Chinese Name:保山千佛洞
English Name: Thousand Buddha Cave in Baoshan City

Baoshan Thousand Buddha Cave in Baoshan City travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Thousand Buddha Cave in Baoshan.

Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) is located in Lishan Township (里山乡), Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is approximately 5.5 kilometers from Tonghai County’s downtown area and lies adjacent to the road leading from Tonghai to Jianshui (建水).

History and Culture

Originally named “Xianren Cave” (先人洞, meaning “Ancestors’ Cave”), the site was renamed “Xianren Cave” (仙人洞, meaning “Immortal’s Cave”) after a visit by the famous Taoist Zhang Sanfeng (张三丰) during the Ming Dynasty. The cave is said to have been blessed by immortals. Fossils of ancient creatures such as saber-toothed elephants, rhinoceroses, wild boars, and macaques dating back 50,000 years have been discovered inside the cave.

Local Customs

Tonghai County (通海县) is home to various ethnic minorities, including the Yi (彝族) and Mongolian (蒙古族) peoples, known for their rich folk traditions. Local residents often hold ceremonial rituals during specific festivals to pray for favorable weather and good harvests.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Tonghai County enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons and mild temperatures. The most pleasant times to visit Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) are in the spring and autumn.

Recommended Attractions and Duration

Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞)

The cave features diverse and intricate stalactite formations. Notable spots include the “Immortal’s Ballroom” (仙人舞厅), “Fixed Mountain Divine Needle” (定山神针), and “Water Curtain Cave of Flower-Fruit Mountain” (花果山水帘洞).
Recommended visit duration: approximately 1.5 hours.

Dragon Pools at the Cave Entrance (龙潭)

At the entrance of the cave are two spring-fed pools with clear, sweet, and cool water that never dry up throughout the year.
Recommended visit duration: approximately 30 minutes.

Ticket Information

Admission to Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) is 20 RMB per person.

Transportation

By Car

From Tonghai County (通海县), drive approximately 5.5 kilometers along the road to Jianshui (建水) to reach the cave.

By Public Transport

Take a local bus from Tonghai County to Lishan Township (里山乡), then walk to the cave.

Local Food

Specialty foods from Tonghai County include:

• Tonghai Bean Sugar (通海豆末糖)
• Yuxi Candied Winter Melon (玉溪冬瓜蜜饯)
• Pocket Tofu (口袋豆腐)

Shopping

Popular local souvenirs include Tonghai Bean Sugar (通海豆末糖) and Yuxi Candied Winter Melon (玉溪冬瓜蜜饯).

Accommodation

Hotels in the County

There are several hotels available in Tonghai County, offering reasonably priced accommodations.

Guesthouses

Charming guesthouses are available around Lishan Township (里山乡), offering an opportunity to experience local life.

Visitor Tips

• Protect the Environment: Do not litter in the scenic area. Help preserve the natural surroundings.
• Safety First: Some sections inside the cave are narrow. Be cautious and follow safety rules and signage.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: Arrive in Tonghai County and visit Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) to explore the cave formations.

• Afternoon: Explore the Dragon Pools at the cave entrance and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Day 2

• Morning: Sample local cuisine and purchase specialty products in Tonghai County.

• Afternoon: Return to your next destination.

Final Thoughts

Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) attracts visitors with its fascinating geological features and rich cultural heritage. May your journey to Tonghai bring you lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural and historical beauty of the region.

Chinese Name: 镇雄县小山峡-躲军洞
English Name: Duojundong Cave in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong

Duojundong Cave is a scenic attraction located on the western bank of the Zhaidi River in Zhongtun Township, Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong. It lies near the border of Yunnan and Guizhou provinces, about 20 kilometers south of the Zhenxiong County seat and only 500 meters from the main highway that connects Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou. This area is celebrated for its captivating combination of mountains, water, caves, and gorges, offering visitors a sense of serenity similar to the famous landscapes of Guilin.

