The Last Monument of World Grotto Art: A Journey to the Thousand-Hand Bodhisattva at Dazu Rock Carvings

The Crown Jewel of Grotto Art

1.Located in the Dazu District of Chongqing: Municipality, the Dazu Rock Carvings represent the pinnacle of Chinese grotto art from the 9th to the 13th century. As the only World Cultural Heritage site in Chongqing, it is often hailed alongside the famous Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, giving rise to the saying, "North Dunhuang, South Dazu." Unlike the earlier grottoes in northern China, Dazu represents the final glorious chapter in the history of human rock carving art. The carvings date back to the Early Tang Dynasty (AD 650), flourished during the Two Song Dynasties, and extended into the Ming and Qing periods. With over 50,000 statues distributed across "Five Mountains"—Baoding, Beishan, Nanshan, Shimen, and Shizhuan—this site offers a breathtaking gallery of stone religious art that is unrivaled in its scale, aesthetic quality, and preservation of diverse cultural themes.

The Miracle of Baoding Mountain

The most spectacular cluster within the complex is Baoding Mountain (Baodingshan), constructed under the lifelong dedication of the monk Zhao Zhifeng during the Southern Song Dynasty. It is meticulously planned as a grand Buddhist altar, narrating continuous religious stories through stone. The centerpiece is the awe-inspiring Thousand-Hand Guanyin (Avalokitesvara). Unlike typical statues with symbolic hands, this masterpiece features an astounding 1,007 hands, each carved with distinct gestures and eyes, radiating like a golden peacock in full display. Recently restored, it shines with a divine golden luster that captivates every visitor. Another iconic figure is the massive Reclining Buddha (Nirvana of Sakyamuni), stretching 31 meters long. Only the upper body is carved, leaving the lower body hidden into the cliff, creating a profound artistic conception that the "body is infinite," sparking limitless imagination about the deity's grandeur.

The Exquisite Beishan

If Baoding is known for its grandeur, Beishan (North Mountain) is celebrated for its exquisite delicacy. Known as the "Court of Tang and Song Carvings," the statues here are dense and intricately detailed, resembling a hive of artistic treasures. The works in Beishan are famous for their elegant aesthetics, particularly the Guanyin statues, which are often described as "Oriental Venus." These figures break away from rigid religious solemnity, displaying a secular beauty with flowing ribbons, gentle smiles, and graceful postures that resemble palace ladies of the era. The Wheel of Dharma Cave (Zhuanlun Jingzang) is a highlight, described as the "Pearl of the Grotto Art Crown" for its intricate structure and harmonious beauty.

A Fusion of Three Teachings and Secular Life

2.What makes Dazu Rock: Carvings truly unique in the world of religious art is its distinct Sinicization and secularization. It is not just a Buddhist site; it is a rare integration of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. While Baoding and Beishan focus on Buddhism, Nanshan features Taoist deities, and Shizhuan Mountain harmoniously blends all three traditions, reflecting the inclusive spiritual landscape of Song Dynasty China. Furthermore, the carvings are deeply rooted in earthly life. You will find vivid scenes of daily ancient life—parents raising children, musicians playing instruments, and even scenes of hell depicting moral lessons—making the divine feel approachable and human. This blend of the sacred and the profane serves as a "history book carved in stone," offering invaluable insights into the social life, clothing, and customs of ancient China.