Niweng Cave

Introducing Niweng Cave

Niweng Cave, located on Chuyang Mountain in Xiandu, is the northernmost of the " Three Apertures of Yanggu . " The cave is two zhang high and five tai square. It has two entrances, one to the northeast and the other to the southeast. In the center of the cave are three large characters in regular script: " Chuyanggu . "

It consists of three caves, one large and one small . A winding stream flows in front of the cave, with Dinghu Lake in sight. Legend has it that Ji Ni lived in seclusion here in ancient times. The cave houses numerous cliff carvings by literati from the Tang Dynasty onwards, including regular script, clerical script, and seal script. The most precious is the inscription " Ni Weng Cave " by Tang Dynasty calligrapher Li Yangbing (former Jinyun County Magistrate), a master of small seal script .

Chuyang Valley boasts three interconnected stone caves, each exquisitely carved and round like a rice sieve. They are also known as the " Three Caves of Yanggu . " Every sunrise, a ray of sunlight miraculously filters through the three caves. Enter through the " Banbi Pool , " then ascend along a winding path and stone steps. The main cave is tall and spacious, with a dome-like roof and a flat ground. A huge stone screen stands before it, creating a tranquil and elegant stone chamber. A bowl-sized stone hole in the ceiling is said to have been where ancient people hung lanterns for nighttime reading.

Climate and best time to travel

April to June is the best time to travel to Xiandu

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Other scenic spots in Niweng Cave include: Mouse Stealing Oil, Dufeng Academy, Wenyu Pavilion, Uncle Sedan Rock, Moon Mirror Rock, etc.

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Xiandu Scenic Area ticket

Attraction opening hours

7:00-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Niweng Cave

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Niweng Cave is a renowned natural cave located in Lishui, Zhejiang. It is famous for its geological formations, including impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is also significant as a historical site, offering insights into the natural history of the region. The area around the cave is rich in biodiversity and has cultural significance for the local communities.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Niweng Cave is located in Lishui, Zhejiang Province, approximately 30 kilometers from the city center. You can reach the cave by taking a taxi or local bus from Lishui. Public transportation options may be limited, so hiring a taxi or renting a car is the most convenient way to get there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. It is also less crowded during weekdays, making it ideal for a more peaceful experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Niweng Cave is approximately 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the cave, but it’s recommended to check availability and buy tickets in advance during peak seasons through the official site or local ticket outlets.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it’s recommended during peak seasons or weekends to avoid long waits. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient if you are visiting during busy periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore Niweng Cave in about 1 to 2 hours. This includes walking through the cave, admiring the formations, and taking in the surrounding natural scenery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main cavern with towering stalactites and stalagmites.
• The crystal-clear underground pools and flowing water.
• The unique rock formations that resemble various animals and objects.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at Niweng Cave in Mandarin Chinese. Audio guides are not typically provided, so it's recommended to take a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the cave's geology and history.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are within the main cavern, where the lighting highlights the stalactites and stalagmites. The cave's entrance also offers a scenic view of the surrounding mountains and forested area, which is perfect for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Begin by entering the main cavern and observing the towering stalactites and stalagmites.
• Walk along the designated paths to explore the smaller sections of the cave.
• End the tour by visiting the underground pools and the exit that opens to the forest area outside.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not available at Niweng Cave. The cave is generally open only during the day for exploration and guided tours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The cave can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-peak months of autumn and spring.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities are available at Niweng Cave, including public restrooms, drinking water stations, and small rest areas. There are no large shops or food stalls inside the cave, but you can find snacks and souvenirs at the entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The cave's paths can be uneven, and some sections may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children may find the exploration fun, but they should be supervised due to the slippery surfaces and narrow walkways inside the cave.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted at Niweng Cave, but mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also available. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside Niweng Cave. However, you can find local eateries and small restaurants in Lishui city, around 30 minutes away by car. These serve traditional Zhejiang cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in the nearby eateries, but halal food may be limited in this region. It’s recommended to check with local restaurants in Lishui city for vegetarian options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are no hotels directly at Niweng Cave, but you can find accommodations in Lishui city, including budget hotels and mid-range options. Popular choices include local guesthouses and hotels near the city center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Yunhe Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient rice terraces.
• The Lishui City Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region.
• Mount Wuyun, known for its natural beauty and hiking trails.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops at the entrance of Niweng Cave selling local crafts, including handmade pottery, souvenirs related to the cave, and traditional Zhejiang textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Niweng Cave, you can continue your trip by taxi or local bus to other attractions in Lishui city. If you plan to visit nearby natural sites, renting a car or hiring a local driver might be the most convenient option.