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Explore the stunning Stone Buddha Caves, marvel at the ancient Buddhist carvings, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Visitors can also hike around the area to experience the natural beauty surrounding the site.
Shifo Cave, a Neolithic cultural relic site formed by the natural movement of the earth's crust, is the largest cave site in Yunnan Province and a nationally protected cultural relic. It is located on the banks of the Xiaohei River, 25 kilometers south of Gengma County.
A trial excavation in 1983 revealed a cultural deposit 3.2-3.5 meters thick, revealing the remains of five residential floors and one oval and one rectangular house. Unearthed artifacts included stone tools, bone tools, pottery, and rice. Archaeological excavations were conducted from June to August 2003, covering an area of 750 square meters.
Archaeological discoveries show that the inhabitants of the Shifo Cave site were able to plow with cattle, grow rice, and make pottery as early as 3,000 years ago. Their stone tools were exquisite, their pottery was beautifully painted, and their shapes were intricate, creating the most advanced Neolithic culture in Southwest China.
The subtropical low-latitude mountain monsoon climate has a small temperature difference between the four seasons, distinct dry and wet seasons, and significant vertical changes. There is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
The site contains 14 layers of cultural deposits, 12 of which date back to the Neolithic Age. The thickness of the deposits ranges from 1 to 3 meters, with most exceeding 2 meters. Remains of nine houses have been identified, generally rectangular in shape and measuring approximately 20 to 30 square meters. Also discovered are a single burial, with the skeleton lying sideways and limbs bent; a regular circular ash pit, used as a cellar; and a hearth.
The unearthed relics at the Shifo Cave site are diverse and abundant in number, including stone tools, pottery, bone tools, animal bones, carbonized rice, fruit cores, seeds, and human remains, totaling over 2,000 items. The stone tools are exquisitely crafted, with symmetry, regularity, smoothness, and sharpness as their basic characteristics. In addition to the multi-diamond hexagram-shaped objects, the six-star bi disks and double-winged spears also show extremely high levels of craftsmanship.
The pottery is diverse in variety, unique in shape, and exquisitely decorated. The polished folded-shoulder cauldron is the most representative, while the folded-shoulder cauldron decorated with continuous scrollwork is an original work of art of great ornamental value. Several exquisite bone artifacts have also been unearthed, including bone daggers, large and small fish hooks, all of which are meticulously and precisely crafted.
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The Stone Buddha Cave Site dates back to the Tang Dynasty and holds great historical and religious significance as a Buddhist site. The caves feature intricate carvings and statues of Buddha, showcasing the artistic and spiritual heritage of the period.
The Stone Buddha Cave Site is located in Lincang, Yunnan Province. You can reach the site by taking a taxi or bus from Lincang city center. Public transport options are available, but taxis are the most convenient for direct access.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but there is no online ticketing system currently available for the site.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Tickets can be bought on the day of your visit.
A visit to the Stone Buddha Cave Site typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore, including time for sightseeing and photography.
The must-see highlights include the ancient Buddha statues and detailed cave carvings. Be sure to explore the various caves, each showcasing unique Buddhist art and religious iconography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, providing detailed information about the history and significance of the caves. Audio guides are not currently offered.
The best photography spots are near the caves, where you can capture the intricate carvings and statues against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains and landscape.
It’s recommended to start at the main entrance and visit the largest cave first, then gradually explore the smaller caves. Take your time to appreciate the artistry of each Buddha statue and carving along the way.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this site. It is a daytime destination, best visited during daylight hours to appreciate the full beauty of the carvings and surrounding scenery.
The site is generally not overcrowded, but it can get busier on weekends and public holidays. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is the best way to avoid crowds.
Basic facilities such as public toilets, small rest areas, and drinking water are available. There are no large shops, but there may be a few stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs.
The site is somewhat accessible, but some areas, particularly the caves, may have steep steps or uneven paths. It may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues, but elderly visitors and children can still enjoy the site with some care.
Cash is widely accepted. Mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used, but credit cards may not be accepted on-site.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the site itself, but you can find local eateries in Lincang city. Traditional Yunnan cuisine is available at several restaurants near the city center.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in Lincang city, but halal food options may be limited. It’s best to check with local restaurants in advance.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels in Lincang city. For more upscale accommodations, consider staying in larger hotels within the city, such as those located near the city center or railway station.
Nearby attractions include the Lincang City Museum and various scenic areas in the surrounding mountains. These can easily be combined with a visit to the Stone Buddha Cave Site for a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops in Lincang city where you can find local handicrafts, tea, and traditional Yunnan products. Some small stalls near the cave site also sell souvenirs such as carved stone replicas of the Buddha statues.
After visiting the Stone Buddha Cave Site, taxis or buses can take you back to Lincang city. From there, you can continue your journey by bus or train to other nearby destinations in Yunnan province.
