Where to Stay in Datong
China
|Pop. 1.9M
|3 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Avel Chuklanov / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Datong City Center is the best neighbourhood to stay in Datong. The bustling heart of Datong, offering a mix of historical sites and modern amenities. Ideal for first-timers, culture, foodies. Budget travellers can get by on CNY 250/day.
Areas to Avoid in Datong
Safety rated "Safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Datong City Center | The bustling heart of Datong, offering a mix of historical sites and modern amenities. | Mid-range | first-timers, culture | Generally safe during the day; exercise ... |
| Near Yungang Grottoes | A more tranquil area focused on the magnificent Yungang Grottoes. | Mid-range | culture, families | Very safe, especially within the tourist... |
| Datong South Railway Station Area | A developing area focused on transport links and modern infrastructure. | Budget | budget, solo travelers | Safe, with good lighting and security ar... |
Datong City Center
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Datong, offering a mix of historical sites and modern amenities.
Generally safe during the day; exercise standard caution at night regarding pett...
Near Yungang Grottoes
Mid-rangeA more tranquil area focused on the magnificent Yungang Grottoes.
Very safe, especially within the tourist site; limited activity at night means m...
Datong South Railway Station Area
BudgetA developing area focused on transport links and modern infrastructure.
Safe, with good lighting and security around the station; standard awareness nee...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Datong
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Datong City Center
The bustling heart of Datong, offering a mix of historical sites and modern amenities.
Our top picks in Datong City Center
A well-established hotel offering comfortable rooms and good service, close to many city sights.
Book NowOffers modern luxury and amenities, a good choice for those seeking higher-end comfort.
Book NowA reliable budget-friendly option for clean and basic accommodations.
Book Now
Near Yungang Grottoes
A more tranquil area focused on the magnificent Yungang Grottoes.
Our top picks in Near Yungang Grottoes
Conveniently located right next to the grottoes, offering easy access and good views.
Book NowA comfortable option that provides a good base for exploring the grottoes and surrounding area.
Book NowA more basic, affordable choice for travelers prioritizing proximity to the grottoes.
Book Now
Datong South Railway Station Area
A developing area focused on transport links and modern infrastructure.
Our top picks in Datong South Railway Station Area
A budget chain offering reliable and clean rooms, ideal for transit travelers.
Book NowAnother dependable budget option located very close to the station.
Book NowOffers slightly more comfort and amenities than basic budget chains, still conveniently located.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Datong
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Datong at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Datong
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Consider visiting Datong in spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) to avoid the extreme heat of summer and the harsh cold of winter, and to potentially experience clearer skies.
Getting Around
Download a Chinese map app like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) and learn basic Mandarin phrases for directions, as English signage and communication can be limited.
Watch Out For
Taxi scams (overcharging, taking long routes) - ensure meter is used.
Solo Female Travel
Datong is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and keeping valuables secure are advised.
Hidden Gems in Datong
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Datong City Wall
While parts of the city wall are restored, cycling or walking along its ramparts offers a unique perspective of Datong, revealing historical layers often missed by visitors focused on the Yungang Grottoes.
Datong Museum
This modern architectural marvel houses a fascinating collection that delves into the rich history and culture of Datong and the surrounding Shanxi province, providing context beyond the famous grottoes.
Huayan Temple
A remarkably preserved example of Liao and Jin dynasty Buddhist architecture, Huayan Temple offers a serene and less crowded alternative to other historical sites, showcasing intricate wooden structures and vibrant murals.
Datong Vegetarian Restaurant (Various)
Look for local vegetarian eateries, particularly those associated with Buddhist temples. They offer delicious and authentic regional dishes with fresh ingredients, providing a taste of local culinary traditions.
Qingciyuan Park
FREEThis expansive urban park is a favorite among locals for leisurely strolls, boating on the lake, and enjoying green spaces. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle and offers a glimpse into daily life.
Shengdi Square
FREEThis bustling square comes alive in the evenings with locals gathering for square dancing, tai chi, and enjoying street food. It's a vibrant spot to experience the authentic social pulse of Datong.
Things to Do in Datong
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Datong tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Datong
Daily budget per person in CNY
💡81% cheaper than London
CNY 250/day
CNY 500/day
CNY 1200/day
Where to Stay in Datong
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Datong City Wall15 min
- Huayan Temple20 min
- Datong Museum25 min
Pros
- +Central location for major attractions
- +Good selection of restaurants and shops
- +Easy access to public transport
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Air quality can be an issue
Top stays in Datong City Center
Datong International Hotel
$$A well-established hotel offering comfortable rooms and good service, close to many city sights.
Grand Hyatt Datong
$$$Offers modern luxury and amenities, a good choice for those seeking higher-end comfort.
