Beijing to Datong by Train
350 km • 1h46m-2h30m • Yungang Grottoes
Stations
🚉 Beijing (Departure)
- Beijing North (北京北) Most G-trains to Datong South
- Beijing Qinghe (北京清河) Some G-trains
- Beijing (北京站) D-trains and overnight
🚉 Datong (Arrival)
- Datong South (大同南) High-speed station, 8km from center
- Datong (大同站) Regular trains, closer to old town
Train Options
G-train (High-speed) ⭐
Best ChoiceDuration: 1h46m-2h20m
Frequency: Every 30-60 min
Daily trains: 15+
First/Last: 07:00 - 19:00
Fastest: G2541 (1h46m)
Business: ¥300-350
First class: ¥170-200
Second class: ¥100-130
D-train (Bullet)
Duration: 1h50m-2h30m
Frequency: Every 1-2h
First: ¥150-180
Second: ¥90-120
Overnight K-train
Duration: 6-7h • Hard sleeper: ¥100-130 • K-trains, save hotel cost
Popular Trains
| Train | Depart | Arrive | Duration | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G2541 | 18:52 | 20:38 | 1h46m | Fastest |
| G2549 | 17:01 | 18:54 | 1h53m | Afternoon |
| D1121 | 15:40 | 17:31 | 1h51m | D-train |
| G2527 | 15:50 | 17:47 | 1h57m | Evening |
Top Attractions in Datong
- Yungang Grottoes (云冈石窟) (3-4h) UNESCO, 51,000 statues¥120
- Hanging Temple (悬空寺) (2h) 65km from Datong¥130
- Nine-Dragon Screen (九龙壁) (1h) In city center¥10
- Huayan Monastery (华严寺) (1-2h) Liao Dynasty¥65
- Datong City Wall (大同古城墙) (1-2h) Evening bestFree
Suggested Itinerary
1 Day: Yungang Grottoes (AM) + City Wall + Nine-Dragon Screen (PM)
2 Days: Day 1: Yungang + City | Day 2: Hanging Temple + Wooden Pagoda
From Beijing: Day trip possible (6:00 train → 21:00 return), but 2 days recommended
Practical Tips
Best route: Beijing North → Datong South (most G-trains)
Booking: Book 3-5 days ahead for weekends, holidays sell out fast
Local transport: Taxi from Datong South to Yungang: ~¥30 (20 min)
Hanging Temple: Hanging Temple requires bus/tour (65km), allow full day
Food: Try Datong sliced noodles (刀削面) and yellow cake (黄糕)