How to Get from Datong to Yungang Grottoes

Quick Answer

The best way to get from Datong to Yungang Grottoes for most independent travelers is the Tourist Shuttle Bus 603 from Datong Railway Station North Square (40-50 minutes, 2 RMB/$0.28/4,200 IDR, direct with no transfers). This is the only direct public transport to the UNESCO World Heritage site. For convenience and time savings, take a taxi (25-35 minutes, 40-60 RMB/$5.60-8.40/84,000-126,000 IDR) or Didi for door-to-door service. For budget travelers, public bus transfers cost 2 RMB but take 60-80 minutes. Families or groups of 3-4 should take a taxi - it's actually cheaper per person than the shuttle bus. Photographers and serious visitors should consider a private car to arrive at opening time (8:30 AM) before crowds. Critical warning: Getting a Didi or taxi BACK from Yungang is extremely difficult - always have a return plan.

How to Get from Datong to Yungang Grottoes by Tourist Shuttle Bus (Recommended)

The Tourist Shuttle Bus 603 is the only direct public transport from Datong to Yungang Grottoes. Unlike confusing public bus transfers, this dedicated tourist service runs straight from Datong Railway Station to the grottoes entrance. The internet often mentions "take a bus" but doesn't clarify that most buses require transfers. Here's the reality: If you're taking public transport, Bus 603 is your ONLY sensible option. Here are the details:

Route	Service	Travel Time	Cost	Best For
Datong Railway Station → Yungang Grottoes	Tourist Shuttle Bus 603 (Direct)	40-50 minutes	2 RMB ($0.28/4,200 IDR)	Most independent travelers, budget conscious
Yungang Grottoes → Datong Railway Station	Tourist Shuttle Bus 603 (Return)	40-50 minutes	2 RMB ($0.28/4,200 IDR)	Return trip (if you can find it)
Datong Hotels → Yungang (via station)	Taxi to station + Bus 603	50-70 minutes	10-20 RMB ($1.40-2.80/21,000-42,000 IDR)	Those not near railway station

Tourist Shuttle Bus 603: The Direct & Easy Option

The Bus 603 from Datong Railway Station North Square (40-50 minutes, 2 RMB) runs every 10-20 minutes from approximately 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Look for blue buses with "云冈石窟" (Yungang Grottoes) signage. The bus drops you 1.5km from the actual grottoes entrance - you can either walk 20 minutes or take an electric cart (10 RMB). The return bus picks up from the same drop-off point. This is my top recommendation for 80% of Yungang visitors.

A Common Real-Life Mistake with Yungang Transport

You take Didi to Yungang (easy, 45 RMB). Spend 4 hours exploring. Tired, you open Didi for return trip. No cars available. Wait 30 minutes. Try taxi stand - no taxis. Ask other tourists - they're on tours. Finally find a taxi driver who wants 150 RMB for a 40 RMB ride. You either pay or wait 45 minutes for Bus 603. This happens DAILY. Always have a return plan: 1) Note last Bus 603 time (~6:00 PM), 2) Arrange taxi pickup time with your morning driver, 3) Join other tourists for shared taxi. The internet says "take Didi" - that's only true for getting there, not returning.

Shuttle Bus Schedule & Important Details

Operating hours to Yungang: First bus ~7:00 AM, last bus ~6:00 PM. Return from Yungang: Last bus leaves around 6:30 PM. Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes, more frequent 8-10 AM. Payment: Cash (exact change) or scan QR code. Seating: First-come, first-served. Morning buses can be full - arrive early. From Yungang return: Buses wait near drop-off point, not at main entrance. Ask staff for exact location.

Datong to Yungang by Public Bus (Not Recommended)

While public buses exist as an option, they require confusing transfers and I don't recommend them for tourists. The journey requires: 1) Bus 3 or 4 to transfer point, 2) Transfer to Bus 12 or 26 to Yungang area, 3) Walk 1.5km to entrance. Total travel time is 60-80 minutes for what's a 25-minute drive. At 2 RMB total, it's cheap but punishing.

