6窟, A Majestic Gallery of Buddhist Art

Yungang Grottoes Scenic Area in Datong City, Shanxi Province

The most prolific cave temple with numerous statues

Introduction

The fifth and sixth caves in the middle of the Yungang Grottoes are a beautiful pair of double caves. These caves are divided into front and rear chambers, with the north wall of the rear chamber mainly carved with three generations of Buddhas. The central main statue is about 17 meters tall, making it the largest Buddha statue in the Yungang Grottoes. The entire cave wall is filled with carvings of Buddha niches and statues, and on either side of the arch, we can see enchanting reliefs of two Buddhas sitting facing each other under a Bodhi tree, with very beautiful lines. In front of the two caves are five four-story pavilions. The existing buildings were rebuilt in the eighth year of the Qing Dynasty’s Shunzhi reign (1651 AD). The sixth cave has a plan design that is almost square. In the center, we can see two square tower columns about 15 meters high that connect the roof of the cave. Under the tower column is the large niche called the layer, with a seated Buddha statue carved on the south side, a leaning Buddha statue on the west side, a relief of Shiyong Duobao sitting together on the north side, and a crossed-legged Mile statue on the east side. There are 33 reliefs depicting the Buddha's life story from birth to enlightenment around the tower column, while the scale and gorgeous decoration in the cave, as well as the exquisite technique, make it the most representative work in the Yungang Grottoes.

Address

Yungang Grottoes Scenic Area in Datong City, Shanxi Province

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 8:30-17:20 (April 15-October 27)
8:30-17:00 (October 28-April 14)

Transportation

Located in the Yungang Grottoes, it is recommended to walk there.

Phone 0352-3029625