Yungang Grottoes

Introduction:

Yungang Grottoes, located near Datong City in Shanxi Province, is one of the most famous ancient Buddhist temple grottoes in China. Dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty (460-525 AD), the grottoes feature over 51,000 statues and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The artistic carvings in the caves, which cover an area of over 18,000 square meters, represent a blend of traditional Chinese and foreign artistic influences, primarily from India and Central Asia.

Advantages:

Cultural and Historical Significance: Yungang Grottoes reflect a fusion of art, religion, and history, representing Buddhist culture and the transmission of Indian Buddhist art to China.
Exquisite Stone Carvings: The grottoes are famous for their detailed and large-scale stone carvings, including Buddha statues ranging from a few centimeters to over 17 meters high.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized globally for its cultural importance, the grottoes are a must-see for those interested in ancient art and architecture.
Stunning Scenery: The grottoes are situated against a backdrop of mountains, offering visitors both a cultural and scenic experience.

Ticket Price:

Full Price: 120 RMB/person
Discounted Price: 60 RMB for students, seniors, and military personnel
Free Entry: For children under 1.2 meters

Opening Hours:

April to October: 08:30 - 17:30
November to March: 08:30 - 17:00

Discount Policy:

Children: Free entry for children under 1.2 meters.
Seniors: Visitors over 60 years old with valid ID can get discounted tickets.
Students: Half-price tickets available with a valid student ID.
Military Personnel/Disabled: Free entry with valid identification.

Transportation:

Bus: Take Bus No. 3 or 4 from Datong City to Yungang Grottoes Scenic Area.
Train: The nearest train station is Datong Railway Station, from where visitors can take a bus or taxi to the grottoes.
Driving: The site is about 16 kilometers west of Datong City, approximately a 30-minute drive.