Public Bus from Datong to Yungang: The Complicated Reality

• Option 1: Bus 3 to Xinjian South Road, transfer to Bus 12 to Yungang stop
• Option 2: Bus 4 to Bus 26 transfer
• Total time: 60-80 minutes (vs 40-50 minutes by tourist shuttle)
• Total cost: 2 RMB ($0.28/4,200 IDR) (same as tourist shuttle)
• Convenience: Poor - transfers, crowded buses, Chinese-only announcements
• Walk from bus stop: 1.5km (20 minutes) to entrance

Why Would Anyone Choose Public Bus Over Tourist Shuttle?

The public bus only makes sense in one scenario: You're already near a Bus 3/4 stop and far from the railway station. However, I need to be clear: the public bus is NOT tourist-friendly. The transfers, lack of English signs, and long walk make it miserable. The tourist shuttle is the same price, direct, and designed for tourists. I only mention public buses because other sites list them, but for 99% of visitors, the tourist shuttle is dramatically better.

Public Bus vs Tourist Shuttle: When Each Fails

Tourist shuttle fails when: You need to travel outside operating hours, you're staying far from railway station, or buses are full. Public bus fails when: You get lost during transfer, miss the bus, can't find the stop, or don't read Chinese. During peak tourist season, public buses are overcrowded with locals. I only include public bus information to explain why you shouldn't use it.

Datong to Yungang by Taxi, Didi & Private Car

Taxi from Datong to Yungang Grottoes

Taking a taxi from Datong to Yungang offers door-to-door convenience. The distance is approximately 16 km (10 miles), with travel time of 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. Typical taxi fare ranges from 40-60 RMB ($5.60-8.40/84,000-126,000 IDR) on meter. Always insist on meter - some drivers quote 80-100 RMB to tourists. Taxis can be hailed anywhere in Datong or found at taxi stands. This option is cost-effective for groups of 3-4 splitting the fare. Solo travelers should avoid taxis - it's 20x more expensive than the shuttle bus.

Didi (Chinese Uber) from Datong to Yungang

Didi from Datong to Yungang works similarly to Uber. Fares range from 35-55 RMB ($4.90-7.70/73,500-115,500 IDR) depending on demand and time. During peak times, fares can be higher. Didi requires: Chinese phone number, Alipay/WeChat Pay setup, Chinese app store account. Getting a Didi BACK from Yungang is extremely difficult - few drivers in the area. I've seen tourists wait 45+ minutes with no car. Always have a return plan if using Didi to get there.

Private Car with Driver

Private car hire provides a dedicated car and driver for 4-8 hours. Prices range from 200-400 RMB ($28-56/420,000-840,000 IDR) for a full day. Benefits include: hotel pickup, waiting while you visit, flexibility to visit other sites, and guaranteed return. This is the most convenient option for families, photographers, or those wanting to combine Yungang with other sites like Nine Dragon Screen or city walls. Drivers usually don't speak English but know the route.

When is a Taxi/Private Car Actually Worth It?

For solo travelers: Almost never (shuttle is 2 RMB vs taxi 40+ RMB). For 2 people: Maybe (taxi 20-30 RMB each vs shuttle 2 RMB each). For 3-4 people: Definitely yes (taxi 10-20 RMB each vs shuttle 2 RMB each - worth the convenience). For photographers wanting early arrival: Private car to arrive at 8:30 AM opening. For hot summer days or bad weather: Taxi avoids waiting/walking. For elderly or mobility impaired: Taxi drops at entrance vs 1.5km walk from bus.

The Return Taxi Problem - Critical Warning

Getting a taxi BACK from Yungang is challenging. Options: 1) Arrange with morning driver to return at specific time (+ extra 20-30 RMB waiting fee), 2) Taxi stand at entrance (limited taxis, may overcharge), 3) Ask other tourists to share taxi, 4) Take tourist shuttle bus. The worst time to find taxis is 4-6 PM as everyone leaves at once. Plan your return before you arrive.

