Su Dongpo's Damailing Cliff Inscription

Introducing Su Dongpo's Damailing Cliff Inscription

The Su Dongpo Cliff Inscription at Damailing is located halfway up the eastern slope of Damailing in Hangzhou . It was written by Su Dongpo in 1090 , the fifth year of Yuanyou in the Northern Song Dynasty, when he came to Hangzhou for the second time to serve as the prefect. He was traveling to Tianzhu with Wang Yu, Yang Jie and Zhang Shou and passed by Mailing.

The cliff carving is 1.38 meters high , 1.84 meters long, and the characters are 0.1 meters in diameter. The text is written in right-hand regular script. It is the only authentic inscription by Su Dongpo in Hangzhou. It has been listed as a Zhejiang Provincial Cultural Relic Protection Unit.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 10 minutes

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Su Dongpo's Damailing Cliff Inscription

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

The Su Dongpo's Damailing Cliff Inscription is one of the most famous calligraphic works of Su Dongpo, a celebrated poet, essayist, and statesman from the Song Dynasty. The inscription is revered for its artistic beauty and cultural importance in Chinese history.

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

Located in the city of Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, the Damailing Cliff Inscription is accessible by taxi or bus from Hangzhou's city center. The site is situated in a scenic area, so walking from nearby locations is also possible for those who enjoy nature.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, as these times offer the most peaceful experience and fewer tourists.

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

The entrance fee is around ¥30, and tickets can be purchased either at the site or through online platforms commonly used in China like Alipay or WeChat Pay.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the site, including time to appreciate the inscription and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

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

• The Damailing Cliff Inscription, which is the focal point of the site.
• The surrounding area, which offers beautiful views of hills and rivers, perfect for photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides in English may be available. It's a good idea to inquire about the availability of English guides at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The area around the cliff inscription offers great spots for landscape photography, with views of the surrounding hills and natural scenery. The inscription itself is also a popular subject for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the inscription, then take a walk through the surrounding natural areas. The site is small, so you can easily explore all main areas in one visit.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at this site. The attraction is best visited during daylight hours when the inscription and surrounding nature can be appreciated fully.

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

The site can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. Visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning, will allow for a more tranquil experience.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. However, there are no large restaurants or shops, so it's recommended to bring water and snacks if needed.

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

The site is accessible for elderly visitors and children, but there may be some uneven paths leading to the inscription. Disabled access could be challenging due to the natural terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted. Cash is rarely needed, but it's advisable to carry some in case of emergencies.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small local eateries near the site offer traditional Chinese meals and snacks.
• For a wider variety of dining options, head to Hangzhou's city center where there are plenty of restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in some local restaurants, though halal food is not commonly found near the site. For halal options, you may need to go to Hangzhou city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are budget hotels and guesthouses in Hangzhou city center, around a 30-minute drive away from the site.
• For more luxurious options, consider staying near West Lake, another popular area in Hangzhou.

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

• West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is nearby and offers scenic boat tours and cultural landmarks.
• The Lingyin Temple, one of China's most famous Buddhist temples, is also located nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir shops near the site offer local handicrafts, including tea sets, Chinese calligraphy brushes, and traditional art pieces.

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

Taxi, bus, or the metro are the best options to continue your journey. Hangzhou has a well-developed transportation system, making it easy to reach other attractions.