The Dazu Rock Carvings are a collection of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian rock carvings dating back to the 9th–13th centuries during the Tang and Song Dynasties. They are located in Dazu District, about 100 km west of Chongqing, and are considered one of the most magnificent examples of Chinese religious art.
In 1999, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional artistic, historical, and spiritual value.
What to see at Dazu Rock Carvings?
There are over 50,000 statues spread across more than 75 locations, but the most famous carvings are in two main areas:
Baodingshan (宝顶山, Bǎodǐngshān) – the most famous site
Home to thousands of carvings from the 12th century, showcasing Buddhist teachings and everyday life.
Highlights:
- Sleeping Buddha (卧佛) – A massive 31-meter reclining Buddha, symbolizing peace and enlightenment.
- Guanyin with 1000 Hands (千手观音) – A stunning, golden-painted carving of the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
- Wheel of Reincarnation (六道轮回图) – A detailed depiction of the Buddhist cycle of life and rebirth.
- Hell Scene Carvings – Graphic representations of Buddhist punishments for sins.
Beishan (北山, Běishān) – the oldest carvings
Features narrow cliffs with carvings mainly from the Tang Dynasty (9th century).
The carvings are more intricate and refined, showcasing Buddhist deities, Taoist figures, and Confucian themes.
Highlights:
- Thousand Buddha Cave (千佛洞) – A wall filled with hundreds of small Buddha statues.
- Three Saints of Huayan (华严三圣像) – A beautiful carving representing Huayan Buddhism.
Other Sites (if you have extra time)
- Nanshan (南山) – Taoist rock carvings.
- Shizhuan Mountain (石篆山) – a mix of Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist carvings.
- Shimenshan (石门山) – smaller carvings with rare esoteric Buddhist themes.
How to visit Dazu Rock Carvings?
Location: Dazu District, Chongqing (重庆市大足区)
How to get to Dazu Rock Carving?
From Chongqing City:
By High-Speed Train: Take a train from Chongqing North Station (重庆北站) to Dazu South Station (大足南站) (~50 min), then take a taxi (~30 min) to the site.
By Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Chongqing West Bus Station (重庆西站) to Dazu Bus Station (大足汽车站) (~2 hours), then take a local bus/taxi.
By Taxi/Private Car: A direct taxi from Chongqing costs ¥400–500 one way (~1.5–2 hours).
Opening Hours:
- Baodingshan & Beishan: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fees:
- Baodingshan Ticket: 120 CNY
- Beishan Ticket: 80 CNY
- Combo Ticket (Baodingshan + Beishan): 170 CNY
Tips for visiting Dazu Rock Carvings
- Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November) for comfortable weather.
- Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk a lot on uneven paths.
- Go early – The site can get crowded by noon.
- Hire a guide – There’s limited English signage, so a guide (or audio guide) helps understand the carvings’ meanings.
- Bring water and snacks – Food options near the site are limited.
- If short on time, Baodingshan is the most impressive site and must visit one!