Main Attractions

Duojundong Cave has two entrances: an upper and a lower one. Entering through the upper entrance, visitors can find poems inscribed on the stone walls by anonymous individuals who once sought refuge in the cave. These writings express a spectrum of emotions, ranging from sorrow and lament over misfortunes to self-mockery and acceptance of fate. For instance, some of the lines read:

• “Avoiding calamity in the mountain garden, who could be as leisurely as I am? Long have I left my hometown behind, not quite immortal, yet akin to one.”
• “Though heaven’s will may depart, human effort can change fate. With a clear conscience, what is there to fear?”

The cave is notable for its intricate, winding passages and hidden chambers. Inside, a subterranean river flows, creating echoes that resonate throughout the cave, offering a unique auditory experience. The cool breeze inside makes it a refreshing retreat even during the hot summer months. The intricate rock formations and the interplay of light and shadow create a sense of otherworldliness, as if one is wandering in a celestial palace.

Historical Background

The Zhaidi River, historically known as Zhijiao River, is a tributary of the Wu River, originating from the ancient Niuniu Mountain Ridge in Hezhang, Guizhou. It flows westward before turning southeast. The upper section is called Liusha River, the lower section Heshui River, with the Zhaidi River flowing through the middle. The riverbanks are lush with green mountains, rich vegetation, and deep forests.

Local legend tells of Luo Ying, a wise figure in northeast Yunnan folklore, who altered the course of the Liusha River to flow through the mountainous terrain, creating what is now known as the Zhaidi River. This adjustment led to the creation of the unique landscape seen today, where the river, resembling a jade belt, flows past Duojundong Cave. The presence of the river and the cave’s unique formations have given rise to the nickname “Yudai Tiangong” (Jade Belt Celestial Palace), highlighting its status as a local natural wonder.

Chinese Name: 昭通市野猪洞新石器
English Name: Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site in Zhaotong City

Overview of the Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site

The Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site is situated approximately 300 meters north of the Xunlongwan Village Office in Sayu Township, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China. The cave measures between 3 to 4 meters in width, with varying heights ranging from 1.5 to 3 meters, and extends more than 10 meters in depth. The cave also features side chambers that are about 4 to 5 meters deep. Archaeological excavations at Yezhudong Cave have uncovered various artifacts, including stone adzes, stone axes, net weights, and pottery such as red sandy pottery and gray clay pottery. Additionally, human jawbones and animal remains, including those of wild cattle and dogs, have been found.

When comparing these findings with artifacts from the Guoshandong Cave Neolithic site, the tools from Yezhudong Cave appear to be more roughly made, suggesting that the cultural timeline of Yezhudong Cave may predate that of the Guoshandong Cave site.

How to Get There

• Location: Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site is located about 300 meters north of the Xunlongwan Village Office in Sayu Township, Zhaotong City.
• Transportation: Visitors can reach the site by taking a taxi or driving from Zhaotong City to Sayu Township. Follow the directions to Xunlongwan Village. It’s advisable to use a GPS for accurate navigation and consult local maps or signs along the way.

Chinese Name: 昭通市过山洞旧时器遗址
English Name: Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site in Zhaotong City

Overview of the Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site

The Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site is located in the village of Guoshandong, approximately 15 kilometers north of Zhaotong City in Yunnan Province, China, near the town of Beizha. The cave consists of two main sections: the front cave, which faces slightly northeast and has a width of over 10 meters and a maximum height of about 5 meters, and the rear cave, which faces southeast and is somewhat smaller.

In November 1982, a municipal cultural relics survey team discovered mammalian fossils and a human tooth fossil about 20 meters inside the rear cave. Experts identified the mammalian fossils as belonging to species such as the Asian saber-toothed cat, Chinese rhinoceros, and monkeys, dating them to the Late Pleistocene or early Late Pleistocene epoch. The human tooth fossil, named the “Zhaotong Man,” marks the first discovery of an early Homo sapiens fossil in Yunnan Province.

