Huanglong Cave

Discover the 'All-Round Champion' of world karst caves

5A National Scenic Area

08:00-17:30

Last entry: 16:30From Nov 1 to Feb 28, hours are 08:00-17:00 with last entry at 16:00

About This Place

Huanglong Cave is a spectacular karst cave within Zhangjiajie's Wulingyuan Scenic Area, hailed as the 'All-Round Champion' of world caves. It features a vast three-dimensional structure, the expansive Dragon Palace hall, and tens of thousands of stunning stalactites and stalagmites, creating a magical underground palace. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 17°C (63°F) year-round, offering a cool retreat in summer and a warm haven in winter. Visitors must follow the designated route with a guide, which combines walking and a boat ride on an underground river.

Highlights

Marvel at the iconic 'Sea-Calming Needle': a 20-meter tall stalagmite pillar, only 10 cm at its thinnest point, insured for 100 million RMB

Experience the unique land-and-water tour: walk through caverns first, then board a boat to glide along the subterranean river for different perspectives

Explore breathtaking cave halls: including the Dragon Palace, Maze, Celestial Water, and Echoing River, admiring vast chambers and dense stalagmite forests

Enjoy the constant 17°C climate: perfect for a comfortable visit any time of year, ideal for escaping summer heat or winter chill

Best Time to Visit

April-May, September-October

The cave's constant temperature makes it suitable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to summer and national holidays. Allow 2-3 hours for the full tour.

Avoid Chinese Holidays

Strongly avoid Golden Week (Oct 1-7), Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb), and Labor Day (May 1-5). Crowds are extreme and tickets often sell out weeks in advance.

Ticket Information

CNY 121per person

Advance Booking Required

Tickets must be booked online in advance (via official WeChat mini-program or travel platforms) and require ID card verification at the entrance. The ticket includes the boat ride and audio guide. Visitors are grouped with a guide (approx. 20 people per group) and must stay with the group throughout the tour. Free admission applies to children under 14, seniors 65+, active military personnel, etc. (with valid ID) – please verify eligibility when booking.