I rarely use the word "stunning" to describe a place.

While watching the Spring Festival Gala at home, I realized that a hidden gem I visited last year was featured in the gala (Chongqing branch venue). The Dazu Rock Carvings are the largest grotto group in southern China and the only World Cultural Heritage site in Chongqing! Built in the early Tang Dynasty, the site has survived for thousands of years and is a treasure of stone carving art that combines Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian cultures. ▫️ Although it is as famous as the Mogao Grottoes, Longmen Grottoes, and Yungang Grottoes, it is not as popular as the other three. Located in the suburbs of Chongqing, it is not easily accessible, so few people visit. There are five grotto groups in Dazu, among which the Baoding Mountain Grottoes, which appeared in the Spring Festival Gala, are the most famous. Known as the "three-dimensional Along the River During the Qingming Festival," it is a masterpiece that showcases the life of the Southern Song Dynasty! Here, you can not only appreciate exquisite carving art but also feel the atmosphere of ancient people's lives. It is a perfect combination of history and art. ▫️ ‼️ Must-see carvings: ❤️ The Great Convenience Buddha's Sutra of Repaying Kindness: A Buddhist localization promoting filial piety. ❤️ Thousand-Hand Guanyin: One of the most stunning carvings in the Dazu Rock Carvings, with a thousand arms extending outward, symbolizing omnipresent compassion and protection. ❤️ Three Sages of Huayan: A typical example of the principles of mechanics and perspective in artistic conception. ❤️ Six Realms of Reincarnation: Reveals the cycle of cause and effect through vivid carvings. Shakyamuni Nirvana: The most magnificent statue in the Dazu Rock Carvings, occupying the most prominent position in the Great Buddha Bay. ❤️ Peacock King Sutra: The only King of Brightness with a compassionate appearance. ▫️ ✅ Travel tips: 1. It is recommended to visit the Dazu Rock Carvings Museum first and then the Baoding Mountain Grottoes. 2. If you want to learn more about the history behind the carvings, it is recommended to watch the documentary "Dazu Rock Carvings: The World on Stone" for a better experience. Of course, you can also hire a tour guide or rent an electronic guide in the scenic area. 3. Please allow at least two hours for your visit. ▫️ 🚗 Transportation tips Self-driving: It takes about 1 hour to drive from downtown Chongqing to the Dazu Rock Carvings Scenic Area, which is convenient and fast! Public transportation: Take a bus from Chongqing to Dazu, and then take a taxi to the scenic area (1.5–2 hours). 🥗 Food recommendations: Youting Crucian Carp: Originating from Youting Town in Dazu District, it is a signature dish of Dazu. Fish lovers should not miss it. Dingjiapo Potatoes: A cold potato dish and a famous snack in Dazu. Chongqing Hot Pot: You can't visit Chongqing without trying hot pot, right?