Putuoshan - Chaoyin Cave

普陀山风景名胜区-潮音洞

Chaoyin Cave is located in front of Zizhulin Temple on the southeastern edge of Putuoshan Island, at the foot of Longwan Bay, near the sea of people below the Guanyin Temple. Half submerged in the sea, the cave is about 30 meters deep, with a depth of over 10 meters from the cliff to the bottom. Inside, strange rocks intersect, forming a jagged, almost impenetrable landscape. The coastline here winds and curves, with steep cliffs and layers of strange rocks. The cave floor opens to the sea, and two gaps in the ceiling, known as skylights, are carved into the cave wall. In the 38th year of the Kangxi Emperor's reign (1699), the imperial calligraphy "Chaoyin Cave" was inscribed on the cave wall.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: Putuo District, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, China (浙江省舟山市普陀区普陀山)

  • History: Chaoyin Cave is one of the most famous caves in Putuo Mountain, historically revered in Chinese Buddhist culture. The site is associated with Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) and has been a spiritual destination for centuries. Monks and pilgrims have visited it since ancient times for prayer, meditation, and seeking blessings.

  • Architecture: The cave is carved naturally and reinforced with traditional stone pathways, small pavilions, and Buddhist inscriptions. Sculptures and shrines dedicated to Guanyin are placed within and around the cave, creating a serene spiritual atmosphere. Lantern-lit corridors and stone bridges enhance its mystical feel.

  • Cultural Value: The cave embodies Buddhist religious practices, folklore, and cultural traditions. It is a pilgrimage site and a symbol of spiritual reflection, drawing both domestic and international visitors interested in Buddhism and Chinese heritage.

  • Other Information: The cave is often accompanied by the sound of nearby waves hitting rocks, which is said to resonate with the "sound of the tide," adding to its meditative ambiance. Guided tours and local monks often provide historical and spiritual insights.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 07:00 – 17:30

  • Ticket Price: Included in Putuo Mountain Scenic Area ticket – 160 RMB per adult
    80 RMB for students and seniors

  • Best Photo Spots: Cave entrance with the Guanyin statues, stone stairways inside the cave, scenic viewpoint overlooking the sea, bridge leading to the cave entrance

  • Time Reference: 1–2 hours to fully explore the cave and surrounding paths

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: Putuo Mountain Sea View Hotel (普陀山海景大酒店)
    Mid-range: Chaoyin Hotel (潮音酒店)
    Budget & Boutique: Local Guesthouses near Chaoyin Cave (潮音洞周边民宿)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: Vegetarian Buddhist meals (斋菜), Steamed Fish (清蒸鱼), Seaweed Soup (海带汤)
    Famous Spots: Chaoyin Restaurant (潮音餐厅), Putuo Mountain Local Eateries (普陀山本地小吃店)

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Buddhist prayer beads (佛珠)
    Incense and candles (香烛)
    Local herbal teas (本地茶叶)

Transportation

  • By Ferry: From Zhoushan city or Shenjiamen Port (沈家门港) to Putuo Mountain ferry dock, then walk or shuttle to Chaoyin Cave
    By Bus: Local shuttle buses within Putuo Mountain scenic area stop near Chaoyin Cave
    By Taxi or Private Car: Drop-off available near the cave entrance; parking available nearby

Nearby Attractions

  • Puji Temple (普济寺) – ~1.2 km, accessible by walking or shuttle bus
    Fayu Temple (法雨寺) – ~1.8 km, accessible by shuttle bus or short taxi ride
    Zhujiajian Coastal Viewpoint (朱家尖海景观景台) – ~2 km, taxi or bicycle

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes due to uneven stone paths and stairs
    Bring water, especially in summer months
    Respect temple rules and avoid loud noises inside the cave
    Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
    Listen to guided explanations to fully understand the cave’s cultural and spiritual significance

