Yaowangshan Stone Carvings

Introducing Yaowangshan Stone Carvings

Yaowang Mountain boasts a rich variety of rock carvings, including one cliff carving dating from the Sui and Ming dynasties, 23 Buddhist niches, and 45 statues. These carvings date back to the Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Song, Jin, Yuan, and Ming dynasties. The statues are carved using three techniques: relief, high relief, and round carving. The largest ones stand over ten feet tall, while the smallest are less than a foot. The carvings are exquisitely detailed, with flowing lines and a vivid sense of form and spirit, possessing exceptional artistic value.

The Yaowangshan cliff carvings date from the Northern Zhou, Tang, and Song dynasties to the Ming and Qing dynasties. These carvings are scattered across the cliff face, stretching over 20 meters from east to west, in the southeast corner of the mountain. Seven caves and 23 niches exist, housing a total of 43 statues. The carvings were created using techniques including high relief, embossing, and round carving, and date from the Northern Zhou, Tang, and Song dynasties to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Among the cave sculptures, the most exquisite is the Northern Zhou Maitreya statue in Cave No. 2, standing 3.3 meters tall. Eleven Tang Dynasty statues date from the heyday of the Tang Dynasty. Among them, the Bodhisattva statue in the fifth niche of Cave No. 3 is exceptionally well-formed and ranks among the finest of Yaowangshan's sculptures.

A collection of inscriptions, statues, and cliff carvings dating from the Northern Dynasties to the Ming Dynasty. Located 2.5 kilometers east of Yao County, Shaanxi Province, on Yaowang Mountain, the mountain is named after the renowned Tang Dynasty physician Sun Simiao, who lived there in seclusion.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suitable for appreciating stone carvings, visiting Yaowang Mountain attractions, and enjoying the scenery.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

Free (included in the Yaowang Mountain Scenic Area ticket of 60 yuan/person)

Attraction opening hours

8:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yaowangshan Stone Carvings

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yaowangshan Stone Carvings are a significant cultural and historical site in Shaanxi province. The carvings, which date back to the Tang Dynasty, depict religious themes and local folklore. These carvings are a reflection of the region's deep spiritual and artistic traditions, especially linked to Buddhism and Taoism.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yaowangshan Stone Carvings are located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi province. The site is best accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. There are buses available, but a taxi or car rental is recommended for convenience. Walking is also an option for those who enjoy hiking.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends and holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance, or you can inquire at local travel agencies for group bookings. Online ticket purchasing options are not commonly available for this site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for individual visitors. However, booking in advance is recommended if visiting during peak seasons or for group tours. A few days before your visit should suffice for advance bookings.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Yaowangshan Stone Carvings. This includes hiking, taking in the carvings, and enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding area. If you want to take your time and photograph the carvings, plan for a slightly longer visit.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The highlight of this attraction is the stone carvings themselves, especially the larger ones depicting religious figures and local deities. The view from the hiking trails also offers picturesque landscapes and a unique perspective of the carvings.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides in Chinese may also be available, but English-speaking guides are typically limited. It is advisable to arrange for a guide in advance if you prefer English explanations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the higher trails, where you can capture wide-angle views of the mountain and the carvings. The carvings themselves also provide excellent photography opportunities, particularly the ones on larger rock surfaces that are highly detailed.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the base where the carvings are located and follow the trail upward to see the larger carvings along the way. You can complete the route by hiking to the top for panoramic views of the site and the surrounding nature.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at Yaowangshan Stone Carvings. The site is primarily a day-time attraction, with its main appeal being the natural landscape and historical carvings.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a more relaxed experience, visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when fewer visitors are around.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities available, including toilets, water stations, and some small rest areas. Few shops sell snacks and local souvenirs. There are no large restaurants, so it's best to bring snacks if you're planning a longer visit.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, as the trails can be steep and the area requires some hiking. Families with children can enjoy the site, but be mindful of the terrain if bringing young children or elderly individuals.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at the site, so it's recommended to have cash or use mobile payment methods for purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants or cafes directly at the site. However, you can find small eateries and food stalls at the base of the mountain offering local snacks and light meals. For more options, head to Tongchuan city, which is about a 30-minute drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the local food stalls, particularly dishes made with vegetables and tofu. Halal food options may be limited, but there are Muslim-friendly restaurants in Tongchuan city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near the base of Yaowangshan Stone Carvings. More comfortable accommodations are available in Tongchuan city, where you can find mid-range and higher-end hotels.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Yaowang Mountain itself and the historic Qianling Temple. Both can be visited on the same day as part of a day trip in the area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the base of the mountain, where you can find local handicrafts, stone carvings, and religious artifacts. You can also buy local snacks and tea as souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue your trip, taxis or buses to Tongchuan city are the best options. From there, you can explore other local attractions or travel to other destinations in Shaanxi by train or bus.