Datong Ancient Town

Introducing Datong Ancient Town

Datong Ancient Town, located in the southwest of Tongling City, was named Lanxi in ancient times. It has been a town for a thousand years. Historically, it was a famous riverside town both at home and abroad. Together with Anqing, Wuhu and Bengbu, it is known as the " Four Major Commercial Ports " of Anhui Province , and has the reputation of " Little Shanghai " .

Today, Heyue Old Street has only some historical buildings left because it has experienced wars and floods in history. It has become a ruins park with broken walls, making people feel as if they are in the Old Summer Palace.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Datong Ancient Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Datong Ancient Town has a rich history, dating back to the Tang dynasty. It is known for its well-preserved traditional buildings, ancient city walls, and historical temples. The town is a symbol of Anhui's cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into China’s past, with architecture and layouts typical of ancient Chinese towns.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Datong Ancient Town is located in Tongling, Anhui Province. It can be accessed by taxi from Tongling city center, and buses also run to the area. Walking is a good option once you're in the town to fully experience the historic streets and architecture.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town itself is open all day. The best times to visit are in the morning to avoid the crowds and to experience the serene atmosphere. For a more vibrant experience, visiting in the late afternoon allows you to enjoy both the daylight and the evening ambiance as lights illuminate the ancient buildings.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to explore Datong Ancient Town, as it is an open-air attraction. However, some temples or cultural sites within the town may require a small entry fee. Tickets for these can usually be purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

There is no need to book tickets in advance for the town itself. However, if you plan to visit specific cultural sites or events, it’s advisable to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Datong Ancient Town and appreciate its historical and cultural offerings, plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours. If you want to visit specific temples or cultural sites, add extra time for those visits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The ancient city walls and gates
• Local temples, such as the Taoist Temple
• Traditional alleyways and ancient architecture
• The water canals that run through the town

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in the town, and some local guides speak English. Audio guides may also be available at some of the cultural sites in the area, though they may primarily be in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The ancient town walls offer great panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.
• The water canals, especially at sunrise or sunset, provide stunning photo opportunities.
• Photographing the traditional architecture, particularly the old wooden houses and narrow alleyways, offers a great glimpse into the past.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start your visit by walking through the ancient town gates and along the city walls.
• Explore the main streets lined with traditional shops and eateries.
• Stop by one of the local temples for a more in-depth experience of the town's religious and cultural roots.
• Conclude your visit by walking along the canals and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Datong Ancient Town is beautiful at night, with its ancient buildings illuminated. Although there are no specific light shows, the ambiance of the lit-up town creates a magical atmosphere. Special night tours may be available during certain times of the year.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The town can be busy on weekends and holidays, especially during peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities in and around Datong Ancient Town, including public toilets, small shops, and food stalls. Rest areas are also available for relaxing during your visit. For more food options, head toward the main street of Tongling city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most of Datong Ancient Town is walkable, though some areas with cobblestone streets may be difficult for visitors with mobility issues. It is accessible for children and elderly visitors, but some parts of the town may require extra care when navigating.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used in the town, especially for shopping and food.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local eateries within the town that serve traditional Anhui cuisine, including noodle dishes and stews. For more dining options, head to the city center of Tongling.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some of the local restaurants, especially in the form of tofu-based dishes and vegetable stews. Halal food options may be limited, but they are available in larger towns nearby.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and hotels within walking distance of Datong Ancient Town, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. For a wider selection, you can also find hotels in the center of Tongling city.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Tongling Ancient City
• The famous Mount Jiuhua, a significant Buddhist site
• The Zhaojia Temple

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in Datong Ancient Town selling local handicrafts, pottery, textiles, and small trinkets. Popular items include locally made teas and hand-carved wooden objects.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

For continued travel, taxis and buses are the most common options. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Didi can be used to get to other nearby attractions or the main city center of Tongling.