Location & Transportation

Seven Star Cave, located inside the Seven Star Scenic Area at 1 Qixing Road, Qixing District, Guilin, Guangxi, is a must-visit gem within the city’s famous Seven Star Park. To get there, take a taxi or bus to Qixing Park Station—it’s hard to miss the iconic seven-peaked hills that give the park its name. If you’re staying downtown, it’s just a 15-minute ride. For an eco-friendly option, rent a bike and pedal through the scenic paths leading to the cave’s entrance.

Natural Wonders: A Million-Year-Old Mystery

Seven Star Cave isn’t just any cave—it’s a 1-million-year-old underground riverbed frozen in time! Imagine walking through a tunnel carved by ancient water flows. The cave has three layers, but the middle layer (now open to visitors) is the real showstopper. Stretching 814 meters, it’s packed with glittering stalactites, stone pillars, and a hidden underground lake. Some passages are so narrow you’ll need to squeeze through, while others open up into towering chambers. The best part? It’s kept naturally cool, making it a perfect escape from Guilin’s heat.

Cultural History: Names Through the Ages

This cave has stories to tell! In ancient China, it was called Xixia Cave during the Sui and Tang dynasties, then Immortal Li Rock and Azure Sky Cave in the Song era. Today, locals still call it Qixing Cave, but its nickname “Stone Palace” stuck too. Emperors and poets once visited, leaving poems and carvings on the walls—so while you’re gawking at the rock formations, you’re also standing where Chinese royalty stood centuries ago!

What to Expect Inside

The middle layer of Seven Star Cave is like a natural art gallery. Highlights include:

  • Glittering “Starry Sky” Chambers: Named after the Seven Star Hills outside, these rooms sparkle with mineral-coated rocks.
  • Underground River Relics: Look down! The lower layer still has a tiny, active stream—proof the cave’s still alive.
  • Fantasy-Worthy Formations: Rocks shaped like dragons, fairies, and even a giant lotus make you wonder if elves live here.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Entrance Fee: Included in the Seven Star Park ticket (around 50 RMB), or buy a combo ticket for multiple attractions.
  • Guided Tours: English-speaking guides are available but not essential—clear signs and crowds usually lead the way.
  • Footwear: Wear grippy shoes! The limestone floors can get slippery, and some steps are steep.
  • Photo Ops: The dim lighting adds drama, but bring a flashlight (or use your phone) to spot hidden details.

Nearby Attractions & Amenities

After exploring Seven Star Cave, don’t miss the Seven Star Hill tower right outside—climb for panoramic views. The park also has a botanical garden, zoo, and lakeside cafes. For snacks, try Guilin rice cakes or soy milk from vendors near the entrance. Restrooms and gift shops are plentiful, though avoid buying overpriced “souvenir rocks” unless you’re a die-hard collector!

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Seven Star Cave isn’t just a cave—it’s a time capsule of nature and history. Whether you’re into geology, photography, or fairy-tale vibes, it’s got something for everyone. Plan to spend 1–2 hours inside, then explore the rest of Seven Star Park. Pro tip: Visit early or late in the day to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise/sunset lighting on the cave’s entrance—trust us, it’s Instagram gold!