Yaolin Xianjing: Underground Palace of the Immortals
Yaolin Xianjing (瑶琳仙境) is the main karst cave of Zhejiang Province, known as the "Wonderland of Immortals". Discovered in 1979, it has since become one of the most visited attractions in Eastern China. The cave is about 100,000 years old and consists of five huge halls connected by galleries.
Inside you will see fantastic stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights, a 7-meter "Milky Way Waterfall" made of calcite, underground lakes, and unusual rock formations. The temperature is +17°C all year round — a pleasant escape from summer heat and a cozy warmth in winter. Light and sound shows create a complete illusion of magic.
Underground halls and wonders of Yaolin
What to expect
- Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~3.5 hours drive (260 km) with one stop.
- Arrival at Yaolin Xianjing (~10:30) — ticket purchase, restroom, briefing by the guide.
- Enter the cave (11:00) — start the tour through five halls (route length 1.5 km).
- Cave exploration (11:00–13:00) — halls "Six Palaces", "Milky Way Waterfall" (7 m), "Forest of Stalagmites", underground lake, light show.
- Lunch (13:00–14:00) — traditional Chinese lunch at the restaurant near the entrance (local cuisine).
- Free time / additional activities (14:00–15:30) — visit the rock garden, souvenir shopping, tea ceremony.
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–19:00) — approximate arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 19:00.
Sample tour program (1 day)
*Option available by train Shanghai–Tonglu (桐庐) + taxi to the cave (~15 minutes).
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) 260 km road, ~3.5 hours, one 15-minute stop. | |
| 10:30 | Arrival at Yaolin Scenic Area Restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package). | |
| 11:00 | Enter the cave Start of the walking route (1.5 km). Temperature +17°C, recommend a sweater. | |
| 11:00–12:45 | Cave halls tour Halls 1–5: "Six Palaces", "Milky Way Waterfall", "Forest of Stalagmites", "Jade Palace", "Stone Garden". Light and music shows. | |
| 12:45–13:45 | Lunch Restaurant at the cave exit. Dishes: braised pork, rice, vegetables, tea. | |
| 13:45–15:00 | Free time / rock garden Walk through the scenic park above the cave, souvenir shop, tea ceremony. | |
| 15:00 | Gathering and departure to Shanghai Estimated departure time. | |
| ~19:00 | Arrival in Shanghai Drop-off at Xinzhuang metro station. (Time may vary due to traffic jams). |
💡 Important notes:
- Be sure to bring a warm sweater or light jacket — the cave is constantly +17°C with high humidity.
- Comfortable non-slip shoes (paths are concrete but can be damp).
- Passport, cash in yuan (cards not accepted everywhere), water, camera, umbrella (in case of rain).
- The tour is suitable for all ages (flat paths, no steep climbs).
Price and conditions
Tour price
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets you at the entrance, assistance with tickets. Transfer to the station on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
Additional expenses per person
- Cave entrance ticket120¥ (~$16)
- Electric car from parking to entrance (optional)15¥ (~$2)
- Lunch at restaurant70¥ (~$10)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Tonglu (round trip, 2nd class)~250¥ (~$35)
- Taxi from station to cave (round trip, per group)~80¥ (~$11)
Duration
Additional services
Other nearby attractions
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours before – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets are purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to change the program due to weather conditions or force majeure.
