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Laojun Cave, located in Erlangping Township, Xixia, Funiu Mountain, Henan Province , is the core area of Funiu Mountain World Geopark. Nestled against Laojie Ridge in the north and connected to Longtan Valley in the south, it is a comprehensive scenic spot integrating Taoist culture, karst caves, and wild forest exploration. The area boasts 14 peaks over 1,000 meters, five rivers, 13 springs, and a 98% forest coverage rate . It is home to over 2,200 plant species and over 300 wild animals. It is known as the " Lungs of Funiu Mountain " and an " Ecological Gene Bank . "
This is the cultural sanctuary where the world-renowned Laozi lived in seclusion, cultivated his health, and preached for 120 years. It is also a hub for the frequent activities of wildlings from the Central Plains. Its seven pristine ecological resources—mountains, water, forests, caves, dragons, qi, and people—are known as the " Seven Wonders of Quanzhen " and are known as the " Fourth Cave Heaven in the World . "
Hundreds of millions of years ago, the movement of the earth's crust led to the formation of numerous natural rock caves here. These caves are distributed among the towering mountains. The caves are crisscrossed, deep and remote, with underground rivers flowing; outside the caves, there are mountain streams, lush forests and bamboos, and clouds and mist.
There are more than 20 waterfalls of various sizes in the valley , with pools and waterfalls connected to each other and overlapping each other. The highest drop is more than 120 meters. The waterfalls cascade down like water and roar, which is majestic. There is also a more than 1,600 -meter-long Xuantian plank road winding on the cliffs, which is known as the " No. 1 plank road in Central Plains " .
The Redbud Festival is held a week after Qingming Festival every year. 180,000 mu of wild redbuds cover the mountains and fields. The redbuds bloom for a month.
The scenic area has more than 30 attractions, including Laojun Cave, where Laozi lived in seclusion, Lotus Cave, Savage Valley, Jingtian Forest, Yijianchuanshui Pond, Maoteng Cliff, Xuantian Plank Road, Wild Rhododendron Garden, etc. In addition, Shanshui Square and the statue of Laozi riding a cow have also been built.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
65 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
Xixia Laojun Cave is a Taoist site dedicated to Laozi (Laojun), the founder of Taoism. It has been a spiritual and pilgrimage site for centuries, reflecting traditional Taoist architecture, culture, and inscriptions within a natural cave setting.
The entrance fee is generally around 40–60 CNY per person and can be purchased at the ticket office. Online booking options may be available on local tourism websites.
Booking is not required on normal days, but advance booking is recommended during holidays and weekends to avoid long queues.
2–3 hours are typically enough to explore the main caves, temples, and walking trails.
Guided tours are usually available in Chinese. Limited English tours or guides may be arranged with advance notice.
Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours may be arranged during festivals or Taoist ceremonies.
Weekdays are less crowded. Weekends and public holidays can be busy, especially during spring and autumn.
Main paths are suitable for elderly and children, but steep or narrow trails may be challenging for disabled visitors.
Cash, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted for tickets and onsite purchases.
Local eateries near the entrance offer Henan cuisine and light snacks. Few small cafes are available for tea or drinks.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries; vegan and halal options are limited and may require inquiry.
Several hotels and guesthouses are available in Xixia County or nearby Nanyang city for convenient access.
Souvenir shops sell Taoist-themed items, local handicrafts, and small mementos.
