Yulin Grotto

The Yulin Grottoes, located approximately 2.5 hours from Dunhuang, are a significant collection of Buddhist cave temples carved into the cliffs along the Yulin River. While smaller and less comprehensive than the renowned Mogao Caves, Yulin offers a more intimate and peaceful experience, often with fewer visitors. The caves showcase art primarily from the Tang, Song, and Ming dynasties, with some earlier Western Xia period paintings. Many caves have been restored, particularly those from the Ming dynasty, but original sculptural bases from earlier periods are still visible. A typical tour encompasses around 6-7 caves and lasts approximately one hour.