Tours & tickets

Yungang Grottoes

Be picked up from your Datong hotel or railway station or airport , relax in a chartered car , and explore the Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple on your own. You will see the World Heritage Yungang Grottoes , with their 252 caves and 51,000 statues, represent the outstanding achievement of Buddhist cave art in China in the 5th and 6th centuries. The Five Caves created by Tan Yao, with their strict unity of layout and design, constitute a classical masterpiece of the first peak of Chinese Buddhist art. Afterwards, see the Hanging Temple .Built more than 1,500 years ago, this temple is notable not only for its location on a sheer precipice but also because as a Buddhist temple it also contains references to the other two of the three Chinese traditional philosophies or religions : Taoism, and Confucianism. The structure is kept in place with oak crossbeams fitted into holes chiseled into the cliffs. The main supportive structure is hidden inside the bedrock.The monastery is located in the small canyon basin, and the body of the building hangs from the middle of the cliff under the prominent summit, protecting the temple from rain erosion and sunlight bake. Enjoy these two sites views of Datong , dropped off at your hotel or railway station or airport in Datong. We may change the order of the two locations based on the location of your hotel ，station or airport. If you have any special requirements, please let us know. Thanks :)

Tickets are all booked under real name system. It is necessary to leave everyone's passport number and name, approximately entry time：Morning or Afternoon otherwise it cannot be booked. Thank you for your understanding! Yungang Grottoes is located about 16 km west of the city of Datong, in the valley of the Shi Li river at the base of the Wuzhou Shan mountains. They are an outstanding example of the Chinese stone carvings from the 5th and 6th centuries. There are 53 major caves, along with 51,000 niches housing the same number of Buddha statues. Additionally, there are around 1,100 minor caves.

Embark on an exclusive private car charter tour to Datong's most iconic landmarks, where history and architecture converge in a breathtaking display. In the morning, your professional driver will greet you at your designated location. Settle into the comfort of your private vehicle and enjoy a scenic drive to your first destination: the Hanging Temple. Perched precariously on the side of a cliff in Hunyuan County, this architectural marvel has withstood the test of time for over 1,400 years. As you approach, you'll be struck by its seemingly gravity - defying structure, supported by just 27 wooden beams. The temple complex consists of 40 interconnected wooden buildings, linked by corridors and walkways that create an intricate maze in the sky. Explore its various halls, including the Hall of Three Buddhas, the Hall of Taiyi, and the Temple of Guan Yu, and experience the unique blend of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Standing on the temple's balconies, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, a sight that will take your breath away. After bidding farewell to the Hanging Temple, continue your journey to the Yungang Grottoes. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a vast complex of caves that stretches nearly one kilometer in length. With 45 main caves and 209 subsidiary caves, the grottoes house over 59,000 statues, each intricately carved and uniquely detailed. As you walk through the site, you'll follow a carefully curated route that takes you through different periods of the grottoes' history. Start with the early Tan Yao Caves (Caves 16 - 20), where the statues are massive and imposing, with broad faces, high noses, and deep - set eyes, reflecting the strong, robust artistic style of the time. Then, move on to the middle - period caves, such as Caves 5 and 6, which feature more elaborate designs and a greater variety of Buddhist themes, showcasing the increasing influence of Chinese art. Finally, explore the late - period caves, where the statues take on a more slender, elegant form, with delicate features and a sense of tranquility. Throughout your visit, an expert guide will be on hand to share the fascinating stories behind the grottoes, their construction, and their cultural significance, ensuring you gain a deep understanding and appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our driver will pick you up from your Beijing downtown hotel, then you will be transferred to the train station. Our driver will accompany you all the way to the right waiting room and make sure all tickets are ok. Enjoy a 2 hour bullet train ride on your own to Datong. Once arrive at Datong. Your local tour guide will greet you upon arrival at the train station, then go over the day’s itinerary on your way to the first stop of the day - Hanging Temple. The Hanging temple is the only existed temple hosting worship for the Taoists, Confucians and Buddhists. Built in 491 A.D, Hanging Temple is an architectural wonder because it hangs on the west cliff of Jinxia Gorge more than 50 meters above the ground. It has established its unique position among the various temples and monastery with its characteristics of “peril, workmanship and miracle”. Upon arrival, follow your tour guide to explore the temples and get to know the detailed stories and histories. Next, stop at a local restaurant for a quick lunch. Then heading directly to Yungang Grottoes (Approximately 1.5 hours drive). As an UNESCO World Cultual Heritage Site, Yungang Grottoes is deemed as the Three Largest and Most Famous Grottoes Clusters together with Mogao Grottoes of Dunhuang, and Longmen Grottoes of Henan. With their 252 caves and 51,000 status, the Yungang Grottoes art represent the successful fusion of Buddhist religious symbolic art from south and central Asian with Chinese cultural traditions, starting in the 5th century CE under Imperial auspices. The power and endurance of Buddhist belief in China are vividly illustrated by the Yungang Gottoes. After the tour you will be transferred to Datong railway station and heading back to Beijing. Once arrive, our driver will pick you up from the train station, and you will be transferred back to your hotel in Beijing.

