Ancient Summer Cave

Introducing Ancient Summer Cave

Located on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, Fujian, the Ancient Summer Cave is a unique cave. Its rocky walls support massive granite boulders that seem to have fallen from the sky, creating a sense of imminent danger. The inscription "Ancient Summer Cave" was written by Shi Shijie, a Taiwanese scholar from the late Qing Dynasty. The cave is bright, dry, and airy.

There is a poem engraved on the back of the "Ancient Summer Resort Cave", "Sunlight Rock, with its piles of stones, surrounds the sea and rises to form a jade fortress. Above is the mighty sky wind, below is the vast ocean." It was written by Jiang Dingwen, a fellow townsman of Chiang Kai-shek. After "resolving" the "Fujian Rebellion" launched by the 19th Route Army, he was full of confidence and in a very good mood, so he wrote this rather literary inscription.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical marine monsoon climate; the Ancient Summer Cave is a very distinctive cave. The stone walls on both sides support huge granite boulders that fell from the sky, giving people the feeling of being crushed by Mount Tai. It is very steep and suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free (included in the 60 yuan ticket for Sunlight Rock)

Attraction opening hours

Monday to Sunday: 05:30-21:00 in summer, 06:00-20:30 in winter

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Most Popular FAQs for Ancient Summer Cave

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Ancient Summer Cave is a natural cave system with historical importance. The caves have been a site for ancient rituals and are associated with local legends and folklore. They are also a significant cultural heritage site in Xiamen, drawing visitors interested in both nature and history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Ancient Summer Cave is located in the outskirts of Xiamen. You can reach the cave by:

• Taking a taxi from the city center to the cave entrance.
• Using local buses that pass through nearby areas.
• Walking if you are staying in a nearby area, though the route might be longer.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to enjoy cooler weather, especially during the warmer months.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to Ancient Summer Cave is generally around 50-70 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Online ticket booking may be available through travel websites or local ticket platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long waiting times. Booking 1-2 days in advance is a good idea during holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Ancient Summer Cave, depending on how much time you spend on guided tours and photography.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see areas inside the cave include:

• The main cave, with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
• The historical artifacts and inscriptions left by ancient civilizations.
• The surrounding landscape, offering stunning views of the cave entrance and surrounding natural beauty.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in other languages, including English, depending on the time of year and availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best photography spots are:

• The cave entrance with its lush, green surroundings.
• The interior rock formations, especially the stalactites and stalagmites.
• Overlooking the surrounding landscape from the high points around the cave.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the exterior of the cave to appreciate the natural landscape, then proceed inside to admire the rock formations. Don't miss the guided tour for historical insights and end by walking around the cave's perimeter for great views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available at Ancient Summer Cave. There are no light shows, but special tours may be offered on request, especially during the peak tourist season.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The cave tends to be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially outside of peak travel seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities at Ancient Summer Cave include:

• Public restrooms near the entrance.
• A small café and water stalls for snacks and drinks.
• A few souvenir shops near the exit selling local crafts and memorabilia.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The cave is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, but the natural terrain inside may pose challenges. Visitors with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate the cave's rocky interior.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted, but most of the facilities and vendors at the cave also accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. Credit cards may be accepted at some shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants offer a variety of Chinese dishes. There are also small eateries near the cave entrance offering snacks and light meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants near the cave. Halal food is not widely available in the immediate area, but a few options may be found in Xiamen city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Some nearby hotels include:

• Grand Bay Hotel Xiamen, located about a 20-minute drive from the cave.
• Xiamen Marriott Hotel, which is also a short distance from the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include:

• Nanputuo Temple, a famous Buddhist temple in Xiamen.
• Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its scenic views and historical buildings.
• Xiamen University, renowned for its beautiful campus and peaceful surroundings.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the cave where visitors can buy local crafts, pottery, and postcards as keepsakes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Ancient Summer Cave, the best transportation options include taking a taxi or using public buses to nearby attractions such as Gulangyu Island or Xiamen University.