Datong

The name "Datong" is familiar to many. Over two thousand years ago, Confucius used the term "Datong" to describe the ultimate ideal of human society. Today, when people hear "Datong," many still think of "coal tycoons" and "smoggy skies." But when you take the Beijing-Zhangjiakou high-speed rail and arrive at this historic frontier city just 2 hours from Beijing, your perception of Datong will be completely transformed. Located in the northernmost part of Shanxi Province, to the north lies Inner Mongolia, and to the east is Zhangjiakou in Hebei. Since ancient times, this has been the first stop for travelers from the north entering the Central Plains. With 2,500 years of history, Datong was a renowned commandery during the Han dynasties, the capital of the Northern Wei, a secondary capital under the Liao and Jin, and a strategic stronghold during the Ming and Qing. It once stood as the foremost city in northern China and has left countless treasures for the world. Yet, when people list China’s ancient cities or capitals, Datong is often overlooked! Here, beyond its cultural relics, pavilions, and towers, you’ll find the perfect "Datong Slow," "Datong Blue," and "Datong Fresh." Ranked among China’s Top 100 Breathable Towns, with the best air quality in Shanxi Province, it boasts over 300 days of blue skies and white clouds a year! Only by staying here for a while can you truly appreciate the beauty of this slow-paced life.