The Nine Dragon Wall of Datong stands on Heyang Street in Pingcheng District, Shanxi, China, and is among the largest and oldest screen walls of its type in the country. It was built in 1392 as a spirit screen for the residence of Zhu Gui, the thirteenth son of the Hongwu Emperor and the Prince of Dai, though the mansion itself has vanished. The wall is about 45.5 metres long, 8 metres high and 2 metres thick, faced with glazed tiles in yellow, green, blue, purple and white that form nine writhing dragons amid clouds and waves. The central dragon is a front-facing yellow beast, and the roof is a miniature of a palace hall. In front lies a reflecting pool, which doubles the image of the dragons and is the best spot for photographs. Several other dragon walls exist in China, including those in Beijing's Beihai Park and the Forbidden City, but the Datong example is older and bigger than those. Visitors usually need only 30 minutes to see the whole wall, view the carvings up close, and read the signs on the glazed tile technique. The site is quiet for most of the day, with a small rush when tour groups pass through mid-morning. Light is best in the morning and early afternoon, when the glaze colours are bright and the pool reflects the wall. It is a convenient stop between Huayan Temple and the city wall, so most itineraries fit it into a walking loop of the old city.
| Admission | About ¥10 (about $1.50 USD) |
|---|---|
| Hours | About 9:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Typical visit | 30 minutes |
| Best time | Mid-morning, combined with Huayan Temple |
| Getting there | Inside Datong's old city on Heyang Street; city bus No. 4 from Datong Railway Station, or a short walk from Huayan Temple |
| Address | Heyang Street, Pingcheng District, Datong, Shanxi (大同市平城区和阳街) |
Location
Heyang Street, Pingcheng District, Datong, Shanxi (大同市平城区和阳街)
40.0919, 113.2969 View on map
Highlights
- Nine glazed dragons in five colours on a 1392 screen wall
- Larger and older than the dragon walls in Beijing
- Reflection of the wall in the pool in front
- Palace-style tiled roof capping the screen
- Short stop on a walking loop through the old city
Tips for visiting
- Photograph from across the pool to capture the reflection
- Visit in mid-morning when glaze colours are brightest
- Combine with Huayan Temple, a short walk away
- Allow about 30 minutes, as it is a compact site
- Keep small change handy for the low entry fee
- Look closely at the central yellow dragon and the cloud details
When to visit
Mid-morning, when light brings out the glaze colours and groups are fewer. Weekdays outside national holidays are the quietest.
Accessibility
The site is largely level with a viewing area in front of the pool, so most visitors can see the wall from ground level. Check on arrival for any steps at the entrance.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
About 30 minutes is enough to see the whole wall and take photographs.
Is it worth it for kids?
It is short and colourful, so children usually manage it easily, though there are few interactive elements.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed, and the pool-side view is the most popular angle.