Datangshan

Datangshan is the site of the biggest aviation museum in China. Most people call it Datangshan, but the correct name is China Aviation Museum. Datangshan is actually the name of the mountain (hill) which is the main landmark in the area. Part of the museum is located inside this hill in a cave.

The museum is located about 50km north of Beijing, next to Shahe Air Base in Changping District. Road leading to the museum is actually a taxiway from the air base to the museum. Unfortunately Datangshan is not the easiest place in the world to get to. Probably the easiest way is to arrange for a taxi from your hotel. Alternatively, for the more adventurous, it is possible to get there by bus for very cheap, although unless you have a working knowledge of Chinese this is probably not a viable option for most people. Take bus number 912 from Andingmen bus station in the north of the city, but be warned that not all 912 buses seem to stop at the museum, and the service is very infrequent - it is recommended to make sure at the bus station before attempting this trip. Trip takes about one hour.

The China Aviation Museum was opened to the public on 11 November 1989 to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Founding of the PLA Air Force, to an astonished reaction from the aviation community in the outside world, who had no idea of the wealth of aviation history preserved in the country. With a huge number of 200 aircraft on display, including many unique machines, this is a must see place for every aviation enthusiast. Entrance fee is RMB 45.

External links

• Pictures from the museum
• Datangshan info and links