Travel through a thousand years and encounter the Buddhist light and Zen shadows of the Northern Qi royal grottoes

Xiangtangshan Grottoes were first carved during the Northern Qi period (550-577 AD) and were later continued through the Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties. They are a nationally protected cultural heritage site. This is not only the largest grotto complex in Hebei Province but also named "Xiangtang" because the echoes produced when people talk and brush their sleeves inside the caves sound resonant and clear. North Xiangtang: The Essence of Royal Grandeur The North Xiangtangshan Grottoes were commissioned by the Northern Qi royal family and are the largest and best-preserved. The most stunning feature is the Great Buddha Cave, where the main seated Buddha statue in the central niche is 5 meters tall. Behind it is a backdrop composed of seven fiery dragons, vividly lifelike. This is the most exquisite grotto in North Xiangtang, richly decorated and the largest in scale. South Xiangtang: Exquisite Carving Artistry The South Xiangtang Grottoes are located in Xizifang Village, with over 3,700 statues of various sizes. Inside the Thousand Buddha Cave, there are 1,028 stone Buddhas. The carvings of musicians and flying apsaras on the cave ceiling are delicate, with flowing ribbons and charming postures, leaving visitors in awe of the superb craftsmanship of ancient artisans. 🗓 Practical Travel Guide Basic Information · Opening Hours: Open year-round; summer 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM, winter 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM · Ticket Prices: Adult ticket 60 RMB, ticket + sightseeing bus 98 RMB · Recommended Visit Duration: 3-4 hours Best Tour Route One-day Highlights Tour: North Xiangtang Visitor Center → Take sightseeing bus to the mountaintop → North Xiangtang Grottoes (focus on the Great Buddha Cave) → Changle Temple Ruins → Return to the foot of the mountain → South Xiangtang Grottoes (see the Thousand Buddha Cave and Huayan Sutra stone carvings) If time is limited, you can visit only the larger and more artistically valuable North Xiangtang.