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Explore the stunning cave formations, take a guided tour to learn about the geology and history, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere inside the cave. Photography is highly recommended for the fascinating stalactites and stalagmites.
Swan Caves: A scenic spot in Fujian Province. The Swan Caves are renowned for their karst landscapes and include six distinct caves: Swan Cave, Kamikaze Cave, Shiping Cave, Crystal Cave, and Shanjian Yitiantian. This is the largest, most numerous, and most densely distributed group of caves in Fujian Province, designated a National Geopark and a provincial key scenic spot. The area is named for its swan-like shape and the white stalactites within the caves.
According to geologists, approximately 300 million years ago, this area was a vast ocean. Over 50 million years of crustal movement, this area gradually rose from ocean to land. During this rise, numerous gaps formed in the limestone strata. Over millions of years, surface water, carrying carbon dioxide and plant acids, seeped into these gaps, continuously eroding and dissolving them, causing the gaps to widen and deform, thus forming numerous caves. Furthermore, due to the dense forests and abundant water reserves in the area, the plant acid-laden water droplets continuously dissolved the limestone within the caves. As a result, the stalactites in this cave complex are exceptionally abundant and densely distributed. Therefore, experts and scholars call this area "a typical karst landform area in China's coastal provinces."
The Swan Caves Scenic Area was designated as a second-batch provincial-level scenic spot by the Fujian Provincial People's Government in 1991 and was designated a major section of the National Geopark by the Ministry of Land and Resources in January 2004. From 1991 to 2004, the area welcomed 560,000 domestic and international visitors, generating 13.44 million yuan in ticket revenue. Since 1995, visitor numbers and ticket revenue have increased annually by 20% and 22%, respectively. The inaugural Shibi Hakka Ancestral Land Ceremony has seen a surge in domestic and international visitors, making it a highly attractive destination.
The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.
Swan Cave, Shenfeng Dragon Palace, Daci Rock, Shiping Cave, Crystal Cave, and the Sky-high Mountain Stream.
It is recommended to play for about 5 hours.
65 yuan/person
April 1st - October 31st 08:00-17:00;
November 1st to March 31st, 08:30-16:30.
The Swan Caves are renowned for their unique geological features, including large stalactites and stalagmites. They are significant for their natural beauty and their role in showcasing the wonders of karst landscapes in Fujian Province.
The Swan Caves are located in Sanming, Fujian Province. You can reach them by taxi or bus from the city center. There is no direct metro access, so a taxi is the most convenient option.
The caves are open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the cave interiors are at their most beautiful with natural light filtering in.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some online platforms may also offer ticket sales for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking a few days in advance can help secure your spot.
A typical visit takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the caves. This includes time for the guided tour, which explains the history and geology of the site.
The main highlights include the large stalactites and stalagmites formations, the intricate cave walls, and the underground rivers. These features make the cave a natural wonder.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and you can also hire private guides for a more personalized experience. Audio guides are available in Mandarin, and there may be some limited English options for foreign tourists.
The best photography spots include areas where the stalactites and stalagmites form intricate patterns, especially near the cave's central chamber where natural light can enhance the view.
Start with the main entrance, follow the guided path through the cave, and make sure to stop at key points to admire the formations. The tour usually covers the most visually stunning areas.
There are no night visits or light shows at the Swan Caves. The best experience is during daylight hours when you can appreciate the natural lighting within the cave.
The caves can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the morning hours.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling water and snacks are available near the entrance. There are no large restaurants or cafes within the cave area.
The caves are relatively accessible, though some areas may involve walking on uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check with the staff about accessibility options for elderly or disabled visitors.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or food stalls that may not support mobile payments.
There are no major restaurants within the cave site, but several local restaurants serving Fujianese cuisine are located nearby in Sanming city.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants in Sanming. Halal food options may be harder to find, so it's best to inquire at specific restaurants in advance.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Sanming, which is about a 30-minute drive from the Swan Caves. For more upscale options, accommodations are available in the city center.
Nearby attractions include Taining World Geopark and the Fujian Tulou, both of which are natural or historical sites that can be combined into a day trip.
Souvenir shops near the Swan Caves sell local handicrafts, tea, and small trinkets. You can also find souvenirs related to the cave, such as geological replicas.
Taxi or local buses are the most convenient options for continuing your journey after visiting the Swan Caves. Renting a car is also a good option if you're planning to visit multiple attractions in the area.
