Northern China’s ancient city of Datong makes for easy independent exploration, with three standout self-guided tours that hit all the major sites.
The best option combines a chartered car service with complete schedule flexibility – perfect for history buffs who like to linger at fascinating spots.
We especially love the UNESCO tour that pairs the magnificent Yungang Grottoes with the gravity-defying Hanging Temple – two must-see architectural marvels that deserve unhurried visits.
For culture seekers, the Wooden Pagoda circuit offers a fantastic look at classical Chinese engineering and Buddhist artistry.
Read on for my favorite self-guided adventures through this historic treasure trove.
Key Points
- Private self-guided tours in Datong offer flexible, cost-effective options to explore popular attractions like the Hanging Temple and Yungang Grottoes.
- These tours provide private transportation, pickup/drop-off services, and the flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on personal preferences.
- Self-guided options range from 8-9 hours, allowing ample time to visit multiple sites without the constraints of a group tour.
- Highly-rated tours emphasize quality service, with positive reviews highlighting the assistance and expertise of the dedicated drivers.
- Depending on the tour, additional features may include wheelchair accessibility, coverage of gas and parking fees, and free cancellation policies.
Datong Private Self-Guided Tour With Chartered Car
A Datong Private Self-Guided Tour with Chartered Car offers travelers the flexibility to explore the city at their own pace. Priced from $26.00 per person, this tour provides a private experience with only your group participating.
The tour includes pickup and dropoff from your location, a dedicated driver service, and parking fees. Although a tour guide isn’t provided, the flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on personal preference allows you to maximize your time in Datong.
With a 5.0 rating from 9 reviews, this self-guided tour has received positive feedback on the quality of service and driver assistance. Travelers have highlighted visits to the renowned Hanging Temple and Grottoes as highlights of the experience.
However, some have noted time constraints during peak tourist season, underscoring the value of a private tour for greater convenience and control over your schedule.
Read our full review: Datong Private Self-Guided Tour With Chartered Car Review
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YungangGrottoe HangingTemple Private Self-guided Tour by Car
Travelers seeking to explore the renowned Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple in Datong can opt for the private self-guided tour by car. Priced from $79.00 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a flexible and convenient way to discover these iconic attractions at one’s own pace.
The tour includes hotel, train station, or airport pickup and drop-off, as well as private transportation in a vehicle sized to accommodate the group size. Visitors will marvel at the 252 caves and 51,000 statues of the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes, a masterpiece of 5th and 6th-century Buddhist cave art.
The tour also features a visit to the Hanging Temple, an architectural marvel perched precariously on a cliff face and blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. Travelers can relax and soak in the scenic beauty of Datong throughout the journey.
With free cancellation, flexible booking, and positive reviews, this self-guided tour offers an enriching and hassle-free experience in Datong.
Read our full review: YungangGrottoe HangingTemple Private Self-guided Tour by Car Review
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Datong Hanging Temple Wooden Pagoda Self-guided Tour by Car
This self-guided car tour allows visitors to discover Datong’s iconic Hanging Temple and the historic Wooden Pagoda at their own pace. Priced at £2,279 per person, the 9-hour experience includes private transportation with hotel, train station, or airport pickup and drop-off.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and gas and parking fees are covered.
At the Hanging Temple, guests can explore the remarkable structure suspended 246 feet above ground, though interior visits may require lengthy queuing due to the temple’s narrow passageways.
The tour also visits the Wooden Pagoda, built in 1056 and renovated in 1195, which has withstood numerous earthquakes.
The itinerary allows ample time to visit both sites, with a 1.5-hour transfer to the Hanging Temple, 1-hour drive to the Wooden Pagoda, and 1.5-2 hour return.
Travelers should bring passports or ID cards for entrance tickets and note that food and drinks aren’t included in the package price.
Read our full review: Datong Hanging Temple Wooden Pagoda Self-guided Tour by Car Review
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The Sum Up
Datong offers a range of self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s top attractions at their own pace. From the Yungang Grottoes to the Hanging Temple, these tours provide a convenient and cost-effective way to discover Datong’s rich history and stunning architecture. With the help of a chartered car, visitors can easily navigate the city and fully enjoy the local culture.