Guided Tours from Datong to Yungang Grottoes

Group Tours from Datong

Group tours to Yungang typically cost 150-300 RMB ($21-42/315,000-630,000 IDR) including transport, English guide, and entry ticket. Tours depart from major hotels or railway station at 8:30-9:00 AM, return 1:00-2:00 PM. Pros: No transport worries, English commentary, skip ticket line. Cons: Rushed (3-4 hours at site), fixed schedule, may include unwanted shopping stops. Half-day tours are too rushed - Yungang needs 4-5 hours minimum.

Private Guided Tours

Private tours with English guide cost 500-800 RMB ($70-112/1,050,000-1,680,000 IDR) for 4-6 hours including transport, guide, and entry. The guide provides historical context that dramatically enhances the experience. This is the best option for serious visitors wanting deep understanding. You can customize timing (arrive early, stay late) and combine with other sites. Book through hotels or online platforms like Trip.com.

Combination Tours: Yungang + Hanging Temple

Full-day combination tours visit Yungang Grottoes (morning) and Hanging Temple (afternoon). Cost: 400-600 RMB ($56-84/840,000-1,260,000 IDR). I DON'T recommend these unless you have only one day in Datong. You'll rush through both UNESCO sites (2-3 hours each vs ideal 4-5 hours). The drive to Hanging Temple is 1.5-2 hours each way. You'll spend 4+ hours driving and be exhausted. Better to dedicate a day to each.

Is a Guided Tour Worth It?

For first-time visitors wanting context: Yes, the history enhances the experience. For independent travelers on budget: No, audio guide (40 RMB) is sufficient. For those with limited time: Group tours are efficient. For photographers: No, you'll want to go at your own pace. For non-Chinese speakers: Yes, English guides are valuable. The internet says "you need a guide" - that's only true if you want deep historical understanding, not if you just want to see the art.

Datong to Yungang Grottoes Route Map

The map below shows the travel routes from Datong city to Yungang Grottoes. The Tourist Shuttle Bus 603 follows the most direct route via G109 highway. Taxis and private cars typically take the same route. Public buses take more circuitous routes through suburban areas.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from Datong to Yungang Grottoes on Google Maps

The distance from Datong to Yungang Grottoes is approximately 16 km (10 miles) west of the city center. The drive takes 25-35 minutes without traffic. There is no traffic congestion on this route except near the city center. Note that Google Maps is partially blocked in China - use Baidu Maps or Apple Maps when in China.

Complete Bus Route & Stops: Datong to Yungang Grottoes

Understanding the exact bus route helps you know where to board and what to expect. Here are the complete stops for Tourist Shuttle Bus 603:

Tourist Shuttle Bus 603: Datong Railway Station → Yungang Grottoes

This is the direct tourist shuttle with limited stops:

1. Datong Railway Station North Square (始发站 - Starting point)
2. Xinhua Street Stop (新华街站 - 5 minutes)
3. Bell Tower Stop (钟楼站 - 10 minutes)
4. Datong University Stop (大同大学站 - 20 minutes)
5. Mining Area Stop (矿区站 - 30 minutes)
6. Yungang Grottoes Parking Lot (云冈石窟停车场 - 40-50 minutes, final stop)

From parking lot to entrance: Walk 1.5km (20 minutes) or take electric cart (10 RMB, 5 minutes).

Travel time: 40-50 minutes | Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes | First/Last: ~7:00 AM / ~6:00 PM

Return Route: Yungang Grottoes → Datong Railway Station

The return bus follows the same route in reverse:

1. Yungang Grottoes Parking Lot (Starting point - where you were dropped off)
2. Mining Area Stop
3. Datong University Stop
4. Bell Tower Stop
5. Xinhua Street Stop
6. Datong Railway Station North Square (Final stop)

Public Bus 3 Route (Alternative, Not Recommended)

If you insist on public bus, Bus 3 runs through the city center:

1. Datong Railway Station (Start)
2. Xinhua Street
3. Bell Tower
4. Drum Tower
5. Ancient City Wall (South)
6. Xinjuan Road
7. Kaiyuan Temple
8. Xinjian South Road (Transfer to Bus 12 here)

Important Bus Stop Notes for Tourists

Datong Railway Station North Square is the main transport hub. Bell Tower stop is near the historical bell tower in old town. From Yungang parking lot, follow signs or crowds to the entrance 1.5km away. Electric carts run frequently. Don't get off at "Yungang Town" - that's not the grottoes. Wait for "Yungang Grottoes Parking Lot" which is the final stop.

