Things To Do
in Datang
Datang is a vibrant town in Guangdong that blends traditional Cantonese culture with modern urban life. Located near the Pearl River Delta, it features a mix of old lanes, waterfront parks, and contemporary shopping districts. Its cuisine is quintessentially Cantonese, renowned for dim sum, seafood, and slow-roasted meats.
Visitors can expect friendly locals, convenient transport, and plenty of photo-worthy corners along the river and in historic streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-bright City, where you can immerse yourself in the architectural beauty of the Tang Dynasty. As the sun rises, explore the intricate details of the buildings and enjoy a leisurely walk through the ancient streets. Don't forget to try some local breakfast delicacies from street vendors, savoring the flavors of Datang.
After lunch, head to the Shaanxi History Museum, where you can explore a vast collection of artifacts that narrate the rich history of the region. The museum's engaging exhibits will provide insight into the Tang Dynasty's cultural significance, making it an enriching experience. Spend some time in the nearby park, where locals often gather to practice tai chi and enjoy the serene environment.
As the evening sets in, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional restaurant, sampling local dishes such as Yangrou Paomo (bread and mutton soup). After your meal, take a stroll through the vibrant night market, where you can shop for souvenirs and taste various street food offerings. The atmosphere is lively with street performances, creating a perfect end to your first day.
Begin your day at the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an architectural marvel that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area and appreciate the serene environment that surrounds this historical site. Take some time to explore the gardens and reflect on the significance of this Buddhist temple.
After lunch, visit the nearby Da Ci'en Temple, where you can admire the intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to deepen your understanding of Chinese culture and customs. The afternoon is perfect for wandering through the temple grounds, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
In the evening, experience a Tang Dynasty cultural performance featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling. The show is a vibrant representation of the era's artistic richness and will transport you back in time. After the performance, dine at a nearby restaurant, indulging in authentic Tang-style cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way subway ticket | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-100 |
| 🛍️Weekly groceries | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Cantonese cuisine and diverse street food
- Relaxed riverfront atmosphere with photo-worthy views
- Well-connected transport options to Guangzhou and beyond
- Genuine, friendly local hospitality
- Limited English in less touristy areas
- Some streets can be crowded and noisy
- Seasonal rainfall may affect outdoor plans
- Smaller-scale nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Zhège duōshao qián?" - How much is this?
- "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Wǒ yào zhège." - I would like this.
- "Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?" - Do you speak English?
- "Qǐng" - Please
- "Láojià" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Datang
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views, bridges, and skyline reflections—especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
A historic landmark with surrounding lanes that capture the spirit of Datang’s past and present.
Colorful lanterns and festive decor by night, ideal for vibrant street photography.
Elevated vantage point offering silhouettes of boats and city lights over the water.
Food in Datang
Datang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet-savory glazed pork with a crisp edge; commonly found at roast meat shops and bistros across Datang.
Must-Try!
Delicate translucent wrappers with bouncy shrimp filling; a staple of dim sum outings.
Open-topped steamed dumplings filled with seasoned pork and mushrooms; a common dim sum choice.
Poached chicken served with light soy dipping sauce and scallions; prized for its smooth flavor and tender texture.
Silky rice porridge topped with slices of preserved egg and often chili oil; a comforting option any time of day.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, seafood, snacks, and local specialties; ideal to sample a range of bites and pick up ingredients for home meals.
Late-night hawker stalls offering seafood bowls, grilled skewers, fried dough treats, and regional desserts—great for wandering and grazing.
Open-air stalls along the riverfront with seasonal catches, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites, perfect for an al fresco lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in lines patiently and greet others with a nod or brief smile. Avoid loud conversations in public spaces and show respect to elders.
Use both hands for important items when giving or receiving. Allow elders to start eating first; avoid tipping or pointing with chopsticks.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in residential areas. In many places, candid photos of strangers are best avoided without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Datang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a strong cultural norm in most places. In higher-end restaurants or hotels, a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected. Rounding up a bill is common for taxis or small services.
Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments are dominant in urban areas. WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most common methods; many shops and markets also accept cards in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (roughly 15–25°C). Pleasant for strolling and outdoor markets; occasional showers—pack a light rain jacket.
Hot and humid (often 28–34°C) with frequent humidity and possible typhoon-related rain. Seek shade, stay hydrated, and enjoy air-conditioned venues.
Comfortable conditions (roughly 20–28°C) with less rain and clearer skies—great for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool and damp in some years (around 8–18°C). Light jacket recommended; little-to-no snowfall, but mornings may be misty.
Datang at Night
Hiking in Datang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested loop with varied terrain and viewpoints suitable for a half-day hike near the town.
Gentle riverside path ideal for easy walks and sunset photography along the tidal sections of the Pearl River.
Airports
How to reach Datang by plane.
A major hub in southern China with a wide range of international and domestic flights; connected to Datang by metro and rail options, typically a 40–60 minute drive from central areas depending on traffic.
A large international airport reachable via high-speed rail or longer road routes; useful for longer connections or regional travel from Datang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic, with a mix of long-time locals and migrant workers contributing to a dynamic urban culture.
A significant portion of the population contributes to the city’s energy, markets, and everyday commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular recreational activity in communities and clubs across Datang, with local players and public courts available.
Common in parks and community centers; casual and beginner-friendly for visitors seeking light exercise.
Street courts and gym venues are common, offering pickup games and organized leagues in urban areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Datang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Cantonese dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for tofu, mushrooms, and vegetable-forward preparations. If dining at markets, carry a card stating dietary needs in Chinese to avoid hidden pork or seafood broths.