Yungang Grottoes
UNESCO World Heritage Site (2001); imperial grottoes of the Northern Wei, carved over five centuries. The Tanyao Five Caves (Caves 16-20) carve great Buddhas in the emperors' image as symbols of Northern Wei state destiny
Visitor info
- Opening hours
- 08:30-17:30 (Apr-Oct)/08:30-16:50 (Nov-Mar)
- Ticket
- CNY 120
Price is indicative — final quote on inquiry.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site (2001) and the imperial grottoes of the Northern Wei dynasty, carved over five centuries. The Tanyao Five Caves (Caves 16-20) feature great Buddhas carved in the emperors' likeness, symbolizing the destiny of the Northern Wei state. The 13.7m open-air giant Buddha of Cave 20 is the icon of Yungang; Caves 5-6 have gorgeously decorated central pagoda pillars with carvings of stories from the Golden Light Sutra; Cave 12, the 'Music Cave,' shows apsaras holding panpipes and pipa, recording Northern Wei orchestras. The site is complemented by the Grotto Museum and the 'Yungang' performance center, and can be combined with the ancient city wall in one day; morning light is best for photos.
Getting there: Bus from Datong Station / by taxi (approx. 17km)
Photos
More in Datong
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