The Maijishan Grottoes, located in Tianshui, Gansu Province, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s four greatest Buddhist grottoes, alongside Mogao, Yungang, and Longmen. Carved into the steep cliffs of Maiji Mountain, these 194 caves house over 7,200 clay and stone sculptures and 1,000 square meters of murals, dating from the Later Qin Dynasty (384–417 CE) to the Qing Dynasty. Known as the “Oriental Sculpture Museum,” the grottoes are celebrated for their exquisite clay sculptures and breathtaking cliffside setting. This guide will help you plan a memorable visit to this hidden gem along the ancient Silk Road.
A Travel Guide to Maijishan Grottoes
Why Visit Maijishan Grottoes?
The Maijishan Grottoes offer a unique blend of art, history, and adventure. Unlike other major grottoes, Maijishan is renowned for its delicate clay sculptures, which reflect a secular, humanized portrayal of Buddhist figures, showcasing Chinese cultural influences over 1,600 years. The grottoes’ precarious location on sheer cliffs, accessed via vertigo-inducing plank roads, adds a thrilling dimension to the experience. Surrounded by lush forests and dramatic landscapes, the Maijishan Scenic Area also provides opportunities for hiking and nature exploration, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
How to Get There
The Maijishan Grottoes are located 45 km southeast of Tianshui City, Gansu Province, in the Maijishan Scenic Area. Tianshui is well-connected to major cities like Xi’an and Lanzhou, making it an accessible stop on a Silk Road itinerary.
By Air: Tianshui Maijishan Airport (THQ) serves limited domestic flights from cities like Xi’an, Chongqing, and Tianjin. From the airport, take a taxi (¥30–50, 20 minutes) or city bus (No. 1, 5, 8, etc., ¥2–5) to downtown Tianshui, then proceed to the grottoes. Alternatively, fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) or Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) and continue by train.
By Train: Tianshui South Railway Station (high-speed trains) is the main hub, with over 40 daily high-speed trains from Xi’an (2 hours, ¥80–150) and over 50 from Lanzhou (1.5 hours, ¥50–100). From Tianshui South, take Bus No. 60 (¥7, 1.5–2 hours) or a taxi (¥80–100, 1 hour) to the grottoes. Tianshui Railway Station (normal trains) is served by slower trains from Xi’an (3–4 hours). From here, take Bus No. 34 (¥5, 50 minutes) to the grottoes’ entrance.
By Bus or Car: Tianshui Long-distance Bus Station offers buses to nearby cities like Lanzhou or Pingliang. From downtown Tianshui, taxis or private cars to the grottoes take about 45–60 minutes via national highways G310 or G316. For convenience, consider a private tour with a driver from Tianshui, Xi’an, or Lanzhou, which can be arranged through agencies like China Discovery.
Tip: The scenic area is 3 km from the ticket office to the grottoes’ base. Walk (20–30 minutes) or take a shuttle bus (¥15 round-trip) to save time.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November): Mild weather (10–25°C) and vibrant greenery make these seasons ideal for exploring the grottoes and surrounding trails. Autumn offers stunning foliage.
Summer (June–August): Cool at higher altitudes (near 1,742 meters), but expect occasional rain. Early mornings avoid crowds and heat.
Winter (December–February): Snow enhances the scenery, but icy plank roads can be slippery. Fewer tourists make it peaceful, though some trails may close.
Crowd Tip: Avoid Chinese national holidays (e.g., National Day in early October) when plank roads can become congested. Weekdays and early mornings are quieter.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: May 1–October 31: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM); November 1–April 30: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM).
Ticket Prices: Grottoes admission: ¥70; Scenic area only (no grottoes): ¥25; Round-trip shuttle bus: ¥15; Special caves (e.g., Cave 133): ¥500 per group (extra fee, subject to availability); English-speaking guide: ¥50 for up to 5 people.
Booking: Purchase tickets at the Maijishan Scenic Area ticket office or online via platforms like Trip.com. Book in advance during peak seasons.
