Introduction
Exploring northern Shanxi’s cultural and natural wonders just got easier! An officially operated scenic area direct bus seamlessly connects Datong Ancient City with the Mount Hengshan Tourist Center. This comfortable service takes approximately 90 minutes each way, offering travelers an affordable and stress-free transit option at just ¥39 per person one-way. Forget navigating complex transfers—this dedicated shuttle efficiently transports you to the doorstep of Hengshan (Mount Heng), one of China’s Five Great Mountains and a sacred Taoist site.
Bus Schedule and Key Details
Plan your journey with the latest timetable for this essential route:
| Route | Duration | Fares (¥) | Departures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Datong Ancient City → Hengshan Tourist Center | 90 min | 39 | 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, 8:30, 10:00, 10:30, 13:20, 14:30, 16:00, 16:45 |
| Hengshan Tourist Center → Datong Ancient City | 90 min | 39 | 11:10, 12:30, 14:00, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00 |
| Buy tickets at www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/datong/datong-ancient-city-136052074 | |||
Note: Timetables, fares, and departure schedules may change without notice. Verify current details at booking.
How to Buy Tickets
Securing tickets is straightforward through two official channels:
- Official WeChat Mini-program: Accessible via “大同景区直通车” (Datong Scenic Area Direct Bus), but currently available only in Chinese.
- Ctrip (Trip.com): Use the English interface at www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/datong/datong-ancient-city-136052074. As an officially authorized platform, it offers identical routes and service standards.
Pro Tip: Foreign travelers should use Trip.com for English support and real-time booking.
Official Partnership with Ctrip
Since May 2025, the Datong Scenic Area Direct Bus service has established a strategic partnership with Ctrip (Trip.com). This collaboration ensures that all routes, bus types, fares, and service quality match the official standards. International tourists can confidently purchase English-language tickets via Trip.com, guaranteeing the same reliable experience as the government-operated service.
Boarding Points
Find your departure point easily using these locations:
- Datong Ancient City: Opposite Heyangmen Square at Niushun Hotel (导航: 钮顺酒店).
- Yungang Grottoes: Yungang Bus Station (near the UNESCO-listed caves).
- Datong South Station (HSR Station): 50 meters west of the exit, in the scenic bus parking lot.
- Hengshan Tourist Center: Ground floor shuttle drop-off area in the main service building.
- Yingxian Wooden Pagoda: Yingxian Pure Land Temple (a major Song-era landmark).
Reading more: Datong South to Yungang Grottoes by bus
Locations are subject to change—check tickets for updated details.
Networked Destinations
The direct bus service expands beyond Hengshan, connecting major regional attractions:
- Datong Ancient City ⇌ Hengshan Tourist Center
- Datong Ancient City ⇌ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
- Datong Ancient City ⇌ Yanmenguan
- Yungang Grottoes ⇌ Hengshan Tourist Center
- Yungang Grottoes ⇌ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
- Yungang Grottoes ⇌ Datong South Station
- Hengshan Tourist Center ⇌ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
- Yanmenguan ⇌ Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Perfect for multi-day itineraries covering Datong’s grottoes, Hengshan hiking, and ancient architecture!
FAQ
Can I buy tickets on-site?
No. Online pre-booking is mandatory to ensure seat availability and streamline boarding.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets release one week in advance. Book as soon as your long-distance travel plans are confirmed to secure your spot.
Trusted Online Ticket Agents:
Option 1: Trip.com is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc
Option 2: China Highlights is a reliable online agency for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.
