The "Little Forbidden City" Hidden in Datong Lives Up to Its Reputation!

Daiwangfu, located in Datong, Shanxi, was the princely residence of Zhu Gui, the thirteenth son of Emperor Hongwu (Zhu Yuanzhang). Modeled after the Nanjing Imperial Palace, its construction began in 1392 and took four years to complete. Covering 170,000 square meters, the complex features over 20 palaces and 800 rooms, arranged in a symmetrical layout with distinct front court and rear living quarters. The outer court housed three main halls including the Chengyun Hall for administrative affairs, while the inner court centered around the Changchun Palace as the living quarters for the prince and his consort. Eleven generations of Dai Princes resided here, witnessing over 250 years of Ming Dynasty history. Destroyed by fire in 1644, only the Nine-Dragon Wall survived. Datong City initiated reconstruction in 2011, and Daiwangfu reopened for trial operation in 2022, restoring its former glory as a popular cultural tourism destination. Here’s a self-driving travel guide to Daiwangfu: Pre-Trip Preparation • Documents: Bring necessary IDs, driver’s license, and vehicle registration. • Clothing: Pack season-appropriate attire. Datong has significant temperature variations, so even in summer, carry a light jacket. • Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, umbrellas, and a camera to capture memorable moments. Driving Route • Set your navigation to "Daiwangfu, No. 18 Heyang Street, Pingcheng District, Datong." From Linfen, take the Er-Guang Expressway (~350 km, ~4 hours depending on traffic). Parking Guide • Paid parking lots are available on both east and west sides of Daiwangfu, Lingxing Gate, and Chaishi Corner Block, with ample spaces. Ticket Information • Adults: ¥50 (includes guided tour). Children: ¥25. Evening performance tickets are priced as per the scenic area’s daily notice. Tour Tips • Route: The complex unfolds along three axes. The central axis features Yumen, Duanli Gate, Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Hall, Chongxin Gate, Cunxin Hall, Changchun Palace, and Guangzhi Gate. The east axis includes Guangshan Granary and Longevity Palace, while the west axis has Ji Gate and the Altar of Land and Grain. Start with the central axis, then explore the side axes for a comprehensive experience. • Performances: Outdoor processional shows like "Great Harmony Under Heaven" and "Splendors of the Great Ming," plus shadow puppetry and folk performances. Check schedules in advance for optimal viewing spots. • Photography: Best during soft morning or evening light. Capture the Chengyun Hall, Nine-Dragon Wall, or palace gates against red walls, golden tiles, and blue skies. Nearby Eateries • Fenglin Pavilion: Opposite the Nine-Dragon Wall, this century-old restaurant is famed for its exquisite "Hundred-Flower" shaomai (steamed dumplings). • Pipa Old Inn: Turn right upon exiting Daiwangfu. Legend says Wang Zhaojun once stayed here. Try specialties like Hunyuan cold noodles and millet cakes. • Longjuxiang Shaomai: Pair lamb shaomai with seabuckthorn juice for a quick energy boost. • Drum Tower Daoxiao Noodles: A classic noodle joint. Recommended: pork minced noodles with braised meat strips. Accommodation • Daguanglou Zen Hotel: Conveniently located near Huayan Temple, ancient city walls, the Nine-Dragon Wall, and Daiwangfu.