Note: Visitors with high blood pressure, low blood sugar, or fear of heights should proceed cautiously due to the steep, narrow plank roads. Smoking, pets, and flash photography are prohibited.
What to See and Do
The Maijishan Grottoes are divided into East Cliff (54 caves) and West Cliff (140 caves), connected by reinforced plank roads offering close-up views of the art. Here are the highlights:
Buddhist Sculptures and Murals: The grottoes contain over 7,200 clay and stone statues, ranging from 10 cm to 16 meters tall, and 1,000 square meters of murals. Notable caves include: Cave 44 (“Venus of the East”): Features delicate statues with vivid details. Cave 135 (Paradise Cave): Known for its intricate Flying Apsaras sculptures. Seven-Buddha Pavilion: A 70-meter-high pavilion with exquisite frescoes and large statues. The clay sculptures are uniquely durable, resisting humidity and erosion, and reflect a secular trend, depicting Buddhas as approachable, human-like figures.
Cliffside Plank Roads: Navigate a network of catwalks and stairways (up to 34 flights) clinging to the cliff face, 30–80 meters above ground. The experience is thrilling but requires caution, especially on narrow sections. Hold handrails tightly and avoid lingering to prevent congestion.
Ruiying Monastery: Located at the mountain’s base, this small museum displays selected statues and offers insights into Buddhist history. Entry is included with the grottoes ticket.
Scenic Area Exploration: The Maijishan Scenic Area spans 215 square kilometers, featuring lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Climb Xiangji Shan for panoramic views or visit the Botanic Garden for a leisurely walk through rare plants.
Nearby attractions include Xianren Cliff (15 km away, known for Danxia landforms) and Jieting Hot Spring (3 km away).
Where to Eat
On-Site: Food stalls near the ticket office serve local dishes like Tianshui Malatang (spicy hot pot, ¥10–20), noodles, and snacks. Options are basic, so consider bringing your own food for a picnic.
Tianshui City: Return to Tianshui for more variety. Try Guoguo Noodles or Hu’s Family Restaurant for authentic Gansu cuisine, featuring spicy noodles and lamb dishes (¥20–50 per person).
Tip: Pack water and snacks, as there are no dining options on the plank roads.
Where to Stay
Most visitors stay in Tianshui, as the grottoes are a day trip:
Downtown Tianshui: Vienna Hotel Tianshui (3-star, ¥150–250/night): Comfortable and centrally located. Jinjiang Inn Tianshui Railway Station (budget, ¥100–200/night): Affordable with easy train access. Tianshui Grand Hotel (4-star, ¥300–500/night): Upscale with modern amenities.
Near Maijishan: Limited options exist, such as basic guesthouses in the scenic area (¥80–150/night). Book through Ctrip or contact local agencies.
Booking Tip: Reserve accommodations early during peak seasons via Booking.com or Trip.com.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing and layered clothing for variable weather. Bring a hat or umbrella for sun/rain protection.
Safety First: The plank roads are safe but narrow and high. Watch your step, avoid leaning over edges, and pass quickly near West Cliff exits to avoid minor rockfalls during rain.
Photography: Flash photography is banned to protect the artifacts. Many statues are behind wire mesh, making clear photos challenging—focus on the experience.
Combine Your Trip: Visit nearby Fuxi Temple (Ming Dynasty, dedicated to the mythical emperor Fuxi) or Yuquan Taoist Temple in Tianshui for a full cultural experience.
Health Note: The climb involves steep stairs and high altitudes. Those with mobility issues or vertigo should consult staff before ascending.
Final Thoughts
The Maijishan Grottoes are a testament to ancient craftsmanship and Buddhist devotion, set against the stunning backdrop of Maiji Mountain’s wheat-stack silhouette. From the awe-inspiring clay sculptures to the heart-pounding plank roads, this UNESCO site offers a profound cultural and adventurous journey. Plan your visit to avoid crowds, embrace the natural beauty, and marvel at one of China’s most underrated treasures. Whether you’re tracing the Silk Road or seeking off-the-beaten-path wonders, Maijishan will leave an indelible mark.
Happy travels!
