Yungang Grottoes


Yungang Grottoes

Yungang Grottoes is one of the largest grottoes in China. Together with the other three grottoes: Mo Kao Grotto at Dunhuang, Gragon Gate Grotto at Luoyang and Maijishan Grotto, they are known as the Four Grotto Treasures in China. It’s located on the south foot of Wuzhou Mountain, 16 kilometers west to Datong City, Shanxi Province. It was dug along the mountain with a stretch of one kilometer from east to west. It’s grand and abundant. The existing main caverns are 51; 252 shrines of different sizes; 51000 statues with the highest one being 17 meters and smallest one being several centimeters. The designs of these statues are vivid and lively. It was listed as the world cultural heritage in 2001. Five Grottoes of Tanyao have precise and neat design and layout and it’s a master piece in the first peak stage of Chinese Buddhism art. Wuhua Cave has gorgeous carved decorations which are colorful. It’s precious material to study the history, art, music, dance, calligraphy and architecture in Northern Wei Dynasty.

Tips

Address

Datong City, Shanxi Province

Best time to travel

May——October


Travel Tips

Yungang grottoes are closed at about 18:00. It’s better to get out at about 17:00 when the light of setting sun covers the grottoes which is a splendid and unique view. 1. Shanxi Province belongs to continental monsoon climate and the temperature gap between day and night is large. It rains a little. In spring and autumn, it has sandstorms. Take sunglasses and hats to guard against the wind and sand.

  • With City attractions