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District in Chongqing, People's Republic of China
Photo: Bgabel, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Dazu District (大足区) is in the western part of Chongqing Municipality. It is home to the famous Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻), which are a .
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大足石刻游客中心
All visitors to the rock carvings at Baodingshan are required to come to the visitor centre first. After purchasing your tickets (or printing hard copies if you bought tickets online), you may then board a shuttle bus to Baodingshan. The visitor center includes a souvenir store and a cinema.
大足石刻数字影院
The cinema includes a tourism service area, digital cinemas, and a cultural exhibition area. The center features an 8K dome-screen cinema and a 4K wide-screen cinema, each accommodating up to 300 viewers. Both cinemas are equipped with Dolby Atmos technology, providing an enhanced audiovisual experience. The 4K film The World of Dazu narrates the founding and historical evolution of the Dazu Rock Carvings. The 8K dome-screen film Dazu Rock Carvings combines live-action shooting with CG animation to showcase the artistic value of the rock carvings. These two films, serving as complementary parts of the same work, are screened throughout the day and have become an integral part of the Dazu Rock Carvings tour.（Screening schedule: 7 shows every day at 09:30, 10:20, 11:10, 12:00, 13:30, 14:20, and 15:10.）
大足石刻博物馆
The Art Museum of Dazu Rock Carvings, a national first-class museum in China, primarily exhibits the Beishan Grottoes, Baodingshan Grottoes, Shimenshan Grottoes, and Nanshan Grottoes. As of the end of 2019, the museum's collection included a total of 614 items/sets. The museum adopts an open layout, with most artifacts displayed without protective glass covers. Among these directly exhibited artifacts, more than 400 are original cultural relics. The museum is closed on Mondays, so visitors are advised not to plan their visit on this day.
宝顶山石刻景区
Baodingshan Rock Carvings is located 15 kilometers northeast of Longgang Town in Dazu County, with an elevation of 527.83 meters. The cliffside carvings at Baodingshan Rock Carvings began during the Southern Song Dynasty and cover an area of 2.5 kilometers, featuring numerous Buddha statues carved into the surrounding rock formations. These carvings include the main sites of Dafowan and Xiaofowan, centered around the Shengshou Temple, and are distributed across the eastern, southern, and northern faces of the mountain. There are over 360 large-scale carvings, among which the most notable are the Six Realms of Reincarnation, the Grand Treasure Pavilion, the Huayan Trinity, and the Thousand-Hand Guanyin. The Shengshou Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple in eastern Sichuan, is located at Dafowan of Baoding Mountain and was established during the Southern Song Dynasty.
广大寺
Guangda Temple, originally constructed during the Song Dynasty, is a prominent part of the Dazu Rock Carvings, renowned for its detailed sculptures and artistic significance. The temple offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese Buddhist art and provides valuable insights into religious and cultural practices, making it a compelling site for historical and cultural exploration.
圣寿寺
Shengshou Temple, part of the Dazu Rock Carvings complex, was constructed in the Southern Song Dynasty and serves as the religious center of the Baoding Mountain carvings. It is known for its detailed carvings that blend Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist elements, reflecting the unique cultural integration of the period. The temple’s sculptures, such as the Thousand-Hand Guanyin, showcase exceptional craftsmanship and artistry.This location allows visitors to express their wishes or prayers according to local traditions. You are welcome to make a wish here if desired.
北山石刻景区
The Beishan Rock Carvings, which were initiated in the late Tang Dynasty and continued through the Five Dynasties and the Song Dynasty, are located on Beishan Mountain, approximately 2 km north of Dazu County, Chongqing. The carvings span around 500 meters and primarily feature Buddhist imagery, with a significant focus on Tantric Buddhism. These carvings, with their exquisite and refined craftsmanship, display a rich variety of themes and styles, reflecting the evolution of Chinese folk Buddhism between the 9th and 12th centuries. The rock carvings are characterized by their unique crescent shape along the cliffside, resembling beehive-like niches. There are nearly 10,000 statues and 290 niches, with a dense arrangement of figures that include both religious and secular themes. The carvings of the late Tang Dynasty are known for their robust and dignified forms, while those of the Song Dynasty are more intricate and delicate, representing a transformation in style and technique. The Beishan site has been well preserved and remains a prime example of Chinese rock art, often regarded as the "Artistic Palace of the Tang and Song Dynasties."
