Location & Access

Rock Mountain Twelve Caves lies along the Yangtze River in Qixia District, Nanjing, near the iconic Yanzijie (Swallow Spit). To get there, take Metro Line 1 to Baima Jing station, then transfer to a local bus (lines 122 or 125) toward Yanzijie. The caves are a short walk from the riverside trail, but be prepared for steep steps! If driving, park at Yanzijie Park and follow signs to “Rock Mountain Scenic Area.”

Natural Wonders: How the Caves Were Born

The caves of Rock Mountain Twelve Caves aren’t just carved by time—they’re sculpted by the Yangtze River! Millions of years of water erosion turned this limestone cliff into a playground of grottoes. While “twelve” is the historic name, there are actually more than 20 caves hidden here. Some are tiny niches, others are massive halls. The best part? Each cave has its own personality. Head to First Terrace Cave (the closest to Yanzijide) for a mix of natural rock formations and ancient carvings.

Human Touch: History in Stone

At First Terrace Cave, you’ll spot a giant “Longevity” character (a Chinese symbol for good fortune) carved into the rock. Legend says it was brushed by Emperor Zhuangjie (Nanjing’s founder) himself! Nearby, climb up to Guanyin Pavilion, a tiny temple built in the 1380s. Inside, there’s a rare stone carving of Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) by Wu Daozi, a famous Tang artist. For a quiet moment, sit by the Middle Terrace Cave’s spring—locals call it “Guanyin’s Well”—and listen to dripping water echo through the rocks.

Adventure Tips: What to Expect

Hiking here isn’t easy, but the views are worth it. Start at First Terrace Cave, then trek west along the cliffside path. In about 10 minutes, you’ll reach Second Terrace Cave, a maze of smaller caves within caves. Bring a flashlight—some tunnels get pitch-dark! The real showstopper is Third Terrace Cave, split into three levels. Climb wooden stairs to the top, where Jade Emperor Pavilion waits. On clear days, the River Gazing Tower offers a bird’s-eye view of the Yangtze curving toward the horizon.

Facilities for Explorers

Don’t worry about getting lost—signs in English and Chinese guide the way. Wear grippy shoes; the rocks can be slippery. Bring water (no shops inside the caves), and visit on a sunny day for the best photos. If you’re tired, rest at pavilions near Third Terrace Cave. Note: Some paths are narrow, so avoid peak hours if you dislike crowds.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

Rock Mountain Twelve Caves feels like a secret world. You’ll walk where emperors once carved symbols, where monks prayed, and where the river’s roar meets silent caves. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s stepping back in time while standing on a cliff with endless sky and water. Perfect for travelers who love nature, history, and a little adventure!

Use keywords like Rock Mountain Twelve Caves, Yanzijie, Yangtze River, Guanyin Pavilion, and River Gazing Tower to plan your visit. Happy exploring!