Datong to Yungang: Transport Costs & Entry Fees

Yungang Grottoes Entry Ticket Prices

Peak season (March 1 - November 30): 120 RMB ($16.80/252,000 IDR). Off-season (December 1 - February 28): 100 RMB ($14/210,000 IDR). Discounts: Students (half price with ID), seniors over 60 (free with passport), children under 1.2m (free). Additional costs: Audio guide 40 RMB, electric cart 10 RMB, museum free, 3D film 50 RMB. Purchase: Ticket office at entrance or online via WeChat. Last entry: 4:30 PM, close 5:30 PM.

Total Day Cost Comparison

Budget traveler: Bus 603 round trip 4 RMB + entry 120 RMB = 124 RMB ($17.36/260,400 IDR). Mid-range: Taxi one way 50 RMB + bus return 2 RMB + entry 120 RMB = 172 RMB ($24.08/361,200 IDR). Comfort: Taxi round trip 100 RMB + entry 120 RMB = 220 RMB ($30.80/462,000 IDR). Group of 4: Taxi round trip split 25 RMB each + entry 120 RMB = 145 RMB ($20.30/304,500 IDR) each. The taxi for groups is actually cheaper per person than bus + taxi combination.

Scenario-Based Guide: Which Option is Best for YOU?

1. Solo Traveler / Backpacker on Budget

Best option: Tourist Shuttle Bus 603 (2 RMB each way). Schedule: Arrive at station by 7:30 AM for first buses. Tips: Bring water, snacks, sun protection. The walk from bus to entrance is 1.5km - take electric cart if tired. Return: Don't stay past 5:00 PM to ensure bus availability. Total cost: 124 RMB ($17.36) including entry. I DON'T recommend public bus transfers - same price but much more complicated.

2. Couple / Two Travelers

Best option: Taxi one way (50 RMB split = 25 RMB each), bus return (2 RMB each). Why: Arrive fresh, return cheap. Taxi drops at entrance vs 1.5km walk from bus. Alternative: Taxi round trip if staying late (100 RMB split = 50 RMB each). Total cost: 172-220 RMB ($24.08-30.80) each including entry. Worth the extra 8-16 RMB for convenience vs all-bus option.

3. Family with Children (3-4 people)

Best option: Taxi round trip (100 RMB split = 25-33 RMB each). Why: Door-to-door, flexible timing, no waiting, can leave when tired. With stroller: Taxi essential - bus walk is difficult. Private car: 200-300 RMB if also visiting other sites. Total cost: 145-153 RMB ($20.30-21.42) each including entry. The bus would save only 3-8 RMB each - not worth the hassle with kids.

4. Photographer / Serious Visitor

Best option: Private car (200-300 RMB) to arrive at 8:30 AM opening. Why: Golden hour light, empty sites, flexibility to stay 5+ hours, equipment transport. Equipment: Tripod allowed with permit (apply at entrance). Timing: Sunrise/sunset best for photography. Total cost: 320-420 RMB ($44.80-58.80) including entry. Worth it for serious photography. Group tours are terrible for photographers - too rushed.

5. Elderly / Mobility Impaired

Best option: Taxi or private car door-to-door. Why: Bus requires 1.5km walk from stop. Site has uneven paths. Accessibility: Main paths paved but caves have steps. Electric cart (10 RMB) from parking to entrance. Pacing: Take breaks, focus on Caves 5-20 (most accessible). Total cost: 220+ RMB ($30.80+) including entry. Don't attempt bus unless you can walk 1.5km comfortably.