南山石刻
The Nanshan Rock Carvings were created during the Shaoxing period of the Southern Song Dynasty (1131–1162 AD). The carved cliff spans over 80 meters in length and ranges from 3 to 10 meters in height, with the carvings classified into a total of 15 numbered niches, some of which were supplemented during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The main subjects include depictions of Daoist deities such as the Zhenwu Emperor, the Empress of the Earth, as well as the Sanqing Cave and Dragon Cave. This site is considered the most exquisite and comprehensive collection of Daoist sculptures from the Southern Song period in China.
石门山石刻
The Shimenshan Rock Carvings were created between 1094 and 1151 AD (during the Northern Song Dynasty’s Shaosheng period to the Southern Song Dynasty’s Shaoxing period) and represent a religious sculpture site that integrates both Buddhist and Taoist themes. Stretching 71.8 meters in length and organized into 16 numbered sections, 12 of the niches preserve precious religious statues. The carvings are particularly notable for their Taoist motifs, such as the vivid depictions of the Jade Emperor, Clairvoyant, and Clairaudient in Niche No. 2, and the dynamic One-Legged Wutong Emperor in Niche No. 7. Among the Buddhist carvings, the Ten Saint Guanyin in Niche No. 6 is especially exquisite. In addition, there are inscriptions, steles, and the signatures of craftsmen, which document the carving history from the 10th to the 13th century. With its well-organized layout and intricate carving techniques, the Shimenshan Rock Carvings are a valuable site for studying Song Dynasty religious culture.
石篆山石刻
Shizhuanshan Rock Carvings is located in Fohui Village, Sanqu Town, Dazu District, Chongqing, at an altitude of 444.6 meters. The rock carvings were created between 1082 and 1096 AD (during the Northern Song Dynasty’s Yuanfeng to Shaosheng periods). With a cliff face measuring approximately 130 meters long and 3 to 8 meters high, this site is a rare example of the integration of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Highlights include Niche No. 6, which features Confucius and his ten most famous disciples, showcasing the distinctiveness of Confucian culture; Niche No. 7, which depicts the Three-body Buddha, integrating Buddhist teachings; and Niche No. 8, which features a seated statue of Laozi, the founder of Taoism, along with figures of other Taoist masters, demonstrating the significance of Taoist culture.
圣迹公园
This is a beautifully designed and picturesque park, skillfully incorporating both mountains and water features. The park boasts lush vegetation, extensive green spaces, and a wide variety of flowers and plants, making the scenery quite pleasant. There are two small ponds with clear, odor-free water, providing a serene environment that’s perfect for nearby residents to exercise or relax.
人民公园
This is an ordinary park, a place you can visit for a walk when you're feeling bored.
南山公园
Nanshan Park is the district's first important base for plant diversity, offering stunning scenery year-round. The park features a variety of flowers, including begonia, beauty plum, roses, and climbing roses, which bloom in abundance during their peak season. With lush vegetation and fresh air, the park is an ideal spot for fitness activities. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Dazu city from the hilltop, making it a perfect place to relax and connect with nature.
大足红星生态公园
Dazu Hongxing Ecological Park is an excellent park for walking, with pathways connecting multiple areas, making it an ideal spot for local residents to enjoy a stroll. During the blooming season of rapeseed flowers, the scenery here is particularly beautiful. However, if you're coming just to see the flowers, it may not be necessary as the blooms have already faded. Still, it's a great place for daily walks or relaxation.
海棠湖公园
Although Haitang Lake Park is not large, it boasts clear, odor-free water, with particularly refreshing and elegant scenery when the lotus flowers bloom in summer. The park is fully equipped with facilities, including a sports field, making it an excellent place for residents to relax, enjoy recreational activities, and exercise. It’s an ideal destination that combines natural beauty with fitness amenities.
