Location & How to Get There

Gulangyu Scenic Area-Twelve Caves is tucked inside Shuzhuang Garden (a historic park on Gulangyu Island, Xiamen). The exact address is No. 7 Ganghou Road, Siming District, Fujian Province. To reach here, take the ferry from Xiamen Island to Gulangyu (a 20-minute ride), then walk or hop on a rickshaw to Shuzhuang Garden. The entrance to Twelve Caves is on the east side of the garden, near the coastal path. If you’re exploring Gulangyu’s main attractions like the Piano Museum or Sunlight Rock, this spot makes a perfect detour.

Natural Wonders: Rock Formations & Maze

The heart of Gulangyu Scenic Area-Twelve Caves is its colorful rockery—a towering structure made of sandstone, limestone, and gravel rocks stacked into a labyrinth. The design mimics a mountain with 12 cave chambers, each labeled with traditional Chinese zodiac symbols (like “Rat,” “Ox,” etc.). What makes it unique? The rocks form a twist-and-turn maze that’s easy to get lost in—locals even call it the “Mind-Bender Cave”! Some chambers are so tight you’ll need to duck, while others offer peeks at the coastline through cleverly placed gaps.

Cultural Charm: Zodiac Hunt

Here’s the fun part: stone carvings of all 12 Chinese zodiac animals are hidden throughout the caves. At the entrance, life-sized statues of the zodiac greet you, but the real challenge begins inside! Your mission? Find all 12 animal sculptures as you crawl, climb, and squeeze through the tunnels. Kids love this scavenger-hunt vibe, and adults appreciate the blend of nature and folklore. Pro tip: Look up! Some sculptures are tucked in overhead nooks.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Tickets: Included in Shuzhuang Garden’s entry fee (~¥30).
  • Best Time: Mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
  • What to Bring: Comfy shoes (trust us—your feet will thank you), a phone flashlight (some caves are dim), and curiosity!
  • Photo Spots: The coastal views from the garden’s upper levels make a great backdrop for photos. Inside the caves, snap pics of the quirkiest rock formations or your zodiac animal.

Why It’s Worth a Detour

Gulangyu Scenic Area-Twelve Caves isn’t just a pretty rock pile—it’s an interactive adventure. Unlike typical tourist traps, this spot combines natural beauty, puzzle-like fun, and a peek into Chinese zodiac culture. Families, couples, and solo explorers all find something here: kids relish the hunt, history buffs dig the zodiac theme, and photographers love the dramatic coastal contrasts. Plus, it’s refreshingly off-the-beaten-path compared to Gulangyu’s busier sites.

Afterward, grab ice cream at a nearby stall or stroll to the beach for a post-adventure cooldown. Whether you’re a maze master or a casual wanderer, Gulangyu Scenic Area-Twelve Caves adds a playful twist to your island escape.