Additional Archaeological Discoveries

Following the initial discovery of Paleolithic remains in the rear cave of Guoshandong, another site was found on the left side of the front cave, indicating the presence of a Neolithic-era settlement. This shows the continuity of human habitation in the region, bridging different prehistoric periods.

Related Archaeological Sites

Wild Boar Cave Neolithic Site:
Located 300 meters north of the Xunlongwan Village Office in Sayu Township, Zhaotong City, this cave measures 3 to 4 meters wide and 1.5 to 3 meters high, extending more than 10 meters in depth. It features side caves that are 4 to 5 meters deep. Artifacts excavated from the site include stone axes, adzes, net weights, and pottery (red sandy and gray clay pottery), as well as human jawbones and animal remains like wild cattle and dogs. The tools found at Wild Boar Cave are generally cruder than those from Guoshandong, suggesting the Wild Boar Cave site may predate Guoshandong Cave.

Significance of the Discovery

The initial exploration of Guoshandong Cave in April 1981, followed by subsequent excavations, highlighted Zhaotong’s significance as one of the three major cultural origins in Yunnan Province. The discovery of the “Zhaotong Man” fills a crucial gap in Yunnan’s prehistoric timeline, bridging the evolutionary stages from ape-man to late Homo sapiens. The Guoshandong Cave findings have shed light on the early human activities and environmental conditions in the region, emphasizing its importance in understanding the broader narrative of human evolution in China.

How to Get There

• Location: The Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site is situated approximately 15 kilometers north of Zhaotong City, near the town of Beizha.
• Transportation: Visitors can take a taxi or drive from Zhaotong City, following the directions to Beizha Town and then to Guoshandong Village. It is recommended to use a GPS or consult local maps for accurate navigation.

Travel Tips

1. Plan Ahead: Research and verify the site’s opening hours, entrance fees, and any permits required for visiting the cave. Information can be obtained from local tourism offices or online resources.
2. Choose the Right Time: To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit, consider traveling during non-peak seasons or weekdays.
3. Respect the Artifacts: Follow guidelines and avoid touching, marking, or damaging any artifacts. Maintain a quiet environment to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
4. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and dress according to the weather conditions. Sun protection items like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are advisable.
5. Bring Essentials: As there may be limited food and drink options near the site, bring enough water and snacks for your visit.
6. Safety First: Pay attention to safety signs and be cautious when exploring the cave and its surroundings, especially in areas with steep or unstable terrain.
7. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local traditions and customs. Show respect to the residents and their way of life.
8. Plan Your Itinerary: Given the wide distribution of archaeological sites in Zhaotong, it is advisable to plan your visit in advance to ensure enough time to explore key locations.
9. Environmental Responsibility: Help preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the site by not littering and avoiding any damage to the vegetation or surrounding areas.

Chinese Name: 昭通古文化遗址
English Name: The Ancient Culture Sites in Zhaotong

The Ancient Culture Sites in Zhaotong are significant historical relics, rich with cultural heritage. Here, you can find a large number of unearthed artifacts that bear witness to ancient history.

Basic Information

Zhaotong, located in Yunnan Province, is home to numerous ancient cultural sites. Some of the main sites include:

1. Guoshandong Relics:
Guoshandong is situated 15 kilometers north of Zhaotong City, in the village of Guoshandong near Beizha Town. The cave comprises two parts: a larger front cave facing slightly northeast, about 10 meters wide and 5 meters high, and a smaller back cave facing southeast. In November 1982, animal fossils and a human tooth fossil were discovered around 20 meters inside the back cave. These include fossils of animals like the Oriental saber-toothed elephant, Chinese rhinoceros, and monkeys, dating back to the Late Pleistocene. The human tooth fossil, named the “Zhaotong Man,” is the first early Homo sapiens fossil discovered in Yunnan Province. Additionally, a Neolithic site was found on the left side of the front cave.

