Longyou Caves — the mystery of ancient engineers
龙游石窟 (Longyou Caves) are a unique archaeological site in Zhejiang Province, consisting of a network of giant underground caves entirely hand-carved from sandstone. Discovered only in 1992, these caves remain one of China's greatest mysteries. Who, when, and why created these monumental underground halls — historians still cannot give a definitive answer.
What awaits you inside: You will see 5 cave halls open to visitors with perfectly smooth walls, massive stone columns, and mysterious drawings. Each hall has a unique shape and size, and the construction technologies were ahead of their time. In some caves, ancient inscriptions and tool marks have been preserved, which scientists from around the world continue to study.
Attractions
What to expect
- Meeting and transfer — we will pick you up from Xinzhuang metro station in Shanghai and head to Longyou (龙游) by car.
- Visit to 龙游石窟 — you will find yourself in underground halls hand-carved from sandstone. See 5 open caves with perfectly smooth walls and massive columns.
- Mysteries of the ancient builders — the guide will tell you about the mysteries of the caves: unknown technologies, the absence of historical records, and theories of their origin.
- Examination of unique drawings — geometric patterns, animals and inscriptions are preserved on the walls, the meaning of which is still unsolved.
- Lunch at an authentic restaurant — try local cuisine: famous Longyou tofu, bamboo dishes, and fresh vegetables from farms.
- Longyou Ancient Town (龙游古镇) (optional) — walk along ancient streets with traditional Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.
- Shensu Temple (神速寺) (optional) — visit an ancient Buddhist temple at the foot of the mountain.
- Rice terraces (optional) — scenic landscapes with cascading fields, especially beautiful during the harvest season.
- Flexible itinerary — the guide will adjust the program to your interests so you can see exactly what you want.
- Return to Shanghai — after a full day, we will take you back to the metro station.
- Photos and tips to remember — the guide will help with the best angles and give recommendations for further travels in China.
Sample itinerary
*Times and order may be adjusted depending on traffic and the group's pace.
| Time | Program stage | Details and what to know |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from Shanghai by car with guide. | Meeting at Xinzhuang metro station. Drive to Longyou Caves (龙游) takes ~4 hours with one stop. |
| ~11:00 | Arrival at 龙游石窟 (Longyou Caves). | Immersion into the underground world. Giant halls with columns, perfectly smooth walls, and a mysterious atmosphere await. |
| 11:00 - 13:00 | Visit 5 cave halls, photo session, learning about history. | Time for detailed exploration of each hall. The guide will show ancient drawings and tool marks. |
| 13:00 - 14:00 | Lunch at a local restaurant. | Try local cuisine: Longyou tofu, bamboo dishes, fresh vegetables and meat. Vegetarian options available. |
| 14:00 - 16:00 | Optional additional program — visit one of the nearby attractions. | Options: Longyou Ancient Town (龙游古镇) (20 min, ancient streets), Shensu Temple (神速寺) (15 min, Buddhist temple), or rice terraces (30 min, scenic landscapes). The guide will help choose the best option for your interests. |
| 16:00 | Gather and start the return trip to Shanghai. | Depart to return with a comfortable time margin. |
| ~20:00 - 20:30 | Arrival in Shanghai. | You will be taken to the metro station. |
💡 Important notes for the route:
- Alternative option – train + taxi: Depart Shanghai at 07:41, arrive in Longyou (龙游) at 09:15. Then taxi to the caves (20 min). After the visit – lunch in the city. Return train at 18:05. This option requires prior arrangement with the taxi driver.
- Comfortable shoes are essential: The cave area has uneven terrain, wet areas, and steps. Non-slip footwear is recommended.
- Temperature in the caves: It stays cool year-round (about 16–18°C). Bring a light jacket or sweater.
- Photography: Allowed without flash. Some halls have dim lighting — use a tripod or high camera sensitivity.
- Additional expenses: Entrance ticket to the caves (~65¥), to Qiantong (~70¥) or Wushan (~80¥) are paid separately if you choose these places.
Price & conditions
Tour price
Train + taxi
EconomyMeet at the station, help with taxi, accompaniment. Guide services for the full day.
By car
ComfortCar (sedan) with driver from Shanghai and back, all transfers according to program.
Additional expenses (paid on site)
- Entrance to 龙游石窟 (Longyou Caves)65¥ (~$9)
- Longyou Ancient Town (龙游古镇)50¥ (~$7)
- Shensu Temple (神速寺)30¥ (~$4)
- Lunch (local restaurant)80¥ (~$11)
- Taxi in Longyou (for train option)~100¥ (~$14 per car)
- Train tickets Shanghai–Longyou (round trip)~300¥ (~$42)
Duration
Extra services
What else to see nearby
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
The stated prices are valid at the time of the offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.
Booking is made exclusively after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current Central Bank rate on the date of payment.
If a booking is cancelled less than 48 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non-refundable.
In the event of force majeure circumstances that make the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, official events, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.
The basic cost of services does not include and is paid additionally: entrance tickets to additional venues, meals, personal expenses and other services listed in the "Additional expenses" section.
