A small central-Sichuan city between Chengdu and Chongqing, Ziyang is known for the colossal Anyue cliff Buddhas and lotus-filled reservoirs, with an ancient 'Ziyang Man' fossil heritage.
History & culture
The discovery of the prehistoric 'Ziyang Man' skull put the area on the archaeological map, while nearby Anyue county became one of China's great centres of Tang–Song cliff Buddhist sculpture.
What to see & do
- ◆Anyue's cliff Buddhist carvings (a 'hometown of stone statues')
- ◆The reclining Buddha at Wofo Yuan
- ◆Banyueshan and reservoir scenery
- ◆Lemon orchards (Anyue is a lemon capital)
- ◆Quiet riverside districts
What to eat
- ●Anyue lemon dishes and drinks
- ●Sichuan spicy home cooking
- ●Local river fish
Getting there
High-speed rail (Ziyang North) connects to Chengdu in ~20–30 min; Anyue's grottoes are a further drive into the county.
Avoid the pitfalls
- The best cliff carvings are scattered around rural Anyue — a car or tour is needed.
- It's a quiet, under-touristed city; manage expectations.
- Some grottoes are remote with limited facilities.
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