Danzishi Cliff Statue: A Historic Restoration Comes to Fruition

Chongqing - The iconic Danzishi Cliff Figures, also known as the Dafo (Big Buddha) Temple, situated in Danzishi Street of Nan'an District, Chongqing, has proudly marked its repair and restoration. 

After an extensive eight-year restoration process, this national treasure, recognized as a key cultural relic protection unit, has successfully passed its preliminary evaluations by leading experts. 

Hu Juan, Director of the Nan'an District Cultural Management Office, has shared that the meticulously restored Big Buddha is set to welcome visitors once again upon the completion of the upcoming waterfront park.

Towering at 7.5 meters, the Maitreya Buddha statue is affectionately called the "Big Buddha." Nestled against the backdrop of imposing mountains, this magnificent statue serenely gazes upon the eastward-flowing river below. From its vantage point, one can capture breathtaking views of Chaotianmen and the expanse of Jiangbei City.

The Danzishi Cliff Figures stand as a pivotal testament to the rich temple culture and rock-cut architecture of Sichuan and Chongqing. Distinguished as the sole physical rock-cut statue from the transitional period between the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty in Chongqing, it offers invaluable insights for scholars delving into the artistry of grotto statues from that era. Moreover, it epitomizes the intricate nuances of Buddhist architectural planning tailored to the region's mountainous landscape.

With a storied history spanning over 600 years, this cliff statue is revered as the "Top One Buddha" along the Yangtze River. Exposed to the elements, the Big Buddha, standing majestically beside the Yangtze, has borne the brunt of time - weathering severe environmental conditions and succumbing to microbial deterioration, accentuated by cracks on its facade. In 2016, a dedicated team from the China Academy of Cultural Heritage undertook the monumental task of commencing restoration efforts for this venerable icon.

Prior to the restoration, a thorough inspection revealed 18 issues on the Buddha that needed addressing, including stone defects, surface powdering, peeling, cracks, and paint warping. The restoration process was intricate, employing a wide array of tools and equipment, from precision instruments like scalpels and tweezers to dental scalers and advanced technologies such as infrared imaging machines.

Following the dedicated endeavors of 36 experts, the statue's original grandeur was meticulously and successfully restored.

While the Danzishi Cliff Figures have undergone restoration, the protective mesh around the Big Buddha remains in place. It is anticipated to reopen to the public once the adjacent waterfront park's construction is finalized.

The newly constructed waterfront park, situated beneath the Dafosi Bridge on Nanbin Road in Nan'an District, aims to revive the historic ambiance of the Big Buddha Temple, enriching the park's cultural appeal. Hu Juan remarked, "In the days ahead, visitors will not only relish the grandeur of the Big Buddha but will also be able to savor the serene landscapes of the mountains and rivers within the waterfront park."

The marble Danzishi Cliff Figures served not only a religious and historical purpose but also bore a crucial role in hydrological marking. As the river swells during the spring and summer months, the rising waters touch the feet, body, and head of the Buddha. Distinct markers on the statue correspond to these water levels, providing a visual representation of the flood's progression.

This restoration revitalized the Big Buddha, ensuring that its rich legacy is preserved for future generations to appreciate.