After hotel pick–up at 9:00 am, transfer to visit the Hanging Temple, a temple built into a cliff 75 meters above the ground near Datong city. Discover the temple, built more than 1500 years ago, and marvel at its massive size. Find out more about the only existing temple to combine three Chinese traditional religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Enjoy your lunch in local restaurant before you move on to the Yungang Grottoes, one of the three most famous ancient Buddhist sculptural sites of China. Take in this outstanding example of the Chinese stone carvings from the 5th and 6th centuries. See the 53 major caves, along with 51000 niches housing the same number of Buddha statues. Find out how the grottoes were excavated in the south face of a sandstone cliff. In 2001, the Yungang Grottoes were made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the end of the tour, return to your hotel in Datong.

Pingyao, also known as Ping Yao, is a famous ancient city situated in Jinzhong, Shanxi Province, in northern China, approximately 600km from Beijing. With a history spanning 2700 years, it was first established during the reign of King Xuan (827 - 782 BC) of the Western Zhou Dynasty. However, it saw its major growth and development as an important city during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Designated as a Historic and Cultural City of China in 1986 and recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1997, Pingyao stands as a testament to successful heritage conservation. Traditional residences have been repurposed into hotels, restaurants, tea rooms, and wine houses, providing tourists with an authentic experience of the local lifestyle. Additionally, homes belonging to historical figures have been converted into museums, showcasing the heritage of prominent families.

Pick up at your hotel or train station in Datong Transfer time : Hotel/ Train Station -> Yungang Grottoes : 1 hour Yungang Grottoes -> Hanging Temple : 2 hours Hanging Temple -> Wooden Pagoda : 1 hour Wooden Pagoda -> Datong hotel : 1.5 hours You can bring food for lunch, or you can inform us in advance that you would like to dine at a restaurant on the way. We only have traditional local Chinese restaurants here, and the dining time is from 11:30am to 2pm. There is a limit on the number of visitors to the Hanging Temple, and most of the time you need to queue up to enter. The waiting time varies from 1 to 2 hours. In order to give you enough waiting time, we may adjust the order of attractions, but we will not reduce the number of attractions. It is a 4 -seater car for 1-3 people It is a 7 -seater car for 4-6 people It is a 14-seater car for 7-10 people

