Xuexi Cave is famous for its stunning natural beauty, with opportunities to explore the cave's unique formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can also enjoy hiking in the surrounding areas, experiencing the local culture, and visiting nearby temples and historical sites. Photography and spelunking are also popular activities for those interested in adventure and nature.

Xuexi Cave is located 3 kilometers east of Chaotian Town, nestled within the forests along the Qianxi River. It is named after Lu You's poem, "Snow Creek Comes from Bashan." The cave is decorated with a variety of scenic lights, creating a dazzling display of colors. Resembling a fairyland, it is known as the "Underground Fairy Palace."
Before the cave entrance lies a spacious hall, where neatly arranged stone tables and stone pillars create a tranquil and solemn atmosphere. A two-meter-tall stone statue of Lu You stands in the hall, bearing a solemn demeanor. Every stalactite and rock face in the cave is a magnificent natural sculpture, a creation of nature, a magical underground palace.
As soon as you enter the cave, you will see the "Xuexi Dragon Palace". Under the illumination of neon lights, thousands of stalactites hang down from the sky like blooming lotus flowers. Above the hanging lotus pond, the green lake is sparkling with golden waves, and the petals are crystal clear and bright, colorful and brilliant, better than the fairyland of Yaochi.
It is a natural holy place for summer vacation
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
50/person
8:30-18:00
Xuexi Cave, located in Guangyuan, Sichuan, is known for its geological formations and rich natural history. The cave is part of a larger network of karst caves in the region and is a key point for understanding the area's geological evolution. It is also important for local tourism, attracting visitors interested in exploring China's natural wonders.
Xuexi Cave is located in Guangyuan, Sichuan. To get there, visitors can fly to Chengdu and then take a bus or private car to Guangyuan. From there, taxis or local transportation options can be used to reach the cave site. Walking to the cave from the nearest bus stop is also possible, but it requires some effort due to the cave's location in a rural area.
The cave is open year-round, with the best time to visit being from April to October, when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. It's recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
The entrance fee to Xuexi Cave is typically around 30-50 CNY, depending on the season and any special events. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and in some cases, online bookings may be available through local tourism websites.
It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended to do so during peak seasons (April to October) to secure a spot and avoid long lines. A few days in advance should be sufficient.
Visitors typically need about 2-3 hours to explore the cave and surrounding areas. If you are interested in hiking or taking additional time to photograph the landscape, you might want to allocate an extra hour or two.
The main highlights of Xuexi Cave are the impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations, the underground rivers, and the scenic views from the cave entrance. Exploring the different chambers of the cave is a must-do for visitors.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. However, English-speaking guides may be limited, so it's recommended to book in advance if you require an English-speaking guide. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese, depending on the visitor center.
The best viewpoints are from the cave entrance, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Inside the cave, photography of the unique rock formations is highly recommended. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the main cave chambers, moving from one area to another to observe the geological features. Afterward, take a walk around the cave's exterior, enjoying the natural scenery and the views of nearby mountains.
There are no regular night visits or light shows at Xuexi Cave. However, special tours or events may be available during festivals or local celebrations, so it's best to check with the local tourism office for any special arrangements.
Xuexi Cave can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the peak tourist season. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays or early in the morning on weekends.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available at the entrance to the cave. There are no large food or shopping facilities on-site, so visitors should bring their own snacks and water. A small shop may offer souvenirs.
Access to the cave may be difficult for elderly, children, or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and steps inside the cave. However, the exterior area and surrounding landscape are more accessible for people with limited mobility.
Cash is widely accepted at the cave entrance and nearby facilities. Mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used in the area, but it is recommended to carry some cash for emergencies.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the cave site. However, there are local eateries and small restaurants in Guangyuan, which offer traditional Sichuan cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian and some vegan options are available at local eateries. Halal food may be available in some restaurants, depending on the area's demographics. It is recommended to check with the restaurant before dining.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Guangyuan city, which is about an hour's drive from Xuexi Cave. Options range from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
Nearby attractions include the famous Mount Xishan, Guangyuan's historical temples, and other natural scenic areas. A day trip could easily combine a visit to Xuexi Cave with these nearby landmarks.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance to the cave where visitors can buy local crafts, such as handmade jewelry, keychains, and souvenirs related to the cave's natural beauty.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Xuexi Cave is by car. Public buses are available from Guangyuan to nearby attractions, but renting a car or booking a tour is recommended for more flexibility.