滨河公园
The park is located behind Dazu Impression Pedestrian Street, making it a great spot to rest after shopping. On sunny days, you can sit and relax while soaking up the sun and enjoying some leisure time. It's also a good place for children to play, but be mindful of the steps near the river—parents should keep a close eye on their kids.
同心公园
This is a small roadside park, mainly featuring water elements and a compact, delicate design. There are also a few sculptures that add a unique artistic touch. During the summer, when the lotus flowers are in bloom, the scenery becomes even more beautiful, making it a lovely spot for a quick rest.
双桥公园
The park features a clean walkway, a library, an activity room for the senior university, an ice skating rink, a tea house and relaxation area, fitness equipment and exercise zones, a children's play area, and a swimming pool. It is an ideal place for the whole family to relax and enjoy quality time together.
枇杷山庄
Located just outside of Dazu's urban center, one minute down the road towards Baoding Shan, is an interesting old estate. As of 2006 the buildings were closed for tourists, but the front gate is open and you enter and wander around. Beware of the growling dogs that patrol the grounds.
龙水湖旅游度假区
This is Dazu's second biggest tourist attraction after the Dazu Rock Carvings. Situated on the northern side of Longshui Lake (actually a man-made reservoir), the resort features numerous hot springs and a water-based amusement park. You can also go on boat rides on the lake or try out a military style obstacle course that runs through a forested area.
香国公园
Xiangguo Park is a city park that blends natural landscapes with cultural elements, featuring scenic views and blooming flowers throughout the year, making it an ideal place for leisurely walks and relaxation. The park’s ancient-style architecture and cultural sculptures showcase a strong artistic presence, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in history and culture while exploring. The park offers a variety of recreational facilities, such as children's play areas and fitness trails, making it a great choice for family outings and outdoor activities. There are also tranquil tea pavilions and observation decks where visitors can fully enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Whether for connecting with nature or experiencing local culture, Xiangguo Park is a must-visit destination.
大足印象步行街
Dazu Impression Pedestrian Street is a modern commercial district located in the old town, offering a mix of shopping, entertainment, leisure, and dining. The area combines traditional and modern architectural styles, featuring elements that showcase Dazu’s historical culture alongside contemporary shopping centers and brand stores. As night falls, the entire street is brightly illuminated, brimming with vibrant energy and a fashionable atmosphere. Various restaurants and outdoor cafes provide visitors with a great place to relax, while numerous bars and night market stalls become popular spots for enjoying food and socializing. Additionally, the district frequently hosts nighttime music performances, cultural shows, and markets, drawing in large numbers of young people and tourists. The interplay of lights and music adds a unique charm to the night scene of Dazu Impression Pedestrian Street, making it an ideal destination for enjoying the nightlife.
中敖火龙节
Zhong'ao Fire Dragon is a significant traditional folk event held in Zhong'ao Town during the Chinese New Year in Dazu District. The performance includes dragon dancing and dragon burning. The fire dragon is about 20 meters long, with a bamboo framework, a fire-breathing device in its mouth, and firecracker tubes along its body. The show starts with a "fireball" leading the way, while the performers, bare-chested, endure splashing molten iron and fireworks. Amidst the smoke and thunderous sounds, they skillfully maneuver the dragon until it is reduced to just the frame, yet remain completely unharmed—an impressive and mysterious spectacle. It's highly recommended to visit during the Chinese New Year to witness this brave and awe-inspiring folk performance.
荷花山庄
Lotus Villa is famous for its lotus landscape in midsummer. From June to September every year, the lotus here is in full bloom, the lake is green, and the flowers are blooming. It is the best season to enjoy the lotus. Visitors can taste authentic local food here while enjoying the beautiful lotus scenery and experience a leisurely summer time. Lotus Villa is close to the famous Baodingshan Stone Carving Scenic Area. It is an ideal place for tourists to dine and rest before visiting Baodingshan Stone Carving. Not only can you enjoy delicious food, but you can also stroll along the lotus pond after dinner to feel the unique atmosphere of the fusion of nature and culture, adding a touch of freshness and comfort to the trip.