2. Yezhu Cave Neolithic Relics:
Located 300 meters north of Xunlongwan Village in Sayi Township, this cave is 3-4 meters wide, 1.5-3 meters high, and over 10 meters deep, with branching side caves. Artifacts unearthed here include stone adzes, stone axes, net weights, sand-tempered red pottery, gray pottery, a human mandible, and bones of wild cattle and dogs. The stone tools appear cruder compared to those found at Guoshandong, suggesting that the Yezhu Cave site might be older.

3. Yeshizhai Neolithic Relics:
This site is located 5 kilometers east of Ludian County town, in the Yeshizhai area of Taoyuan Township. Covering an area of about 1 square kilometer, the relics are primarily concentrated along the banks of a small river. The cultural layer is 1.3 meters thick, and artifacts such as sand-tempered red pottery, polished black pottery, gray pottery, ancient tombs, and semi-subterranean house foundations have been discovered here. The Yeshizhai site is one of the largest and best-preserved Neolithic village sites in Yunnan Province, providing valuable research opportunities. In December 1987, it was designated as a Provincial Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit.

4. Machang Neolithic Relics:
Situated 5 kilometers east of Ludian County town, near Hulukou Village in Ciyuan Township, the Machang site spans over 100,000 square meters. It is located near water and mountains, with cultural layers primarily along the eastern, southern, and western edges of the hills. The western cultural layer is up to 1.3 meters thick, divided into upper and lower layers, containing burnt red earth, charcoal fragments, and pottery pieces. More than 500 pottery fragments have been unearthed, mostly made of gray clay, with some red and black clay pieces. Stone tools such as knives and axes are also found, displaying fine craftsmanship and advanced drilling techniques.

5. Late Period Tombs:
These tombs are located in the center of Qiaojia County, at Xiaodongmen. From the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China era, this site housed various government offices. Since 1950, it has been used as the backyard of the county committee and government office buildings, and systematic excavations have not been conducted. However, construction projects have occasionally unearthed artifacts. In 1984, six tombs were discovered during a building project, yielding three pottery items. In 1990, further construction revealed stone slab tombs, leading to a rescue excavation that uncovered 19 tombs and over 50 artifacts, including pottery, stone, bone, and shell items. The stone coffins were made of natural sandstone, and all the deceased were oriented southward. These tombs are preliminarily dated to the Late Neolithic Period.

The ancient culture sites in Zhaotong are an integral part of China’s historical and cultural legacy, rich in heritage and archaeological value.

How to Get There

To visit the Ancient Culture Sites in Zhaotong, you can fly to Zhaotong Airport, which is well-connected with major cities in China. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center. Zhaotong is also accessible by train and long-distance bus from nearby cities like Kunming. Once in Zhaotong, hiring a local guide or renting a car would be the most convenient way to reach the various cultural sites, which are scattered across different villages and towns.

Travel Tips

1. Advance Research: Before you go, research information about the Zhaotong Ancient Culture Sites, including opening hours, ticket prices, and transportation routes. Reliable information can be found on official tourism websites or by consulting local tourism agencies.
2. Best Time to Visit: Try to avoid peak tourist seasons and national holidays to enjoy a quieter and more immersive experience at the cultural sites.
3. Respect the Artifacts: Follow the site regulations, avoid touching or damaging artifacts, and maintain a respectful attitude towards the historical relics. Keep noise levels low to preserve the experience for other visitors.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Since visiting the cultural sites often involves a lot of walking, wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure.
5. Bring Supplies: Some sites may not have nearby facilities for food and water. Carry enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your visit.
6. Safety First: Pay attention to your safety, especially when exploring caves or uneven terrain. Follow warning signs and guidelines to avoid accidents.
7. Respect Local Customs: Zhaotong has unique cultural traditions. Show respect for local customs and practices to ensure a harmonious interaction with the local community.
8. Plan Your Route: The ancient cultural sites in Zhaotong are spread across a wide area. Plan your itinerary in advance to cover the key sites and manage your time efficiently.
9. Protect the Environment: Help preserve the natural beauty and historical integrity of the sites by not littering or damaging vegetation. Keep the ancient sites clean and well-preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Chinese Name: 永善县码口乡溶洞群
English Name: Makou Caves in Yongshan County, Zhaotong

Overview:

The Makou Caves are situated in Makou Town, Yongshan County, Zhaotong, spread across villages like Makou, Xinmin, and Liqi. These caves cover an area of over 150,000 square meters and are located to the northwest of the Makou Town government seat, on the southern bank of the Jinsha River. The caves are approximately 6 kilometers from the town center, accessible via well-established roads, water, and electricity. The region is known for producing economic crops such as sugarcane, Sichuan peppercorn, and citrus fruits.

