Yuxu Cave

Introducing Yuxu Cave

The scenic tourist area includes the Yuxu Cave, a karst cave located 2.5 kilometers away from the county seat of Mingmingxi County, Sanming City, Fujian Province, and the Yuxu Cave in Luojiagou, Shimen Town, 27.5 kilometers north of Luonan County, Shaanxi Province. It is a Haast cave formed by the Qinling Mountains winding southeast.

Yuxu Cave, located 2.5 kilometers from the county seat, is a karst landform. Development began in the second year of the Kaibao reign of the Song Dynasty, making it over 1,200 years old. Located at the foot of Huangpo Mountain, two kilometers north of Mingxi County, it is said that in ancient times, dragons and snakes were haunting the area, and they were subdued by the immortal Yuxu, hence the name. Yuxu Cave is divided into three tourist areas: the open cave, the hidden cave, and the outdoor area. In front of the open cave stands the "Guanyin Hall," approximately 150 square meters, supported by three natural stone pillars. Engraved on the cave entrance from the Ming Dynasty are large characters such as "Yuxu Dongtian," "Yuxu Xiandong," and "Yuyu Tianjiang." Below the cave entrance, a new Tianzhu Pavilion with hipped roofs has been built.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Inside the cave, there are over a dozen scenic spots, including the Heavenly Spring, the Fighting Lions, the Turtle Rock, and the Budan Terrace. Behind it is the "Taohua Cave," which can accommodate a thousand people. Its crystal-clear and colorful rocks include Buddha Head Rock, Auspicious Cloud Rock, Hidden Magpie Rock, and Leaping Fish Rock. The most remarkable of these is the Xuming Knob, where a gentle tap with a reed whisk produces a loud sound. Nearly a hundred cliff carvings, inscribed by literati and poets throughout the ages, surround the cave walls. The dark cave is illuminated by electric lights, and inside, stalactites hang upside down, with scenes such as turtles and snakes entering the cave and eagles guarding the cave. The exterior features bizarre rock formations, with winding stone paths leading directly to the summit. Pavilions are located halfway up the mountain and at the summit for visitors to rest.

It is recommended to play for 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yuxu Cave

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

Yuxu Cave is a historical and cultural site known for its significance in Taoist practices. It is believed to have been a meditation spot for Taoist monks and has been a place of worship for centuries. The cave is also a natural wonder, showcasing stunning rock formations and underground landscapes.

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

Yuxu Cave is located in the Sanming area of Fujian Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Sanming city. There are no direct metro lines, but local buses are available for reaching the park’s entrance, followed by a short walk to the cave.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it’s recommended to check online platforms for possible discounts or ticket bundles during peak seasons.

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

Advance booking is not required, but it is recommended during busy seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice to secure tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow around 2-3 hours to fully explore the cave and the surrounding park, including hiking and photography.

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

The must-see highlights include the unique rock formations inside the cave, the tranquil atmosphere, and the view from the surrounding high points. The path leading to the cave also offers scenic views of the valley and forest.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are also available at the entrance in both Chinese and English to provide more insight into the cave’s history and geological significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the cave entrance, where you can capture both the unique rock formations and the lush surroundings. The top of the hill offers a panoramic view of the valley and is perfect for scenic shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking to the cave entrance, explore the interior rock formations, and then head to the top for a panoramic view of the surroundings. Follow the marked trails for a circular route back to the entrance.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at Yuxu Cave. However, special cultural or seasonal tours may be organized during holidays, so it’s worth checking the schedule ahead of time.

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

It can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the morning when the cave opens.

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

Basic facilities like toilets, water refill stations, and rest areas are available near the entrance. There are no major food outlets inside the park, but you’ll find small snack shops around the entrance area.

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

The cave features uneven terrain and stairs, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children will enjoy the short hikes and exploration of the natural cave environment, though adult supervision is recommended in the rocky areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. Credit cards are rarely accepted at the park’s smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants directly inside the cave area, but several local restaurants serving traditional Fujian cuisine can be found in the nearby Sanming city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants in the area, but vegan and halal food options may be limited. It’s recommended to check the menu beforehand or ask the staff for specific requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels around the city center of Sanming. For a more comfortable stay, you can opt for mid-range hotels located in the city.

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

Nearby attractions include the Sanming Cultural Park and the historical Wuyi Mountain, which is famous for its natural beauty and tea culture. Both can be explored in a day trip from Yuxu Cave.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the park entrance, offering local handicrafts, tea sets, and cultural items related to Fujian’s rich heritage.

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

After visiting Yuxu Cave, you can take a taxi back to Sanming city or continue by local buses. For further exploration, private transport or taxis are the most convenient way to visit nearby attractions.