Home Inn Plus Datong Yungang Road
$A reliable budget-friendly option for clean and basic accommodations.
Wanda Vista Datong
$$$Known for its upscale facilities and dining options, providing a luxurious stay.
Best for
Walk to
- Yungang Grottoes10 min
Pros
- +Direct access to a UNESCO World Heritage site
- +Quieter atmosphere away from city noise
- +Scenic surroundings
Cons
- -Limited dining and shopping options
- -Further from other city attractions
Top stays in Near Yungang Grottoes
Yungang Grottoes Hotel
$$Conveniently located right next to the grottoes, offering easy access and good views.
Datong Grand Hotel
$$A comfortable option that provides a good base for exploring the grottoes and surrounding area.
Datong Xinfu Hotel
$A more basic, affordable choice for travelers prioritizing proximity to the grottoes.
Best for
Walk to
- Datong South Railway Station5 min
Pros
- +Excellent transport connectivity
- +Newer hotels and facilities
- +Generally less crowded than city center
Cons
- -Fewer tourist attractions within walking distance
- -Can feel more like a transit hub than a destination
Top stays in Datong South Railway Station Area
Hanting Hotel Datong South Railway Station
$A budget chain offering reliable and clean rooms, ideal for transit travelers.
Home Inn Datong South Railway Station
$Another dependable budget option located very close to the station.
Vienna Hotel (Datong South Railway Station)
$$Offers slightly more comfort and amenities than basic budget chains, still conveniently located.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial outskirts: These areas are primarily industrial and lack tourist infrastructure, offering little of interest and potentially poor air quality.
Insider tip: Consider visiting Datong in spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) to avoid the extreme heat of summer and the harsh cold of winter, and to potentially experience clearer skies.
Where to Stay in Datong
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Datong City Center
The bustling heart of Datong, offering a mix of historical sites and modern amenities.
Stay in Near Yungang Grottoes
A more tranquil area focused on the magnificent Yungang Grottoes.
Stay in Datong South Railway Station Area
A developing area focused on transport links and modern infrastructure.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Datong
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List Your PropertySafety in Datong
SafeSolo Female Travel
Datong is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and keeping valuables secure are advised.
At Night
Most tourist areas are quiet after 9-10 PM. Stick to well-lit main streets if out late. Avoid empty, dark side streets.
Emergency
110 (Police), 120 (Ambulance), 119 (Fire)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Taxi scams (overcharging, taking long routes) - ensure meter is used.
- 2Fake guides at tourist sites - only use official information or pre-booked tours.
Compare hotel deals in Datong
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Datong
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in China
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for China and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Datong
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Datong Yungang International Airport (DAT) is about 15-20 km from the city center. Taxis are available (approx. 50-70 CNY, 30-45 mins), or look for airport shuttle buses if available (check schedules locally, approx. 20-30 CNY).
🎫
Day Pass
No specific day pass for buses; single rides are very cheap (1-2 CNY).
Single: 1-2 CNY for buses.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Didi
📶
WiFi
Good20-50 Mbps in cafes
Public Transport
Buses are the primary public transport within Datong. There are numerous routes covering most areas. Taxis and ride-sharing are also widely available.
Ride-share
DiDi (China's Uber equivalent) is widely used. Expect costs around 15-30 CNY for short to medium trips within the city.
Transport Tip
Download a Chinese map app like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) and learn basic Mandarin phrases for directions, as English signage and communication can be limited.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, some cafes and restaurants (often require local phone number for access).
Coworking
Limited options; some hotels offer business centers. Check local co-working spaces like 'Datong Innovation Space' (daily cost approx. 50-100 CNY if available).
Rent a Car in Datong
Compare prices from top rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.
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Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Jun, Sep
Plan Your Perfect Datong Trip
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Hotels & Accommodation in Datong
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Who Is Datong Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time visitors to Datong
Provides easy access to key historical sites, a variety of dining options, and good transport links.
Culture enthusiasts
Offers direct and convenient access to the world-renowned Yungang Grottoes, the city's primary cultural draw.
Budget travelers
Features a concentration of affordable hotels and excellent transport links for onward travel or exploring the region.
Families
This area is quieter and closer to the main family-friendly attraction, Yungang Grottoes, with fewer distractions.
About Datong
Datong is a prefecture-level city in northern Shanxi Province in the People's Republic of China. It is located in the Datong Basin at an elevation of 1,040 metres (3,410 ft) and borders Inner Mongolia to the north and west and Hebei to the east. As of the 2020 census, it had a population of 3,105,591 of whom 1,790,452 lived in the built-up (or metro) area made of the 2 out 4 urban districts of Pingcheng and Yungang as Yunzhou and Xinrong are not conurbated yet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Datong
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