Move over, bucket lists—Datong, a 1,000-year-old cultural treasure trove in Shanxi Province, is stealing the spotlight! Thanks to China’s new visa-free policy, international travelers are flocking to this historic city faster than TikTok trends. Crowds are buzzing around the iconic Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting over 51,000 ancient Buddhist statues carved into cliffs—think of it as the ‘Stone Marvels of the East’ meets Indiana Jones vibes.
But wait, there’s more! Stroll through Datong’s revitalized old city to spot Ming Dynasty relics, temple complexes, and winding lanes that feel like time travel. Pro tip: The jaw-dropping Hanging Temple (literally clinging to a mountainside!) is a must-see.
Why now? The visa-free access is a game-changer for wanderlust-driven Gen Z and millennials craving authentic cultural deep-dives. As one traveler told us: ‘It’s like stepping into a history book, but way more Instagrammable.’
Reference(s):
cgtn.com