Datong, Pingyao, Wutaishan - Travel Stone agency

From 735€ / person 4 Days

A dive into ancient fortified cities

An ancient capital city of the Chinese Empire, Datong is still framed nowadays with a city wall built more than 1600 years ago by the Northern Wei dynasty. You'll also discover and admire the Buddhist scupltures in Yungang grottoes as well as its suspended monastery, an incredible design and building. In Wutaishan, you'll get the time to recharge and relax on one of the most sacred Buddhist mountains in China. Finally, Pingyao will amaze you with its deep history (Pingyao was the financial centre of China), beautiful architecture everywhere, and very tranquil atmosphere. From Datong to Pingyao is a very special trip that will unveil different parts of Chinese history.

Do not miss

Datong and its incredible suspended monastery, an amazing construction. Pingyao for its many Ming and Qing dynasty courtyards, an old financial and strategic town still surrounded by its city wall.

From Datong to Pingyao itinerary

Visit Datong and its surrounding unmissable sites, before reaching Wutaishan for a stop on this sacred mountain. Finally, reach Pingyao and its unique atmosphere.

Day 1: Arrival in Datong

Upon your early morning arrival in Datong, your driver will welcome you at the airport. Meet your guide and start your visits, before checking in at your hotel in the afternoon.

Start your tour at the Buddhist Yungang grottoes, then go on to Shanhua Temple, a very well-preserved architectural complex. You’ll finish your day at Hua Yan monastery, before seeing the Nine Dragons Wall in Datong city centre.

Day 2: Datong – Mount Wutai (B)

This morning, you’ll meet your guide and visit the impressive Xuankongsi, a monastery that was built suspended to the cliff more than 1600 years ago. Explore the monastery and continue your trip from Datong to Pingyao through Mount Wutai (~4hrs drive), one of the five sacred mountains for Buddhists in China.

Day 3: Mount Wutai – Pingyao (B)

Mount Wutai is a unique sacred place, both for Chinese Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism. In the morning, you’ll explore Wutaishan natural scenery, forests, and temples. In the afternoon, your driver will take you to the old fortified city of Pingyao (~4hrs drive).

Day 4: Pingyao (B)

Today, you’ll discover Pingyao old town. This fortified city dates back to the 14th century, and its houses form the Ming and Qing dynasties are remarkably well-preserved. Lose yourself among its classical courtyards that will remind you of some Chinese period movies such as “Raise the Red Lantern” by Zhang Yimou. The old city itself is now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, and its walls are among the best preserved from the Ming dynasty. You can stroll along the town’s narrow alleys and visit many temples and historical mansions.
In the end of the afternoon, your driver will take you to the airport and you will board your flight to your next destination.