I spent nearly a week at Datong Milan/Magnolia Hotel (Dai Residence branch) and it was a very pleasant and enjoyable stay
Location:
- Nestled a quieter part of the ancient city, that provided a peaceful retreat after each day of exploring.
- 10 minutes to some of the attractions of the old town
- 15-20 minute walk to the popular restaurants and more attractions
- 30 minute walk to Huayan Temple and its nearby street markets.
I'm always happy to walk but if needed, I could always use DiDi to take me around.
Falling asleep without street noise is something I like. There is a bit of building work going nearby, which is happening all over Datong Ancient City, but nothing too major.
Nearby is the Ancient City's wall, but walk past that and you can see the locals dance in the morning in the park or walk along the canal/moat in the evening.
Room:
The room was surprisingly spacious, offering plenty of room to spread out and relax, a welcome change from cramped city accommodations. The staircase is a bit narrow, so those with lots of big luggage might struggle (no lift)
Importantly, it was very clean and well equipped. I especially liked the Chinese tea ceremony set!
Service:
- Despite a noticeable language barrier, everyone went above and beyond with smiles, helpful gestures, and clear efforts to communicate.
- Especially the manager, who told me about local food to try, things to do and asked if I needed anything. She noticed that I was bringing back leftovers from the restaurant, and bottled drinks from the shops, and said I could use the fridge.
- I can't speak Chinese so when the delivery driver came to drop off my order, the staff will take it from the reception and bring it to me.
- Unfortunately, breakfast isn't available here
- Drinking water topped up. Humidifier and mosquito repellent were provided when needed.
I will not hesitate to book here again on my next visit and I highly recommend this hotel for anyone seeking comfort and genuine warmth in Datong!
Had a lovely stay here!
I was in a 12 bed dorm but the room is very spacious and has a private bathroom/shower, all super clean, and then bed was comfy. The only thing is that the bedlight makes a sound every time it’s turned on/off: it’s funny but I was a bit worried to bother other guests. Ah, I was also able to do my laundry with no fees and was even given a little welcome bag. The location although not within the city walls is close to several bus stops and one can ride a bike easy to all the major attractions ~ which was a lovely way to explore Datong.
The best thing is the staff though: incredibly helpful and friendly. On my last day they let me stay past the checkout time so that I could keep on working using their WiFi which was a massive massive help, and offered to lend me an umbrella and drive me as the rain was so heavy.
Most def recommend staying here when you visit Datong!
This hotel was amazing value for its money! Super quick didi ride from the train station, extremely friendly and helpful staff, and even though I was a foreigner, they gladly and willingly spoke to me in Chinese the whole time.
WiFi and shower were great. Beds comfortable. Even after we left Taiyuan, they were willing to help once we were in a different city. I’ve never experienced generosity and kindness.
My only qualm was that we requested a non-smoking room and the room smelled like cigarettes. Perhaps that’s at no fault of the hotel; for the guests who stay here, please respect the signs that say no smoking!
ゲゲストThe hotel is in a commercial building where many tenants have moved out. It feels deserted. Except for its neighbour Han Ting hotel and the minimart beside, there does not seem to have any activity.
The staff are friendly enough. There is no public toilet for the hotel guests. Guests could only use the toilets in their hotel rooms or use the public toilet on the first floor which is disgustingly dirty. It is a hassle for guests whose flight or train is in the evening after checking out in the daytime. I had to use another hotel's toilet in the evening.
The hotel room's shower curtains have frayed at the edge, are a little mouldy and need to be replaced. I suspect that as it is a budget hotel, the management don't care. But the room and its toilet are clean.
On food, the hotel is small so they work with an eatery outside to provide breakfast if you have breakfast included in your stay. The breakfast options are limited so it is better to go out and buy breakfast. To my surprise, there are no breakfast eateries nearby! One has to walk until the cross junction where one sees the Datong Railway Station before there are some eateries. Or, one can walk in the direction towards the Datong Ancient City and along the way, there are some restaurants and eateries. EatWheat 东方削面 is authentic in its local flavour.
The hotel location is near the Datong Ancient City. If you are up for a bit of walk, it is possible to walk there.
If there is an emergency, please go to 三医院 The Third Hospital which is the nearest public hospital with all facilities available. The rest of the hospitals nearby may not be fully equipped.
ゲゲストThis hotel shows everything exactly as the photos were posted. The hotel staff were amazingly helpful and went above and beyond my expectations every time!!!😇
I chose the memory foam bed option and it was great, since I wanted good and restful sleep.
The breakfast had a very nice selection, and the dining area was very clean and tidy.
It was fun to have the hotel robot deliver my food delivery orders to me and the extra bonus was that their laundry service was quick and very convenient!
The hotel is very close to the local attractions. When I asked for help about visiting the nearby, Xiantang mountain and an evening walk at Donghu lake was recommended, and did not disappoint! The staff was ready to help and I had unexpected, great service to travel to Xiantang mountain, when I thought I would have to figure it out on my own. 
I’m very happy to review this hotel I would recommend anyone to come here. I would come back again!
(Please note that there is city construction on the road, outside. There were some vibrations, but I barely heard any sound coming from outside, because the windows are good quality that block out most of sound.)