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Yingyang Cave is a scenic spot on Mount Hua in Huayin, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province. Legend has it that the Three Holy Mothers were once suppressed here. The Three Holy Mothers (also known as the Three Holy Princesses, the Three Goddesses of Huayue, and the Holy Mother of Huayue) are fairies who appear in ancient Chinese mythology, including the "Lotus Lantern." In the TV series "Life Is Long and Hateful, Rivers Flow East," the Three Holy Mothers' real name is Yang Lian, and in the 2009 TV series "The Legend of the Lotus Lantern," she is called Yang Chan.
The Five Gods and the common people prayed for peace, prosperity, and good harvests. The Three Holy Mothers, a goddess who always answered their prayers, were highly respected by the Five Gods as the deity of Mount Hua. As a result, the common people dedicated her to the Three Holy Mothers Hall at the Xiyue Temple on Mount Hua, where the Three Holy Mothers, her son Chenxiang, and her maid Lingzhi are enshrined. The legend of the Three Holy Mothers, which continues to this day, tells the story of Chenxiang's mother in the Chinese folktale "The Lotus Lantern." She violated the laws of heaven by marrying a mortal and was subsequently suppressed beneath Mount Hua by the God Erlang.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate has four distinct seasons, abundant sunshine, and sunny, cold, and dry winters. Spring, summer, and autumn are suitable for travel.
It is recommended to play for about 10 minutes.
Included in the Huashan Scenic Area ticket (peak season: 160 yuan/person; off-season: 100 yuan/person)
Peak season 07:00-19:00
Off-season 09:00-17:00
Yingyang Cave is known for its unique geological formations, with remarkable stalactites and stalagmites. The cave has been a point of interest for both geologists and tourists due to its distinct rock structures and natural beauty. It is a significant natural wonder in the Huayin area, providing insights into the region's geological history.
Yingyang Cave is located in Huayin, Shaanxi. It is accessible by taxi from the Huayin city center, or you can take a local bus to the nearby station and then walk to the cave entrance. Public transportation options may be limited, so a taxi is the most convenient option.
The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild. It is also less crowded during weekdays, especially in the early morning hours.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the cave. It’s recommended to buy tickets in person, as online booking options are not always available.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for regular visits. However, during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it is advisable to book at least a few days in advance if possible.
Exploring the cave takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how thoroughly you explore the formations and take in the information provided by a guide.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, especially during the tourist season. Audio guides are not commonly offered.
Start at the entrance and follow the main trail leading to the core cavern where the Yingyang Rock formations are located. Continue through the cave to view the stalactites and stalagmites, and make sure to visit the underground river before exiting. If available, follow the guide’s advice for the best path to explore.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Yingyang Cave. The cave is best explored during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural formations.
Yingyang Cave can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the summer. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available near the entrance. There are no large restaurants or cafes within the cave area, but small local shops sell bottled water and snacks. Rest areas are limited to the entrance and nearby areas.
The cave has uneven terrain, and some parts may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children may enjoy exploring the cave, but supervision is recommended due to the slippery surfaces inside.
Cash is commonly used at the site, though some vendors may accept mobile payment options like Alipay or WeChat Pay. It's best to carry cash for smaller purchases.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants in Huayin, especially in larger eateries. Halal food can be found in Muslim-friendly restaurants in the area.
There are small souvenir shops near the cave entrance selling local crafts, such as rock formations, traditional clothing, and religious items. Handcrafted jewelry and artwork are also common souvenirs.
