Yulin Caves (榆林窟, Yulin Grottoes)，also known as Ten Thousand Buddha Gorge (万佛峡), is a renowned Buddhist cave temple site and the sister caves of the Mogao Caves.
Basic Facts
Location: In Guazhou County, Jiuquan City, Gansu Province, about 70 km south of Guazhou and 100 km east of Dunhuang.
Name Origin: Named after the elm trees (Yulin) that line the Yulin River, which flows through the canyon where the caves are carved.
Cave Distribution: 43 caves total, carved into the east (32 caves) and west (11 caves) cliffs of the Yulin River Gorge.
Art Treasures
Murals: 4,200 ㎡ of wall paintings from the Tang to Yuan dynasties (7th–14th centuries).
Sculptures: Approximately 250 polychrome statues.
Highlight Cave: Cave 25 (Mid-Tang) is celebrated for its well-preserved murals and elegant composition.
History & Status
Construction: Began in the Northern Wei Dynasty, with major work from the Tang through Yuan dynasties.
Protection: Designated a Major National Historical and Cultural Site in 1961.
World Heritage: Submitted for UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008 as part of the Silk Road serial nomination.
Visiting Information
Opening Hours:
◦ May–Oct: 9:00–17:30
◦ Nov–Apr: 10:00–17:00
Ticket Price: ￥55
Recommended Stay: Half a day
