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Yungang Grottoes Caves 16–20 – The Five Caves of Tan Yao

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The Five Caves of Tan Yao refer to Yungang Grottoes Caves 16–20, located in the central section of the Yungang Grottoes complex. They were commissioned under the supervision of Tan Yao, a Buddhist monk and director of religious affairs during the reign of Emperor Wencheng, hence the name “The Five Caves of Tan Yao.” These are the earliest excavated caves in the Yungang Grottoes and mark the beginning of imperial grotto construction in the region. They also represent the largest and most influential cultural project undertaken during the Northern Wei Dynasty. The caves are grand in scale, with majestic statues and a powerful atmosphere, exuding a profound and simple Western Region aesthetic.

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Yungang Grottoes Caves 16–20 – The Five Caves of Tan Yao is a cultural tourism attraction.

The Five Caves of Tan Yao refer to Yungang Grottoes Caves 16–20, located in the central section of the Yungang Grottoes complex. They were commissioned under the supervision of Tan Yao, a Buddhist monk and director of religious affairs during the reign of Emperor Wencheng, hence the name “The Five Caves of Tan Yao.” These are the earliest excavated caves in the Yungang Grottoes and mark the beginning of imperial grotto construction in the region. They also represent the largest and most influential cultural project undertaken during the Northern Wei Dynasty. The caves are grand in scale, with majestic statues and a powerful atmosphere, exuding a profound and simple Western Region aesthetic.

The main statues in the five caves vary in posture: Caves 16 and 18 feature standing Buddhas, Caves 19 and 20 contain seated Buddhas, and Cave 17 has a cross-legged Buddha.

Location

Yungang Grottoes Scenic Area, Datong, Shanxi