Recommended Itineraries

  • D1: Morning: Arrive at Putuo Mountain ferry → Visit Chaoyin Cave (潮音洞) → Lunch at Chaoyin Restaurant (潮音餐厅) → Afternoon: Puji Temple (普济寺) → Evening: Sunset at Cliffside Sea View near Chaoyin Cave
    Transportation: Walking and shuttle buses between attractions
  • D1–D2: Two-Day Spiritual & Scenic Tour: D1 Morning: Chaoyin Cave (潮音洞) → Afternoon: Fayu Temple (法雨寺) → Evening: Evening meditation or sunset
    D2 Morning: Puji Temple (普济寺) → Afternoon: Explore other nearby scenic trails → Evening: Return ferry to Zhoushan city
    Transportation: Walking, shuttle buses, and ferry rides
  • D1: Photography & Nature Route: Morning: Chaoyin Cave entrance & stone stairways → Noon: Vegetarian meal at temple restaurant → Afternoon: Walk scenic bamboo paths → Evening: Sea cliff photography
    Transportation: Mainly walking, short taxi/shuttle rides if needed

User Reviews

By Phineas |

Legend has it that during the first year of the Tang Dynasty's Dazhong reign, an Indian monk burned his ten fingers in worship of Guanyin. Suddenly, a miraculous light emanated from the cave, and Guanyin Bodhisattva appeared, bestowing upon him a seven-colored gem. Since then, Chaoyin Ancient Cave has been shrouded in mystery. Chaoyin Cave faces the ocean to the east. The three characters "Chaoyin Cave" carved into the cliff face at the entrance were inscribed by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty in 1699. A crack in the rock ceiling resembles a window, and legend has it that Guanyin Bodhisattva repeatedly appeared here. Since the Tang Dynasty, when Japanese monk Hui'e and Silla merchants left a Guanyin statue beside the cave, it has been regarded as the birthplace of the Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom, attracting thousands of tourists from Japan, South Korea, and other countries annually.

Next to the Guanyin Temple is Chaoyin Cave, a natural rock cave whose name is a double entendre. On the one hand, the cave swallows and spits out the tide day and night, making a sound like thunder; on the other hand, "tide sound" is used as a metaphor for "Buddha's voice," as if Guanyin were preaching or thousands of monks were chanting. Formed by cracks in the rocks, the cave is about 10 meters deep from the cliff to the bottom. The bottom of the cave leads to the sea, half of which is submerged in the sea. The two cracks above the cave form two doors called "skylights." At high tide, the water rushes into the cave, and the collision of waves and rocks creates a thunderous sound, creating the "Ancient Cave Tide Sound," one of the twelve scenic spots in Putuo.

By pufferfish |

Chaoyin Cave is Putuo Mountain's most spiritual natural sea cave. From the clifftop observation deck, you can witness the waves crashing into the narrow crevice, creating a thunderous spectacle. Legend has it that this is one of the sacred sites where Guanyin Bodhisattva appeared. The ochre-brown rocky walls and the mottled, snow-white waves create a striking visual impact. Especially during high tide on the first and fifteenth day of the lunar month, the waves surge into the cave like a mighty army, creating a roaring, drum-like, and majestic scene. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is recommended to avoid the crowds and experience the meditative interweaving of the waves and Buddhist chants. Safety is paramount. Do not climb over the guardrails while viewing the view.

By Sea breeze boat |

Chaoyin Cave is one of the three caves in Putuo Mountain. It is located in front of Zizhulin Zen Temple. It is half submerged in the sea and is about 10 meters deep. The three words "Chaoyin Cave" at the entrance of the cave are written by Emperor Kangxi.

By Teacher Yang Gongzi |

The earliest Guanyin statue in Putuo Mountain is located here.

By fincen |

Located in the southeast of Putuo Mountain, in the Zizhulin Zen Temple, there is a small pavilion on top, where you can hear the sound of the sea waves hitting the rocks on the shore.

By zhm_jinan |

It's been too long, so I don't have a deep impression of it. This pile of reefs is pretty good, and the Chaoyin Cave is right below.

By ldzzss |

Dancing with Guanyin, the sound of the tide can be heard.

By abelabel |

It should be a very ancient attraction. I only saw it from a distance last time I went there.

