Live Your Best Lives
The Big Buddha Cave is located on a hillside on the northwest shore of Xiaonanhai Lake in Nanzheng, Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province. It overlooks Xiaonanhai Lake, leans against Longtou Mountain, is blocked by Qingshi Pass to the south, and borders Chishui (now Lengshui) to the north. It is " split by rugged rock thousands of feet high . " " A cave protrudes from the bank, with a Buddhist temple built in the middle, hence the name. " The cave entrance is clearly visible, approximately 17 meters wide and 20 meters high.
The light at the cave entrance is good, but the deeper you go, the darker it gets. In the past, someone once spent 47 days, passing through six branching caves , crossing thirteen rivers , climbing thirteen - story stone buildings , and passing through a gate of hell , before reaching the entrance of a cave on a cliff in northern Sichuan. The caves can be tens of meters high and wide, accommodating thousands of people, or so narrow that one has to duck sideways to pass.
A small river gurgles and roars into a dark stone cave , its echoing echo like a galloping horse. Stalactites drip, stalagmites form a forest, and colorful marbles are arranged in an orderly pattern, forming countless indescribable natural patterns that are a feast for the eyes. In recent years, many artificial landscapes have been constructed, such as the White-robed Guanyin and a group of reclining Buddhas, adding to the religious mystique of the Great Buddha Cave.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
The first door is 3 yuan, the second door is 16 yuan
9:00-16:00
The Big Buddha Cave is an ancient Buddhist site in Hanzhong, Shaanxi, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its massive Buddha statue and the intricate carvings in the cave. The site is of great religious significance and attracts pilgrims and tourists interested in both its spiritual heritage and its architectural wonders.
The Big Buddha Cave is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center of Hanzhong. Public transport options to the site are limited, so private transport is recommended. The cave is situated about 30 minutes by car from the city center.
The site is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. The site can get crowded during holidays, so visiting on weekdays is recommended for a quieter experience.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the site’s entrance, and there are no online sales currently available.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for individual visitors, but during peak seasons, it’s a good idea to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long waits.
A visit to Big Buddha Cave typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the Buddha statue, exploring the cave, and walking around the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be provided, but they are typically in Chinese. It is recommended to arrange for an English-speaking guide in advance if needed.
The best photography spots are near the entrance to the cave, where you can capture the grand Buddha statue and the surrounding rock formations. The views from the top of the cave provide a sweeping panorama of the surrounding landscape, which is perfect for scenic shots.
Begin by entering the cave and admiring the Buddha statue, then take time to explore the detailed carvings on the walls. Afterward, step outside to enjoy the views and walk around the area. If time allows, you can also hike the nearby trails to further enjoy the landscape.
There are no night visits or light shows at the Big Buddha Cave. The site is typically only open during daylight hours, making it a daytime destination for visitors.
The site can be crowded during national holidays and weekends. For a quieter experience, it’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours before the midday crowds arrive.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and drinking water stations. However, there are no large shops or restaurants within the immediate area. Visitors should bring snacks or meals if they plan to spend a long time at the site.
The site has uneven terrain, especially near the cave entrance, which may make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the visit, but supervision is recommended due to the rugged paths.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also accepted at most locations. Credit cards may not be accepted on-site, so it's advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment options.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants. Halal food may be found in some establishments, especially if you travel to Hanzhong city where there is a larger Muslim community.
Souvenir shops near the site offer traditional Chinese handicrafts, local pottery, and Buddhist-themed souvenirs, including small statues and carvings.
