Location & How to Get There
Moon Water Rock, one of Guilin’s hidden gems, sits in Pingtan Village at the end of Yangshuo’s Ten-Mile Gallery. The address might sound tricky, but it’s easy to find: look for the County Road 098 in Gaotan Town, Yangshuo County, and spot the entrance 100 meters south. It’s just 2 kilometers from the famous Moon Hill, so you can visit both in one trip!
To reach Moon Water Rock, head to the ticket office at Moon Hill Scenic Area first. They’ll arrange a shuttle to drop you 3.5 kilometers away at the cave’s entrance. If you’re driving, GPS “Pingtan Village” and follow signs for Moon Water Rock—the road is straightforward.
What to Expect: Nature’s Masterpiece
This isn’t your average cave. Moon Water Rock is Yangshuo’s largest crystal-river cave, stretching 6 kilometers through 8 mountains. The moment you step inside, you’ll feel like you’re entering a fantasy world. Imagine towering stalactites shaped like monsters, glittering crystal pools, and a river that winds through the cave like a silk ribbon. The entrance itself looks like a huge round moon, which is why it got its name—talk about nature’s perfect symbolism!
The best time to visit is between April and November, when the weather is warm and the cave’s humidity feels refreshing instead of clammy. Bring a swimsuit and sturdy shoes—you’ll want them for the fun part!
Adventure Inside: How to Explore
There’s no “right” way to experience Moon Water Rock. You can boat along the underground river for about 300 meters, paddle through crystal-clear waters, or even swim if you’re feeling brave. Adrenaline junkies will love the 3-meter jump into a pool (don’t worry, it’s deep!) or testing their balance on a rope bridge over the water.
The route is cleverly designed: you enter through one mouth of the “moon” and exit through another, so you never backtrack. The full loop is about 3 kilometers, taking 1.5 to 3 hours depending on how many photos you snap or splashy detours you take. If you’re not into boats, you can wade through shallow parts or walk a dry path—it’s all up to you!
Practical Tips: Plan Like a Pro
The cave is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, so plan your visit early to avoid crowds. Tickets are sold exclusively at the Moon Hill Scenic Area, so grab yours before heading here. The shuttle service saves time, but if you drive, parking is available near the entrance.
Bring cash for souvenirs (local vendors sell cool crystal-shaped trinkets) and snacks, though there’s a small shop inside the cave too. Wear waterproof shoes—your feet will get wet whether you’re boating or wading. And don’t forget a waterproof camera or phone case—the lighting inside is magical, especially when sunlight streams through the moon-shaped openings!
Why Moon Water Rock Stands Out
What makes Moon Water Rock special? It’s not just the size or the crystals (though those are pretty epic). It’s the mix of natural beauty and playful activities. You can go from taking serene photos of stalactites to laughing with friends as you try (and maybe fail) the rope bridge. It’s the kind of place where kids and adults both lose track of time.
Plus, the cave’s layout—entering through one “door” and exiting through another—gives a sense of accomplishment. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve conquered a mini-adventure, not just ticked off a tourist spot.
Ready to explore? Moon Water Rock is waiting to surprise you with its wild landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and just enough thrill to make your trip unforgettable. Pack your sense of wonder—and maybe a change of clothes—and dive into this underground wonder!