Makou Village, home to these caves, is part of the scenic northeastern Yunnan’s Wumeng Mountain range and is located along the lower reaches of the Jinsha River. This small village is under the jurisdiction of Yongshan County and enjoys a unique geographical location. It is bordered by Zhaoyang District of Zhaotong City to the east, while the Jinsha River lies to the west, separating it from Sichuan Province’s Liangshan Prefecture. Despite its modest size, Makou Village is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, particularly the fascinating cave clusters hidden among the mountainous terrain. Among these, the most captivating is the Niulang Zhinü Cave.

Niulang Zhinü Cave:

The Niulang Zhinü Cave is notable for its fascinating layout, extending in a north-south direction close to the Jinsha River. Covering an area of more than 150,000 square meters and stretching nearly a thousand meters in length, this cave complex is a natural marvel. Legend has it that these two caves were once a single entity, separated over tens of thousands of years by the persistent flow of water. The entrance to the cave is wide and imposing, standing over ten meters high and wide enough to fit two large trucks. Inside, visitors are greeted by a spectacular “underground Great Wall,” constructed from neatly arranged stone slabs, resembling a natural fortress. The cave’s winding passages, along with the presence of bats, add an aura of mystery, and the cave’s actual depth remains unknown.

Zhinü Cave:

Zhinü Cave, located across the river from Niulang Cave, is a water cave with an entrance merely 20 centimeters high. Water cascades from a towering cliff, forming a breathtaking waterfall at the cave’s mouth. Inside the cave, the right side mirrors the “Great Wall” feature seen in Niulang Cave, with a charming “city gate” and passage in the center. On the left side, there is a “leaning tower,” which shows traces of human modification. As you venture deeper, you’ll enter a magnificent forest of stalactites and stalagmites, with massive stone columns resembling the pleated skirts of Yi girls, creating an awe-inspiring sight.

How to Get There:

• From Yongshan County: The Makou Caves are approximately 6 kilometers from the Makou Town government seat. Visitors can use local transport options such as taxis or buses to reach the caves. Driving is also an option for those seeking a more flexible schedule.
• From Zhaotong City: The caves are accessible from Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong’s main urban area. Renting a car or hiring a taxi provides a more convenient and quicker route to Makou Town.

Travel Tips:

1. Best Time to Visit: The Makou Caves are open to visitors year-round. However, the autumn and winter months provide the clearest views and the most pleasant weather for cave exploration.
2. What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended due to uneven and potentially slippery cave paths. Bringing a flashlight or headlamp is advisable to explore the darker sections of the caves fully.
3. Guided Tours: Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, offering insights into the geological formations and local legends associated with the caves. A guided tour can provide a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural significance.
4. Safety Precautions: Due to the presence of bats and the narrowness of some cave passages, visitors should avoid touching cave walls and ceilings to protect both the natural environment and themselves from potential wildlife disturbances.
5. Facilities: Ensure to check for nearby amenities and rest areas before your visit, as facilities might be limited in this rural area. Bringing snacks and water is recommended, especially if you plan on spending a considerable amount of time exploring the caves.

Additional Information:

Yongshan County is located in the northern part of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, at the edge of the Sichuan Basin, in the northwest of the Wumeng Mountain range, along the lower reaches of the Jinsha River. Established in 1728 during the reign of the Yongzheng Emperor of the Qing Dynasty, Yongshan County features diverse topography with elevations ranging from 3,199.5 meters at the highest point to 340 meters at the lowest. The county covers an area of 2,789 square kilometers and includes 5 towns, 10 townships, 133 village (residential) committees, and 4 communities. Yongshan is home to various ethnic groups, including Han, Yi, Miao, and Hui, with a total population of 420,000 as of the end of 2005.

