bus: High cost-performance (2 RMB). Multiple lines reach the Ancient City Wall, Huayan Temple, and Yungang Grottoes. Some lines have English signs. For Yungang Grottoes, take Bus No. 3 directly to the entrance. For the Hanging Temple, take a bus to Hunyuan and then transfer to a local bus or taxi (reserve enough time).
• Chartered Car/Carpooling: Best for the Hanging Temple or Mount Heng. A chartered car for a day (8 hours) costs 300-500 RMB (customizable itinerary, drivers act as simple guides). Carpooling is 50-80 RMB/person/day. Choose formal rental companies and confirm prices in advance.
• Bicycle/Electric Scooter: Suitable for the Ancient City Wall. Rentals are 30 RMB/2 hours (bicycle) or 50 RMB/day (E-scooter). You can ride along the wall to enjoy the scenery and experience local life.

II. Accommodation Recommendations and Selection Tips

1. Recommended Popular Accommodation Areas

• Around the Ancient City Wall/Drum Tower: Recommended for those who like excitement and want to visit core attractions conveniently. This is the city center, within walking distance of Huayan Temple, Shanhua Temple, and Antique Street. Surrounding restaurants and snack streets are dense. Accommodations are mainly antique-style inns and boutique hotels (180-400 RMB/night). Most provide English front desk services, and some are decorated with northern Shanxi characteristics. Recommended: Datong Youth Hostel, antique inns in the ancient city.
• Around Yungang Grottoes: Only a 5-10 minute drive from the site. Accommodations are mainly express hotels and agritainment (100-200 RMB/night). Environment is quiet, saving travel time. Suitable for those who want to visit early to avoid peak crowds. Some hotels provide pick-up services.
• Around Datong South Station: Only 1-2km from the station. Accommodations are mainly express hotels (150-300 RMB/night). Convenient for short stays or departure day. You can take the subway or taxi to city attractions (20 mins).

2. Accommodation Selection Tips

• Prioritize accommodations with English services (boutique hotels and antique inns mostly have English front desks) to facilitate communication and avoid language barriers.
• Confirm if the hotel provides hot water and heating (Datong is cold in winter with sufficient heating; cool in summer, air conditioning is often not needed).
• Check reviews on platforms like Booking, Agoda, or Trip.com, focusing on “convenient transportation” and “cleanliness.” In peak season (May-Oct), book 1 month in advance.
• Choose based on your itinerary: Ancient City Wall for city tours; Yungang Grottoes for site focus; South Station for transit convenience.
• Budget tourists can choose youth hostels (50-100 RMB/night) or express hotels; those with a higher budget can choose high-end antique inns inside the city for an immersive experience.

Part 3: 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Datong (Detailed)

Yungang Grottoes

A landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site representing the peak achievement of 5th-6th century Buddhist art. It contains 45 caves and 51,000+ statues. The style integrates Gandhara art with Chinese tradition. Don’t miss the 17-meter-tall open-air Buddha.

Experience: Features an immersive digital light show. English audio guides (20 RMB) and English explanation services are available.

Tips: Peak tickets (Apr-Oct) are 120 RMB; off-season 100 RMB. Go at 8:30 AM to beat crowds. Wear comfortable shoes.

Hanging Temple

One of the world’s top ten most precarious buildings. Built in the Northern Wei Dynasty, it’s a wooden structure embedded in cliffs, supported by wooden beams. It is the only temple integrating Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

Experience: Dramatic views and ancient art.

Tips: Tickets are 115 RMB (including climbing). Those afraid of heights can view for free from a distance.

Datong Ancient City Wall

One of the most complete Ming Dynasty walls (7km long).

Experience: Free entry. Rent a bike (30 RMB/2 hours) or E-scooter at night to see the stunning lights. Light shows on Fri/Sat/Sun are free.

Huayan Temple

A royal temple from the Liao and Jin Dynasties. Upper Huayan Temple has the largest existing Liao-Jin Buddhist hall. Lower Huayan Temple has the “Oriental Venus” statue praised by Mr. Liang Sicheng.

Experience: peaceful environment.

Tips: Peak tickets are 50 RMB. Within 10 mins walk from the City Wall.

Shanhua Temple

One of the largest and best-preserved Liao-Jin temples.

Experience: Original structures that haven’t been massively rebuilt. Features 34 vivid Jin Dynasty sculptures.

Tips: Free entry, less crowded, simple English signs available.

Part 4: 5 Specialty Foods You Must Try

Datong Sliced Noodles (Dao Xiao Mian)

One of China’s top four noodles. Handmade, chewy, and served with rich gravy (pork, beef, etc.). Why: Unique texture and affordable (10-15 RMB). Try: “Dongfang Sliced Noodles,” “Qizhong Sliced Noodles.”

Datong Shao-mai

Flower-shaped steamed dumplings with fresh mutton, pork, or vegetable filling. Why: Thin skin and beautiful shape. Try: “Fenglin Ge,” “Longju Xiang” (century-old brands with English menus).

Hunyuan Jelly (Liangfen)

Springy, spicy, and sour snack made from local mung bean starch. Served with chili oil, vinegar, lotus beans, and dried tofu. (8-10 RMB). Try: “Xiao Xi Fu.”

Mutton Entrail Soup (Yang Za Tang)

Hearty winter favorite made with sheep organs and bone broth. Nutritious and warm. (12-15 RMB). Try: “Wang Lao Wu Doufu Fen.”

Yellow Rice Cake (Huangmi Lianggao)

Soft, sweet dessert made from local yellow rice. Served with sugar, honey, or bean paste. (15 RMB). Try: “Longju Xiang” or ancient city stalls.

Part 5: Practical 2-3 Day Itinerary Schemes

Best Time to Visit: May-October

(15-25°C). Summer (June-Aug) is a cool retreat; Autumn (Sept-Oct) is great for photos. Winter (Nov-Mar) is cold but quiet with snow and ticket discounts.

Scheme 1: 2-Day Leisure Tour

• Accommodation: Stay at an ancient city antique inn (English service, walk to sites).
• Day 1: Huayan Temple + Shanhua Temple + City Wall cycling. Dinner at Longju Xiang. Night light show on the wall.
• Day 2: Yungang Grottoes (Morning) + Digital show. Afternoon souvenir shopping. Final dinner at Dongfang Sliced Noodles.

Scheme 2: 3-Day In-depth Experience

• Accommodation: Day 1-2 Ancient City Inn; Day 2-3 Hunyuan express hotel.
• Day 1: City sites and local snacks.
• Day 2: Carpool to Hunyuan. Visit the Hanging Temple and Mount Heng (cable car 70 RMB). Stay in Hunyuan. Dinner at Xiao Xi Fu.
• Day 3: Carpool back to Datong for a deep tour of Yungang Grottoes. Buy souvenirs and head to airport/station.

Part 6: Summary — Why is Datong Worth Visiting?

Datong’s success in 2026 lies in its “weight and vitality.” It preserves pure ancient city atmosphere and simple human feelings. It offers world-class monuments, unique ethnic integration history, and authentic frontier food. More importantly, it blends historical weight with modern life—from light shows to digital exhibitions. Datong’s ancient career achievements and modern internationalized services ensure a seamless experience for every guest.

No matter your travel style, Datong will satisfy your expectations. Come to Datong to harvest an unforgettable memory of a Chinese ancient city. If you’re interested in discovering more places experiencing a surge in international visitors, check out our guide to China’s Top Rising Destinations for 2026.