Jing Song
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I've been leading trips to Datong for the better part of a decade, and the question I hear more than any other is, "Where should I stay?" It makes sense – Datong is a city with layers. You've got the raw grit of a coal-mining history, the soaring beauty of the Yungang Grottoes, and the peaceful escape of the Hanging Temple. Your accommodation can make or break your experience. So let me walk you through the neighborhoods and hotels that actually work for travelers.
Top Areas to Stay in Datong
1. City Center (Pingcheng District) – For Convenience & Nightlife
This is where most first-timers should plant themselves. The area around the ancient city wall – especially within the walled old town – is packed with restaurants, shops, and easy taxi access. Why I like it: You can walk to the Datong Ancient City Wall (enter at Heyang Gate), the Huayan Monastery, and the Shanhua Temple. At night, the wall lights up beautifully. Drawback: It can be noisy near the main roads, and some budget hotels are in older buildings without elevators. Always check if they have a lift – I once had a family with a stroller struggle up four flights of stairs.
2. Near Yungang Grottoes – For Culture Lovers
If your main goal is the grottoes (and it should be – they're incredible), staying near the south entrance of the grotto park saves you a 45-minute taxi ride from the city center. The area is quieter, with a few mid-range and upscale hotels. My pick: The Yungang International Hotel is right next to the ticket office. You can be inside before the tour buses arrive at 9 AM. Catch: There's almost no nightlife – just a few noodle shops. Great for early birds, boring for party people.
3. Near Datong Railway Station – For Budget & Transit
The area around the train station is full of cheap hotels and hostels. It's convenient if you're arriving late or leaving early by train. But honestly? It's a bit grimy. I've stayed at a few hostels here; they're fine for crashing but not for lingering. Pro tip: If you go budget, bring earplugs – train horns can be loud.
Best Hotels in Datong for Every Budget
| Hotel | Area | Price Range (per night) | Best For | Key Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Datong Garden Hotel | City Center | $$$ (600-1000 CNY) | Business/family | English-speaking staff, great breakfast buffet |
| Yungang International Hotel | Near Grottoes | $$ (400-700 CNY) | Culture vultures | Steps from grotto entrance, free shuttle to city |
| Hanting Express (City Center) | City Center | $ (150-250 CNY) | Budget solo travelers | Clean basic rooms, reliable WiFi |
| Datong Pingcheng Hostel | Near Train Station | $ (50-100 CNY dorm) | Backpackers | Social common area, free walking tours (ask at desk) |
Prices are from my 2023 visits – check current rates on Trip.com or Ctrip. They fluctuate by season (spring and autumn are peak; summer can be hot, winter freezing).
Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors?
If it's your first time in Datong, stay inside the old city wall. I cannot stress this enough. The area near the Drum Tower and the Huayan Monastery is the most walkable and gives you a real sense of the city's history. Plus, you'll find the best street food there. I always tell my guests: book the Datong Garden Hotel or the Jinjiang Inn (a reliable budget chain). Avoid the far east side near the new development zone – it's modern but soulless.
How to Choose the Right Area for Your Trip?
Ask yourself these questions:
- How many days do you have? 2 days? Stay in city center. 3+ days? Consider splitting: 1 night near grottoes, 2 nights in city.
- Are you traveling with kids or elderly? Pick a hotel with elevator and good restaurant inside. The Yungang International is flat and easy.
- Do you plan to take public transit? The bus from city center to Yungang takes about 1 hour (line 603). Taxi is 60-80 CNY.
- What's your budget? If you can splurge, the Garden Hotel is worth it. If not, Hanting is fine.
Insider Tips from a Local Guide
Here's something most online guides won't tell you: avoid the hotels on Yingbin East Road. Yes, they're cheap and near the station, but the noise from truck traffic is insane. I once had a guest who barely slept. Instead, walk 10 minutes south to the alleys around Xiaodongmen – there are small family-run guesthouses that are quieter and cheaper. They don't show up on booking sites – just walk in and ask (bring someone who speaks Chinese or use a translation app).
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