Chinese Name: 文山市柳井溶洞
English Name: Liujing Cave in Wenshan City

Location and Climate

Liujing Cave Group is located in Xinfazhai, Liujing Township, Wenshan City, approximately 1 kilometer from the county seat. The area enjoys a mild climate with no severe cold in winter and no intense heat in summer, making it pleasant throughout the year with spring-like conditions in all seasons.

Features and Attractions

The Liujing Cave Group comprises five caves, each offering unique and spectacular features:

1. Cave No. 1: Ergu Xian Palace (儿姑仙宫)
   • Length: 860.6 meters
   • Structure: The cave is divided into two levels, upper and lower.
   • Interior: It contains 19 halls and 9 chambers, with a complex network of interconnected passages and multiple layers of beauty. The cave features pools with crystal-clear water reflecting rock formations that resemble trees, creating a serene and enchanting environment.
   • Rock Formations: The cave is adorned with a variety of colorful stalactites and stalagmites. The stones display a range of hues including amber-like yellow, lamb fat white, and agate red, among others. Notable formations include “Silver Thread Piercing Through” and “Holy Bamboo,” which showcase the unique and whimsical aspects of the cave.
   • Musical Stones: One of the cave’s highlights is the “Stone Music Corridor” (石慢编种), where rhythmic strikes produce harmonious musical scales, adding an auditory element to the visual splendor.

1. Other Caves
   • Scenic Diversity: The remaining four caves each offer distinct landscapes, with varied and diverse stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave complex as a whole features over 80 spectacular scenic spots, making it a visually stunning and awe-inspiring destination.

Summary

Liujing Cave is renowned for its stunning natural formations and unique features, including its musical stones and colorful rock structures. The combination of scenic beauty and intriguing geological formations makes it a significant attraction in Wenshan City.

Chinese Name: 丘北县小尖山洞穴文化遗址
English Name: The Relics of Xiaojianshan Cave Culture in Qiubei County, Wenshan

Overview

The Xiaojianshan Cave Cultural Site is located in Miele Village, Xinzai Village Committee, Yuezhai Town, Qiubei County, Wenshan, about one li (approximately 500 meters) east of Xiaojianshan Mountain.

Site Description

• Cave Dimensions: The cave entrance is approximately 12 meters high and 20 meters wide. Due to the collapse of the cave roof, the entrance is now blocked and the cave lacks depth, but it still provides shelter from wind and rain with ample natural light.
• Cultural Layers: The cultural layer at the cave entrance is over 40 centimeters thick and has hardened over time, forming a layer of limestone. The smoke layer on the rock walls combines with the increasing rock formations, with a thickness of about 0.4 centimeters.
• Artifacts: The cultural layer contains a variety of artifacts including:
  • Animal Fossils: Remains of pigs, cattle, and sheep.
  • Stone Tools: Stone cores and unburnt charcoal.
  • Shells and Pottery Shards: Black pottery fragments, indicating the development of pottery and agriculture around 3,000 to 4,000 years ago.
  • Bone Ornaments: Decorative items made from bone.
  • Pebble Tools: Used for striking and other purposes.

Significance

The discovery of black pottery shards at this site marks the beginning of pottery and agriculture in the Neolithic era, highlighting significant advancements in human technology and culture. The Xiaojianshan Cave Cultural Site provides crucial physical evidence for studying Neolithic human activities and has considerable archaeological value.

Chinese Name:西畴县仙人洞旧石器时代遗址
English Name: The Site of Paleolithic Period of Xianrendong in Xichou County, Wenshan

Location:

The Xianrendong Paleolithic site is located near Xiaoxinzhai Village in Xisa Town, Xichou County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, approximately 1 kilometer from the county seat.

