Introducing Dragon Palace
Dragon Palace is a scenic area dominated by karst caves, caves, and waterfalls, integrating diverse karst geological landscapes such as canyons, peaks, cliffs, streams, and stone forests. It is the most comprehensive and concentrated display of karst landforms in the scenic area and is known as "The world's karst is all in Dragon Palace."
The Longgong Scenic Area includes four major areas: Longgong, Youcai Lake, Xuantang, and Leech. It has won two world records for "the largest number of water- and land-based caves, the most concentrated number, and the lowest natural radiation dose rate". It also has many magical and beautiful karst landscapes. The first is the underground river cave praised by tourists as "China's No. 1 Water Cave"; the second is the largest cave temple in the country - Longgong Guanyin Cave; the third is the largest cave waterfall in the country - Longgong Longmen Waterfall; and the fourth is "the swirling water wonder where the mountain does not move - Longgong Xuantang".
Climate and best time to travel
The subtropical monsoon humid climate is mild, with no scorching heat in summer and no severe cold in winter. The rape flowers in spring every year are especially worth seeing, and in summer it is a tourist destination for summer vacation and leisure. In winter, there is a unique feeling of being cold outside the cave and warm inside.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Longmen Waterfall, China's largest karst cave waterfall;
The longest and most beautiful karst cave in China - the first and second entrances of Dragon Palace;
The world's lowest natural radiation dose rate - Longgong Tianchi;
Guanyin Cave, the largest Buddhist temple in a cave in China;
The three unique features of Dragon Palace are: the swirling water (Xuantang), the numerous short rivers (short rivers, regional karst landforms), and the gigantic size of a single Chinese character (Dragon Field).
Tickets
130 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
8:30-17:30
Most Popular FAQs for Dragon Palace
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Dragon Palace, located in Anshun, Guizhou, is a spectacular karst cave system famous for its unique limestone formations and an underground river. It is one of the largest and most famous caves in China, known for its striking beauty and natural wonders. It also holds cultural significance for the local ethnic groups that have lived in the region for centuries.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Dragon Palace is located in Anshun, Guizhou Province, southwestern China.
- To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Anshun City (approximately 30 km away). Alternatively, local tours may offer transportation to the site.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- The Dragon Palace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are most vibrant.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The entrance fee for the Dragon Palace is approximately 80-120 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through local tourism platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, although purchasing online can help avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
You will need around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Dragon Palace, including the boat ride and cave exploration.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The underground river and boat ride through the cave system.
- The stunning stalactites and stalagmites inside the main cave chamber.
- The picturesque waterfall and surrounding lush landscapes near the cave entrance.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it’s advisable to arrange for a guide in advance if needed.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The boat ride offers beautiful photographic opportunities of the caves and underground river.
- The waterfall area provides a stunning backdrop for photos with the green landscapes and limestone formations.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start by taking the boat ride through the underground river to explore the cave system.
- After the boat ride, take a guided tour to view the stalactites, stalagmites, and other limestone formations.
- End your visit by exploring the surrounding natural beauty, including the waterfall and scenic areas outside the caves.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Dragon Palace. However, special tours may be available during festivals or high season. Check with local operators for such options.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- The Dragon Palace can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer and fall. The least crowded times are on weekdays or during off-peak seasons such as winter and early spring.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available near the entrance of the Dragon Palace.
- There are also small souvenir shops selling local crafts and snacks.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
There are some uneven terrains and stairs around the Dragon Palace, which may make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the cave and boat ride, but supervision is recommended due to the cave’s rocky pathways.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the Dragon Palace. Cash is still accepted but may not be the primary payment method.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local eateries near the Dragon Palace offer Guizhou cuisine, including rice dishes, noodles, and local specialties.
- For a wider range of dining options, you can head to Anshun City, where you will find both local and international restaurants.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available in local eateries. Halal food options are limited but can be found in larger cities like Anshun.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- There are several budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses near the Dragon Palace.
- For more luxurious accommodations, you can find high-end hotels in Anshun City, located about 30 km away from the site.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Visit the Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in China, located just a short drive from the Dragon Palace.
- Explore the Tunxi Old Street for a cultural experience in Anshun City.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops near the Dragon Palace sell local handicrafts, ethnic clothing, and items related to the natural beauty of the area.
- Common souvenirs include pottery, ethnic jewelry, and traditional snacks.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or local buses can take you to nearby attractions like the Huangguoshu Waterfall and Anshun City for further exploration.
- If you’re traveling longer distances, you can take buses or trains from Anshun’s transportation hubs.
