Tianxin Cave

What are the most recommended things to do in Tianxin Cave?

Visitors to Tianxin Cave can explore its natural limestone formations, enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area, and take part in guided tours to learn about the history and legends associated with the cave. It’s also a great spot for photography and hiking through the nearby forests.


Introducing Tianxin Cave

Tianxin Cave is located at the foot of Qionghua Mountain in Shuitou Town, Nan'an City, Fujian Province. It is a unique tourist attraction in Nan'an that combines Buddhism and Taoism. Master Chang Kai, President of the Singapore Buddhist Association, and Zhao Puchu, former President of the Buddhist Association of China, called Tianxin Cave the "Holy Site of Quannan" because of the beautiful scenery, charming landscape and long history of Qionghua Mountain.

Tianxin Cave, located in Chengmei Village, Shuitou Town, Nan'an City, Fujian Province, was first built during the Sui Dynasty. First known as Tianxiang Temple, it was one of Nan'an's three great ancient temples. Later, it was converted into a Taoist temple, dedicated to the Eight Immortals. It is the only Taoist site in Nan'an that has preserved its original form. Numerous religious and cultural legends abound, including stories of the Eight Immortals punishing an evil dragon, Guanyin exchanging temples with the Eight Immortals, Guanyin building Haichao Temple at Wuli Bridgehead to control the tides, the Eight Immortals using dragon gold to concoct medicine to ward off plague, and the Eight Immortals bestowing immortal apricots upon Yang Xian Gong (Taiyi Zhenren). These legends have greatly enriched religious culture, and many scenic spots and place names are intricately linked to these stories, including Dragon Pond, Water Pavilion, Eight Giant Rocks at the Bottom of the Pond, Kunlong Mountain, Haichao Temple, Biyun Temple on Shizishan Mountain, Xianji Rock, and Apricot Residence.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate, Xindong's unique geographical location and unique scenery have also amazed many tourists, and it is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianxiang Zen Temple, a Buddhist temple, is adjacent to the Tianxin Cave Taoist Temple. The temple and the Taoist temple are interdependent and complement each other, creating a unique and interesting scene. It can be said that "Buddhism and Taoism are unified, and immortals and Buddhas are one family." The renowned Zheng Chenggong once visited Tianxin Cave to pray for dreams, and the renowned golden statue of Yang Xian Gong Taiyi Zhenren was also offered at Tianxin Cave, giving it a strong religious and cultural atmosphere.

Tianxin Cave Taoist Temple, which worships the Eight Immortals, is the only Taoist base in Nan'an that has preserved its appearance. It is adjacent to the famous Buddhist temple Tianxiang Zen Temple and is known as the family of immortals and Buddhas.

It is recommended to play for 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Tianxin Cave

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

Tianxin Cave is known for its ancient limestone formations and its historical significance as a Buddhist site. The cave has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries, with local legends and spiritual stories associated with the site.

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

Tianxin Cave is located in Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China. The most convenient way to reach the site is by taxi or private vehicle from the city center, or you can use local buses to get to the nearby bus station and walk the rest of the way.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Tianxin Cave is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the cave is less crowded.

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

The entrance fee to Tianxin Cave is around 50-80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Online ticket sales may also be available depending on the season.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, especially during the off-peak seasons. However, booking tickets a few days in advance is recommended during holidays or peak tourist seasons to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend around 2-3 hours exploring the cave and its surrounding areas, including the hike up to the cave entrance and the guided tour.

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

The main highlight of the cave is its impressive limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. Also, the spiritual relics and Buddha statues inside the cave are important attractions.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and in some cases, tours in English can be arranged with prior notice. Audio guides in various languages may also be available on-site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the cave entrance, the Buddha statues, and the surrounding forest views. The area near the entrance also provides a beautiful panoramic view of the landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route starts with a visit to the cave’s entrance, followed by a guided tour through the inner chambers to view the stalactites, stalagmites, and spiritual relics. Don’t forget to take time to appreciate the surrounding natural beauty along the trail.

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

Currently, night visits or light shows are not available. The best time to visit is during the day when you can enjoy the natural lighting and the scenic views around the cave.

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

The cave can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays during the early morning or late afternoon.

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

The site has basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are no large shops, but small souvenir stalls may be available near the entrance.

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

The cave's path may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to steep steps and uneven terrain. Children should be accompanied and supervised on the hike to the cave.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted on-site, and mobile payments via apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used at the entrance and for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside Tianxin Cave, but there are a few local eateries and restaurants in the surrounding area where visitors can enjoy traditional Chinese meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options may be available at local restaurants nearby. Halal food options may be limited, but some restaurants in the area may offer them upon request.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in the Quanzhou city center, which is a short drive away from the cave. Some nearby hotels include the Quanzhou Hotel and several budget options.

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

Nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple, Qingyuan Mountain, and the Museum of Quanzhou. These can easily be combined with a visit to Tianxin Cave for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir stalls near the entrance of the cave selling items such as postcards, traditional Chinese trinkets, and local handicrafts.

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

After visiting Tianxin Cave, visitors can use local taxis or buses to continue their journey. The Quanzhou city center is easily accessible, where visitors can catch trains or buses to other parts of the city.