The Ancient City's Lively Atmosphere Captured in Bricks and Tiles

The Ancient City's Lively Atmosphere Captured in Bricks and Tiles

As the morning light sweeps over the 7.24-kilometer Ming Dynasty city wall, the aroma of knife-cut noodles wafts between the grey bricks and black tiles. In the distance, the upturned eaves of Huayan Temple and the trendy photo spots on street corners complement each other—this is Datong Ancient City, a thousand-year-old capital where the spirit of the Liao and Jin dynasties perfectly coexists with modern vitality. There's no need to deliberately seek out history; just stroll through the streets and alleys, and every step will lead you into a romance where ancient and modern intertwine.

Today's ancient city is no longer a static historical specimen. The Dongnanyi Historical and Cultural Block has transformed into a giant immersive theater. Follow the parade, and you might encounter the heroic Mulan in a martial arts competition, or witness the clash between Jin merchants and Persian traders. On Silk Road Square, the brick and stone pagoda base and hollow steel structure complement each other; by day, it's a Silk Road landmark with flowing silks, and by night, it transforms into a light and shadow ferry [__LINK_ICON]. In the alleys of Gulou East and West Street, creative photo spots are everywhere: tourists flock to the stone carving that reads "I'm Waiting for You in Datong," the projection wall proclaiming "You Must Come to Datong to Feel the Northern Wei Wind" creates an immersive atmosphere, and outside the Guangshengyuan Museum, a sculpture of a famous Ming Dynasty physician humorously "takes the pulse" of visitors for "auspicious pregnancies" [__LINK_ICON]. At the Nianxia Art Center, contemporary anime exhibits collide with ancient architectural layouts, becoming a cultural landmark popular with young people.

The lively atmosphere is the most captivating essence of the ancient city. The aroma of lamb offal soup wafts from Shuaifu Street early in the morning, with vermicelli wrapped around lamb offal simmering in rich broth, topped with a spoonful of chili oil to warm the heart and stomach. The knife-cut noodles at Xijin Dao are springy and chewy, served with a rich tomato and egg sauce—a daily delight for locals. As an intangible cultural heritage delicacy, the "Hundred Flower Shaomai" at Fenglin Pavilion features fresh fillings wrapped in thin skins, with soup bursting forth the moment you bite into them. If you happen upon an intangible cultural heritage market, you can also sample various steamed buns and flower pastries from across the province, unlocking multiple Shanxi flavors for just 10 yuan and experiencing the charm of intangible cultural heritage on your palate.

This "Northern Gateway" city boasts both the profound heritage of Liao and Jin ancient architecture and the fresh fun of immersive experiences, along with the warm comfort of bustling streets. Here, every grey brick hides a story, and every wisp of aroma carries sincerity. Why not take advantage of the good season and visit Datong Ancient City, allowing a thousand years of history and modern vitality to write an unforgettable chapter in your journey.

Post by Ava Cook Ava)45 | Oct 19, 2025