Live Your Best Lives
Zhangliang Cave is where Zhang Liang, the Marquis of Liu during the Han Dynasty, studied and sought enlightenment in his early years. It is located on the banks of the Ying River in Yingbei District, Yuzhou City, Henan Province. There are two theories about the cave's creation: one claims that in 1227, during the fourth year of the Zhengda reign of Emperor Aizong of the Jin Dynasty, the people of Yuzhou carved a new cave in the wall of the original cave to commemorate Zhang Liang; the other claims that Xu Mingshan, the prefect of Yuzhou during the Ming Dynasty, rebuilt the Laozi Temple in the southwest of the prefecture on the banks of the Ying River, carving a cave into the bank and naming it "Zhangliang Cave."
Zhangliang Cave offers a tranquil and elegant retreat, overlooking the gurgling Ying River and framing the Three Peaks in the distance at dawn. During the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, Liu Guoru, the prefect of Yuzhou, expanded the Huangshigong Cave and Zixian Cave, both of which were dedicated to Zhang Liang's mentor. These three caves were carved side by side into the rock face facing the Ying River, with a 2.5-meter-wide worship passageway in front and a protective wall built facing the Ying River. Zhangliang Cave is 6 meters deep, 3 meters wide, and 3 meters high. Its entrance is built with blue bricks, and the characters "Zhangliang Cave" are inscribed on the door lintel. Inside, an altar and statues of deities are located. Because Zhangliang Cave was once a site for Shen Quan, a military commander in the early Qing Dynasty, to perform purification rituals, later prefects gradually developed it into a three-bay Dacheng Hall, surrounded by residences, pavilions, halls, pavilions, and gardens, interspersed with flowers and trees, making it a popular destination for worship and sightseeing.
Warm temperate continental monsoon climate; Zhangliang Cave, as a historical and cultural landscape in Cai Lun Bamboo Sea, attracts tourists with its strangeness, seclusion, darkness, depth, danger and uniqueness. The cave is warm in winter and cool in summer, and Buddhism is prosperous. It is a must-see attraction for people to pay homage and tour, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Zixian Cave;
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
Free and open
8:00-20:00
Zhangliang Cave is a notable geological attraction in Xuchang, Henan, known for its natural limestone formations and underground landscapes. It holds local cultural significance due to folklore and its natural heritage.
The cave is located near Xuchang city in Henan Province. Visitors can reach it via taxi, private car, or local bus services. Walking is possible from nearby accommodations or parking areas.
Typical opening hours are from morning to late afternoon. Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable climate. Early weekdays are recommended to avoid crowds.
Entrance fees vary seasonally and can be purchased at the entrance or through official online platforms.
Booking in advance is recommended during holidays and peak seasons, usually a few days before the visit.
2–4 hours is typically sufficient to explore the main cave areas and nearby trails.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese; audio guides in other languages are limited or not widely offered.
Photography is ideal inside large cave chambers, near water features, and along exterior scenic trails with panoramic views.
Start from the main entrance, follow marked paths through the primary cave chambers, explore connecting trails, then return via the secondary exit path if available.
Night visits are generally not available. Seasonal or cultural events may occasionally take place; check local schedules.
Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Holidays and weekends attract more visitors.
Basic facilities include restrooms, rest areas, small food stalls, and souvenir shops near the entrance.
Some cave areas and trails may be steep or uneven; elderly and disabled visitors should use caution. Children are welcome under supervision.
Both cash and mobile payments are usually accepted at ticket counters and onsite facilities.
Local eateries and small cafes are available near the entrance or in nearby Xuchang city.
Vegetarian options may be available; halal options should be confirmed locally.
Hotels and guesthouses in Xuchang city are a convenient option for overnight stays.
Souvenir shops near the cave sell postcards, small crafts, and geological souvenirs.
Taxis, ride-hailing services, or private cars are convenient for traveling to nearby attractions or returning to the city.
