Datong Weather in March

Season: early spring
 Average temperature: -7 ~ 11℃ (19.4 - 51.8℉)

The temperature increases little by little entering March, and on sunny days, the high temperature reaches 14 - 17 degrees Celsius (57.2 - 62.6 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the actual feeling is still a little cold with blowing winds. Besides, cold air often strikes, taking away the heat and dramatically lowering the temperature to 5 - 8℃ (41 - 46.4℉). The changeable weather always makes people feel that winter is back. The temperature varies greatly within one day. At night, it declines to a cold -3 ~ -8℃ (26.6 – 17.6℉) and even below -10℃ (14℉) occasionally.
It hardly rains or snows in March. Averagely, there is 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation in total distributed over 4 days. It occurs in various forms, including light rain, light snow, and sleet, and which one you encounter depends on luck. For example, during the trip to Mt. Hengshan, you may find that it rains at the bottom of the mountain and snows at the top; when you go down, it gets cloudy or sunny. The rainfall or snowfall doesn’t last for a long time, and snowflakes don’t always accumulate to form a cover. With low precipitation, the air humidity also remains a low 37%.
 Sunny weather takes the majority of March in Datong, and the sunlight duration is thus long, 8 hours per day on average. Tourists also have long enough daylight of 12 hours to conduct sightseeing from 6:12 - 7:00 to 18:18 - 18:49.

Visit Fahua Temple in March

Rare Clear Blue Sky in March

Blowing wind is the most common climate phenomenon in Datong in March. The force usually remains 4 - 5 level. Put it vividly, you may feel something continuously slapping your face. Occasionally, the wind escalates to level 7 - 8, like someone is pushing you forward hard. Such feelings are more obvious when you visit Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Monastery, and other high-altitude destinations.

With strong winds, March serves as the high season for floating dust or blowing sand in Datong. They take place 6 - 7 times throughout the month. By then, the air quality gets poor and so does the visibility. 
  Up: It’s a good choice to wear a thermal shirt with a thin sweater inside. They are suitable for the indoor spots with heating system. When going outside, put on a padded jacket, which is useful to resist the wind.

 Bottom: Long johns with normal fleece jeans or sweatpants are enough. If you are not sensitive to the cold, the inner piece can be removed.

 Shoes: Chunky sneakers are advised for travelers visiting Datong in March 2026, which keep your feet warm and comfortable. Remember to wear warm socks, especially when you plan to spend a long time in mountainous spots.

 Others:
1. To cover your skin thoroughly where the wind blows heavily, a scarf can be helpful.
2. If you don’t carry warm enough clothes for climbing Mt. Hengshan, rent a wind-proof overcoat at the bottom of the mountain.

Huayan Monastery Bathed in the Sun

1. In March, the low season, many attractions offer discounted tickets, and flights as well as hotels are not expensive. Also, without so many visitors, you can have a slow-paced trip.

2. Unlike some southern cities, Datong doesn’t see blooming flowers yet in March. 

3. It’s not a good time to conduct an outdoor visit in dusty conditions. If you have to, be sure to wear protective masks for the sake of health.

4. Considering the dry air, you are advised to bring lipstick and moisturizing cream