By Big Hae Walking |

Located in front of Zizhulin Temple on the southeastern edge of Putuoshan Island, at the point where the water flows into the sea below the "Bukenqu Guanyin" (Bukenqu Guanyin) Temple, the cave's mouth faces the sea, shaped like a gaping mouth. Day and night, it is battered by waves, and the tides rush into the cave with the force of a flying dragon and the sound of thunder, hence the name "Chaoyin Cave."

By Nuggets |

I don't want to go to a cave next to Guanyin Temple, and hear the sound of the waves.

By CANON |

The view here is open and facing the sea, which is not to be missed.

By pale |

He refused to go to a cave next to Guanyin Temple.

By Orangeらmm |

It's just a hole, I don't quite understand... Anyway, I passed by...

By HkDJ |

Right next to the Bukenqu Guanyin, there is a cave. Then there is the sound of waves.

By Morning Light |

Chaoyin Cave is located next to the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple. The sound of the tide is loud and the surrounding scenery is beautiful. (Friendly reminder: There are many reefs on the shore, so please supervise your children and don't let them climb the reefs to avoid accidents...)

By make a sightseeing tour |

Chaoyin Cave is located southeast of Putuo Mountain, in front of Zizhulin Temple. The cave's entrance faces the sea, half submerged in the water, and has a skylight in the ceiling. The water crashes against the entrance, creating a roaring sound. A stone inscription inscribed with the inscription "Chaoyin Cave" by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty is found on the cave wall. Legend has it that Guanyin once appeared here.

By Beautiful grassland, my home |

Personally, I think it is a very good place with unique characteristics, where you can experience a different kind of natural scenery.

By Lonely Wind |

It's a nice attraction. You can walk and see the scenery along the way without rushing.

By Han Fei Home |

Located on the seashore outside the Bushenqu Zen Temple, it is formed by the impact of waves and makes a huge sound, especially at high tide at night.

By Zhang Feiteng |

The seaside scenery is most beautiful when there are waves.

By Aero Zeppelin |

Near the Guanyin Temple, where I was unwilling to go, the roar of the tide was deafening, never ceasing, like the ups and downs of life. Could meditating here help me improve my ability to remain calm and unperturbed?

By An Xin |

Chaoyin Cave is located southeast of Putuoshan Island, in front of Zizhulin Temple, at the foot of Longwan Bay, near the sea of people below the Guanyin Temple. Half submerged in the sea, the cave is about 30 meters deep, with a depth of over 10 meters from the cliff to the bottom. Inside, strange rocks intersect, forming a jagged, almost impenetrable landscape. The coastline here winds and curves, with steep cliffs and layers of strange rocks. The cave floor opens to the sea, and two gaps in the ceiling, known as skylights, are inscribed on the cave wall. In the 38th year of the Kangxi Emperor's reign (1699), the imperial calligraphy "Chaoyin Cave" was inscribed on the cave wall.

By Miss Han |

Personally, I think Chaoyin Cave is a bit average ^_^

By Anemarrhena aspergillus |

There is a hole under the bridge. Maybe the water makes a sound when the tide comes in. The scenery at the seaside is nice.

By Ding Ding Yiry |

It has a strong Buddhist flavor and gets its name from the fact that you can hear the sound of the tide hitting the shore.

By Allen |

The tour guide said that Chaoyin Cave is the ear of Guanyin, which can hear the prayers of sentient beings and she will go to save them.

By Taomaomao |

Compared to other places, this place is a bit monotonous. Standing on the rocks and looking at the yellow sea, you can basically not see any seabirds.

By Peter Pan |

In fact, the environment of each scenic spot is really good. The only thing is that there is garbage everywhere, which is really uncomfortable to look at!

By Heart is far away |

Not far from the Guanyin Temple is Chaoyin Cave, the entrance of which faces the sea, and the sound of waves crashing against the jagged rocks is crisp and melodious.

