The cliff carvings at Erfo Temple in Laitan are distinguished by their monumental scale, the pronounced

emphasis on Zen and arhats, and the integration of sculptural programs and architectural settings in the art of cliff carvings from the Song Dynasty. Built upon previous surveys, this study undertakes a systematic classification and reassessment of the cliff carvings at Erfo Temple. Drawing further on the results of archaeological investigations in the lower hall area of the site, this article advances a comprehensive chronological assessment of the carvings.The design and construction of the Buddha on the North Cliff were completed between the late Northern Song and the early Southern Song dynasties, which serve as the core benchmark for the overall spatial layout and subsequent statue planning of the cave temple complex. The planning of the remaining statues is holistic and implemented in phases. The main body of the sculptural program was completed during the mid-to-late Southern Song Dynasty,concentrating between the Chunxi (1174—1189) and Jiatai (1201—1204) reign periods. The second phase focusedon the carving of the principal sculptures on the South Cliff. The third phase involved the intensive carving of themiddle and upper layers of the West Cliff. The fourth phase encompassed the lower layer of the West Cliff and some statues on the North Cliff. The fifth phase included supplementary carvings carried out during the Ming and Qing dynasties.