邮亭陈鲫鱼(总店)
You Ting Chen Crucian Carp (Main Branch) is a well-known restaurant in Dazu District, Chongqing. It is 100 m from the You Ting toll station on the Chengdu-Chongqing Expressway, and is famous for its signature dish, "You Ting Crucian Carp," which features a spicy and flavorful taste with tender fish meat. The restaurant also offers popular dishes like braised beef in clay pot and steamed pork with rice flour. If you don't like spicy food, please choose carefully.
丁家坡王淑华洋芋(大足店)
Specializing in potato dishes, the restaurant offers a unique blend of soft, flavorful potatoes mixed with local spices that create a balance of texture and taste.
容嬷嬷烧烤
The restaurant specializes in traditional charcoal-grilled dishes, which have a distinctive smoky flavor that sets them apart from many other places that use deep-frying techniques. Signature items such as grilled chicken feet, tender "palm treasure" (cartilage), and silky tofu are local favorites that showcase the chef's skill in maintaining the balance of flavors. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with friendly and humorous staff that make the experience even more enjoyable. For the best experience, it's recommended to visit in the evening when the restaurant comes alive with the bustling energy of locals and the aroma of charcoal grilling fills the air.
佳味兔火锅
In Dazu, rabbit hotpot is a renowned local delicacy, celebrated alongside the famous You Ting Crucian Carp as a must-try dish in the region. This traditional hotpot is famous for its rich, spicy broth that perfectly complements the tender rabbit meat, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. The dish is typically served with fresh vegetables, tofu, and noodles, which soak up the delicious broth and elevate the overall dining experience. For a different twist, diners can also choose to have the rabbit cooked two ways—either in the hotpot or as a dry, stir-fried dish with a crispy exterior and juicy meat inside, offering a unique and delightful texture contrast.
乡村基
Xiangcunji is a well-known fast-food chain in Chongqing, offering a down-to-earth, comforting dining experience. Their specialties are set meals, featuring classic Sichuan-Chongqing dishes like Sour Fish Soup, Kung Pao Chicken, and Braised Beef. Each set comes with rice and side dishes, making it ideal for anyone trying Chongqing cuisine for the first time. Although it's a fast-food chain, the flavors remain true to the authentic Chongqing style—spicy, flavorful, and savory—but with milder heat so that newcomers can gradually get used to the flavors. With a wide variety of dishes, affordable prices, a clean environment, and quick service, Xiangcunji is especially convenient for tourists who are tired after sightseeing and want a proper Chinese meal without much hassle. You can easily pick a few local dishes, sit down, and enjoy a taste of everyday Chongqing life. Plus, there's no need to worry about not understanding the menu; they have picture menus that make it easy for non-Chinese speakers to order.
南方鸭肠王火锅
Nanfang Duck Intestine King Hotpot is a famous and long-established hotpot brand in Dazu, known for its tender duck intestines and a wide variety of fresh ingredients. If you want to experience the unique flavors of Chongqing hotpot but are concerned about the spice level, Nanfang Duck Intestine King offers customizable spice options, making it suitable for different tastes. The duck intestines, in particular, have a crispy and tender texture that leaves a lasting impression.
九锅一堂
Jiu Guo Yi Tang is a popular restaurant chain among both locals and tourists in Chongqing, known for its unique charcoal simmered soup pots and a wide variety of traditional Sichuan-Chongqing dishes. A standout feature is their use of stone pots for serving, where the slow simmering over charcoal preserves the original flavor of the ingredients and keeps the soup hot for a longer time, allowing you to enjoy warm and flavorful food throughout your meal. The restaurant’s specialty is a range of charcoal-cooked soup pots, such as the classic chicken soup, beef brisket soup, and pork rib and lotus root soup, all with rich, flavorful broths that are also nourishing. In addition to the soup pots, the menu is diverse, offering many iconic Sichuan-Chongqing stir-fried dishes like dry-fried green beans, fish-flavored pork, and garlic pork slices. Each dish retains the authentic spicy and savory flavors characteristic of the region.
