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Dikengyuan, also known as skylight courtyards, are locally called "underground pits" or "underground caves." They are a relic of ancient cave dwellings and are known as the "underground courtyards" of northern China. They are said to have a history of approximately 4,000 years. Dikengyuans can be found in Shan County, Sanmenxia, Henan Province; Yuncheng, Shanxi Province; Qingyang, Gansu Province; and parts of Shaanxi Province.
Located on the edge of the Loess Plateau, where the soil is thick and hard, troglodyte courtyards serve as natural temperature regulators, keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. Their simplicity and affordability made them ideal for the impoverished mountain dwellers of the past. For centuries, troglodyte courtyards have been beloved by the people of western Henan, along the banks of the Yellow River. This reflects the deep attachment between those who grew up on the Loess Plateau and the loess, a bond that has flowed through the blood of generations of Loess people.
Temperate continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
07:00-20:00
Yuzhou Dikengyuan is renowned for its karst terrain and geological significance, showcasing rare sinkholes and natural limestone formations. It is an important site for environmental studies and ecotourism in Sanmenxia.
The park is located in Yuzhou, Sanmenxia, Henan Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Sanmenxia city center. Local buses may connect nearby towns, and walking is suitable within the park itself.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting due to mild temperatures and clear weather.
Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance. Prices are moderate, and online booking may be available through local tourism platforms.
Booking in advance is recommended for weekends and holidays, usually 1–3 days prior for group visits.
2–4 hours are recommended to explore the main trails, observation points, and geological formations.
Guided tours are primarily in Chinese; special arrangements for English-speaking groups may be possible on request.
Begin at the visitor center, follow the main trails to the central sinkholes, visit observation platforms, then continue along scenic paths and return via riverside or forested routes.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered due to safety concerns. Special educational or geological tours may be arranged by appointment.
Weekdays and non-holiday periods are least crowded. Weekends and public holidays see the most visitors.
Facilities include public toilets, basic rest areas, small snack stalls, and a visitor center.
Some trails may be steep or uneven. Elderly and disabled visitors may require assistance. Children should be supervised near cliffs and sinkholes.
Cash is accepted for tickets and small purchases. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may be available at the entrance.
Vegetarian options are generally available; halal options are limited and should be confirmed in advance.
Accommodations are available in Yuzhou city and surrounding areas, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
Limited souvenir shops are available; typical items include local handicrafts, postcards, and small geological or nature-themed items.
Taxis, ride-hailing services, or local buses can be used to reach Yuzhou city or other nearby attractions for onward travel.
