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In the South Niche of Sichuan, visitors can enjoy hiking through the scenic landscapes, exploring the historical niches carved into the cliffs, and visiting the nearby temples. The area is perfect for photography, nature walks, and immersing in local culture.
The Nankan Scenic Area, located on Nankan Mountain, 2 kilometers south of Bazhong County , encompasses the Nankan Rock Carvings and Nankan Park. Nankan Mountain, with its towering pines and evergreen cypresses, is renowned for its preserved rock carvings from various dynasties. There are 122 niches containing over 1,800 complete Buddha statues , arranged in tiers along the cliff face.
The Nankan Grottoes include three niches: the South niche, the North niche and the West niche. The South niche is the most magnificent, with its large scale, exquisite carvings and inlays, and closely connected niches. It is an outstanding representative of ancient grotto art and the crystallization of Bazhong’s ancient culture.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
40 yuan/person
All day
The South Niche is known for its historical rock carvings and religious significance. It was a prominent site for Buddhism, with many ancient statues and carvings dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The site represents both historical and spiritual heritage in Sichuan.
The South Niche is located in Bazhong, Sichuan. The most convenient way to reach the site is by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options are limited, but the area is accessible by road.
The South Niche is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the surrounding nature is at its most beautiful.
The entrance fee is usually around 50-80 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via online platforms for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. A few days before the visit is typically enough to secure a ticket.
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the South Niche, including the hike around the cliffs, visiting the niches, and taking in the scenic views.
The must-see highlights include the rock carvings, the ancient Buddhist statues, and the surrounding natural landscapes. The cliffside niches are particularly impressive and offer great opportunities for photography.
Guided tours are available, with guides offering explanations about the history and significance of the carvings and the area. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may offer limited English explanations during peak tourist seasons.
The best viewpoints are along the cliff edges, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley and river. The niches themselves also provide great photo opportunities, with the detailed carvings and statues against the backdrop of the natural scenery.
Start at the main entrance, visit the Buddhist statues, and then hike along the cliffside to see the various niches and carvings. End the visit by taking a walk around the surrounding area to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the site.
Currently, the South Niche does not offer night visits or light shows. It is recommended to visit during the day for the best experience of the carvings and surrounding views.
The site can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, especially in the morning when fewer tourists are present.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small food stalls near the entrance offering snacks and drinks. However, there are limited dining options inside the site.
The South Niche is somewhat challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues due to the uneven terrain and some steep areas. Children can visit but may require supervision during the hikes around the cliffside.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the South Niche. It’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases or in case mobile payment options are not available in some areas.
Inside the site, there are no large restaurants or cafes. However, there are small local food stalls offering snacks. For a wider variety of food options, visitors can head to the city center of Bazhong.
Vegetarian and some vegan options are available at the local food stalls, but halal food may be more difficult to find unless you go to larger cities like Bazhong.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Bazhong city, which is a short drive away from the South Niche. For more upscale accommodations, visitors can find hotels in the city center of Bazhong.
Nearby attractions include the Nanjiang Canyon and the Bazhong City Museum, both of which can easily be combined with a visit to the South Niche for a full day trip.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, selling items such as postcards, local handicrafts, and small statues of the Buddhist figures seen in the niches.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your journey to other nearby attractions. Public transportation is available but may be limited depending on the destination.
