Guilin is world-renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, featuring dramatic limestone caves and formations that have become iconic symbols of the region. With so many impressive caves to choose from, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. From the famous Reed Flute Cave to the hidden gems of Silver Cave and Crown Cave, each offers a unique experience. This guide will help you navigate the options and decide which cave adventure suits you best.
Guilin City Caves
Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩)
Why Visit: Reed Flute Cave is one of the most famous caves in Guilin, known for its vast array of colorful stalactites and stalagmites. It is also known as Guobin Cave, and it has been the site of many state visits, including hosting national leaders. This cave gained additional fame as the filming location of Princess Iron Fan’s Banana Cave in the 1986 TV series Journey to the West.
Accessibility: Reed Flute Cave is located just a short 25-minute taxi ride from Guilin’s city center, making it very convenient to visit. The cave is easily accessible and is perfect for photographers due to its mesmerizing formations and lighting.
Ticket Price: The entrance fee is ¥85, and the tour is relatively short, making it a great option for a half-day excursion.
Seven Star Cave (七星岩)
Why Visit: Located in Seven Star Park, this cave is over 1 million years old and is perfect for families. After exploring the cave, you can continue your adventure in the park, visiting Camel Mountain, feeding wild monkeys, or wandering through the zoo. It’s a great option for those traveling with children.
Accessibility: Seven Star Cave is also just a 15-minute drive from the city center. It’s easily accessible via taxi or bus, and its location within the park makes it an ideal destination for a more extensive day out.
Ticket Price: The combined entrance ticket for the cave and the park is ¥85.
Guilin County Caves
Thousand Families Cave (千家洞)
Why Visit: Located about 2 hours from Guilin in Guanyang County, Thousand Families Cave is a massive, multi-faceted cave that offers a variety of experiences. Visitors can take a boat ride through parts of the cave, walk on a glass bridge, and even enjoy a hot spring within the cave. It’s perfect for families or groups looking for a more interactive adventure. The cave is large and can easily fill an entire day with activities.
Accessibility: This cave is best visited by private car or self-drive, as public transportation is not ideal for reaching it.
Ticket Price: The entrance fee is ¥99, and it provides a comprehensive experience with multiple attractions inside.
Silver Cave (银子岩)
Why Visit: Located in Yangshuo, Silver Cave is a relatively short 20-minute drive from the famous Ten-Mile Gallery. The cave features impressive natural formations and is a great option for those staying in Yangshuo who want to see a classic karst cave. Though it’s not as expansive as some of the other caves, it offers a cool, refreshing break from the heat.
Accessibility: While it’s only 20 minutes by car from Yangshuo, it can be more difficult to arrange a return trip from the cave, as taxis are hard to come by in the area. It’s best to visit if you’re already in Yangshuo.
Ticket Price: The entrance fee is ¥65, making it an affordable option for a short but enjoyable cave visit.
Crown Cave (冠岩)
Why Visit: Crown Cave is unique due to its impressive 36-meter-high elevator that takes you into the heart of the cave. Visitors can also enjoy a small tourist train that guides you through the cave’s vast chambers. The cave feels like a palace, with wide, open spaces and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Accessibility: This cave is located about an hour’s drive from the city center and is best visited by private car or on a guided tour. It’s situated along the scenic Daxing Road, so it’s a great spot to visit if you’re driving through Xingping Ancient Town afterward.
Ticket Price: The entrance fee is ¥55, making it one of the more affordable options, considering the range of experiences inside.
Conclusion: Which Cave is Right for You?
Each karst cave in Guilin offers a unique experience, so your choice depends on your interests and the type of adventure you’re looking for. Reed Flute Cave and Seven Star Cave are perfect for those staying in the city, offering easy access and stunning formations. For a more adventurous experience, Thousand Families Cave provides a range of activities, while Silver Cave offers a more relaxed option for those exploring Yangshuo. Crown Cave is ideal for those looking for a more diverse experience, with its elevator and train ride.