Live Your Best Lives
At Jiulao Cave, visitors can explore the ancient cave formations and stalactites. The site also offers opportunities for photography of the natural limestone structures and trekking around the area. If you're interested in history, you can learn about the cave's significance as a Taoist temple.
Jiulao Cave, located at the foot of Jiulao Peak, is a famous karst cave in Mount Emei. It sits on the hillside to the right of Xianfeng Temple, at an altitude of 1,752 meters. The cave is covered in vines and overlooks a cliff. The entrance is triangular and about 4 meters high. From inside, the outline of the cave resembles a statue of an old Taoist priest.
Within the passage, which extends over 1,500 meters downward, lies a fully enclosed viewing area, showcasing a diverse array of spatial beauty. The first section is shallow, allowing for upright walking. It features spacious halls and corridor-like caves, such as the Crystal Cave and the Swallow Cave.
The second section is the middle part, where branch caves begin to appear, and the only way to get there is to snake. This section is the main part of Jiulao Cave, which is mostly a network of cross-shaped palace-shaped caves, with caves within caves and caves below caves, overlapping and crisscrossing. Only at the intersection of caves are larger caves or vertical shafts formed, such as Tiger Tooth Cave, Stalagmite Cave, and Maze Cave.
The third section, deeper within, is dominated by fissure-like caves, where a river sometimes seeps through the cracks and sometimes meanders into the cave floor. Even more aesthetically pleasing are the naturally carved karst forms on the cave walls and ceiling, a vibrant and diverse array of forms that inspire free and rich associations.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Tickets are included in the Mount Emei ticket
7:00-18:00
Jiulao Cave is historically significant as it has been a Taoist site for centuries. The caves were believed to be a place of spiritual retreat and have been associated with meditation and ascetic practices. The natural formations inside the cave are considered sacred by local Taoist practitioners.
Jiulao Cave is located near Leshan in Sichuan Province. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Leshan city center to the caves, which is about 30 km away. The site is accessible by private car or guided tours, as public transport options are limited.
The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is cool and comfortable for hiking and exploring. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥50. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the cave. It is also possible to purchase tickets in advance during peak seasons at local tourism offices or online platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons like Chinese New Year or summer. It is recommended to book at least 1-2 days in advance during these busy periods.
It typically takes 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Jiulao Cave, depending on how much time you wish to spend observing the formations and taking photographs. If you're interested in hiking or visiting nearby Taoist temples, you may want to allocate more time.
The main highlights inside Jiulao Cave include the intricate stalactites and stalagmites, the ancient Taoist shrines, and the peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection. The Taoist altar inside the cave is a sacred spot for visitors interested in Taoist culture.
Guided tours are available at Jiulao Cave, and some guides speak Mandarin and English. Audio guides may also be available for rent at the entrance, but it is best to confirm in advance during peak times.
The best photography spots inside the cave are near the Taoist altar, where you can capture the unique rock formations and the calm, spiritual ambiance. There are also viewpoints around the cave entrance that provide stunning views of the surrounding lush greenery and mountain landscape.
Start at the entrance, where you can see the Taoist shrines and then walk deeper into the cave to explore the stalactites and stalagmites. Take time to visit the Taoist altar and then finish with a hike around the surrounding area for panoramic views.
There are no night visits or light shows at Jiulao Cave. The attraction is primarily a daytime experience. However, special cultural tours may be available during local festivals or Taoist ceremonies.
Jiulao Cave can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays in the early mornings or late afternoons. Visiting during the off-season (late autumn or winter) will also provide a quieter experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available near the entrance of the cave. There are also small shops where you can buy water, snacks, and souvenirs. It's recommended to bring your own water if you plan on hiking around the area.
The caves are not fully accessible for people with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and stairs. However, there are some pathways that are suitable for children and elderly visitors. It's best to check with local authorities or guides about the accessibility options before visiting.
Both cash and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at Jiulao Cave. However, it's advisable to bring some cash for smaller purchases, as not all areas may accept mobile payments.
There are no large restaurants inside Jiulao Cave, but you can find small local eateries near the entrance. In Leshan city, there are numerous restaurants offering Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot and noodle dishes.
While vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in the immediate area around Jiulao Cave, you can find vegetarian dishes such as tofu and vegetable stir-fries. For halal food, it's best to look for restaurants in Leshan city, where there may be a few more options.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near Jiulao Cave. For a wider selection, you can find accommodations in Leshan city, including mid-range and luxury hotels. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Mount Emei, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains in China. These sites are easy to visit in a day trip from Jiulao Cave, and there are regular transportation options between them.
There are small souvenir shops at Jiulao Cave selling items like Taoist statues, incense, Tibetan prayer beads, and local handicrafts. Popular souvenirs include stone carvings and jade jewelry.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Jiulao Cave is by private car or taxi. You can also use local buses or tour buses to visit nearby attractions like the Leshan Giant Buddha or Mount Emei.
