Located in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China, the Xumi Mountain Grottoes (须弥山石窟) were first carved during the reign of Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Over centuries, they were expanded and renovated during the Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, and Tang dynasties, making them one of China’s top ten grotto complexes. Today, there are 162 existing caves distributed across eight natural zones, housing over 500 well-preserved sculptures, 53 inscriptions in Han and Tibetan languages, three steles, 13 fragments, and more than 20 square meters of murals.
The statues from the Northern Wei period exhibit high noses and retain Indian Buddhist influences, with some figures displaying slender faces and wide-sleeved robes. In contrast, Sui Dynasty sculptures feature longer upper bodies and shorter lower limbs, giving them a sturdy appearance. By the Tang Dynasty, the statues became more rounded and adorned, showcasing the opulent artistic style of the time.
A highlight of the site is the Great Buddha Hall, which features an imposing statue of the Buddha. This statue, created during Empress Wu Zetian’s reign in the Tang Dynasty, presents a dignified and serene figure, draped in a kasaya with a coiled topknot. Standing prominently on the mountain, the statue’s ear reaches the height of two people, while one eye measures the length of a person. Although carved from a sandy cliff, the statue’s contours and craftsmanship impart a softness reminiscent of clay sculpture, making it one of the largest stone sculptures in China.
The entire Xumi Mountain Grottoes area is divided into two main parts: a museum and the grottoes themselves, which are located some distance apart. Visitors can take a sightseeing vehicle within the scenic area to travel between the two. Before exploring the grottoes, it’s recommended to visit the museum, where exhibits focus on grottoes and Buddhist art, primarily showcasing replicas. Here, visitors can learn about the various Buddhist caves along the Silk Road, the artifacts, and the related legends that enhance the rich cultural context of this historical site.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 48 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0954-3985555 |
Location and Transportation
The Xumi Mountain Grottoes are located at the foot of Xumi Mountain in the Yuanzhou District of Guyuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. To reach the grottoes, visitors can take a minibus from the center of Guyuan City to Sanying Town, which takes approximately 10 minutes. From Sanying Town, a private vehicle can be hired to transport visitors to the scenic area, with a fare of around 10 yuan.