Geography:

Xianrendong is a karst cave formed by ancient river channels along limestone fissures, nestled in a scenic, tranquil setting by the mountains and water. The cave entrance is small, slightly taller than a person, about 1.5 meters wide, with a total cave length of 40 meters, a width of 6 meters, and a height of 3 meters. The flat cave roof and spacious interior could accommodate hundreds of people, making it a suitable dwelling for ancient humans. Although there is a local legend that immortals once inhabited the cave, what is certain is that the ancestors of the Xichou people, around 10,000 years ago, indeed lived here.

Archaeological Significance:

The Xianrendong site is a significant Paleolithic cave site from the late Old Stone Age. Between 1972 and 1973, two excavations were carried out by the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with the Yunnan Provincial Museum. These excavations uncovered five human teeth fossils and 32 species of ancient vertebrate fossils, including six extinct species. The human teeth fossils were identified as belonging to late Homo sapiens and were named “Xichou Man” (西畴人).

Xichou Man:

The remains of Xichou Man, discovered at the site, provide crucial insights into the lives of early humans in this region during the late Paleolithic period. These findings contribute significantly to the understanding of human evolution and the prehistoric environment in southern China. The fossils indicate that Xichou Man was part of the late Homo sapiens population that inhabited the area approximately 10,000 years ago.

The Xianrendong site stands as a testament to the ancient human history of Xichou County, offering a glimpse into the life and environment of early humans in Yunnan during the late Paleolithic era.

Chinese Name: 麻栗坡县天生桥溶洞
English Name: Tianshengqiao Cave in Malipo County, Wenshan

Overview

Tianshengqiao Cave is a natural limestone bridge located near Shazhai in Malipo County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The cave spans the Chouyang River, with turbulent water flowing beneath it. The area is known for its picturesque natural formations and is rich in local legend and folklore.

Natural Features

• Structure: The cave consists of three levels, with interconnected chambers forming an intricate network. The main cave is grand and deep, while the side chambers meander around the river.
• Rock Formations: The cave features a variety of stunning rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, and flowstones, which resemble various shapes and figures. A notable rock pillar near the entrance resembles a human figure and is associated with local myths.

Cultural and Mythological Significance

• Legend: The cave is tied to the local legend of the “Dragon King and Maiden of Tianshengqiao,” adding a mystical element to its natural beauty.

Travel Information

• Access: Accessible via a road connecting Kaiyuan to Wenshan. Visitors can take a short-distance bus from Kaiyuan to Wenshan and disembark midway.

Chinese Name: 富宁县清华洞旅游区
English Name: Qinghuadong Scenic Area in Funing County, Wenshan

Location

• Coordinates: Approximately 5 kilometers west of Funing County seat, within a canyon along the Hongmen River.

Historical Background

• Discovery: Discovered during the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty by fishermen exploring the river.

Scenic Features

• Three Main Sections:
  • First Section: The base cave, about 600 meters long and 10 meters wide. Features an underground river leading to Hongmen River, with boat tours available.
  • Second Section: Spacious, accommodating thousands of visitors. Notable for its complex network of caves, with unique and abundant stalactites resembling various animals.
  • Third Section: The upper cave, over a thousand square meters, includes a platform and dance hall with other amenities.
• Natural Beauty: The cave system showcases well-developed stalactites, blending strange, beautiful, and exquisite formations. The exterior features stone steps leading to the cave entrance, surrounded by lush greenery and ancient trees. The cave’s entrance has been blocked to create a reservoir with a 3-square-kilometer water surface, divided into two boating routes of 4 kilometers and 2 kilometers.

Visitor Experience

• Attractions: The scenic area integrates lush mountains, clear waters, caves, ancient trees, and exotic flowers. It attracts numerous visitors annually, offering a comprehensive natural experience.

