East Thousand Buddha Caves
东千佛洞
A Western Xia grotto in the Gobi southeast of Guazhou, carved into the cliffs on both sides of a dry riverbed and known for its Western Xia murals in Tibetan Buddhist style. Access is restricted for long periods.
East Thousand Buddha Caves lie about 90 km southeast of the Guazhou county seat by road, at the northern foot of Changshanzi. More than 20 caves are carved into the cliffs on both sides of a dry river valley, mainly during the Western Xia and Yuan periods. The murals blend Han and Tibetan Buddhist styles, with distinctive subjects such as Water-Moon Guanyin and esoteric mandalas. The site is a national key cultural heritage site. Because of heritage protection and road conditions, East Thousand Buddha Caves has long been closed to independent visitors, and at certain times it only accepts reservations or special visits. Please confirm with the Guazhou County Museum or the local heritage authorities before setting out. The Guazhou County Museum in town displays replicas of the East Thousand Buddha Caves murals, which can serve as a substitute.
Opening hours
Access long-term restricted; confirm in advance
Nearby sights
- Ta'er Temple Ruins (Suoyang City)
- Suoyang City Ruins
- Yulin Grottoes
- Boundless Sculpture
- Son of the Earth Sculpture
- Xuanzang Pilgrimage Museum
- Caosheng Hometown Culture Park
- Red Western Route Army Anxi Battle Memorial