Traveler Experience: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Visiting Yungang Grottoes from Datong seems straightforward, but I see tourists make expensive mistakes daily. The most common error: taking Didi there with no return plan. You'll be stranded. Another mistake: arriving at 11 AM with tour buses. The site is packed, photos ruined. A critical error: not allocating enough time. The internet says "2-3 hours" - that's a rushed visit missing half the site. You need 4-5 hours minimum.

The "Stranded at Yungang" Story

Here's a daily Yungang story: You take Didi at 9 AM (45 RMB). Explore until 4 PM. Tired, open Didi app. "No cars available." Check taxi stand - 3 taxies wanting 150 RMB for 40 RMB ride. Ask other tourists - they're on tours. Wait 45 minutes, finally a metered taxi arrives but 5 people rush for it. You get it for 60 RMB after bargaining. Reach hotel 5 PM, stressed. Total transport: 105 RMB. Bus 603 round trip: 4 RMB. Taxi there + bus back: 47 RMB. Always have a return plan.

What Other Travel Sites Don't Tell You

Most Yungang guides are written by tour companies or people who visited once. Here's the reality: Bus 603 is reliable and the best public transport. Taxis are reasonable for groups. Didi is unreliable for return. The site needs 4-5 hours, not 2-3. Arrive at opening (8:30 AM) to avoid crowds. The 1.5km walk from bus is real - electric cart available. The internet says "easy to visit" - that's only true if you know these details.

Practical Tips, Warnings & Visiting Advice

• Best time to arrive: 8:30 AM opening. Tour buses arrive 9:30-10:30 AM. Late afternoon (after 3 PM) also less crowded.
• Worst time to visit: Chinese holidays (Oct 1-7, May 1, Spring Festival) - unbearably crowded.
• Seasonal advice: Spring/Autumn best. Summer hot - bring hat, sunscreen, water. Winter cold but empty - some caves closed.
• What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes (1km+ walking), layers (caves cooler than outside), sun protection.
• Photography: No flash in caves. Morning light best for exterior. Tripod requires permit. Wide-angle lens useful.
• Bus 603 details: Exact change 2 RMB or scan QR code. Buses are blue with "云冈石窟" signs.
• Taxi warning: Always use meter. From Datong to Yungang should be 40-60 RMB. Refuse quotes of 80-100+ RMB.
• Didi reality: Works to get there, rarely works to return. Have backup plan.
• Private car negotiation: 200-300 RMB for 4 hours, 300-400 RMB for 8 hours. Hotel can arrange.
• Combine with other sites: Nine Dragon Screen (30 mins), Huayan Temple (2 hours), City Walls (1 hour).
• Food options: Limited inside - snack stalls near entrance. Eat breakfast in Datong, lunch after return.
• Guides vs audio: Audio guide 40 RMB sufficient for most. Private guide 200-300 RMB for deep understanding.
• Physical difficulty: Moderate - paved paths but some steps. Electric cart from parking to entrance (10 RMB).
• Time allocation: 4-5 hours minimum. Don't rush. Caves 5-6, 9-13, 16-20 are highlights.
• Last entry: 4:30 PM, close 5:30 PM. Don't arrive after 2 PM - not enough time.
• Ticket purchase: Buy online via WeChat to skip lines during peak season. On-site purchase also available.
• Restrooms: Available at entrance and near Cave 20. Carry toilet paper.
• Weather contingency: Site open in rain (bring umbrella). Heavy snow may close some paths.

The 1.5km Walk Reality

All buses drop at parking lot, 1.5km from entrance. Options: 1) Walk 20 minutes (paved path, some hills), 2) Electric cart 10 RMB (5 minutes), 3) Taxi drops at entrance. The walk is pleasant with statues along path, but tiring after 4 hours at site. I recommend electric cart on return when tired. Don't be surprised by this distance - many guides don't mention it.

Frequently Asked Questions: Datong to Yungang Grottoes