Central and Southern Ningxia, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Xumishan Grottoes

须弥山石窟History & Culture · Nature

On the southern slopes of Mount Xumi lie more than 100 grottoes in total; these are the Xumishan Grottoes. 'Xumi' means 'Precious Mountain'. They were carved during the Northern Wei dynasty,…

Xumishan Grottoes, Central and Southern Ningxia

Key facts

Admission
¥48
Opening hours
9:00–17:00 (January–June), 8:00–18:00 (July–October), 9:00–17:00 (November–December)
Time needed
3–4 hours
Getting there
Take a local bus from Guyuan to Sanying Town, then catch a bus or hire a car at the junction north of the town
Guidebook rating
4 / 5

From China Self Guided Travel 2025, page 805. Open in Google Maps

About Xumishan Grottoes

On the southern slopes of Mount Xumi lie more than 100 grottoes in total; these are the Xumishan Grottoes. 'Xumi' means 'Precious Mountain'. They were carved during the Northern Wei dynasty, more than 1,400 years ago. The landscape is dramatic, with jagged rocks and layered peaks, and it is very beautiful. The grottoes are grand in scale and majestic in their statues, making them one of China's Ten Great Grottoes. They are also among the most famous Buddhist grottoes along the ancient Silk Road, and are known as the 'Dunhuang of Ningxia'.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Xumishan Grottoes cost?

Admission to Xumishan Grottoes is ¥48, as listed in the 2025 guidebook. Prices can change; check the official channel before you go.

What are the opening hours of Xumishan Grottoes?

Xumishan Grottoes is open 9:00–17:00 (January–June), 8:00–18:00 (July–October), 9:00–17:00 (November–December).

How do I get to Xumishan Grottoes?

Take a local bus from Guyuan to Sanying Town, then catch a bus or hire a car at the junction north of the town

How long should I spend at Xumishan Grottoes?

Plan on 3–4 hours for Xumishan Grottoes.

Where is Xumishan Grottoes?

Xumishan Grottoes is in Central and Southern Ningxia, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, in the Northwest of China. 55 km north of Guyuan city

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Shapotou Scenic Area — illustration

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