Complete Guide to Danxia Landform

Introduction to Datong Earth Forest Scenic Area
Datong Earth Forest is located in Duzhuang Village, Yunzhou District, Datong City, Shanxi Province. It is the only known earth forest scenic spot in North China and, along with the Yuanmou Earth Forest in Yunnan and the Zhada Earth Forest in Tibet, is known as one of the "Three Great Earth Forests of China." Below is a detailed introduction to the Datong Earth Forest landscape:

Formation Cause
The Datong Earth Forest was formed in the Quaternary river and lake sediment layers, originating from the sediment of the ancient Datong Lake. After the lake receded, the soft sedimentary soil layers were gradually eroded and cut by natural forces such as wind, water, and salt-alkali precipitation over hundreds of thousands of years, forming unique landforms such as earth pillars, earth walls, and earth forts. It is a typical wind-formed and water-formed landform landscape.

Landscape Features
Diverse Shapes: Within the earth forest, earth pillars, earth platforms, and earth cliffs stand in a staggered arrangement with various shapes. Some resemble majestic ancient castles, while others look like lively sculptures, combining to form a magical world of "earth sculptures."
Color Changes: Due to different minerals in the rock layers, the earth forest displays colors such as golden yellow, reddish, and grayish white under different lighting conditions. During dawn or dusk, the interplay of light and shadow makes the scenery even more magnificent.
Fragile and Changeable: The earth forest is composed of semi-loose and semi-consolidated sediments, making it susceptible to erosion by wind and rain. Its shapes dynamically change over time, requiring protective viewing.

Geological Value
The Datong Earth Forest is an important sample for studying the geological changes and ancient geographical environment of the Loess Plateau. Its sedimentary layers record information about ancient lake evolution and climate change, earning it the title of a "natural sedimentology laboratory."

Viewing Recommendations
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the color layers are richer, ideal for photography.
Precautions: The scenic area is windy and sandy, so it is recommended to wear wind and sand protection gear; some areas require safety attention to avoid approaching easily collapsible zones.

The Datong Earth Forest is not only a natural wonder but also a geological poem written by the earth. Walking through it, one can deeply feel the craftsmanship of nature and the vicissitudes of time.

Post by JERICHO FIELDS | Oct 19, 2025