Fahua Temple Grottoes

Introducing Fahua Temple Grottoes

Fahua Temple, formerly known as the Sleeping Buddha Temple, is renowned for its grotto art. The Fahua Temple Grottoes are my country's southernmost grotto complex, located in Xiaotaohua Village, 5 kilometers east of Anning City. On the steep red sandstone cliffs west of Luoyang Mountain, a cluster of grotto carvings from the Dali Kingdom era can be seen. On a flat, forested hillside, the ruins of Fahua Temple, built during the Tang Dynasty, lie. The numerous grottoes, Buddha statues, and inscriptions here hold high artistic value. Lush trees shroud the area, birds chirp, caves and springs flow, and the rock faces appear sheer. Ancient caves dot the rock face, housing numerous lifelike stone Buddha statues of varying shapes. This is one of the few examples of grotto art found in ancient ethnic minority areas in my country.

The grottoes were built on the cliffs of the mountain and are divided into four parts. The first part has statues of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and Guanyin; the second part has statues of Eighteen Arhats, most of which are incomplete due to damage and are divided into three layers: upper, middle and lower. The word "sunset" is engraved on the stone wall below the cave; the third part originally had three caves with statues, one of which was carved with Buddha and Bodhisattva statues, and the other two caves are no longer recognizable; the fourth part has a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha in Nirvana, commonly known as the Reclining Buddha, which is 4.8 meters long and is the most complete cave in the grottoes.

The entire grotto is dominated by Zen Buddhist statues, which are of great value to the study of Yunnan's Buddhist art and folk customs. It is now listed as a key cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan Province.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical plateau monsoon climate; the Fahua Temple Grottoes have a group of grotto stone carvings from the Dali Kingdom era, which is worth a visit and suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Fahua Temple Grottoes

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

Fahua Temple Grottoes is a historic Buddhist site in Kunming, Yunnan. It holds cultural and religious significance due to its ancient carvings, statues, and historical architecture that reflect Buddhist art and local heritage.

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

Fahua Temple Grottoes is located in Kunming, Yunnan. Visitors can reach it by taxi, ride-hailing services, or local buses. Walking is convenient within the temple complex and grotto area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for visiting and photography.

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

Entrance fees are moderate and can usually be purchased on-site. Online ticketing may be available through local travel platforms.

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

Advance booking is not required for regular visits, but may be recommended for large groups or special events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 2–3 hours are needed to explore the grottoes, temple, and surrounding areas at a relaxed pace.

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

• Main grotto halls with Buddhist carvings and statues
• Temple courtyard and prayer halls
• Scenic pathways around the grottoes

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English or other language tours are limited and may need prior arrangement.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Entrance and main grotto halls
• Temple courtyards
• Overlooking scenic areas around the grottoes

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the grottoes and main halls, walk through temple courtyards, explore scenic pathways, and finish with photography at viewpoints around the site.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special tours may occur during festivals or religious events.

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

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Early mornings offer a quieter experience.

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

Basic facilities include public toilets, rest areas, and small snack stalls near the entrance.

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

Main areas are moderately accessible, but some grotto paths may have steps or uneven surfaces, requiring caution.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted; mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted at ticket counters and nearby vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small cafes and restaurants near the site offer local Yunnan cuisine and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited and should be checked in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are located within a short drive in Kunming city.

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

• Yunnan Ethnic Village
• Kunming Dian Lake
• Local temples and cultural sites

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell religious artifacts, postcards, traditional Yunnan crafts, and small Buddhist items.

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

Taxis, ride-hailing services, and local buses are convenient for reaching Kunming city center or other nearby attractions.