Complete Travel Guide to Datong, China

Datong Daqing is a prefecture-level city in the west of Heilongjiang province, People’s Republic of China. The name literally means “Great Celebration” and refers to the tenth anniversary of the PRC. Daqing is known as the “Oil Capital of China” and has experienced a phenomenal boom since oil was discovered at the Daqing Oil Field in 1959. Positioned at coordinates 32.62082°N, 117.06319°E, Datong occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Datong place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 149.0 meters above sea level, Datong benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Datong creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 2781562 residents, Datong maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Datong represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Datong reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout China, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Anhui province, Datong contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines China’s regional character. The role of Datong in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Datong discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of China while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Datong

History The region now known as Daqing Prefecture was a reasonably insignificant place until the Qing dynasty, known only as an unsettled hunting ground of Dörbet Oirat tribes due to its wetland and prairies The region began to grow slightly after the Russian Empire constructed the Chinese Eastern Railway (KVZhD) through the area in 1898.

The railway has a station at Sartu in today’s Sartu District It was not until 1959 that oil was discovered in the region as part of the large scale oil exploration put into motion across the Northeast China Plain The Daqing oilfield was discovered in the late 1950s, and drilling began in 1958.

A town with the same name was founded in 1959 to house workers extracting oil and gas from the oilfield and to host industries which could take advantage of the energy and petrochemicals, shortly before the 10th anniversary of the founding of the PRC The oilfield and the town had the same administrative body until 1983.

: 52 The successful construction of the Daqing oil field despite harsh weather conditions and supply limitations became a model held up by the Party as an example during subsequent industrialization campaigns : 52–54 The project also delivered critical economic benefits because without the production of the Daqing oil field, crude oil would have been severely limited after the Soviet Union cut off supplies as a result of the Sino-Soviet split.

: 53 Original plans for Daqing included the development of a “new socialist mining district” (rather than a city) with families in which the husband would work in industry and the wife would work in agriculture : 313 Ultimately, the city expanded incrementally with clusters forming around developing refineries and oil wells.

: 52 All settlements used a single-story mud technique called scientific gandalei, with multistory brick buildings being introduced in the late 1960s : 53 The name Daqing literally means “Great Celebration” : 52 On 26 May 1960, Anda City was established at former Anda town (today’s Anda City in Suihua prefecture), administering Daqing oilfield area.

Five months later, the administrative organs of the oilfield relocated in Sartu On 23 June 1964, the city was established Anda special administrative region, with Anda county administering its surrounding area The first two years of the Cultural Revolution resulted in major disruptions to China’s petroleum industry and an oil shortage by 1967.

: 159 In March of that year, the People’s Liberation Army was called to Daqing to maintain order so that oil production could proceed : 159 This made Daqing one of the first places brought under military control during the Cultural Revolution : 159 In May 1968, the Daqing Revolutionary Committee was established.

: 159 Iron Man Wang Jinxi became its vice director : 159–160 The oil field continued to be a major driver of economic growth during the Cultural Revolution period : 160 In the mid-1970s, Daqing was administratively organised into three large to.

The historical trajectory of Datong demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Datong reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Datong remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

The topographic characteristics of Datong result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Datong region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Datong area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Datong has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Datong demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Datong create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

Climate Located in the north temperate zone, Daqing has a humid continental climate (Köppen _Dwa_) and is affected by the Siberian high and the East Asian monsoon. Generally, winter is bitterly cold with occasional snowfalls, and spring and autumn are prevailed by monsoons. The vast majority of the annual rainfall occurs during summer. The diurnal temperature variation can be up to 14 °C (25 °F) during the growing period. Temperature patterns in Datong influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. The monthly 24-hour average temperature ranges from −18. Temperature patterns in Datong influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 3 °F) in January to 23. 9 °F) in July, and the annual mean is +4. A majority of the annual precipitation falls in July and August alone. Rainfall patterns in Datong determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. With monthly percent possible sunshine ranging from 53% in July to 70% in February, the city receives 2,726 hours of bright sunshine annually. Extreme temperature ranges from −39. Temperature patterns in Datong influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 6 °F) Climate data for Daqing, elevation 147 m (482 ft), (1991–2020 normals) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −11. 7) Daily mean °C (°F) −16. 5) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −20. 2) Average precipitation mm (inches) 2. Rainfall patterns in Datong determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 99) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. Rainfall patterns in Datong determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 8 Average snowy days 5. 1 33 Average relative humidity (%) 64 58 51 44 52 64 73 73 65 56 60 66 61 Mean monthly sunshine hours 181. 6 Percentage possible sunshine 65 66 64 56 51 47 45 49 60 60 57 58 57 Source: China Meteorological Administration 1. 中国气象数据网 – WeatherBk Data (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved 27 September 2023. “Experience Template” 中国气象数据网 (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved 27 September 2023.

The climatic regime of Datong reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Datong create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Datong determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Datong create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Datong demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Datong include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Daqing has a population of 2. The demographic composition of Datong reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 9 million, of them mainly Han Chinese, with a few population of other 31 minority ethnic groups including Manchu, Mongolian, Korean, and Hui nationalities. The demographic composition of Datong reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. The population density is 112. The demographic composition of Datong reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 69/km2, urban population density 205. The demographic composition of Datong reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2010年大庆市第六次全国人口普查主要数据公报 (in Chinese). Government of Daqing. Archived from the original on 19 June 2017. Retrieved 17 July 2015.

