
Babao Yunguang Cave is located in the Chashan Mountains on the southern coast of Rongcheng, Shandong Province. The scenery here is very quiet, with a small stream to the west, jagged rocks and pines and cypresses to the north, a deep ravine to the east, and the vast ocean to the south. In spring and summer, looking from the southern foot of the mountain, you can see clouds rolling all over the mountain, like a raging wave.
Babao Yunguang Cave is located on a flat land in front of Longjing Peak. Several temples were once built on the site, including the Yanshou Palace, built during the Jin Dynasty. Facing a deep valley in front and Yunguang vortex in the back, the scenery is exceptionally beautiful. Ancient people described this place as "a bed overlooking low clouds and trees, and a window open to the stars." Being there, one feels like entering a paradise.
Yunguang Cave boasts eight treasures: a ginkgo tree, vines, a saltwater cave, a dragon spring well, an immortal bridge, a stone tomb, an itchy tree, and a bodhisattva temple. It's also known as the Eight Treasures Yunguang Cave. The cave is located south of Yuanshi Peak on Tiesha Mountain, with its entrance facing southwest. The interior slopes upwards parallel to the ground, extending over five zhang (16.5 m) in depth and then downwards to four or five zhang (16.5 m) in depth. It measures two zhang (16.5 m) to three or three or four zhang (16.5 m) in width, and rises to a staggering ten zhang (16.5 m) in height.
It has a temperate continental semi-humid monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, moderate cold and hot seasons, synchronized light and temperature, and simultaneous rain and heat. Spring is dry and windy, summer is hot and rainy, autumn is sunny and refreshing, and winter is cold and snowy.
It is recommended to play for one hour
30 yuan/person
All day
Yunguang Cave is a significant geological site known for its unique limestone formations. It has been a place of interest for geologists and tourists alike due to its age and the striking beauty of its cave features, offering insights into natural history and erosion processes.
Yunguang Cave is located in Weihai, Shandong Province. You can reach the site by taxi from the city center. Public buses are also available, and for those nearby, walking is possible, although it is recommended to use transportation for convenience.
The cave is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Weekdays are generally less crowded, especially in the morning, making it the best time to visit for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is typically around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and during peak seasons, it’s advisable to check online for availability in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, but during weekends or holidays, it’s recommended to book 1-2 days in advance to avoid long queues.
Most visitors spend about 1-1.5 hours exploring the cave, including time for photography and a guided tour. The visit is relatively short, but it provides a full experience of the cave’s natural wonders.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin and English are offered for visitors interested in learning more about the cave's history and geology.
The best photography spots are near the largest stalagmites and formations inside the main cavern. The cave's central area, illuminated by soft lighting, offers great shots of the underground landscape.
Start at the entrance and follow the marked path to the central cavern where the most prominent formations are located. Take your time to explore the smaller tunnels and features before exiting through the designated route.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Yunguang Cave. Special tours might be arranged for groups or during certain events, but they are not regular offerings.
Yunguang Cave tends to be less crowded on weekdays, especially in the mornings. Weekends and holidays are busier, so visiting early during the week is ideal for a quieter experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no food or water stations within the cave, but there are shops and small eateries nearby for refreshments.
The cave is accessible for elderly and children, though there are some uneven paths. Visitors with disabilities may find the cave's narrow and sometimes slippery surfaces challenging, so extra care is advised.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, though mobile payments are the preferred method at most locations.
There are a few local restaurants near the cave offering traditional Shandong cuisine, including seafood and dumplings. Cafes serving light snacks and drinks are also available.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants. Halal food options can also be found at eateries catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels in Weihai city center, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For convenience, consider staying in a hotel near the city's transportation hubs for easier access to the cave.
Nearby souvenir shops offer traditional Chinese crafts, including jade jewelry, pottery, and local artwork. Military-themed items are also popular, reflecting Weihai's historical significance.
After visiting the cave, taxis and buses are available for further travel. Public transportation and rental cars are also convenient options for exploring other nearby attractions.