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Visitors to Guandoushan Stone Sculpture can explore the ancient stone carvings and immerse themselves in the area's rich cultural and historical significance. The sculptures depict various figures and scenes from traditional Chinese culture, making it an excellent spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.
The Guandoushan Stone Sculptures are located between Xinhuafen Mountain and Luohan Mountain in Gaotian Township, 40 kilometers northeast of Weixin County, Zhaotong City, at an altitude of 1,880 meters. Guandoushan Temple was first built during the Ming Dynasty, centered around Guandoushan Mountain. More than ten other temples were also built, including those at Kunlun Mountain, Xiaoxitian Temple, and Shensulin Mountain. The temple burned down several times. During the Republic of China period, nine main halls were restored, located east to west on the ridge of Guandoushan Mountain, covering an area of 6,200 square meters. Currently, only the ruins of the nine halls remain.
Guandoushan Stone Sculpture Park is located adjacent to Tianxing National Forest Park, a place known for its towering peaks, lush greenery, vast bamboo forests, and clear springs. Temples were first constructed on the mountain over 700 years ago during the Ming Dynasty. Through successive generations of development during the Ming, Qing, and Republican eras, the mountain became a hub for Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Following its destruction, the temple's three main halls have been rebuilt, along with numerous stone carvings and inscriptions. These carvings are uniquely shaped, meticulously engraved, and lifelike, possessing high religious, cultural, artistic, and aesthetic value.
The subtropical monsoon climate is characterized by the Guandoushan stone carvings, which represent the confluence of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, integrating religion and legend. Their scale and complexity are greatly influenced by Sichuan sculpture art, and their unique shapes, exquisite craftsmanship, and beautiful appearance make them the largest religious stone carving complex in Yunnan. They possess high artistic and ornamental value and are suitable for visitors in all seasons.
Nine major halls: Buddha Hall, Guan Sheng Hall, Queen Mother Hall, Thunder Ancestor Hall, Three Religions Hall, Yaochi Hall, Black Demon Hall, Maitreya Hall, and Jade Emperor Hall;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
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Open all day
Guandoushan Stone Sculpture is a significant cultural site in Zhaotong, Yunnan, featuring intricate carvings that showcase the craftsmanship of the region's ancient civilizations. These stone sculptures have stood the test of time and offer a glimpse into the artistic and religious practices of the past.
Guandoushan is located in Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. There are no direct metro connections, but local buses may provide access to the nearby area.
Guandoushan Stone Sculpture is open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the cooler months of spring and autumn, as the weather is more comfortable for exploring the outdoor sculptures.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there is currently no online booking system available for advance purchases.
There is no need to book tickets in advance. Visitors can purchase tickets directly on-site when they arrive.
To fully explore the site, visitors should allocate approximately 1-2 hours. This will allow time to appreciate the sculptures, walk around the area, and take photographs.
The main highlights of Guandoushan are the numerous stone sculptures, including representations of gods, animals, and scenes from folklore. Visitors should also explore the surrounding natural beauty and peaceful environment.
Guided tours may be available in Mandarin, but it’s advisable to check in advance. Audio guides are generally not available in multiple languages.
The best photography spots are near the sculptures, especially when framed by the surrounding natural landscape. Early morning or late afternoon light provides excellent conditions for capturing the stone carvings in their best light.
Start your visit by exploring the main sculpture area, then walk around the site to enjoy the surrounding scenery. Don’t miss the vantage points for scenic views of the stone carvings against the backdrop of nature.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Guandoushan Stone Sculpture. It is primarily a daytime attraction focused on exploring the sculptures and the natural surroundings.
Guandoushan is generally not very crowded, but weekends and public holidays may bring more visitors. The least crowded times are during weekdays, particularly in the morning.
Basic facilities, such as toilets and rest areas, are available at the site. However, there are no food or drink shops directly within the sculpture park, so it’s advisable to bring your own refreshments.
The attraction has some uneven terrain, making it less accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. Elderly visitors and children may find the walk around the sculptures a bit difficult, but most areas are walkable with assistance.
Cash is commonly accepted at the entrance, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly used in the region. It’s a good idea to carry some cash, just in case.
There are limited dining options inside the attraction, but local restaurants and eateries can be found in the nearby town of Zhaotong, where visitors can enjoy traditional Yunnan cuisine.
In Zhaotong, there are various local restaurants offering vegetarian and halal options, especially in more diverse areas of the town. It's recommended to check the menu beforehand to ensure dietary preferences are met.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located in Zhaotong, providing convenient accommodations for visitors. Options range from budget-friendly hotels to more upscale establishments.
Nearby attractions include the Fuxian Lake and local temples, which can be combined in a day trip. Visitors can also explore the city of Zhaotong itself for additional historical and cultural sites.
Souvenir shops are available in Zhaotong, selling local handicrafts such as woven textiles, traditional Yunnan tea, and pottery. These make for great gifts or keepsakes from the region.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing the trip to other nearby attractions. Public buses are also available, but taxis offer more convenience.
