Cave 20 of the Yungang Grottoes

Cave 20 of the Yungang Grottoes

Cave 20 of the Yungang Grottoes is a cultural tourism attraction.

Cave 20 of the Yungang Grottoes is the most famous open-air Great Buddha at Yungang. It is said to have been carved in the likeness of Emperor Daowu, the founding emperor of the Northern Wei Dynasty. The standing statues consist of three great Buddhas, with the central seated Shakyamuni Buddha located in the western part of the central section of the Yungang Grottoes, designated as Cave 20. The statue is situated in the open air, with the main figure being the seated Shakyamuni Buddha, which stands 13.7 meters tall. The upper part of the chest and above is made of hard stone that has remained well-preserved. The Buddha has broad, thick shoulders, a full and round face, thin lips, and a high nose, giving an expression of solemnity. Its body is slightly leaning forward, and the edges of the lips are well-defined, as if it is preaching the true teachings of Buddhism to all sentient beings. The delicate curved eyebrows and slightly opened eyes give a sense of benevolence. The flame patterns of the halo and the relief carvings of the seated Buddha and flying apsaras are exquisitely ornate, highlighting the majestic presence of the main Buddha. The remnant flying apsara on the outer edge of the halo on the western wall of the open-air Buddha is the most representative flying apsara among the Yungang Grottoes and can be called a "bodhisattva-type flying apsara." The apsara wears a floral crown, necklaces of beads, a long dress, and holds flowers. Her body is slightly bent as if hovering in the air, yet her posture remains dignified and composed, with a reverent expression that distinguishes her from ordinary flying apsaras. This open-air statue of the Great Buddha has well-proportioned features, a concise and generalized sculptural style, and a broad body that conveys a sense of stability, embodying the spiritual essence of the Buddha’s “thirty-two marks and eighty auspicious signs.” Although seated, it appears exceptionally grand. It is not only a masterpiece among the Yungang carvings but also a fine work of Buddhist sculpture art nationwide.

Address: Yungang Grottoes Scenic Area, Datong City, Shanxi Province

Type: Historical Site / Sculpture / UNESCO World Heritage Site

Rating: AAAAA

Recommended Visiting Time: About 1 hour

Phone: 0352-3029625

Official Website: http://www.yungang.org/

Opening Hours:

Monday–Sunday: 8:30–17:30 (April 1 – October 15); 8:30–16:50 (October 16 – March 31)

Ticket Information:

No separate ticket required. Included in the Yungang Grottoes admission fee.