A Travel Guide to Dazu Rock Carvings, a World Cultural Heritage Site!!!

### 1. Scenic Spot Overview Dazu Rock Carvings is a **World Cultural Heritage Site**, primarily featuring Buddhist themes and integrating Confucian and Taoist cultures. It is known as the pinnacle of late Chinese grotto art and is as famous as the Dunhuang, Yungang, and Longmen Grottoes. The core scenic spots include **Baoding Mountain Rock Carvings** and **Beishan Rock Carvings**. The former is famous for its grand narrative scenes (such as the Thousand-Hand Guanyin and the Wheel of Reincarnation), while the latter is known for its exquisite Guanyin statues. --- ### 2. Transportation Guide 1. **From Downtown Chongqing**: - **Bus**: Direct buses to Dazu District are available at Caiyuanba, Chenjiaping, and other bus stations (approx. 1.5 hrs, CNY 40–50). Transfer to a local bus or taxi to the scenic spot upon arrival. - **Self-driving**: Navigate to "Dazu Rock Carvings Baoding Mountain Scenic Spot," approx. 90 km, 1.5 hrs. 2. **From Chengdu**: - Take a direct bus to Dazu from Hehuachi Bus Station, or take the high-speed train to Dazu South Station and transfer to a local bus. --- ### 3. Ticket Information - **Off-season (Dec 1–end of Feb)**: Baoding Mountain Rock Carvings: CNY 90; Beishan Rock Carvings: CNY 70; Combined ticket: CNY 120. - **Peak season (Mar 1–Nov 30)**: Baoding Mountain Rock Carvings: CNY 120; Beishan Rock Carvings: CNY 90; Combined ticket: CNY 140. - **Discounts**: Half price for students and seniors over 60; free for active military personnel, seniors over 70, etc. (valid ID required). - **Suggestion**: Purchasing a combined ticket is more cost-effective. ID card is required for online ticket purchases. --- ### 4. Best Time to Visit - **Season**: Spring and autumn are best (Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov), with mild weather, avoiding the summer heat and winter cold. - **Opening hours**: 8:30am–6pm, ticket sales stop at 4:30pm. --- ### 5. Classic Tour Route (One-day Trip) 1. **Morning**: - **Baoding Mountain Rock Carvings** (core scenic spot): Visit Dafowan, Thousand-Hand Guanyin, Reclining Buddha, Wheel of Reincarnation, etc., approx. 2 hrs. Renting an audio guide or hiring a tour guide (CNY 120–200/session) is recommended for a deeper understanding of the stories behind the carvings. 2. **Lunch**: - Dine at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic spot. "Daoxiangcun" is recommended for its free-range chicken and farmhouse cured meat. 3. **Afternoon**: - **Beishan Rock Carvings**: Featuring exquisite Guanyin statues, approx. 1 hr. - **Changzhou Ancient Town** (optional): Experience the traditional architecture and folk culture. 4. **Return**: Take the bus back to Chongqing no later than 6pm. --- ### 6. Recommended Activities Nearby 1. **Longshui Lake Hot Springs**: Relax in the mineral-rich hot springs next to the rock carvings. Suitable for families. 2. **Lotus Flower Viewing at Hehua Village**: Enjoy the vast lotus ponds in summer and experience the charm of the "Hometown of Chinese Lotus". 3. **Cultural Experience**: Watch the dance drama *World Dazu* and experience the spirit of the millennium-old rock carving artisans (if it is on tour). --- ### 7. Important Notes 1. **Safety and Valuables**: Be mindful of your belongings when the scenic spot is crowded, and be wary of pickpockets at the station. 2. **Clothing and Equipment**: Wear comfortable athletic shoes, bring sunscreen in summer, and an umbrella during the rainy season. 3. **Respectful Visiting**: Do not touch the rock carvings, keep quiet, and respect religious culture. 4. **Dining Tips**: There are limited dining options inside the scenic spot. It is recommended to bring your own snacks and water. --- ### 8. Accommodation Recommendations - **High-end**: Dazu Hotel (approx. CNY 300/night, including breakfast). - **Budget-friendly**: Jiaotong Hotel, Xinhua Hotel (approx. CNY 120/night), near the city center. - **Unique B&Bs**: B&Bs around the scenic spot offer a local experience.