Datong Weather in September

Cool days for exploring

September is one of Datong's best months to visit. Days are mild, evenings turn cool, and the summer heat has eased. You'll get plenty of useful daylight for the Yungang Grottoes, where you can spend hours looking at the carved caves without rushing back into the heat.

Rain falls on some days, so a shower can interrupt outdoor plans. Keep time for indoor sights such as the Huayan Temple, or take a break in a café near the old city walls. September is drier than August, but wetter than October.

Autumn events and crowds

The Mid-Autumn Festival sometimes falls in September; its date changes each year. If it does, expect family gatherings and holiday travel around the festival. Datong is also popular in autumn, but September is generally calmer than China's National Day holiday in October, when travel gets much busier.

If you hate crowds, visit the Yungang Grottoes on a weekday rather than at the weekend. September's pleasant weather makes it a popular time to come, so it isn't the quietest month. Prices may be higher than in colder months, though they're usually less pressured than during the October holiday rush.

Make the most of the season

The cooler air suits a day trip to the Hanging Temple near Datong, where the walkways sit high against a cliff. Rain can make the steps slippery, so take care if the weather turns wet. You can also stroll the Datong city wall in the evening, when the air feels crisp after a sunny day.

Travelling with kids? The Yungang caves are a good choice on a cloudy afternoon, since much of the visit is sheltered. For a local meal, try Datong knife-cut noodles, known as dao xiao mian. Ask for a warming bowl after an evening walk.