Yungang Grottoes 1-day in-depth tour, 3–3.5 hours
Yungang Grottoes is a precious heritage site that marks the beginning of the "Sinicization" of Chinese grotto art. It is known as the "smile that transcends millennia". The tour takes about 3–4 hours, giving you enough time to appreciate each grotto and learn about their history and cultural background.
📍Attraction address: Yungang Grottoes is located on the southern slope of Wuzhou Mountain, about 16 km west of Datong City, and on the north bank of Wuzhou River. It has 45 main caves and 252 small caves and niches, and is one of the four major grottoes in China.
🚗Transportation:
Bus: You can first go to Datong City, and then take a bus or tourist bus to Yungang Grottoes.
Didi: Set your destination to the Yungang Grottoes ticket office or visitor center. This is a convenient and fast option.
Self-driving: Navigate directly to Yungang Grottoes. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
👍️Must-see attractions: Yungang Grottoes is famous for its large-scale grottoes and exquisite carving skills. The Buddha statues here are lifelike and dressed in gorgeous clothes, each telling a story of a thousand years. The surrounding environment is also beautiful, with mountains and rivers, fresh air, and a picturesque landscape. Be sure to visit Grottoes 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, and 20. Each grotto has its own unique historical and artistic value.
🎟️Tickets: Peak season: Full-price ticket CNY 120, half-price ticket CNY 60 (excluding sightseeing bus, CNY 20). Off-peak season: Full-price ticket CNY 100, half-price ticket CNY 50.
💗Other tips:
1. Before you set off, it is recommended to do some research in advance to learn about the history and cultural background of Yungang Grottoes. This will make your visit more fulfilling and meaningful.
2. Remember to bring a camera, as there are many great photo opportunities here. Whether it is the grandeur of the grottoes or the delicate and vivid Buddha statues, you will find many wonderful moments to capture.
3. Pay attention to sun protection and warmth, as the scenic area is large and you may stay outdoors for a long time. Also, please be a civilized tourist and do not touch or damage the precious cultural heritage such as Buddha statues and murals.