By Queen Bee |

I visited during peak season, so there were hardly any people. Perhaps it's because the culture isn't that great. The scenery is decent, with the reefs being a highlight. Summer is probably even better. Chaoyin Cave's natural landscape is indeed rare, but I didn't feel like there was anything particularly special to see. The people there always felt uninspired.

By wanwan23 |

A classic, a must-see...

By Moonlight |

Across from Guanyin Temple, not far away, lies Chaoyin Cave. Its entrance faces the sea, and the waves crash against the jagged rocks, creating a melodious sound. Approaching the sea, gazing across at Luojia Mountain, listening to the sound of the ocean, the shattering rocks piercing the air, a sense of power surges within. Only through true experience can one understand the saying, "Once you've seen the sea, you'll find other waters dull," and the boldness of "setting sail to cross the vast ocean," as embodied by Su Shi's sentiment, "Devoting the rest of my life to the rivers and seas."

By ghost |

Chaoyin Cave is located southeast of Putuoshan Island, in front of Zizhulin Temple, at the foot of Longwan Bay, near the sea of people below the Guanyin Temple. Half submerged in the sea, the cave is about 30 meters deep, with a depth of over 10 meters from the cliff to the bottom. Inside, strange rocks intersect, forming a jagged, almost impenetrable landscape. The coastline here winds and curves, with steep cliffs and layers of strange rocks. The cave floor opens to the sea, and two gaps in the ceiling, known as skylights, are carved into the cave wall. In the 38th year of the Kangxi Emperor's reign (1699), the imperial calligraphy "Chaoyin Cave" was inscribed on the cave wall.

By Jenny |

Close to the sea, the waves are big, it is very comfortable to go there in summer

By Saralaw |

I heard that you can hear a sound during high tide, but when I went there it was already low tide in the afternoon so I couldn't see it. But there was a big hole right under my feet, which was also very special.

By I love to laugh |

Just before going to the gate of Guanyin Temple, there is a very small seawater cave, which is a bit disappointing.

By Carrie Bradshaw |

It's a very Zen place where you can feel the sea breeze and listen to the sound of the waves.

By Jiangshan Meiren Soup |

Is it a fun cave? You’ll know it’s worth visiting once you’ve been there.

By Kicking the Peach Fairy |

Within the Zizhulin Scenic Area, just before the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple, there's a cave called Chaoyin Cave. It's said to be a place where the echoing sound of the tide resembles thunder, and also that the constant waves at the cave's entrance, day and night, are like the sound of Guanyin preaching. It's actually a cave formed by a fissure in the rock, half submerged in the sea. Normally, it's invisible, but once the tide enters, a continuous echo begins. Inside the cave, there's an inscription inscribed with the words "Chaoyin Cave" written by Emperor Kangxi. Since ancient times, many devout Buddhists have committed self-harm or suicide here as a way of expressing their devotion. Before the Republic of China, Guanyin could be seen appearing here!!!

By lovefaye1016 |

It is said that if you listen to the tide music here, you can see your past life.

By MinH |

The sound roared, like a huge bell, mighty and resounding.

By kitten |

In general, I didn't see anything. I just walked around for a while

By Chen Lu loves Beibei |

It's just next to the Buken Go Guanyin Temple and it's very ordinary!!

By Walking on the snow |

Within the Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, Chaoyin Cave is relatively unknown, so much so that many people overlook its existence. However, it's located near the Guanyin Temple in the Zizhulin Scenic Area. Ancient Chaoyin Cave, one of the twelve scenic spots of Putuo Mountain in ancient times, faces the sea, offering enchanting, enchanting, and unique scenery. It's one of the best places in Putuo to listen to the sound of the tide. Waves surge incessantly at the cave's entrance day and night, the sound reminiscent of Guanyin preaching or thousands of monks chanting. The yellowish color of the water somewhat detracts from the scenery. To the right of Chaoyin Cave, there's a pavilion where visitors can relax, enjoy the sea breeze, watch the tide, and listen to the sound of the tide—a truly relaxing experience.

By KK |

It is said that this is the place with the loudest sea sounds in Putuo Mountain. It is very close to the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple and right on the seashore.

