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Visitors to Qingyuan Cave can explore the stunning limestone formations, experience the serenity of the natural cave environment, and enjoy the surrounding hiking trails. Photography enthusiasts will also appreciate the unique lighting and rock formations inside the cave.
Qingyuan Cave, also known as Chunyang Cave, is one of the main attractions within the "Grand View of Mountains and Seas" artistic conception zone of the Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area. Located at the summit of Qingyuan Mountain, Qingyuan Cave is the most prominent of the mountain's 36 caves, and is known as the "First Cave Heaven." Upon entering the mountain gate and ascending the stone steps, a monument dedicated to the virtues of the Ming Dynasty (1068 AD) stands on the left. The inscription reads: "The phrase 'Quanshan' is recorded in the Book of Han, hence the name Qingyuan." Guests from all over the world, as well as local officials and commoners, flocked to visit this scenic spot...
Qingyuan Cave was first constructed during the Shaoxing period of the Southern Song Dynasty. It features the Guankong Tower, the Buddha Hall, and the Peixian Shrine. Legend has it that during this period, a Taoist monk named Pei, chasing a dangerous python, arrived here. Seeing the python retreat into the cave, he covered it with rocks and passed away at the entrance, preventing it from re-emerging and causing further harm. Hence, the cave is also known as "Peixian Cave." The cave's rocky ceiling, adorned with vines, exudes an ancient charm. Originally, the "Qianfeng Zicui Pavilion" stood atop the cave, but only a few stone carvings remain, including "Shedding Rock," "Immortality," and "Named After Immortality." The Peixian Shrine, Guanyin Hall, and Wenchang Pavilion were rebuilt in 1998 on the original rectangular terrace of Qingyuan Cave.
The subtropical monsoon climate is characterized by the left peak of Qingyuan Cave, also known as Dongyan. Next to it is Zunyan, named after the Tang Dynasty monk Kezun, who resided there. Kezun built three pagodas, the remains of which still exist, making it a pleasant place to visit in all seasons.
Qingyuan Cave is located in Fengyu Township, Eryuan County, Dali Prefecture, at the southern tip of Fengyu Tianma Mountain, 23 kilometers from the county seat. A car can reach the cave, about 500 meters outside. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, it is a karst cave formed by the release of ancient Fengyu Lake. According to Volume 3 of the "Revised Dengchuan Prefecture Chronicle," "Qingyuan Cave is located at the eastern foot of Fengyu Lake. Its water flows upstream into Lang, crossing Deng and entering Erhai. The cave's stone gates, stone pillars, stone tables, and stone Buddhas are all magnificent and varied."
Outside Qingyuan Cave, a crystal-clear stream flows endlessly, its waters sweet and clear. This is the source of the Fengyu River, irrigating a vast expanse of fertile farmland in Fengyuba, directly benefiting the locals. Surrounding the cave are lush trees, gurgling mountain streams, and a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, filled with birdsong and fragrant flowers year-round. In recent years, local residents have even raised funds to build a Dragon King Temple nestled in the water's edge.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours.
50 yuan/person (included in the Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area ticket)
7:00-18:00
Qingyuan Cave is renowned for its natural beauty and geological significance. It has long been a site of cultural importance, with local legends surrounding its formation and the cave's association with local folklore and religious practices.
Qingyuan Cave is located in Quanzhou, Fujian Province. It is accessible by taxi or local buses from the city center. Visitors may also choose to walk, but the cave is situated in a more remote area, so a vehicle is recommended for convenience.
The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for hiking and exploration.
The entrance fee is approximately 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through local tourism websites, especially during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak tourist seasons. A few days prior to your visit should be sufficient to secure tickets.
It generally takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore Qingyuan Cave, including time for hiking, photography, and appreciating the natural surroundings.
The must-see highlights include the intricate limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites within the cave, as well as the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the cave entrance.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be offered in different languages, including English, depending on availability.
The best viewpoints are near the cave entrance and along the cave's interior where the rock formations are illuminated. Photographers should also focus on the unique textures and formations inside the cave.
Visitors should start by exploring the cave’s entrance, followed by venturing deeper into the cave to see the formations. Make sure to visit the higher viewpoints for scenic views before completing the loop and returning to the entrance.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Qingyuan Cave. The cave is best visited during daylight hours to fully enjoy its natural beauty.
The cave can be crowded on weekends and holidays, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is on weekdays, early in the morning or late afternoon when fewer visitors are around.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, drinking water, and rest areas. There are a few small shops near the entrance selling souvenirs and snacks.
The cave involves some walking and stairs, so it may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to fully explore. Children will enjoy the site, but should be supervised during the hike inside the cave.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Some larger areas may accept credit/debit cards as well.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the cave's entrance where visitors can try traditional Fujian dishes. For more options, head into the center of Quanzhou.
Vegetarian options are available at some nearby restaurants, but halal food options are limited. Quanzhou city has more diverse dining options, including halal food.
There are several hotels in Quanzhou city, including mid-range and budget options. A few guesthouses are also available near the cave for a more scenic stay.
Nearby attractions include the Qingyuan Temple, Kaiyuan Temple, and other historical sites in Quanzhou. These can easily be combined into a day trip with a visit to Qingyuan Cave.
Souvenir shops near the entrance offer items such as postcards, traditional Chinese arts and crafts, keychains, and local handicrafts.
After visiting Qingyuan Cave, taxis or local buses can be used to continue your trip to nearby attractions or return to the city center of Quanzhou. Car rentals are also an option for exploring more remote areas.
