Discover Guanyan Cave: A Hidden Gem Along the Li River

Location & Access

Guanyan Cave sits along the middle section of the Li River in Guilin, China, nestled in Caoping Township, Yanshan District. It’s about a 60-minute drive south from Guilin city center, or a scenic 90-minute boat ride along the Li River. If you’re traveling by car, follow signs for “Li Jiang Zhongduan” (Middle Section of Li River)—the cave is near the riverbank, surrounded by rolling hills and rice paddies. For a hassle-free visit, many tourists opt for day tours from Guilin that include round-trip transportation and river cruises.

Natural Wonders: A Subterranean Adventure

Guanyan Cave is one of Guilin’s most breathtaking karst caves, formed over millions of years. Inside, you’ll find towering stalactites, glittering underground lakes, and vivid rock formations that look like frozen waterfalls or mythical creatures. The cave’s main hall is enormous, with ceilings so high they disappear into darkness. A wooden walkway winds through the space, lit by colorful LED lights that highlight the rocks’ natural hues—pink, gold, and emerald green. The most magical moment? When you board a small boat to glide across an underground river, surrounded by mirror-like waters and surreal limestone sculptures.

Cultural Connections

While Guanyan Cave itself isn’t tied to ancient legends, its setting along the Li River connects it to Guilin’s history as a hub for poets and artists. Local guides often share stories about how these caves inspired Chinese landscape painting, especially during the Tang Dynasty. You might spot modern calligraphy carved into stones near the entrance, blending nature with human creativity.

Getting Around the Area

The cave is part of a larger scenic area, so plan to explore nearby attractions. After visiting Guanyan Cave, walk along the riverbank to see fishermen casting nets or join a bamboo-raft tour on the Li River. If you’re driving, there’s a small parking lot near the entrance, but arrive early to avoid crowds. For food, try the local stalls outside the cave, which serve oil-tea camellia (Guilin’s signature drink) and rice-flour cakes.

Visitor-Friendly Facilities

Guanyan Cave is tourist-ready. Inside, clear signage in both Chinese and English explains the geological features, and wide pathways prevent crowding. There’s a small shop near the exit selling souvenirs like stalactite-shaped keychains and postcards. Restrooms and seating areas are available, though bring cash—some stalls don’t accept cards. The staff are used to international visitors, so don’t hesitate to ask for help snapping photos!

What to Expect During Your Visit

A typical trip to Guanyan Cave takes 2–3 hours. Start with a short hike from the parking lot to the cave entrance, where you’ll pass photogenic views of the Li River. Inside, the temperature drops, so bring a light jacket. The boat ride lasts about 15 minutes, but the sights feel endless. Be prepared for humidity—it’s damp inside, which adds to the mystical vibe but might affect electronics. Families love this spot because it’s easy to navigate, and kids often marvel at the “crystal palace” vibe.

Pro Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon avoids midday crowds and harsh sunlight.
  • Photography: Use a waterproof case for your phone near the underground river—spray from the water can mist your gear.
  • Combine with Other Stops: Nearby Xianggong Mountain and Yangshuo town make great add-ons for a full-day trip.

Guanyan Cave isn’t just a cave—it’s a window into Guilin’s iconic karst landscape. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or cultural explorer, it’s worth detouring from the Li River path to step into this otherworldly underground world. Just remember: the name “Guanyan” means “First Rock” in Chinese, hinting at its status as one of Guilin’s earliest natural wonders.