Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train in Beijing
Beijing, China

Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train

Outty Ranking 59 5.0 · 5 traveler reviews12 hoursFrom $259

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September 2026

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Outty Ranking

59/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train worth booking?

Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train is a 12-hour experience in Beijing, China, from $259 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
59 / 100
Rating
5/5 (5)
Duration
12 hours
From
$259 per person

1) Taking advantage of the newly built Beijing-Datong bullet train, your day trip to Datong becomes possible. It only takes 2 hours each way. It is something perfect to do if you have an extra day in Beijing. 2) Our gui

What you get

    About this experience

    1) Taking advantage of the newly built Beijing-Datong bullet train, your day trip to Datong becomes possible. It only takes 2 hours each way. It is something perfect to do if you have an extra day in Beijing. 2) Our guide in Datong is one of the best tour guides, fluent in English, and knowledgeable about Shanxi history and culture. Very experienced in time management also to make sure you enjoy the most. 3) Have a taste of Shanxi-style food at lunch, not found in Beijing. 4) Private tour, so you will have a dedicated team to work for you.

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    lacobrigense1964 · May 2026

    A visit to the Datong Caves promises to be enlightening and inspiring.

    Datong Caves are a must-see attraction. These ancient caves house Buddha statues carved with intricate details dating from the 5th century. The craftsmanship and the richness of detail in these sculptures are truly remarkable, offering a glimpse of the art and spiritual devotion of the time. While exploring the caves, you will be captivated by the serene expressions and the imposition of the statues. This place not only provides a unique cultural and historical experience, but also allows visitors to reflect on the lasting legacy of ancient civilizations. A visit to the Datong Caves promises to be enlightening and inspiring.

    Response from the operator: Muito obrigado pela sua avaliação tão bonita e detalhada! Ficamos felizes em saber que as Grutas de Datong deixaram uma impressão tão profunda em você. Realmente, as esculturas e a atmosfera espiritual desse patrimônio extraordinário transportam os visitantes de volta a mais de 1.500 anos de história. Esperamos ter a oportunidade de recebê-lo novamente em futuras aventuras culturais pela China!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Y3973CEdianac · September 2025

    Amazing experience

    I had a great experience with this tour. Phoebe took great care of me. Had a lucky day with not so many crowds so we got to see more things than planned. Now I really wished I stayed there an extra day to have even more time to explore things. The hanging temple is beautiful but the Grottoes really were mind blowing. So much history there and just crazy skill of the artists that made them. That’s definitely something to see at least once. Thank you Phoebe for a great day. Hope to see you in my next visit to Datong! :)

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear you had such a wonderful experience in Datong and that Phoebe took great care of you. You were indeed lucky with the lighter crowds, and we’re glad you could enjoy even more than planned. The Hanging Temple and Yungang Grottoes are truly unforgettable treasures, and it’s wonderful to know they left such a strong impression. We’ll be excited to welcome you back for your next visit—Phoebe and the team will be ready to show you even more hidden gems of Datong!

    via Tripadvisor

    John M · July 2025

    China’s Glorious Past and Present Point to a Glioious Future

    This was a fabulous way of experiencing the present and past of China. The excellent train system and stations, and the new facilities built to welcome visitors to both the Hanging Monastery and the Yungang Grottoes represent modern China, while the Buddhist shrines of the Hanging Monastery and the Yungang Grottoes, and the harmonic relations shown among the Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions in the Hanging Monastery, represent China’s glorious past.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're absolutely thrilled to hear that your tour provided such a comprehensive and "fabulous way of experiencing the present and past of China." It's fantastic that you highlighted the blend of modern infrastructure, like the excellent train system and new visitor facilities, with the profound historical and cultural significance of sites like the Hanging Monastery and the Yungang Grottoes. You perfectly captured how these locations showcase both China's contemporary advancements and its glorious, rich past, especially through the harmonious representation of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions.

    via Tripadvisor

    Janice_J · April 2024

    A must do!

    A must see if you enjoy culture, history, and unique experiences. The train ride was smooth and quiet. Star was an extremely professional and knowledgeable guide. I am so glad that I hadn't tried to do this trip on my own. His knowledge of local history kept me in thralled the entire trip.

    Response from the operator: We were so glad to hear you enjoyed your trip to the cultural heritages in Datong with the famous grottoes and hanging monastery. I agree an English commentary is important to make the tour meaningful when you met the local and historic attractions for the first time. Thank you for your feedback!

    via Viator

    Jordan_L · March 2024

    Excellent trip

    Very good tour and guide. The Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery are both fantastic, and well worth the excursion from Beijing (even with the early start).

    Response from the operator: We are glad that you enjoy your trip! We are proud that this unforgettable adventure transported you to historic wonders that showcase the ingenuity and devotion of ancient Chinese culture, giving you memories to treasure for a lifetime! Thank you for using Great Wall Adventure Club!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    12 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 59

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)93
    Review evidence (18% weight)31
    Booking momentum (14% weight)23
    Value for money (12% weight)20
    Listing quality (10% weight)79
    Local standing (8% weight)53
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Beijing.

    How much does Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train cost?

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    Prices start at $259 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Beijing usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train take?

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    Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Beijing is not rushed.

    Is Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Beijing, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train?

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    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Beijing can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Beijing and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Datong Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Monastery 1-day from Beijing by Train start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Beijing within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Beijing?

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    On Outty we rank every Beijing experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Mubus: Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with Summer Palace Options, Beijing: Top 6 Highlights All Inclusive 2-Day Private Tour, Private Mutianyu Great Wall Trip With English-Speaking Driver. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Beijing?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Beijing?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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