# Maijishan Grottoes (麦积山石窟)

Eastern Gansu, Gansu Province · Northwest, China · Guidebook rating: 5/5
Canonical: https://cnatrip.com/en/places/maijishan-grottoes
Language: en

## Key facts

- **Admission:** ¥80; tickets for special-protection caves ¥100–180
- **Opening hours:** 2026.10.16-2027.03.31 08:00-17:30; 2027.04.01-2027.10.15 08:30-17:00
- **Time needed:** 2–3 hours
- **Address:** Inside Maijishan Scenic Area, Maiji Town, Maiji District, Tianshui City, Gansu Province
- **Getting there:** Take a city bus within Tianshui and get off at Maijishan (麦积山) bus stop.
- **Good for:** History & Culture, Temples, Nature

## About Maijishan Grottoes

The Maiji Mountain Grottoes were first carved during the Later Qin of the Sixteen Kingdoms period and were repaired and expanded by successive dynasties. There are 194 caves, more than 7,000 clay and stone sculptures, and over 1,300 square metres of murals.
The caves are concentrated on cliffs 20–80 metres above the valley floor and linked by plank walkways. Because of the damp climate, few murals have survived, but the sculptures rival those of the Mogao Caves. Caves are also found at Xianren Cliff, Stone Gate and Qu Xi scenic areas, though these are mainly known for their natural scenery.

## Tips from the guidebook

- Photography is generally not permitted inside the caves. To protect the relics, do not use flash even where photography is allowed.

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Source: China Self-Guided Travel 2025 (《中国自助游》, Tianjin Science & Technology Press, Aug 2024), p. 775. Prices, hours and transport details are as printed in the August 2024 edition and may have changed. Always confirm with the venue before you travel.
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