Yungang Grottoes (云冈石窟)
51,000 Buddhist statues carved into sandstone cliffs over 60 years in the 5th century - one of China's greatest artistic achievements.
Duration
2-3 hours
Cost
¥120 ($17)
Hours
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Booking
No booking needed
The Yungang Grottoes (云冈石窟) are one of China's three great Buddhist cave complexes, alongside the Longmen Grottoes and Mogao Caves. Built during the Northern Wei Dynasty (460-520 AD), the grottoes contain over 51,000 Buddhist statues carved into a kilometer of sandstone cliff face.
Highlights
Cave 5 and 6 - The largest caves with a 17-meter-tall seated Buddha and elaborate wall carvings.
Cave 20 - The iconic open-air Buddha, one of the most photographed sights in Chinese art.
Tanyao Five Caves - The earliest caves with monumental Buddha figures.
Bus 3 from Datong city center (40 minutes, ¥4). ¥120 ($17) entry. Allow 2-3 hours.
Practical tips
- Visit Cave 5 and 6 for the most impressive statues. Morning light is best for photography.