For foreign travelers visiting Datong, the newly launched direct tourist shuttle bus (operating since April 30, 2025) between Datong South Railway Station and Yungang Grottoes is a game-changer. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to seamlessly travel between Datong South Railway Station and the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes, complete with schedules, stops, and practical tips.
1. Shuttle Bus Essentials: Timetable, Stops & Fares
Here’s the complete schedule based on the official shuttle bus timetable (see tables for reference):
Shuttle Bus Routes & Details
| Route | Boarding Point | Travel Time | Fare | Departure Times |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Datong South → Yungang | 50m west of station exit (signed parking lot) | 40 mins | 10 RMB | 9:00-16:40: every 20 mins |
| Yungang → Ancient City → Museum → Datong South | Yungang Bus Station (near exit) | 50 mins | 10 RMB | 10:00 – 17:40: every 20 mins |
| Buy bus tickets on Trip.com: www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/datong/yungang-grottoes-78473 | ||||
Read more about: Datong South Railway Station (Datongnan Station)
Key Notes:
- Route Clarity:
- The return trip (Yungang → Datong South) stops at two cultural sites: Datong Ancient City and Datong Museum. You can disembark here to explore and reboard later.
- The direct trip (Datong South → Yungang) has no stops.
2. How to Use the Shuttle Bus
From Datong South Station to Yungang Grottoes
- Find the Shuttle: Exit the station, turn left, and walk 50m to the marked parking lot (look for staff in blue vests).
- Buy Tickets: Scan the QR code onsite or use the WeChat mini-program “Datong Scenic Shuttle” (search in Chinese: 大同景区直通车). Cash is accepted but not recommended.
- Board: Show your e-ticket or payment confirmation to the driver.
From Yungang Grottoes to Datong South Station
- Locate the Stop: Head to Yungang Bus Station near the exit. Signs in English/Chinese guide you.
- Plan Stops: Decide whether to get off at the Ancient City or Museum (or stay on until the station).
3. High-Speed Rail Connections
Datong South Station links to major cities:
| From City | To Datong South | Duration | Frequency (Daily) | Fare (2nd Class) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | ↔ | 1.5–2 hours | 20+ departures | 146–170 RMB |
| Xi’an | ↔ | 4–6 hours | 3 departures | 430–460 RMB |
| Taiyuan | ↔ | 2 hours | 10+ departures | 86–100 RMB |
Check Live Train Schedule
4. Nearby Attractions
- Yungang Grottoes: Spend 3–4 hours marveling at 1,500-year-old Buddhist carvings.
- Datong Ancient City: Wander Ming-era walls and night markets (accessible via the shuttle’s bus stop).
- Datong Museum: Free entry; showcases Northern Wei Dynasty artifacts (open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM).
- Hanging Temple (Xuankong Si): A 1.5-hour taxi ride (≈200 RMB) from Datong.
5. Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers
- Language: Staff speak basic English; download Google Translate for signs.
- Cash: Carry small RMB notes for tickets (some drivers don't accept cards).
- Timing: Arrive 10 minutes early for the shuttle—seats are first-come, first-served.
- Luggage: Storage space is limited (24-inch suitcases fit; larger bags may need extra
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.