By wwm617 |

Listening to the sound of the tide, it feels very peaceful, and the sea view is very broad. If you have time, it is worth going.

By Cypress trees in front of the courtyard |

The scenery is nice, facing the sea, and there is a pavilion facing the sea, very comfortable

By bankaa |

There are stone tablets with the words "Stop" and "Forbidden to sacrifice one's life and burn one's fingers"

By Dream Dance Tianyin |

I think it's beautiful and worth a visit. There's also a beach.

By Cool late summer |

It was really exciting. It was raining when I went there, but I still went out to play.

By Sanskrit |

In Chaoyin Cave, you can listen to the Buddhist chanting, and the sea and sky are the Buddhist kingdom, with the fragrance curling up. It’s a pity that the sea water is yellow; if it were a blue sea and blue sky, wouldn’t it be wonderful?

By Crown Prince |

Very unique scenic spot! I like to listen to the tide here

By Flying Petrel |

It is close to the Guanyin Temple and I heard a different sound of the tide.

By Shen Qiuqiu |

The sound of the tide hitting the rock wall in Chaoyin Cave is really pleasant and crisp.

By round and round |

The staff are almost invisible, but there are not many tourists either. You can sit here and enjoy the sea breeze and the sea view.

By Pear Juice Prince |

A scenic spot on the seaside, many people take photos

By HaHa |

There's nothing special about it, it's just because it's in Putuo Mountain.

By 80s Little Scorpio |

Listening to the sound of the waves in the Chaoyin Cave will bring you a sense of inner peace. This is a very famous attraction and worth a visit.

By Baby |

There is a large group of reefs above Chaoyin Cave, and the Dandan Pavilion next to it faces the Lotus Ocean, which is a good place for tourists to take photos. Standing on the Dashi Bridge above Chaoyin Cave and next to the Dandan Pavilion, you can enjoy the panoramic view of Chaoyin Cave.

By Calm Night |

Chaoyin Cave is a natural cave on the mountainside. People with good fortune can see the true body of Guanyin Bodhisattva, and then a temple was built there to burn incense and worship.

2014.09

By No trace of dust |

It is said that this is the place where the Bodhisattva Guanyin appeared.

By Robert Steel Jr. |

The scenery is picturesque and fascinating, worthy of worship for Buddhists

By Unlimited Freedom |

It is said that Chaoyin Cave was the place where Guanyin Bodhisattva practiced Buddhism. When there are big waves, you can hear the sound of waves hitting the cave.

By Old words |

Chaoyin Cave is located in front of the Zizhulin Zen Temple on Putuo Mountain and is also a must-see attraction for tourists.

By China Unicom Lao Wang |

Walk through the purple bamboo forest and you will reach Chaoyin Cave at the end, also known as Fanyin Cave. It is just a natural stone cave and a very ordinary tourist attraction.

By Carving a Boat to Look for a Sword (JX) |

Close to the sea, there is a scenic spot with sea water entering the cave, which is a must-see;

By Hit slowly |

Myths can be found everywhere, and the color of the sea is a little gray.

By Xiaoyu |

It's a very small attraction that is easy to miss, and it's quite far from the pier, so you need to have plenty of time.

By horus |

Namo Guanyin Bodhisattva! This is the place where Monk Huiyan was stranded, refusing to go to Guanyin. A must-see. Please do more good deeds. For details, please refer to my super travel guide.

By Benzodiazepines |

The scenery is beautiful. Friends who have enough time can go and see it.

By clonedna |

Give your soul a place to relax ~ calm down ~

By Dorothy S |

The cave is located in front of Zizhulin Temple in the southeast of Putuoshan Island.

By Night Walk |

It's right on the beach, a little small, but the scenery is beautiful.

By Jing Xiaojing |

On Putuo Mountain, for someone who has never seen the sea, it is wonderful to feel the vastness of the sea here.

By A misty rain |

Chaoyin Cave is not an independent scenic spot. Its location is very special. There is a big hole eroded by sea water on the ground between the sea and the temple. The sea water flows back into the cave, and the sound of the tide is very loud.


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