Yanxia Three Caves

Introducing Yanxia Three Caves

The Three Yanxia Caves, located on Yanxia Ridge at the foot of Nangao Peak, include Shiwu Cave, Shuile Cave and Yanxia Cave. They are famous scenic spots in Hangzhou.

Stone House Cave is named for its high and spacious caverns, with a roof resembling a house. The cave walls originally featured stone carvings of five hundred arhats, now destroyed. Adjacent to the main cave is another cave called " Bieshiyuan . " This cave, wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, resembles a floating conch, earning it the name " Cang Hai Fu Luo . " Stone House Cave has been renovated and planted with flowers and trees, making it a great place for sightseeing and relaxation.

Outside Shuile Cave, there are osmanthus trees along the roadside. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the golden osmanthus fragrance fills the air, and visitors can enjoy tea and sit beside the osmanthus trees, which is very pleasant. On the inner wall of Yanxia Cave, there are stone statues from the Five Dynasties period.

Yanxia Cave is a limestone cave formed by natural dissolution. It is 20 meters deep . The top of the cave wall is covered with various stalactites of various sizes. When the sunlight shines in, it flashes in various colors, just like smoke and haze, hence the name.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yanxia Three Caves

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yanxia Three Caves are famous for their stunning natural formations and cultural significance. These caves have been a site of local legends and spiritual importance for centuries, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical context for visitors.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yanxia Three Caves is located in the outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses also connect the area, and some walking paths lead up to the entrance from nearby bus stops.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The attraction is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and it is advisable to bring cash. Some online platforms may offer ticket purchases in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is optional, but it can help during peak seasons. It is generally safe to purchase tickets at the entrance, but booking a day or two in advance is recommended for convenience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to explore the caves and their surroundings, including the hike and stops for photos. If you plan to relax and enjoy the scenery, you may want to allocate more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the three caves themselves, each with unique geological formations. The surrounding landscape offers peaceful views, ideal for photography, and there are several paths for nature walks.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer basic explanations in English. Audio guides are available in Mandarin, and it is advisable to inquire at the entrance for any available multilingual services.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the caves' entrances, where you can capture the unique formations and the surrounding natural beauty. There are also excellent viewpoints along the hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the valley and nearby hills.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the first cave, followed by the second and third caves. Explore the trails in between to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The hiking paths are clearly marked and provide scenic stops along the way.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows at Yanxia Three Caves. The attraction is best explored during the day to appreciate its natural beauty and the caves' geological features.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls. There are no large shops, so it’s recommended to bring snacks and water with you. There are also a few benches along the walking trails for rest stops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The trails to the caves can be steep in parts, so elderly or disabled visitors may find them challenging. However, children and families can enjoy the area with appropriate preparation, as there are easier paths to follow as well.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. It's a good idea to bring some cash as a backup.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants inside the site, but several small food vendors are available around the entrance. For a more diverse selection, restaurants in Hangzhou city are a short drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in Hangzhou. Halal food can also be found in some areas of the city, especially near the Muslim district.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include several mid-range hotels in Hangzhou, such as the Hangzhou Xianghu Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou. Both are a short drive away from the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the Xixi Wetland. All of these can be easily combined for a full day of sightseeing in Hangzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the attraction, but in Hangzhou, visitors can find traditional souvenirs such as silk scarves, tea sets, and local handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Yanxia Three Caves, you can take a taxi, local bus, or private car to continue exploring other attractions in Hangzhou, such as West Lake or Lingyin Temple.