Dazu Baoding Mountain Stone Carvings

Tourist sight

★ 4.6 (50+ reviews) • 300+ booked

Nestled in the heart of Chongqing's scenic Dazu District, the Dazu Baoding Mountain Stone Carvings are a captivating testament to China's rich cultural and artistic heritage. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, these exceptional rock carvings date back to the 7th century and offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the spiritual and artistic endeavors of ancient China. The carvings, which flourished from the 9th to 13th centuries, beautifully illustrate the harmonious coexistence of Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist beliefs. As you explore the grand scale and aesthetic quality of these intricate carvings, you'll be transported into a world where history, art, and spirituality converge. The Dazu Carvings stand as a pinnacle of Chinese rock art, inviting travelers to delve into their historical and spiritual depths, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Baodingshan, Dazu County, a suburb of Dazu District, Chongqing, China Postcode: 402586

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4.6 /5

50+ reviews

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Wong ********

10 Jun

A group of 6 people came for sightseeing, without any preparation, and left everything to the tour guide and driver. The tour guide was very attentive and responsible, and introduced us carefully. We walked around and took photos, and the tour guide waited for us patiently. The shuttle bus was very clean and comfortable, and we slept well in the bus (we were so tired that we fell asleep). I definitely recommend everyone to sign up for this tour, you can rest assured and have fun!

YEE ********

5 May

Not a bad experience, to understand more about historical cavings and history. But due to golden week, the crowd can be massive. But overall good experience with guide briefing and giving us some information. But will be better if she could speak or gives more sharing session while we are in the bus. As outdoor sharing can be quite tough due to external factors. No sharing session while on the river cruise

Meggie ***********************

31 Mar

Dazu was amazing. it really hard to reach without private car, so if you are didnt have private car, this tour will help you a lot. and Dazu itself was amazing. it was in very good condition despite the carve age. must visit!

Klook User

26 Mar

ian was such a great guide. he spoke fluently in english and mandarin. also was very passionate about the location. hope anyone that books this also get this lovely gentleman

Klook User

24 Mar

Our guide Xiao Xiao was amazing. super attitude and very knowledgeable. she went beyond our original itin and suggested other interesting spots for us to visit making it a most memorable day.

于秦 *

19 Mar

This trip to the Dazu Rock Carvings really opened my eyes. These stone statues from thousands of years ago are not only spectacular but also finely carved. Each Buddha statue is full of stories and wisdom. It's worth a visit and recommended to everyone who likes history and culture!

MAK *****

9 Mar

Compared with the itinerary in the text, there is a special car to pick up at the hotel, so there is no need to go to Jiefangbei to gather by yourself, which is great. The stone carvings in the scenic area are breathtaking, and the ancients had superb craftsmanship. Thousand-armed Guanyin and the reappearance of the Black Myth Monkey King are definitely not to be missed in this Chongqing itinerary, it is wonderful.

Hock *******

19 Jan

excellent trip. guide was excellent. very informative. learned a lot from the guide. had a great time.

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Baodingshan (Baoding Mountain)

Step into the mesmerizing world of Baodingshan, where history and art intertwine in a breathtaking U-shaped valley. This site, dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, is a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts. As you wander through the 500-meter stretch of intricate carvings, you'll be captivated by the vivid depictions of Tantric Buddhism and scenes of everyday life. Don't miss the Holy Longevity Monastery, where the carvings reach their zenith, offering a profound glimpse into the spiritual and secular life of the past.

Beishan (North Mountain)

Discover the serene beauty of Beishan, where spirituality and artistry converge along a 300-meter cliff face. Dating from the 9th to the 12th century, these carvings offer a tranquil escape into the world of Tantric Buddhism and Taoism. As you explore the largest cluster of over 10,000 carvings, you'll gain a deep insight into the religious beliefs and historical figures that shaped this era. Beishan is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful and reflective experience amidst stunning rock art.

Shizhuanshan (Shizhuan Mountain)

Embark on a journey through time at Shizhuanshan, where the harmonious blend of Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism is etched into the rock. Dating back to the early 12th century, this site showcases the unique tripartite arrangement of religious images, attributed to the renowned sculptor Wen Wijian. Spanning 130 meters, the carvings at Shizhuanshan offer a rare glimpse into the eclectic nature of religious belief in late Imperial China, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the rich tapestry of Chinese spiritual heritage.

Culture and History

The Dazu Rock Carvings are a harmonious synthesis of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, reflecting the spiritual and cultural diversity of ancient China. These carvings are a remarkable example of Chinese cave temple art, providing material proof of the development of religious beliefs and cave temple art in China from the 9th to 13th centuries. They depict not only Buddhist themes but also Taoist and Confucian imagery, reflecting the moral and rationalistic values of the time, encouraging good deeds and showcasing everyday life in ancient China.

Local Cuisine

While visiting Dazu, travelers can indulge in Chongqing's renowned spicy cuisine, featuring dishes like hotpot and spicy noodles. This offers a unique culinary experience that perfectly complements the cultural exploration, allowing visitors to savor the bold and fiery flavors that the region is famous for.

Preservation and Authenticity

The carvings are among the best-preserved examples of Chinese cave temple art, retaining their original characteristics and values. Strict adherence to conservation principles ensures the historical authenticity of the design, materials, and layout, allowing visitors to appreciate the carvings in their true historical context.

Artistic Excellence

The carvings at Dazu are celebrated for their artistic excellence, representing a new step in realism and exaggeration. The intricate details and expressive figures offer a captivating glimpse into the artistic achievements of the Tang and Song Dynasties, showcasing the skill and creativity of the artists of that era.

Dazu Baoding Mountain Stone Carvings