In 45 of the major caves of Yungang, the 254 extant grottoes host more than 59,000 sculptures from the fifth century.
Zhao Bin, with the institute, has been working on the restoration of the Buddhist sculptures and statues for 12 years. On one recent July day, as on any other workday, Zhao was spotted on scaffolding in the ninth cave.
"I always feel in awe of the history and thus work with great passion and a sense of responsibility," Zhao says, adding that is what has supported his tedious efforts day after day.