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The Lingyingshan Grottoes were carved into the mountainside and are surrounded by green hills on all sides. The statues inside were painted with techniques of high quality. Unfortunately, they were severely damaged during the Cultural Revolution. After the Cultural Revolution, the local people rebuilt the grottoes.
The statues in the cave are lifelike in shape, each with its own expression, and are very appealing; the murals have generous patterns, harmonious colors, and exquisite painting.
According to legend, it was built by General Jingde of the Tang Dynasty and is now a county-level cultural relic protection unit.
Yanchi has a typical continental monsoon climate, with cold winters and hot summers, with an average temperature of 22.4 degrees Celsius. It has many sunny days and little rainfall, abundant light energy, sufficient sunshine and large temperature differences. The climate in winter and summer is very different, with an average temperature difference of about 28 degrees Celsius. At the turn of autumn and winter, the temperature difference between day and night can reach 20 degrees Celsius.
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Lingyingshan Grottoes are a historical site dating back to the Tang and Northern Wei dynasties. They feature a collection of Buddhist statues and carvings, representing a fusion of traditional Chinese art and Buddhism. The grottoes have immense cultural and religious significance, providing a glimpse into China’s spiritual heritage.
Lingyingshan Grottoes are located in Ningxia, near the town of Lingyingshan. The best way to reach it is by taxi or private car from the city center of Yinchuan. Public transportation options are limited, so hiring a car or taking a taxi is more convenient.
The grottoes are open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, as the weather is mild, and the site is less crowded. Avoid visiting in summer as it can get quite hot.
The entrance fee is typically around 60-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It’s recommended to check for any changes in pricing or availability through local tourism websites or tour operators before your visit.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually required, but for special events or busy seasons, it’s advisable to book at least a few days ahead through local tour agencies or online platforms.
To fully explore the grottoes and surrounding area, allow around 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit the nearby temple or enjoy the landscape, an additional hour is recommended.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer limited English services. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, may also be available for rent.
Start by exploring the main grottoes, focusing on the most famous carvings and statues. Afterward, take a short walk around the site for photography and relaxation. End your visit with a stop at the nearby Lingyingshan Temple for a deeper understanding of the area’s religious significance.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at Lingyingshan Grottoes. Special tours may be available during certain festivals, but these should be booked in advance.
Lingyingshan Grottoes are not usually crowded, but they can get busier during national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
There are basic facilities such as toilets and water fountains available. There are also small rest areas where visitors can relax. Shops selling souvenirs and snacks are available near the entrance.
The site is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check in advance for specific accessibility options.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used at the site.
There are a few local restaurants near the entrance of the grottoes, offering basic Ningxia cuisine. The food options are limited, so it’s advisable to bring snacks if you're planning to stay for an extended period.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available at local eateries, especially those catering to the Hui Muslim population in the area.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia, located around 40 km from the grottoes. For a more local experience, consider staying in nearby villages.
Souvenir shops near the site offer traditional Ningxia crafts, such as pottery, textiles, and artwork depicting the grottoes. Local handicrafts from the Hui Muslim culture are also popular items.
After visiting the grottoes, it’s best to return to Yinchuan for further exploration of nearby attractions. Taxis and private cars are the most convenient options, but buses are also available for some destinations.
