1. Overview
Huanglong Cave (Chinese: 黄龙洞), located in Wulingyuan Scenic Area (Zhangjiajie, Hunan), is a AAAAA-rated karst cave system spanning 10,000㎡. Discovered in 1983 and opened in 1984, it’s part of Zhangjiajie’s UNESCO Global Geopark. The cave’s 7.5km length, 140m vertical drop, and four layers of chambers showcase surreal stalactites, subterranean waterfalls, and rare cave-dwelling species.
2. Key Attractions
- Unique Pillar (定海神针): A 19.2m-tall stalagmite, insured for ¥100 million due to its fragility. It’s estimated to take 60,000 more years to reach the ceiling.
- Dragon Palace: The largest chamber (15,000㎡), housing 2,000+ stalagmites, including the 12m "Throne of the Dragon King".
- Xiangshui River (响水河): An 800m navigable underground river with crystal-clear waters (16°C) and blind fish.
- Tianxian Waterfall: A 27.3m-high cave waterfall, one of China’s tallest.
3. Geology & Formation
- Formed over 380 million years, the cave was shaped by dissolving limestone. Its "all-in-one" karst features (stalactites, stone curtains, etc.) earned it the title "World’s Cave Champion".
- Constant 16–18°C temperature and 95% humidity create a unique microclimate.
4. Cultural Significance
- Legends claim the cave was named after a dragon-assisted rain prayer during a Qing-dynasty drought.
- The "Thousand-Year Snow Pine" stalagmite symbolizes resilience in Chinese poetry.
5. Visitor Experience
- Activities: Boat rides on Xiangshui River, light shows illuminating chambers, and the "Maze" section with translucent crystals.
- Best Time: March–November (avoid winter ice closures).
- Tickets: ¥121 (includes boat/audio guide); ¥73 for students/seniors.
6. Conservation
- Strict protections limit daily visitors to 8,000. The eco-friendly walkways minimize human impact.
Why Visit?
Huanglong Cave merges adventure, science, and folklore, offering a subterranean spectacle unmatched in scale and beauty. From sailing underground rivers to marveling at millennia-old formations, it’s a must-see in Zhangjiajie.
