Tucked away in the karst landscapes of Guizhou Province, Zhijin Cave National Geopark is a geological marvel and a UNESCO Global Geopark, celebrated as the “King of Karst Caves.” Located in Zhijin County, this magnificent limestone cave system stretches over 12 kilometers, showcasing a dazzling array of stalactites, stalagmites, and other karst formations. Known for its ethereal beauty and vast underground chambers, Zhijin Cave is a must-visit for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking to explore China’s hidden wonders. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to this subterranean masterpiece.
A Travel Guide to Zhijin Cave National Geopark
Why Visit Zhijin Cave National Geopark?
Zhijin Cave, also known as Zhijindong Cave, is one of the world’s most spectacular karst caves, earning accolades as China’s “Most Beautiful Tourist Cave” by Chinese National Geography. Its immense scale—spanning 700,000 square meters with caverns up to 175 meters wide and 150 meters tall—sets it apart from other famous caves like Guilin’s Reed Flute Cave or Zhangjiajie’s Yellow Dragon Cave. The cave’s 40+ types of karst formations, including the iconic 17-meter-tall “Silver Rain Tree” crystal, create a fairytale-like underground palace. Beyond the cave, the geopark encompasses scenic areas like Qijiehe River and Dongfenghu Lake, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences with nearby Miao, Yi, and Buyi ethnic minority villages.
How to Get There
Zhijin Cave is located in Guanzhai Miao Ethnic Village, Zhijin County, Bijie City, approximately 120 km (75 miles) from Guiyang, Guizhou’s capital. Here are the main transportation options:
By High-Speed Train + Taxi: Take a high-speed train from Guiyang North Railway Station to Qianxi Railway Station (30–60 minutes, ¥30–50). From Qianxi, hire a taxi or private car to Zhijin Cave (40 minutes, ~¥100). High-speed trains connect Guiyang to major cities like Chongqing (2.5–5 hours), Chengdu (3–3.5 hours), and Kunming (3–3.5 hours).
By Normal Train + Taxi/Bus: From Guiyang Railway Station, take a normal train to Zhijin Railway Station (3 hours, ¥20–40). Then, take a taxi or minibus to the cave (30 minutes, ¥20–50). Special trains (e.g., K9475/K9476) from Guiyang to Zhijin operate daily, departing at 8:47 AM or 3:12 PM, with a travel time of ~2.5 hours.
By Bus: From Guiyang Jinyang Bus Station, take a long-distance bus to Zhijin County (2–3 hours, ¥50–70). From Zhijin, transfer to a taxi or minibus to the cave (30 minutes, ¥20–30). Alternatively, get off at Sanjia Township and take a minibus to the cave.
By Car: Drive from Guiyang via the Qian-zhi Expressway (2–2.5 hours). The geopark has parking facilities near the entrance (¥5–10/hour). The cave is also 100 km (2 hours) from Huangguoshu Waterfall and 142 km (2.5 hours) from Bijie City.
Tip: Book train tickets in advance via Ctrip or China Railway’s official app, especially during peak seasons. For convenience, consider a private tour package from Guiyang that includes transfers.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: The cave maintains a constant temperature of 10–16°C, making it a comfortable visit any time of year. Its subtropical plateau climate ensures cool, damp conditions inside.
Optimal Seasons: Spring (March–April): Mild weather and blooming landscapes (e.g., cherry and cuckoo flowers) enhance the surrounding scenery. Ideal for photography tours. Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and pleasant temperatures make for comfortable exploration. Summer (June–August): The cave offers a cool respite from Guizhou’s heat, but expect higher humidity and occasional rain. Winter (December–February): Quieter with fewer crowds, though the surrounding area may be chilly (5–10°C).
Note: Avoid national holidays like Chinese New Year (January/February) and National Day (early October) to dodge crowds. The cave’s interior can be wet, so wear non-slip shoes year-round.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: March–November: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM); December–February: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
Ticket Prices: General admission: ¥110 (March–November); ¥100 (December–February); Discounts: ¥55 for students, seniors (60+), and children (1.2–1.4 meters); free for children under 1.2 meters. Guided tours (mandatory) are included in the ticket price, with English-speaking guides available upon request.