塔斯汀中国汉堡
Tastien is a popular Western-style fast food chain that has incorporated Chinese flavors. It offers classic fast food items like fried chicken burgers, fries, and drinks, while also adding seasonings and side dishes that cater to Chinese tastes. One standout feature is their burger buns, which are baked to perfection. The baking process makes the exterior crispy while keeping the inside soft and fluffy, with a subtle baked aroma. The buns pair perfectly with various fillings, enhancing the overall texture of the burger and offering a unique taste experience. Their signature "Spicy Sichuan Chicken Burger" is a great example, with a baked bun complementing the spicy chicken and special Sichuan sauce, delivering a rich yet balanced flavor.
霸王茶姬
Chagee is a premium tea brand that seamlessly blends tradition with modern style, making it a favorite among tea enthusiasts. The shop offers a diverse selection of tea beverages, ranging from classic jasmine green tea and oolong tea to innovative fruit teas and milk tea varieties. Each drink is meticulously crafted for a refined and delicate taste experience. The most popular drink is the Jasmine Longjing Milk Cap Tea, which combines China’s renowned Longjing tea with the refreshing fragrance of jasmine, topped with a rich, creamy milk cap. This creates a unique, multi-layered flavor. The floral aroma of jasmine and the sweet aftertaste of Longjing captivate from the first sip, while the velvety milk cap adds a smooth, creamy touch. Whether you prefer a light tea aroma or a richer flavor, this drink can be customized with adjustable sweetness and milk cap thickness.
瑞幸咖啡
Luckin Coffee is a brand that primarily focuses on coffee, blending traditional coffee culture with modern style, making it popular among urban youth and coffee lovers. The shop offers a wide variety of coffee beverages, ranging from classic Americanos and lattes to innovative options like the Coconut Cloud Latte and Coconut Milk Latte series. Each cup is carefully selected and meticulously crafted for a smooth, layered taste experience. Among the most popular drinks is the Coconut Cloud Latte, which combines classic espresso with the delicate aroma of coconut, topped with a light and airy milk foam. The rich flavor of the coffee and the refreshing coconut fragrance merge perfectly with the first sip, while the creamy milk foam adds a subtle smoothness to the entire drink. In addition to offering high-quality coffee, Luckin Coffee also provides a variety of other popular beverages, such as teas and milk teas.
书亦烧仙草
Shuyi Grass Jelly is a chain brand specializing in innovative tea beverages. The shop offers a wide variety of drinks, from classic grass jelly and milk tea series to creative fruit teas and taro-based drinks. Each beverage is carefully selected and crafted, resulting in a smooth and layered taste experience. Among the most popular drinks is the Classic Grass Jelly(经典烧仙草), which combines traditional grass jelly with a variety of toppings like red beans, pearls, and taro balls, creating a multi-layered texture. The chewy toppings complement the cool, smooth grass jelly, offering a rich and satisfying taste.
星巴克
Just like every Starbucks around the world.
喜茶
Heytea is a premium tea brand known for pioneering the "new-style tea" trend by combining traditional tea culture with modern flavors. Offering a wide range of beverages, including cheese-topped teas, fruit teas, and creative seasonal drinks, Heytea provides a unique tea experience.
无事酒吧
The bar offers a wide variety of drinks, with dim lighting and soothing music that create an ideal space for quietly zoning out and completely relaxing.
重庆锦枫酒店
The hotel has 41 guest rooms. Additional facilities include a restaurant and a parking lot.
丽枫酒店(大足石刻昌州古城店)
The hotel is part of a chain brand and offers 108 rooms of various types, along with a complimentary underground parking lot. Each room is equipped with an HD internet TV, air conditioning, a separate wet and dry bathroom. Additionally, the hotel provides nutritious buffet breakfasts and self-service laundry facilities.
