Bonsais are very popular in Datong. Since the Bonsai and Flower Exhibition kicked off in August 1986, an increasing number of exquisite potted landscapes have been created.

The art of bonsai rests upon the clever use flowers, grass, trees, wood, earth, sand, ore and stones. The plant is a presentation of the beauty of nature through carving and artistic processing.

The art can be traced back to the Jin Dynasty (265-420). It was widely used during the Sui and Tang Dynasties and prevailed in Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Bonsais are divided into two categories: tree stump bonsai and landscape bonsai. Plants for tree stump bonsais usually have beautiful shapes, small leaves, and long lives, and are easy to shape by pruning, hanging and grafting to control their growth. They are usually grown in elegant pots, therefore they make beautiful installments to the home.

Landscape bonsais are made from earth, sand, ore and stones. They sometimes include pavilions and bridges or mini landscapes.