Don't overlook Datong in Shanxi as a summer retreat, as it is full of historical sites with plenty of attractions

As the second largest city in Shanxi, its unique charm has attracted countless tourists. Datong is a deserved ancient capital, an important passage for nomadic tribes to enter the Central Plains. There is a saying that if Datong is secure, the world is secure; if Datong is lost, the world is lost. This place has always been a battleground for military strategists, and naturally, throughout the dynasties, high walls were built and capable generals were sent to guard it. If you want to escape the heat in summer, just come to Datong for a visit. The Ming Dynasty period was the most recent large-scale restoration, where the general Xu Da built on the old cities of Wei, Tang, Liao, and Yuan, and constructed a new city, marking the beginning of the ancient city of Datong with a circumference of fourteen miles. Standing on the city wall today, we seem to still be able to see the glorious past, and the Ming dynasty border soldiers who defended their country. The dragon has always been a symbol of the emperor in ancient times, and the Nine Dragon Wall is a symbol of status. The first time I saw the Nine Dragon Wall was in Beijing, and only later did I find out that the one in Datong is actually the largest in the country. The Datong Nine Dragon Wall is located inside the ancient city of Datong, opposite the mansion of the Prince of Dai. It was originally the screen wall in front of the mansion, but after the mansion was destroyed, the Nine Dragon Wall was completely preserved. When you come to Datong, you must visit the Yungang Grottoes, which were carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty and took 150 years to complete. The Yungang Grottoes have experienced six or seven dynasties from the Northern Wei to the Tang Dynasty, leaving behind more than 59,000 statues, which also reflect the relationships between the world's major civilizations. Finally, when you come to Datong, you must try a bowl of shaved noodles. Shaved noodle restaurants can be seen everywhere in Datong. Order a bowl of traditional pork shaved noodles, with tofu, eggs, tiger skin peppers, and perhaps a meatball. Add some vinegar water, garlic, and usually a small dish of pickles, and there you have a delicious meal. ☁️Average summer temperature in Datong: 12°C to 26°C