重庆大足石刻观堂
The hotel design incorporates local elements and has 143 rooms of various types. Additional facilities include a gym, conference hall, restaurant, multifunctional hall, and a home theater. Airport pickup service is available at an additional cost.
重庆宝顶小住
This cultural hotel offers single rooms, standard rooms, and suites, with 43 rooms. Additional facilities include a banquet hall and a restaurant.
希岸酒店
This is a chain hotel with 73 guest rooms. It features a breakfast room, conference hall, gym, and lobby bar.
吾家小院
The hotel has 15 guest rooms and offers facilities including a breakfast room, conference hall, game room, tea room, and home theater. The hotel is situated amidst fields, offering a strong sense of nature.
维也纳国际酒店
This is a chain hotel with 119 guest rooms. It offers a breakfast room, conference hall, self-service laundry room, gym, and lobby bar.
瑞斯电竞酒店(大足香国公园店)
This is an e-sports hotel with 15 rooms. Additional facilities include a restaurant, lobby bar, tea room, and home theater. There is a computer in the room so you can access the Internet at any time.
华遇酒店(大足石刻新城店)
This is a budget hotel with 52 guest rooms. It offers a parking lot and a tea room.
重庆大足吾悦广场
Chongqing Dazu Wuyue Plaza is a modern shopping and entertainment complex that offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities. It’s an ideal destination for shopping enthusiasts and food lovers, providing everything from international brands to local cuisine. The plaza also features entertainment options such as cinemas and children's play areas, making it perfect for family outings.
大足石刻南书局
Books and cultural products related to Dazu Rock Carvings are sold here.Dazu Rock Carvings South Bookstore is an immersive, cave-themed bookstore inspired by the Yuanjue Cave of the Dazu Rock Carvings. The space offers a rich, multidimensional light and shadow interactive experience, creating a mysterious meditative environment. Here, you can not only find books and cultural creations connected to the stone carvings but also enjoy a calming atmosphere that soothes the soul. Whether you're stopping by for a quick visit or spending time on deep reading, this bookstore offers a quiet retreat. Even if you don’t buy anything, experiencing the blend of Dazu's cultural heritage and modern design is well worth your time.
富士达购物广场
Forstar Shopping Plaza is a well-established shopping center in Dazu District, offering a comprehensive shopping experience. Whether you're looking for everyday necessities, exquisite local specialties, or high-end brands, this mall has it all. The environment is comfortable and elegant, providing a wide range of carefully curated products. With many restaurants offering authentic Dazu cuisine, Forstar Shopping Plaza provides a one-stop experience for both shopping and dining.
大融城购物公园
Darongcheng Shopping Plaza in Dazu District is a vibrant destination that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment under one roof. It offers a wide range of retail options, including flagship stores for global brands like Adidas, Nike, Apple, and Xiaomi, alongside local specialty shops, making it an ideal spot for both trendy finds and unique souvenirs.The park is more than just a shopping destination—it also provides top-tier lifestyle and entertainment experiences. Visitors can enjoy a state-of-the-art gym with a basketball court and indoor swimming pool, as well as a family-friendly indoor amusement center.
丁家坡农贸市场
The market offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, and other agricultural products, making it a one-stop shop for all your grocery needs. Beyond fresh ingredients, it also provides an authentic cultural atmosphere, where visitors can engage with local vendors and experience the community's traditional lifestyle.
新世纪百货
New Century Department Store is a renowned, large-scale state-owned retail enterprise in Chongqing, offering a wide range of products that cater to diverse shopping needs. As one of the city's flagship department stores, it is well-known for its comprehensive selection of goods, from clothing and electronics to daily necessities.
By train
By bus
Dazu is 1½-2 hours west of central Chongqing and about three to three and a half hours south-east of Chengdu and can be reached via the bus station in either city.
Transportation options within Dazu include taxis, buses, motorcycle taxis, pedal-taxis, shared bicycles, and three-wheeled vehicles called sanlunche (三轮车).2.3.
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