Tourist Attractions

Dazu Rock Carvings

Among the mountainous County of Dazu in the southwest of Chongqing, the Dazu Rock Carvings represent the essence of grottoes in later imperial China. The Dazu Rock Carvings are well-preserved and famous for their aesthetic quality and variety of subject matters. They were listed as World Heritage by UNESCO in 1999. 

There are more than 70 locations of carvings in the county of Dazu and its surrounding areas. The five most fabulous locations are the Beishan, Baodingshan, Nanshan, Shizhuanshan and Shimenshan. The total number of statues adds up to 50,000 pieces and numerous inscriptions with more than 10,000 characters. Carvings of the pieces began in the year of 649, and stayed prosperous in the Song Dynasty (960-1278). The Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911) also contributed some carvings. 

The subjects of the carvings are usually concentrated on the religious stories which include Buddhism and Taoism, as well as Confucianism. Some have two of the religions blended and some have three integrated. These sculptures and inscriptions vividly reflect the development of the rock carvings and the changes of people's beliefs from the early Tang Dynasty (618-970) till the Song Dynasty. Refined workmanship created lifelike characters which are very impressive. 

The Dazu Rock Carvings are as well regarded as the Yungang Caves and Dunhuang Caves, which all represent the essence of Chinese civilization. All of them are very popular both at home and abroad.

More Visitor Attractions in Chongqing:
Chongqing Museums, Chongqing Parks, Ciqikou, Jiefangbei

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