Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 1
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 2
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 3
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 4
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 5
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 6
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 7
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 8
Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train 9
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Private Day Trip to Maijishan Grottoes from Xi'an by Bullet Train

Beijing, China
Sightseeing Tours
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About this activity

Experience one of China's most dramatic Buddhist cave temples on a full-day excursion from Xi'an, featuring a high-speed bullet train journey to Maijishan Grottoes near Tianshui. This 1,600-year-old cliff sanctuary holds 194 grottoes carved into a near-vertical mountainside, showcasing over 7,200 clay sculptures and stone carvings spanning multiple dynasties.

At 8:00 am, your Xi'an guide will pick you up at the lobby of your Xian hotel holding a sign with your name and then transfer you to Xian North Railway Station to catch a 100-minute bullet train ride to Tianshui.Upon arrival in Tianshui, you will be transferred to Maiji Mountain to visit the grottoes.
Maijishan Grottoes on Maiji Mountain had started to build from 384 AD, and expanded during the following hundreds of years. This impressive Buddhist caves were cut on the steep mountain. Though the wind and rain damaged lots of statues here, there are still 194 grottoes existing with over 7200 clay sculptures and stone carvings created during different dynasties.
You will walk on the plank paths built along the face of the cliff to view the elegant clay sculptures, statures etc. Moreover, the stunning mountain scenery is another interest to come here.
Afterwards you will be transferred to catch your bullet train back to Xian. Then you will be transferred back to your Xian hotel where this day trip concludes. 

Highlights

  • ✓100-minute bullet train ride each way through China's interior landscape
  • ✓194 Buddhist grottoes carved directly into a steep cliff face since 384 AD
  • ✓Walkways suspended along the mountainside for intimate grotto viewing
  • ✓7,200+ clay sculptures and stone carvings from multiple Chinese dynasties
  • ✓Combination of religious art, engineering, and mountain scenery in one site

Insider tips

  • ★Arrive early at Xian North Railway Station; bullet train boarding can be crowded during peak seasons
  • ★Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes—cliff-side plank paths are narrow and uneven
  • ★The grottoes face west; visit in late afternoon for better light on the cliff carvings
  • ★Many sculptures show weathering from centuries of exposure; bring binoculars to spot details on higher caves

Good to know

  • •Hotel pickup starts at 8:00 am; confirm your hotel location with the operator the day before
  • •Total duration is 12 hours including train travel and transfers; pack snacks and water
  • •Cliff walkways are not suitable for those with severe fear of heights or limited mobility
  • •Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a light jacket—mountain weather changes quickly
  • •Photography permitted; tripods may not be allowed on narrow pathways

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts interested in Buddhist art and Chinese heritageCultural travellers seeking lesser-known UNESCO-quality sites beyond mainstream Xi'an attractionsAdventure seekers comfortable with heights and moderate cliff-side hikingPhotographers aiming to capture dramatic mountain temples and ancient sculptural detail

Best time to visit

Visit during spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) for mild weather and clear visibility of the cliff carvings. Avoid midday summer heat, as the exposed cliff paths offer little shade.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€523
per person