Booking: Purchase tickets on-site or via platforms like Ctrip or WeChat. During peak seasons, book in advance to secure a spot, as daily visitor numbers are capped to protect the cave.
What to See and Do
Zhijin Cave is the centerpieceProve that this is impossible. of the geopark, but the surrounding areas add depth to your visit. Here’s what to explore:
Zhijin Cave Exploration: The cave is divided into 10 scenic zones, including Yingbin Hall, Pagoda Forest, Wanshou Palace, and Guanghan Palace. The Yingbin Hall features a sunlight-pierced ceiling with moss and dripping water, resembling falling coins. Marvel at formations like the “Silver Rain Tree” (a 17-meter crystal), “Helmet Overlord” (featured in Times Square in 2017), and shapes resembling lions, pagodas, and palaces, formed over 500,000 years. The 3–4-hour tour covers ~3 km, involving 2,000 steps and wet paths. A midpoint climb may be challenging for some, so pace yourself.
Zhijin Cave Museum: Learn about the cave’s geological, ecological, and cultural history through seven themed exhibits, including karst formation processes and regional biodiversity. Ideal for science enthusiasts.
Ethnic Minority Villages: Visit nearby Miao, Yi, and Buyi villages to experience local crafts (e.g., batik, horsetail embroidery) and festivals like the Miao’s Tiaohua Festival or Yi’s Torch Festival. Enjoy Miao cuisine and Lusheng dance performances.
Other Scenic Areas: Explore Qijiehe River Scenic Area for gorges and natural bridges or Dongfenghu Lake Scenic Area for tranquil karst landscapes. These complement the cave’s underground wonders.
Zhijin Ancient City: Located 23 km away, this historical town, dubbed “small Guilin,” features temples, stone bridges, and rugged mountains. Visit cultural relics like the Nawei residence or Shexiang lady’s tomb.
Where to Eat
On-Site: The geopark has basic canteens near the entrance, offering Guizhou specialties like spicy noodles, grilled fish, and bamboo fungus dishes (¥15–30). Options are limited, so consider bringing snacks.
Nearby: In Zhijin County, try local restaurants for Miao sour soup or spicy BBQ. For more variety, head to Guiyang (2 hours away) for upscale dining.
Tip: Pack water and eco-friendly snacks for the cave tour, as facilities inside are minimal.
Where to Stay
Zhijin County: Budget hotels and guesthouses like Zhijin Hotel or Jinlong Hotel offer rooms for ¥100–300/night. Book via Ctrip or Booking.com.
Guiyang (2 hours away): For luxury, stay at Hyatt Regency Guiyang or Sheraton Guiyang (¥500–800/night). Mid-range options include Holiday Inn Guiyang (¥300–500/night).
Bijie City (2.5 hours away): Hotels like Bijie Grand Hotel provide comfort for ¥200–400/night.
Tip: Stay in Zhijin for convenience or Guiyang for better amenities. Book early during peak seasons.
Tips for a Great Visit
Wear Appropriate Gear: Non-slip shoes, comfortable clothing, and a light jacket are essential due to wet floors and cool temperatures. Bring a waterproof bag for electronics. Photography: The cave’s colorful lighting enhances photos, but tripods may require a permit. Standard cameras struggle in low light, so use a high-ISO setting or rely on tour guides’ photos.
Respect the Environment: Avoid touching formations or littering to preserve the cave’s delicate ecosystem. Follow guide instructions closely. Plan Your Time: The cave tour takes 3–4 hours, so arrive early (9–10 AM) to avoid crowds. Combine with nearby attractions like Huangguoshu Waterfall or Dragon Palace Cave for a multi-day trip. Health Note: The tour involves climbing and uneven paths. Those with mobility issues or respiratory conditions should consult guides for accessibility options.
Final Thoughts
Zhijin Cave National Geopark is a breathtaking journey into nature’s underground artistry, where karst wonders and cultural heritage converge. From the awe-inspiring “Silver Rain Tree” to the vibrant Miao villages, this UNESCO Global Geopark offers an unforgettable adventure. Plan your visit around spring or autumn, arrive prepared for wet conditions, and immerse yourself in one of China’s most magnificent natural treasures. Pair your trip with Guizhou’s other gems like Huangguoshu Waterfall for a complete exploration of this karst kingdom.
Happy travels!
