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The Datong Earth Forest is located in Duzhuang Village, Datong County, on the edge of the Datong Basin along the Sanggan River. It covers a radius of one kilometer and stretches three kilometers from north to south. Erosion and weathering by the nearby river have shaped the forest into a myriad of earthen platforms, pillars, cliffs, and ridges. Walking through it feels like stepping into a "ghost town."
Unlike the Stone Forest, the earth forest is constantly changing over time due to the influence of wind and rain, but its overall charm remains unchanged, without affecting its beauty. Locals call the earth forest "Slate Ditch." The so-called "slate" is actually a calcified layer deposited over many years.
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Datong Earth Forest is a remarkable geological site known for its tall, pillar-like earth formations created through erosion over millions of years. It is significant for its scientific, educational, and scenic value, showcasing unique natural landscapes in Shanxi.
The Earth Forest is located near Datong city in Shanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Datong. Local tour buses are available, and once at the site, walking is required to explore the formations.
Opening hours are usually 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit due to mild temperatures and clear skies.
Tickets typically cost around CNY 60–80. They can be purchased at the entrance or via official online booking platforms.
Booking in advance is recommended on weekends or holidays, ideally 1–2 days before visiting.
2–4 hours to walk through the main trails and viewpoints. Half a day is recommended for photography and exploration.
Guided tours are mostly in Chinese. Audio guides are limited and may not be available in English, so hiring a local guide or joining a tour group is advisable for non-Chinese speakers.
Start from the main entrance → visit the primary earth forest trails → hike to observation decks → explore valley paths → return via scenic viewpoints for photos.
Night visits are not available. Special educational tours may be organized occasionally.
Weekdays and mornings are less crowded. Holidays and weekends are peak times for visitors.
Facilities include public toilets, snack stalls, water points, resting areas, and a small souvenir shop near the entrance.
Some trails are steep and uneven, making them challenging for the elderly or disabled. Children can explore easily on shorter paths near the entrance.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; cash may be useful for small vendors.
Local eateries near the entrance serve Shanxi-style noodles, snacks, and light refreshments.
Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal options are limited and may require prior inquiry.
Datong city offers a range of hotels from budget to mid-range, suitable for overnight stays before or after visiting the Earth Forest.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, postcards, small earth forest replicas, and other regional memorabilia.
Private cars or taxis are recommended for onward travel to Datong city, Yungang Grottoes, or other nearby attractions. Local buses connect to surrounding towns.