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• 1 Day Shangri-La Lamaist Monasteries Tour
• Kunming Night Tour to Dounan Fresh-cut Flowers Market
• 1 Day Lijiang City Highlights Group Tour

Caves

Caves in Yunnan

Thousand Buddha Cave in Baoshan City

Chinese Name:保山千佛洞 English Name: Thousand Buddha Cave in Baoshan City Baoshan Thousand Buddha Cave in Baoshan City travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time...

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• Baoshan
• Caves

Fairy Cave in Tonghai County, Yuxi

Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) is located in Lishan Township (里山乡), Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is approximately 5.5 kilometers from Tonghai County’s downtown area...

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• Caves
• Tonghai County
• Yuxi

Duojundong Cave in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong

Chinese Name: 镇雄县小山峡-躲军洞 English Name: Duojundong Cave in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong Duojundong Cave is a scenic attraction located on the western bank of the Zhaidi River in Zhongtun Township,...

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• Caves
• Zhaotong
• Zhenxiong County

Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site in Zhaotong City

Chinese Name: 昭通市野猪洞新石器 English Name: Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site in Zhaotong City Overview of the Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site The Yezhudong Cave Neolithic Site is situated approximately 300 meters...

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• Caves
• Historical and Cultural Relics
• Zhaotong
• Zhaoyang District

Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site in Zhaotong City

Chinese Name: 昭通市过山洞旧时器遗址 English Name: Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site in Zhaotong City Overview of the Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site The Guoshandong Cave Paleolithic Site is located in the village...

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• Caves
• Historical and Cultural Relics
• Zhaotong
• Zhaoyang District

The Ancient Culture Sites in Zhaotong

Chinese Name: 昭通古文化遗址 English Name: The Ancient Culture Sites in Zhaotong The Ancient Culture Sites in Zhaotong are significant historical relics, rich with cultural heritage. Here, you can find...

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• Caves
• Zhaotong
• Zhaoyang District

Makou Caves in Yongshan County, Zhaotong

Chinese Name: 永善县码口乡溶洞群 English Name: Makou Caves in Yongshan County, Zhaotong Overview: The Makou Caves are situated in Makou Town, Yongshan County, Zhaotong, spread across villages like Makou, Xinmin,...

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• Caves
• Yongshan County
• Zhaotong

Liujing Cave in Wenshan City

Chinese Name: 文山市柳井溶洞 English Name: Liujing Cave in Wenshan City Location and Climate Liujing Cave Group is located in Xinfazhai, Liujing Township, Wenshan City, approximately 1 kilometer from the...

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• Caves
• Wenshan
• Wenshan City

The Relics of Xiaojianshan Cave Culture in Qiubei County, Wenshan

Chinese Name: 丘北县小尖山洞穴文化遗址 English Name: The Relics of Xiaojianshan Cave Culture in Qiubei County, Wenshan Overview The Xiaojianshan Cave Cultural Site is located in Miele Village, Xinzai Village Committee,...

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• Caves
• Historical and Cultural Relics
• Qiubei County
• Wenshan

The Site of Paleolithic Period of Xianrendong in Xichou County, Wenshan

Chinese Name:西畴县仙人洞旧石器时代遗址 English Name: The Site of Paleolithic Period of Xianrendong in Xichou County, Wenshan Location: The Xianrendong Paleolithic site is located near Xiaoxinzhai Village in Xisa Town, Xichou County,...

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• Caves
• Historical and Cultural Relics
• Wenshan
• Xichou County

Tianshengqiao Cave in Malipo County, Wenshan

Chinese Name: 麻栗坡县天生桥溶洞 English Name: Tianshengqiao Cave in Malipo County, Wenshan Overview Tianshengqiao Cave is a natural limestone bridge located near Shazhai in Malipo County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao...

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• Caves
• Malipo County
• Wenshan

Qinghuadong Scenic Area in Funing County,Wenshan

Chinese Name: 富宁县清华洞旅游区 English Name: Qinghuadong Scenic Area in Funing County, Wenshan Location Coordinates: Approximately 5 kilometers west of Funing County seat, within a canyon along the Hongmen River....

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• Caves
• Funing County
• Wenshan