Location & Accessibility

Julong Pool (Julong Pool) is nestled in Li Village, Gaotian Town, Yangshuo County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Yangshuo downtown, near the famous Yulong River. To get there, you can:

  • By car: Use导航apps like Baidu Maps or Google Maps, and search “Julong Pool” for precise directions.
  • By bus: Take the Yangshuo–Gaotian town bus (Line 501) and ask the driver to drop you at Li Village.
  • By bike: Rent an e-bike in Yangshuo and follow the scenic riverside path—it’s a flat, enjoyable ride!

Natural Wonders: A Cave Like No Other

Julong Pool stands out because it’s the only cave in Yangshuo where you can explore both by boat and on foot. The cave is split into two parts: Black Rock Cave (dry) and Water Rock Cave (wet). Here’s what makes it special:

  • 1⁄4 of the tour is by boat: Glide through underground rivers surrounded by towering stalactites. Think of it as a “river cruise” inside a mountain!
  • Dragon-themed formations: Stalagmites and stalactites twist like dragons, with names like “Dragon Soaring” or “Dragon’s Tail.”
  • A “best-of” geology gallery: You’ll spot everything from tiny stone flowers to massive underground waterfalls. Don’t miss the “Dragon Palace,” where lights highlight colorful rock layers.

What to Expect: The Tour Experience

  • Walk + Boat combo: After a short boat ride, you’ll switch to walking on wooden planks through the Black Rock Cave. The transition feels like moving from a water world to a forest of rocks!
  • Photography tips: Bring a waterproof camera for the boat ride, and use your flash in the dim areas—the glowing rock textures are worth it!
  • Time needed: Plan for 1.5–2 hours. The path is mostly flat, but watch your step on slippery boat docks.

Offbeat Highlights: Beyond the Basics

  • Rare “穴珠” (cave pearls): Tiny, round stones found only in a few caves worldwide. Look closely near the water’s edge!
  • Echo chambers: Clap or shout in certain spots to hear strange acoustic effects—kids love this!
  • Seasonal magic: After heavy rain, the underground river flows faster, creating dynamic water sounds.

Practicalities: Tickets, Hours, & More

  • Tickets: Around 60 RMB (~$8 USD) for adults, cheaper for students. Buy online to skip lines.
  • Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM–5:30 PM. Go early to avoid crowds, especially during holidays.
  • Guides: English-speaking guides are available for ~200 RMB/group. Otherwise, borrow the free audio guide.
  • Amenities: Clean restrooms, a gift shop with local snacks (try the sugar plump leaves!), and shaded resting areas.

Who Should Visit?

Julong Pool is perfect for:

  • Families with kids aged 6+ (they’ll love the boat ride and “dragon” shapes).
  • Photography enthusiasts (bring a wide-angle lens for stalactite shots).
  • Couples seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path date.

But avoid it if: You have knee issues or mobility problems—the boat docks are steep, and the cave floors are uneven.

Pro Tips

  • Wear防滑shoes. The boat area gets drippy, and the walkway has natural cracks.
  • Bring a light jacket—it’s cool and damp inside, even in summer.
  • Pair Julong Pool with a nearby village visit (like Jiuxian Village) for a full day of adventure!

This hidden gem combines the best of Yangshuo’s karst landscapes with interactive fun. Just be ready to duck, climb, and splash your way through Julong Pool’s dragon-filled world!