Dazu Rock Carvings（大足石刻）Travel Guide

Introduction
The Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing are a series of outstanding religious sculptures and carvings that date back to the 7th century. These carvings are renowned worldwide for their artistic value, religious significance, and historical importance. They cover an extensive area and include various themes from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, presenting a vivid picture of the religious and cultural life during different historical periods.
How to Get There

By Public Transport:
- Bus: There are regular bus services from Chongqing to Dazu County. From Dazu County, you can take local buses or tourist shuttles that directly take you to the Dazu Rock Carvings scenic area.
- Train: You can take a train to Dazu South Station. From there, you can transfer to local transportation such as buses or taxis to reach the carvings site.
By Car: If you drive, you can follow the highway to Dazu. There are parking lots available near the entrance of the scenic area. However, during peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a parking space.

Tickets: The ticket price usually includes access to the main carving areas. The cost may vary depending on the specific combination of attractions you choose to visit. It's best to check the official website of the Dazu Rock Carvings or local tourist information centers for the most accurate ticket prices.
Opening Hours: The scenic area generally opens in the morning, around 8:30 or 9:00 am, and closes in the afternoon or early evening, around 5:00 - 6:00 pm. It's important to note that the last entry may be earlier than the closing time.

Baoding Mountain: This is one of the most significant areas of the Dazu Rock Carvings. It features thousands of sculptures that are mainly Buddhist in theme. The carvings here are known for their exquisite details, vivid expressions, and the harmonious combination of different postures and gestures. The giant sleeping Buddha is a remarkable sight that attracts many visitors.
North Mountain: The carvings on North Mountain display a rich variety of themes, including Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. You can see beautiful statues of bodhisattvas, arhats, and other religious figures. The carving techniques here are also highly refined, showing the unique charm of ancient Chinese sculpture.
South Mountain: South Mountain has a series of rock carvings that reflect different religious cultures. The sculptures are well - preserved and offer a great opportunity to study the evolution of religious art during different historical times. The surrounding natural environment also adds to the beauty of the site.
Shimen Mountain: This area has its own unique features with carvings that have specific cultural and historical connotations. The carvings here are an important part of the Dazu Rock Carvings complex, providing additional insights into the religious and artistic heritage of the region.

Guided Tours: It's highly recommended to take a guided tour. Professional guides can provide in - depth explanations about the religious meanings, historical backgrounds, and artistic features of the carvings. They can help you better understand and appreciate this magnificent cultural heritage.
Weather Consideration: The Dazu Rock Carvings are mostly outdoors. In summer, it can be hot, so bring sunscreen, hats, and water to keep yourself cool and hydrated. In rainy seasons, be prepared with rain gear as some paths may be slippery.
Respect the Site: These carvings are of great religious and cultural significance. Please maintain a respectful and solemn attitude during your visit. Do not touch the carvings or engage in any behavior that may damage them.
Photography: Photography is usually allowed, but avoid using flash as it may cause damage to the ancient carvings. Also, be respectful of other visitors when taking pictures.
Time Allocation: To fully explore the main carving areas, it's advisable to allocate at least half a day. There is a wealth of details and history to discover, so take your time to enjoy the experience.