Datong

Situated in the northern reaches of Shanxi Province, Datong has served for millennia as a strategic crossroads between the Chinese heartland and the steppes of Inner Mongolia. Founded as a commandery during the Han dynasty, its most illustrious historical period arrived during the Northern Wei dynasty (386–534 CE), when it served as their capital, Pingcheng. This era established the city's early political and cultural significance.
Following the Northern Wei's relocation of the capital, Datong's strategic importance re-emerged under the Ming and Qing dynasties as a frontline garrison against Mongol incursions. It was during this era that the city was enclosed by the formidable perimeter wall, sections of which, though heavily reconstructed in the 21st century, define the old city's grid. Beneath the city's modern streets lie substantial coal reserves; Datong sits at the centre of one of China's most significant coalfields, an industry that has historically driven its economy and population growth. The city's industrial character is juxtaposed with preserved Buddhist heritage sites from later periods, including the Huayan and Shanhua temple complexes, alongside the striking suspension temple of Xuankongsi, which clings to a precipice in the surrounding mountains. Its climate is characterised by arid, dusty springs and bitterly cold winters, a consequence of its altitude and northern latitude.
How to get to Datong
Datong has an airport and a train station with high speed trains to Beijing.
Accommodation
Datong has countless hotels, bookable via international hotel booking portals.