Revisiting Datong, the Same Scenery but Different Emotions

Returning to Datong brings a flood of emotions—last time it was beautiful, but this time it's utterly breathtaking.

Attraction Recommendations:
- **Yungang Grottoes**: One of China's three major grottoes, featuring exquisite Buddhist statues and murals that showcase the artistic charm of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Must-see caves include Nos. 16-20 and the Music Cave.
- **Hanging Temple**: Known for its "uniqueness, suspension, and ingenuity," this temple clings to a cliff and blends Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism into one awe-inspiring site.
- **Mount Heng**: One of the Five Great Mountains of China and a key birthplace of Taoism. Its rugged terrain offers stunning views—take the cable car up and hike down for the best experience.
- **Datong Ancient City Wall**: A Ming Dynasty relic stretching 7.2 km. Rent a bike to circle the wall and enjoy panoramic views of the old city. The evening light show is spectacular.
- **Huayan Temple**: A well-preserved complex of Liao and Jin Dynasty architecture, named after the *Avatamsaka Sutra*. Highlights include the Bhagavat Sutra Library Hall (home to the "Eastern Venus") and the Grand Hall with its Liao-era structure and Qing-era murals.

Food Recommendations:
- **Daoxiao Noodles (Knife-Cut Noodles)**: A Datong specialty with chewy noodles and rich broth. Try "Dongfang Xiaomian" or "Longjuxiang."
- **Hunyuan Cold Noodles**: Refreshing and tangy, served with chili oil and vinegar—a perfect summer dish. Authentic versions are found in Hunyuan Ancient Town.
- **Datong Lamb Offal Soup**: Hearty and aromatic, best paired with baked flatbread.
- **Baihua Shaomai (Hundred-Flower Dumplings)**: Delicate wrappers stuffed with flavorful fillings, shaped like blooming flowers—a local favorite.
- **Yellow Rice Cake**: Soft, sweet, and often served with red bean paste or brown sugar—ideal for breakfast.

Accommodation Suggestions:
- **Luxury**: *Datong Yungang Hotel* (southeast corner of Heng'an Street and Yonghe Road) offers 110,000 sqm of lavish space; *Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Datong* features upscale rooms and amenities.
- **Design-Focused**: *Datong Yungang Hotel* boasts spacious rooms with scenic views.
- **Boutique Stays**: *Yunzhong Inn* (No. 1 Courtyard west of Chunyang Palace on Gulou West Street) is a serene Chinese garden retreat; *Northern Wei Yunqi (Datong Ancient City Branch)* blends antique charm with traditional style.

Itinerary Ideas:
- **3-Day Trip**:
- Day 1: Morning at Huayan Temple, afternoon on the Ancient City Wall (bike or walk), evening exploring local food and nightlife.
- Day 2: Full day at Yungang Grottoes to immerse in cave art.
- Day 3: Morning at Hanging Temple, afternoon hiking Mount Heng.
- **4-Day Trip**:
- Days 1–2: Same as above.
- Day 3: Morning at Datong Museum to delve into history, afternoon at Shanhua Temple for tranquility.
- Day 4: Explore Datong Tulin (Earth Forest) at sunset for its unique loess landscapes.