Dazu Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and lodging in Dazu, China. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Dazu

Located in the Chongqing municipality of Southwest China, Dazu is a small county famous for its enchanting rock carvings that date back to the Tang Dynasty. The Dazu Rock Carvings have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting tourists and historians worldwide. Dazu is known to be one of the least polluted cities in China, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle-bustle of bigger cities.

List of Places to Visit in Dazu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Dazu Rock Carvings: A collection of over 50,000 statues of Buddha and his disciples carved on the cliffs of Dazu in the 7th to 14th century.

  2. Baodingshan Grottoes: One of the four famous grottoes in China, consisting of over 10,000 statues and carvings of Buddha.

  3. Beishan Cliff Carvings: A group of Buddhist cave temples carved on a cliff that dates back to the Tang Dynasty.

  4. Cangyan Shan Temple: A Buddhist temple from the Tang Dynasty, located in the scenic valley of Cangyan Shan, surrounded by mountains.

Natural Attractions of Dazu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Shengjingshan National Forest Park: A tranquil park with breathtaking views of lush green mountains, waterfalls, and rivers.

  2. Shimensi National Geological Park: A park known for its natural caves and Buddha statues that date back to the Song Dynasty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dazu

  1. Baoding Shan Tourist Road: A scenic road that offers panoramic views of the Dazu rock carvings and Baoding Mountain.

  2. Cangyan Shan Health Walk: A walking trail that offers nature lovers a chance to trek through the valley of Mount Cangyan.

Best Things to Do in Dazu: Activities and Tours

  1. Watch the Wulong Karst National Geology Park light show: A display of glimmering lights and sounds that create a mesmerizing show on the natural bridge.

  2. Explore the old town of Dazu: A quaint town that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and customs of the town’s inhabitants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dazu

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Visit Baodingshan Grottoes and witness the carvings.
Day 2 Explore the ancient town of Dazu and try traditional food.
Day 3 Visit Dazu Rock Carvings in the afternoon and stay for the night light show.
Day 4 Spend the day at Shimensi National Geological Park.
Day 5 Take a trip to Shengjingshan National Forest Park and spend the night at a nearby hotel.
Day 6 Visit Beishan Cliff Carvings and appreciate the Buddhist influence on ancient China.
Day 7 Take a leisure day to explore more of the Dazu region on your own.

Food and Drink Scene of Dazu

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Hotpot: A popular Chongqing dining experience where guests cook raw meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering pot of spicy broth at their table.

  2. Gongbao Chicken: A spicy chicken dish that includes diced chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers.

Local Beverages

  1. Fu Chuan Tea: A locally grown tea that has a unique taste and aroma.

  2. Chongqing Baijiu: A popular liquor that is produced in Chongqing and has a strong taste.

Where to Stay in Dazu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. World Traders Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Dazu, with a spa, fitness center, and restaurant on-site.

  2. Dazu Yingshan Hotel: A 3-star hotel with modern amenities and affordable rates.

  3. Yimei Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel that offers basic accommodations at excellent rates.

What to Buy in Dazu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Dazu Stone Sculptures: Carving replicas of the Dazu rock carvings.

  2. Dazu Green Tea: Freshly harvested tea leaves grown in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Dazu

  1. Chinese New Year: A time for families to reunite and celebrate. Visitors can witness traditional lanterns and dragon dance performances during the festivities.

  2. Language: The majority of residents speak Sichuanese or Mandarin.

Best Time to Visit Dazu

The best time to visit Dazu is from March to October since the weather during this period is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dazu

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately when visiting temples or historical sites.

  2. Try the local cuisine and experience the culture.

Don’t:

  1. Touch any religious artifacts when visiting temples or historical sites.

  2. Litter or damage the natural environment in any way.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dazu

Dazu is a relatively safe city, and visitors can enjoy their time without worrying about any major safety issues. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take care of their belongings while in crowded areas.

Health in Dazu

The tap water in Dazu is not drinkable, and visitors are advised to drink bottled water. Visitors should also bring prescription medications and basic first-aid kits.

Getting to Dazu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dazu

The nearest airport is Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, which is located 68 kilometers away from Dazu. Travelers can take the airport shuttle bus or taxi to reach Dazu.

Bus Stations Near Dazu

Travelers can take a bus from Chongqing to Dazu, with buses that depart every 20 minutes from the Long-distance Bus Passenger Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt to take a taxi or rent a car to travel to Dazu from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Dazu

Visitors can take taxis, buses, or the metro to get around Dazu. Taxis and buses are the most convenient options for tourists since they are affordable and widely available.

Where to Go Next from Dazu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Chongqing: A metropolis located near Dazu that is famous for its spicy food and vibrant nightlife.

  2. Nanchuan: A county that is located 77 kilometers away from Dazu and is known for its natural landscape and historical sites.

Conclusion

Dazu is a hidden gem in China, offering tourists a unique opportunity to witness ancient Chinese culture and stunning natural landscapes. The Dazu Rock Carvings and other historical sites, as well as outdoor activities, make it an excellent destination for both history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Rock carvings Rock carvings