The Yungang Grottoes are home to a beautiful legend closely tied to the monk Tan Yao. Legend has it that in his dream, Tan Yao saw the Buddha standing in the clouds, radiating a dazzling light. This light illuminated the entire world, and all things, illuminated by the Buddha's aura, became peaceful and tranquil. Upon waking, Tan Yao believed this was a revelation from the Buddha, and he decided to preserve this vision in the form of a grotto, allowing future generations to experience the sacredness and beauty of the Buddha's aura. He therefore proposed excavating the grottoes to Emperor Wencheng, who supported his proposal. Thus, the Yungang Grottoes were born.
When you stand before the grottoes, the sound of wind that has lingered for millennia in your ears, the tranquility and awe you feel in your heart will become the most precious souvenir of your journey. Going to Yungang is about meeting yourself.