Luyeyuan Private Stone Carving Art Museum

Introducing Luyeyuan Private Stone Sculpture Art Museum

Located in Pi County, the Luyeyuan Stone Carving Art Museum, designed by Liu Jiakun, is a small, private museum dedicated to Buddhist stone carvings from the Southwest Silk Road region. The museum occupies 50 mu (approximately 16 acres), with a stone bridge upstream and a river bend downstream. Wild trees and riverbank pebbles complement the modern architecture and legendary collection.

The museum currently has a collection of more than 1,000 stone carvings from ancient times to the Ming and Qing dynasties, and its main exhibits are Buddhist stone carvings from the Han Dynasty to the Tang and Song Dynasties. Among them, in addition to the stone portraits that are familiar to the general public, the Han Dynasty stone carvings also include single stone sculptures with mature techniques.

The museum's collection of Buddhist stone sculptures from the late Eastern Han Dynasty is particularly rare, providing valuable insights into the study of early sculpture. The Ten Directions Hall primarily showcases Buddhist stone sculptures from the Southwest Silk Road. The 200 stone sculptures on display span the Han Dynasty, extending through the Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and even the Five Dynasties and Song Dynasty. The rich and diverse styles offer a clear trajectory of the evolution of Buddhist sculpture.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Luyeyuan Private Stone Carving Art Museum

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

The Luyeyuan Private Stone Carving Art Museum in Chengdu is a private collection showcasing over 2,000 years of stone carving artistry. It represents various regional styles, offering a deep dive into Chinese artistic traditions, craftsmanship, and religious symbolism, with an emphasis on historical stone reliefs and statues.

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

The museum is located in Chengdu, Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. The nearest metro station may require a transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the museum directly, as it is not in walking distance from major metro hubs.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the best time to visit being in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds. Weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.

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

Entrance fees vary but typically cost around 50–100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance or online through the museum's website or local travel platforms. It is advisable to check the official site for any discounts or special rates.

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

Advance booking is not required for most visits, but it may be recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a day or two in advance is sufficient if visiting during a busy period.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and sculptures. If you're attending a workshop or guided tour, it may take a bit longer.

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

• The stone relief collection, showcasing ancient Chinese artistry.
• The outdoor sculpture garden, where larger-than-life carvings can be seen up close.
• Special exhibits featuring contemporary interpretations of stone carving.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available. If you need an English-speaking guide, it’s recommended to request one in advance. Audio guides may also be provided, depending on availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the large stone sculptures in the outdoor garden. The intricate details of the carvings are best captured in close-up shots, especially in the early morning light when the area is less crowded.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main exhibition hall to view historical carvings, then move on to the outdoor sculpture garden for a more immersive experience. If available, end with a visit to any temporary exhibits or workshops to gain deeper insight into the craft.

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

Night visits or light shows are not typically offered at this museum. Special tours may be arranged, particularly for larger groups or schools, and they may focus on the cultural significance of the stone carvings.

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

The museum can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning when the museum first opens.

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

The museum has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There is a small gift shop offering souvenirs related to stone carving. It’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks, as food options inside may be limited.

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

The museum is fairly accessible for elderly and children, though certain areas with steep steps or uneven ground may be challenging. It's advisable to check with the museum beforehand if you have specific accessibility needs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, along with cash. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it’s best to bring cash or use mobile payments where available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants nearby offering traditional Sichuan cuisine. In Chengdu city, you can find numerous dining options ranging from street food to fine dining, famous for its spicy hotpot and noodle dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are commonly available in Chengdu, particularly in the city center. Halal food options may be more limited, but there are several halal restaurants in Chengdu that cater to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Chengdu's city center, ranging from budget options to luxury accommodations. Popular hotel chains like Marriott and IHG have properties nearby, along with local boutique hotels.

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

• The Sichuan Science and Technology Museum, a short drive away, offers an engaging experience for families and science enthusiasts.
• Wuhou Shrine, a historical site dedicated to the Three Kingdoms period, is another nearby attraction that can be easily added to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a small gift shop where you can buy stone-carving-related souvenirs, such as miniature sculptures, carving tools, and artwork prints. Traditional Sichuan crafts like tea sets and silk scarves are also popular.

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

Taxi or ride-hailing apps like Didi are the best options for continuing your trip. Chengdu's metro system is also convenient for traveling to other major attractions in the city.