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Explore the stunning Jiulian Cave, known for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Hike through the surrounding forest trails for scenic views of the landscape. Capture the natural beauty through photography and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the cave and its surroundings.
Jiulian Cave, located northeast of Shecun Town in Gongyi City, is home to nine interconnected caves. Stalactites surrounding the cave walls resemble blooming lotus flowers, hence the name " Jiulian Cave . " The scenic area boasts naturally beautiful caves and a crisscrossing network of mountains and rivers, preserving its pristine ecological landscape.
Jiulian Cave, formed approximately 70 million years ago and located in the Fuxi Mountain Range, boasts a long and well-known history. The cave can be divided into four sections: the main hall, the front cave, the second hall, and the back cave. The main hall, shaped like a kiln, stands over 20 meters tall and covers an area of 700,000 square meters. If you ascend from the front cave entrance, you'll find it spiraling upwards.
In the cave, there are thousands of snails standing upside down and tens of thousands of scepters hanging obliquely. The naturally formed stalagmites, stone pillars, stone waterfalls, stone curtains and stone lions are all of various shapes and lifelike. It is said that " a thousand rocks compete for beauty and fragrance, a hundred halls compete for splendor, one cave contains the universe, it is a work of nature for eternity, the cave scenery is picturesque and looks like a maze . "
Suitable for all seasons, best for escaping the summer heat
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
60 yuan/person
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Jiulian Cave is famous for its ancient rock formations, attracting nature lovers and cave explorers. The cave has cultural significance in Chinese folklore and serves as a symbol of natural beauty and geological evolution.
Jiulian Cave is located in Zhengzhou, Henan. It is accessible by taxi or private vehicle. Public transport options may be limited, so it’s best to arrange a taxi or car rental for convenience.
Jiulian Cave is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, as the weather is pleasant and the cave’s formations are best viewed without the summer heat or winter chill.
The entrance fee is typically around 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online, especially during the busy tourist season.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn). A few days before your visit should be sufficient to ensure availability.
Plan to spend about 2-3 hours exploring Jiulian Cave and its surroundings. This will give you ample time to enjoy the cave formations, take photographs, and hike the trails around the area.
The key highlights include the main cavern with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, the unique cave formations that appear as natural sculptures, and the tranquil surroundings that add to the cave's mystical atmosphere.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available, but it’s best to confirm in advance. Audio guides can be rented for a more personalized experience.
The cave itself offers excellent photography opportunities, particularly near the stalactites and stalagmites. The surrounding forest trails also provide beautiful views of the natural landscape, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Start by visiting the main cavern, then follow the designated walking paths to explore the surrounding smaller caves and scenic viewpoints. Take time to enjoy the cave formations before heading out to the forest trails for a panoramic view of the area.
Currently, Jiulian Cave does not offer night visits or light shows. However, the cave is equally enchanting during the day with natural lighting highlighting the formations.
The cave can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, especially during the off-peak tourist season (winter and early spring).
The attraction has basic facilities such as toilets, a small rest area, and shops near the entrance selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. It’s a good idea to bring your own water for the hike inside the cave.
The cave is accessible for most visitors, but some areas may involve stairs or uneven terrain. It may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, so it’s advisable to check with the site in advance for any special accommodations.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted. It’s a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases, as not all shops or vendors may accept cards.
There are local restaurants and small eateries near the entrance of Jiulian Cave, offering traditional Chinese cuisine. For more dining options, you can head to Zhengzhou city, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Vegetarian food options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food may be more limited, so it’s recommended to check ahead if you need specific dietary options.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses near Jiulian Cave. For more luxurious options, you can find accommodations in Zhengzhou city center, about 30 minutes away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Zhengzhou Museum, the Yellow River Scenic Area, and the Erqi Memorial Tower. These sites can be easily included in a day trip from Jiulian Cave.
Souvenir shops near the cave sell local crafts, jade items, and other traditional Chinese products. Popular souvenirs include miniature sculptures and cave-themed souvenirs.
After visiting Jiulian Cave, taxis or buses can take you back to Zhengzhou. The city’s metro system and train station are also easily accessible for further travel around Henan province.
