Location & Accessibility

Long Life Tower sits within the Baoding Mountain Scenic Area of the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Chongqing. To get there, you can take a train or bus to Dazu District, then transfer to a local shuttle bus (around ¥5) that drops you right at the entrance. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike—the hilly roads are scenic but steep!

Natural Scenery: A Breath of Fresh Air

Nestled in lush green hills, Long Life Tower feels like a hidden gem. The area is packed with tall trees, crisp mountain air, and trails that wind through forests. In spring, wildflowers bloom everywhere, and even on hot summer days, the shade keeps things cool. Don’t miss the view from the tower’s balcony—it overlooks rolling hills and tiny villages below.

Cultural Highlights: Ancient Art with a Story

Long Life Tower isn’t just a random tower—it’s part of a massive cliffside carving complex dating back to the 12th century. The name “Long Life” comes from Buddhist themes here, symbolizing peace and longevity. Inside the tower, you’ll find intricate statues of monks, gods, and scenes from ancient legends. My favorite? A giant carved Buddha surrounded by flying apsaras (angel-like figures). Even if you’re not into religion, the craftsmanship is mind-blowing!

Must-See Spots Nearby

The tower is just one part of the larger Baoding Mountain site. Walk 10 minutes to see the Bodisattva Hall, where a 30-foot-tall statue stands watch. For panoramic views, hike up to Hell Valley—yes, it’s as dramatic as it sounds. And don’t skip the Thousand-Hand Guanyin carving; it’s a masterpiece of detail.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear comfy shoes: The paths are rocky, and you’ll do a lot of walking.
  • Bring water: There are stalls, but prices go up near tourist spots.
  • Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the mountain sun can sneak up on you!
  • Snacks: Try local street food like spicy dumplings or grilled mountain mushrooms.

Visitor Facilities: Keep It Simple

The site has clean restrooms, plenty of shaded resting areas, and signs in both Chinese and English. Tickets cost around ¥120 (cheaper if you buy online) and include access to all carvings. Guides are available for ¥200/hour, but most carvings have info plaques. If you get hungry, there’s a small café with basic noodles and tea.

Why You’ll Love Long Life Tower

This place is perfect if you want to escape crowds. Unlike busy cities, here you can wander quietly, snap photos without strangers in the background, and soak in history at your own pace. At sunset, the golden light hits the carvings just right—trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you!

Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning. The mist often lifts just after sunrise, making the tower look like it’s floating in clouds. Magical!