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Datong sits on the Loess Plateau at about 1,000 metres above sea level, which gives it a semi-arid continental climate: cold, dry winters and warm, wetter summers. The city averages around 400mm of rain a year, with roughly 70 percent of it falling between June and August, and about 2,600 sunshine hours. Day-to-night swings of 10 to 15°C are normal in most months, so pack layers even in summer. For the full picture, see our best time to visit Datong guide and the Datong city guide.
Datong Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rain (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -2°C (28°F) | -17°C (1°F) | 3 |
| February | 3°C (37°F) | -13°C (9°F) | 4 |
| March | 10°C (50°F) | -6°C (21°F) | 9 |
| April | 18°C (64°F) | 1°C (34°F) | 17 |
| May | 24°C (75°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 33 |
| June | 28°C (82°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 55 |
| July | 29°C (84°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 100 |
| August | 27°C (81°F) | 15°C (59°F) | 90 |
| September | 22°C (72°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 48 |
| October | 15°C (59°F) | 1°C (34°F) | 18 |
| November | 5°C (41°F) | -8°C (18°F) | 7 |
| December | -1°C (30°F) | -15°C (5°F) | 2 |
Datong Weather by Month in Winter (December to February)
Winter in Datong is harsh and dry. January averages a high of -2°C and a low of -17°C, and temperatures have dropped below -25°C in cold snaps. Rain totals just 2 to 4mm per month, but light snow and strong northwest winds are common. Coal-burning season runs November to March, so expect hazy air on calm days. The Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple stay open all winter with very few visitors, and most hotels in the old city and Pingcheng district stay open too; see the best neighborhoods in Datong guide for area options. Bring a down jacket, thermal base layers, and insulated boots.
Datong Weather by Month in Spring (March to May)
Spring warms fast but stays dry and windy. March still dips to -6°C at night, while May reaches 24°C in the afternoon. Rainfall climbs from 9mm in March to 33mm in May. April and May are when dust storms from the Gobi can roll through, so check the forecast and carry a face mask if you are sensitive. This is one of the better windows for the things to do in Datong, with clear skies and no crowds.
Datong Weather by Month in Summer (June to August)
Summer is the wet season. July brings 100mm of rain, the wettest month, and daytime highs of 29°C that cool to 16°C at night. Most rain falls as short afternoon thunderstorms rather than all-day drizzle, so mornings stay usable for sightseeing. Humidity stays moderate compared with coastal China. This is peak season for domestic tourism, so book the hotels in Datong early and expect queues at the Yungang Grottoes ticket windows.
Datong Weather by Month in Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the driest, clearest stretch of the year. September holds at 22°C with 48mm of rain, and by November highs are just 5°C with 7mm. The first frost usually arrives in mid-October. Skies are bright blue most days, which makes it the best season for photographing the grottoes and the Datong events and festivals that fall in this window. Pack a fleece and a windbreaker for October onward, and check the Datong travel tips page for airport and rail connections.