Discover the historical and cultural treasures of Datong on this private, full-day tour that combines breathtaking architecture, ancient art, and mouthwatering local cuisine. With the personalized attention of a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll delve into the rich heritage of this fascinating region of China. Perfect for history enthusiasts and culture lovers, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable journey through Datong’s most iconic landmarks. Tour Highlights: Hengshan Hanging Temple Your adventure begins at the awe-inspiring Hengshan Hanging Temple, a remarkable architectural feat nestled into the cliffs of Mount Heng. Built over 1,500 years ago, this temple defies gravity with its intricate wooden structures that cling to the rock face. As you explore its halls and walkways, your guide will share insights into the temple’s unique blend of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, making it a spiritual and cultural marvel. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and admire the extraordinary engineering that has preserved this site for centuries. Lunch: Local Cuisine Experience After your visit to the Hanging Temple, indulge in Datong’s vibrant food scene with a lunch break at a local restaurant (meal at your own expense). Savor the region’s most famous dish, Dao Xiao Mian, where thick, chewy knife-cut noodles are served in a rich, flavorful broth with savory meats and vegetables. Pair this hearty dish with crispy lamb buns, filled with tender, spiced lamb, and enhance the flavors with Shanxi’s renowned vinegar for an extra tangy kick. This culinary experience offers a delicious glimpse into the hearty flavors of northern China. Yungang Grottoes Conclude your tour at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Yungang Grottoes, one of the most significant Buddhist cave art sites in the world. Dating back to the 5th century, this incredible complex features over 51,000 statues and intricate carvings, showcasing the spiritual and artistic brilliance of ancient China. Wander through the grottoes as your guide shares captivating stories and insights, helping you appreciate the historical and cultural importance of this iconic site. The Yungang Grottoes provide a profound connection to China’s spiritual heritage and a perfect ending to your day of exploration. Why Choose This Tour? This private tour offers a seamless blend of history, culture, and local flavors, all tailored to your interests. Travel in comfort with a dedicated guide who ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Datong. Whether you’re captivated by the architectural ingenuity of the Hanging Temple or the artistic splendor of the Yungang Grottoes, this journey promises a day rich in discovery and unforgettable memories. Book now and uncover the beauty and history of Datong with this exclusive private tour!

Explore the wonders of Datong with our two convenient packages! Package 1: Driver - Only Service Meet your driver at your city hotel. Embark on a comfortable journey to the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to ancient Chinese artistry. Carved between the 5th and 6th centuries, these grottoes house over 51,000 Buddhist statues, ranging from towering 17 - meter - high figures to delicate, intricately detailed smaller carvings. The blend of Indian Buddhist art with Chinese traditional styles creates a visual spectacle that is both awe - inspiring and historically significant. Your driver will patiently await at the parking lot while you soak in the splendor at your own pace. Once you've had your fill, continue on to the Hanging Temple, an architectural marvel that seems to defy the laws of nature. Suspended 75 meters above the ground on the side of a precipitous cliff, this temple has endured for over 1,500 years. Its ingenious design, combining Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements, makes it a unique cultural gem. After your visit, the driver will whisk you back to the comfort of your hotel. Package 2: Guide & Driver Combo Your adventure kicks off with a meet - up at your hotel by both a professional driver and an experienced guide. As you arrive at the Yungang Grottoes, let your guide lead you through the maze of caves, bringing to life the stories behind each carving. Learn about the historical context, the painstaking craftsmanship, and the symbolism hidden within the art. Next, make your way to the Hanging Temple, where your guide will not only explain the temple's remarkable construction techniques but also share legends and anecdotes passed down through generations. With their in - depth knowledge, you'll gain a profound appreciation for these cultural treasures that you simply can't get on your own. At the end of an enriching day, return to your hotel feeling fulfilled and enlightened. Please note that entrance tickets and lunch are at your own expense. After booking, we'll reach out to assist you in purchasing tickets in advance, ensuring a seamless and stress - free visit.

Meet your tour guide in the lobby of your Datong hotel or Datong Railway Station/Airport. Then hop on your private vehicle and heading directly to Yungang Grottoes which will take 30 minutes. Your tour guide will explain the related histories and stories along the way, feel free to ask questions if you have. Upon arrival, follow your tour guide to admire outstanding achievement of Buddhist cave art in China during the 5th and 6th centuries architecture at Yungang Grottoes. Enjoy lunch in the local restaurant, heading directly to Hengshan Hanging Temple which will take 1.5 hours. The hanging temple is the only existed temple hosting worship for the Taoists, Confucians and Buddhists. Built in 491 A.D, Hanging Temple is an architectural wonder because it hangs on the west cliff of Jinxia Gorge more than 50 meters above the ground. Follow your tour guide to experience the 1400 years architectural wonder, get to learn the history of three major religions in China and how these believes been used into the architecture. After the tour finished, you will be transferred to your hotel in Datong.