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Located in Hanbin District, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province, the Xiangxidong Scenic Area boasts a 90% forest coverage rate and a humid climate, resulting in an exceptionally rich vegetation landscape, earning it the reputation of a "Forest Park." The area boasts 198 species of trees and shrubs from 67 families, including 12 nationally designated rare and precious trees. A variety of highly ornamental trees, such as willows over 300 years old, sandalwood trees over 400 years old, and toon trees as tall as 25 meters, flourish here, creating a unique and captivating natural landscape.
The "Xiangxi" in Xiangxi Cave is named after the plant called "Xiangtuanci" (fragrant thorn), known locally as "Qilixiang" (seven-mile incense). Its leaves are bowl-shaped, its stamens are yellow, and its petals are pink. Every year in March and April, clusters of flowers bloom in full bloom, their fragrance spreading far and wide, filling the entire valley with the intoxicating aroma of "seven-mile incense." The "dong" refers to the eight caves carved into the cliffs on both sides of Xiangxi Creek, known as the abodes of immortals. Legends abound of Lü Dongbin helping people to become immortals and cultivating elixirs here, and Zhang Sanfeng's secluded life, concealing his true identity. Hence the name "Xiangxi Cave."
The subtropical continental monsoon climate is characterized by a humid and mild climate with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall, and a long frost-free period. Its characteristics are cold and dry winters, rainy summers with frequent summer droughts, warm and dry springs, and cool and humid autumns with frequent periods of rain. Spring, summer, and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
The Xiangxi Cave Scenic Area boasts over 50 scenic spots and cultural relics, including the Eight Caves of Xiangxi, Chunyang Tower, Jade Emperor Pavilion, Ladder to Heaven, Jiayun Bridge, Jing'er Lake, Lingxiao Pavilion, Ancient Bell Pavilion, Wangjiang Tower, Xingxian Pagoda, Ancient Battlefield, and Sanqing Hall. Known as the "Ancient Caves of Fairyland," Xiangxi Cave, Yaowang Cave, Sanmao Cave, Dragon King Cave, Wenchang Cave, Eight Immortals Cave, Cihang Cave, and Zushi Cave are collectively known as the "Eight Caves of Xiangxi." The caves feature numerous lifelike stone and clay sculptures of Taoist deities. Since the Ming Dynasty, Xiangxi Cave has been a major center for Taoist activities in southern Shaanxi.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
40 yuan/person
08:00-17:00
Ankang Xiangxi Cave is a famous limestone cave located in Ankang, Shaanxi. The cave is notable for its unique karst formations and is an important geological site. It has been a natural tourist attraction for its beauty and significance in the region’s natural heritage.
The cave is located in Ankang, Shaanxi, China. The best way to get there is by taxi or local bus from Ankang city center. It is not easily accessible by metro, as it is situated in a more remote area.
The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the cave is less crowded.
The entrance fee for Ankang Xiangxi Cave is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance or through local ticket agents.
Booking in advance is not necessary, though it is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit.
A visit to the cave generally takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on whether you join a guided tour and how thoroughly you explore the surrounding natural areas.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they are highly recommended to fully appreciate the geological significance of the cave. Audio guides are not available at this time.
The recommended route starts at the main entrance and takes you through the largest chambers, followed by a visit to the underground lake. You will end with a brief walk through smaller, less explored sections of the cave.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available. The cave is best explored during daylight hours.
The cave can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the summer. The best times to visit for a less crowded experience are on weekdays or during off-peak seasons such as winter or early spring.
There are basic facilities available at the cave, including public restrooms and water stations. However, there are no major restaurants or shops within the cave area, so it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks.
The cave has some accessibility issues due to the uneven terrain and stairs. It may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility impairments. Children should be supervised while exploring the cave.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used in the area.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the cave, but there are several options in the nearby town of Ankang where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in Ankang town, but there are limited options directly around the cave area.
There are a few hotels in Ankang city, ranging from budget to mid-range, where visitors can stay. The nearest hotels to the cave are about 30 minutes by taxi from the site.
There are no souvenir shops inside the cave, but you can find traditional crafts, local teas, and snacks in Ankang city.
The best way to continue your trip is to take a taxi or local bus back to Ankang city center, where you can access public transport or arrange for further travel to other destinations in Shaanxi.
