Dazu Rock Carvings, certified as UNESCO cultural heritage in 1999, refers to 75 carving sites sporadically situated within Dazu County, Chongqing. The must-go and highlight are five carving sites. And the most known of all is Baodingshan Site (Treasure Top Mt.), followed by Beishan Site (Northern Mt.).

Top four religious arts sites in China are: Dunhuang Grottoes (Gansu Province, bordering Uyghur), Yungang Grottoes (Shanxi Province), Longmen Grottoes (Henan Province), and Dazu Rock Carvings. They reflect the route of cultural exchange of Buddhism between ancient India and China, and the localization of Buddhism in China. Dazu is the only one that is situated in the South.

Dazu County is 1.5 hour drive away from the urban center. And Dazu tour would usually take 7-8 hours if you desire to see two of Baodingshan and Beishan.

• Baodingshan (approx 10-12 Century) is the most famous because it is most relatable and readily understandable for average spectators with its straightforward representation and image arts, unlike other places which concentrate the abstract and conceptual religious expressions. Additionally, it is the only place in China where you can see the harmonious co-existence of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, unlike other places where one religion dominates.

• Beishan (approx 9-11 Century) is also recommended because it is dated earlier than Baodingshan, and it reflects earlier expressions of Buddhism, and connections with Hinduism. It has more well-preserved and exquisite images and grottoes than other sites in the county.

Where is it and How can I get there by myself?

Tentative Itinerary

• 0900AM Pickup and embark

• 1030AM-1200PM: Visit Baodingshan

Lunch break (Chinese style cuisine)

• 1330PM-1430PM: Visit Beishan

• Hopefully return to the urban city by 1730PM

Car rental is around CNY700-800 for a 7-seat van during non-holiday times.

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