Culture Daqing Museum The Iron Man Wang Jinxi Memorial Hall #Daqing spirit Generated by the history of the city, Daqing has a culture centering around the “Daqing Spirit, the Daqing People,” which is said to represent deep personal commitment in pursuing national goals, self-sufficient and frugal living, and urban-rural integrated land use. : 3 Daqing’s urban-rural landscape was said to embody the ideal communist society described by Karl Marx because it eliminated (1) the gap between town and country, (2) the gap between workers and peasants, and (3) the gap between manual and mental labor. : 3 “Daqing Spirit, Daqing People” was the title of an April 20, 1964 article in _People’s Daily_ which extolled the success of Daqing oil field workers. : 148 The most influential of many articles praising Daqing that appeared in state media around that time, “Daqing Spirit, Daqing People” was the first text to compare Daqing to Yan’an, the revolutionary base area where the Communist Party re-grouped following the Long March before going on to win the Chinese Civil War. : 148 Wang Jinxi (Chinese: 王进喜; pinyin: _Wáng Jìnxǐ_ , known as “Iron Man” Wang), a petroleum worker on the Daqing Oilfield who led No. 1205 drilling team, was honored as a national hero due to his contributions to the petroleum industry of China. Daqing was established by the central government as a model for the secondary industry during the 1960s. In order to illuminate the entrepreneurial history of Daqing and its people, several films were made by companies in China. In 1964, chief director of the Central Experimental Theater Sun Weishi and her husband, the actor Jin Shan, traveled to Daqing to live and work with the oil workers and their families. : 141 The next year, the Communist Party journal _Red Flag_ published an article by Sun which praised the Daqing people. : 141–142 After living in Daqing for two years, Sun Weishi returned to Beijing to produce the play _The Rising Sun_ , which was based on the experiences of people in Daqing, particularly Daqing women. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ _**e**_ _**f**_ _**g**_ Cite error: The named reference `:0` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). Profiles of China Provinces, Cities and Industrial Parks.

The cultural landscape of Datong represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Datong reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Datong continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Datong provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Datong demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Datong provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Well Sa-55 first drilled by Wang Jinxi and his colleagues Wildcat in Daqing Daqing’s economy highly depends on petroleum and related industries. Daqing’s oilfield is China’s largest and the world’s fourth most productive. Petroleum accounts for 60. In 2011, Daqing’s gross domestic product (GDP) was RMB374 billion yuan, representing a rise of 12. Primary industries output (including agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry and the fisheries) increased by 13. Secondary and value-added industries and construction output experienced an increase of 10. 1%, reaching RMB307 billion, while the tertiary industry output increased 22. In 2015 Daqing had a GDP of RMB 298. #Foreign trade Daqing exports over 10 million tons of crude oil each year. Over 160 varieties of paraffin wax, ethylene, tar oil and benzene are exported to more than 10 nations and regions including the US, the UK, Thailand and Hong Kong. In 2011, total import and export volume in Daqing reached US$2. 16 billion, up by 40. Export volume was US$550 million and import volume was US$1. Daqing’s main exports include six categories of petrochemical products, construction materials, processed foodstuffs, office furniture and mechanical and electronic equipment. #Banking and insurance There were 32 banking institutions in Daqing by the end of 2006; none were foreign-invested banks. In 2011, savings deposits in Renminbi and foreign exchange totaled 170. The local finance sector plays an important role in building up Daqing’s Century Oilfield and in developing new industries. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Agricultural Bank, China Construction Bank, Bank of China, China Communications Bank, the Everbright Bank, Guangdong Development Bank, the Daqing Urban Commercial Bank, Daqing Rural Credit Cooperative Union and the County Urban Credit Cooperative are the major banks serving Daqing. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ 2011年大庆市国民经济和社会发展统计公报. Daqing Municipal Bureau of Statistics. Archived from the original on 16 May 2012. Retrieved 26 July 2012. 2015年黑龙江各市GDP和人均GDP排名. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ “Daqing Business Guide – Economic Overview”. Archived from the original on 2 December 2012. Retrieved 26 July 2012.

The economic structure of Datong reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Datong often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Datong serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Datong demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Datong has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Datong focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation Daqing Passenger Hub #Railway Daqing is a major railway hub in western Heilongjiang province and is located on the junction of Harbin-Manzhouli Railway and Tongliao-Ranghulu Railway. Daqing has three major railway stations: Daqing station, Daqing West station (formerly Ranghulu railway station) and Daqing East station. Trains from Daqing connect the city with Beijing, Harbin, Dalian and several other cities in China. The newly built Harbin–Qiqihar Intercity Railway has stops at both Daqing West station and Daqing East station. #Airport Main article: Daqing Sartu Airport Daqing Sartu Airport was opened on 1 September 2009. There are flights to several large cities including Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Qingdao and Shanghai. #Highway Daqing is linked to the national highway network through the G45 Daqing–Guangzhou Expressway and G10 Suifenhe-Manzhouli Expressway. cn_ (in Chinese (China)). Archived from the original on 2016-03-04. Retrieved 2012-07-26.

Transportation infrastructure serving Datong reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout China. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Datong.

Regional connectivity from Datong provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Planning Your Visit to Datong

Successful visits to Datong require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Datong often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Datong include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Datong extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.

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Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Daqing”.