Zhijin Cave

Introducing Zhijin Cave

As the largest cave in China, and one of the biggest in the entire world, a trip to Zhijin Cave (Zhījīn Dòng; admission Y120; 8.30am-5.30pm) is definitely worth the effort to come see for yourself. Located at the edge of a small village some 15km outside Zhījīn, the cave is around 10km long and up to 150m high.

Calcium deposits create an abstract landscape of spectacular shapes and spirals, often reaching from the floor to the ceiling. As you move from the tiny passageways to cathedral-like main halls, it’s hard not to be impressed.

Tickets to the site are steep but include a compulsory tour. Tours depart with a minimum of 10 people. Solo travellers visiting outside of peak summer months or Chinese holidays should be prepared for what can be a very, very long wait. While the tour itself is in Chinese only, you’ll be glad to have someone around who knows the way back out of the maze of trails. Tours last from two to three hours.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009