Explore Jinta Temple, which is 300 years older than the Mogao Caves.

We were lucky enough to visit the national treasure Jinta Temple, which is more than 300 years older than the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang. It is home to the world's only 3D flying Apsara. The scenery along the way is amazing, like a little Switzerland in Gansu. The thousand-year-old grottoes are a testament to the craftsmanship passed down through generations! Opening Information Jinta Temple is located in Changdongzi, Mati Tibetan Township, Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye City. It is open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, but is currently closed due to ecological construction. The reopening date is yet to be determined. Ticket Reservation Tickets for Jinta Temple cost CNY 300 per person. Reservations must be made by phone at least 1–3 days in advance. After a successful reservation, you must pay the fee and collect a paper ticket at the on-site ticket office of Mati Temple. Only 50 people are admitted per day, with one session in the morning and one in the afternoon. Transportation Guide Due to inconvenient transportation, it is recommended to charter a car from Mati Temple. From Mati Temple, head southeast along Jinma Road for about 20 km to reach Jinta Temple. The journey takes about 40 minutes. Attraction Features - Long History: The Jinta Temple Grottoes were built during the Northern Liang period of the Sixteen Kingdoms, more than 1,600 years ago. It is one of the earliest Buddhist grotto temples in the Hexi Corridor, as well as in the Central Plains and Northwest China. - Artistic Treasures: The grottoes house more than 260 sculptures from the Northern Liang, Northern Wei, Western Wei, and Western Xia periods, as well as more than 690 square meters of murals. It is famous for its high-relief flying Apsaras, which are V-shaped, plump, and graceful. They predate the flying Apsaras of Dunhuang by 300 years. The grottoes also feature various lifelike Buddha statues in different poses, making them a treasure trove of Chinese grotto sculptures. Tour Suggestions - There are about 240 stone steps in the scenic area. Please pay attention to safety and manage your energy when climbing. - Photography is strictly prohibited in Jinta Temple. Please follow the rules during your visit. - The scenic area is about 2,800 meters above sea level, and the weather is unpredictable. It is recommended to bring warm clothing and rain gear.