Yixing (宜兴) – bamboo sea and caves
Yixing (宜兴) — the "ceramics capital" and land of bamboo forests. In just one day you will walk through the endless bamboo sea and descend into magical karst caves with underground rivers. An ideal one-day trip from Shanghai for nature lovers!
Bamboo sea
Karst caves
From Shanghai by train
Attractions
What to expect in the one-day tour
- Morning departure from Shanghai — meeting at Hongqiao station, high-speed train to Yixing (2–2.5 h).
- Arrival in Yixing — transfer to the bamboo sea, walk in the forest, cable car to the viewpoint.
- Lunch with local cuisine — dishes made from bamboo shoots, Taihu Lake fish.
- Visit to Shanjuan Cave — one of China's three greatest caves, underground river boat ride.
- Free time — optional visit to a pottery workshop or a walk around the surroundings (additional fee).
- Evening return to Shanghai — train departs around 19:30, arrival around 22:00.
Sample daily schedule
*Times and program may be adjusted depending on weather and group pace.
| Time | Program stage | Details and transport |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Meeting at Hongqiao station Meeting with guide, boarding train G1373 (07:30). | |
| 10:00 | Arrival at Yixing station Exit the train, meet the driver. | |
| 10:30–13:00 | Yixing Bamboo Sea (宜兴竹海) Walk in the forest, cable car ascent (entrance 80¥). Up to 2.5 hours for a relaxed visit. | |
| 13:00–14:00 | Lunch Traditional cuisine at a restaurant near the bamboo forest. | |
| 14:30–16:30 | Shanjuan Cave (善卷洞) Entrance 130¥, walk through the cave, underground river boat ride. | |
| 16:30–18:00 | Free time / optional Pottery workshop (extra fee, 150¥/person, 1 h) or a walk in the historic district. | |
| 18:00 | Transfer to station Departure by train (G1384, 19:30). Time margin included. | |
| 22:00 | Arrival in Shanghai Tour ends. |
💡 Important notes:
- Train tickets must be purchased in advance.
- It is cool in the caves — bring a light jacket.
- Comfortable shoes are a must.
- The pottery workshop is available upon prior request (book 2 weeks in advance).
Price and conditions
💰
Tour price
Train + taxiEconomy
Guide services, ticket assistance, full-day accompaniment.
$320per group 1–3 people
Transport, entrance tickets, meals – separate
By carComfort
By car from Shanghai for the whole day.
$450per group 1–3 people
Tickets, meals – separate
🎫
Estimated expenses per person
Train Shanghai–Yixing (round trip, 2nd class)~420¥ (~$60)
Entrance tickets (bamboo + cave)~210¥ (~$30)
Meals (lunch, dinner)~150¥ (~$21)
Local transfers~100¥ (~$14)
Pottery workshop (optional)~150¥ (~$21)
⏱️
Duration
1 day
morning departure, evening return (~15 hours)
✨
Additional services
✈️
Shanghai airport transfer
+$100
📸
Photo session
+$80
🚗
Minivan rental
+$80
🏺
Zisha (purple clay) pottery workshop1 hour, materials included
+150¥/person
📍
Other nearby attractions
Taihu Lake (太湖)
Scenic views, boat trips. 30 km.
Ceramics Museum (中国宜兴陶瓷博物馆)
Zisha culture center, exhibits, workshop. 15 km.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour last?
Full day: departure from Shanghai around 7 am, return around 10 pm.
Is it difficult to move around the caves?
The caves are equipped with paths and lighting, but there are stairs. Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are essential.
Can we add a pottery workshop?
Yes, by prior request we can arrange a workshop at a local studio (1–1.5 hours). Additional fee ~150¥/person.
Which return train is better?
We recommend tickets for G1384 (19:30) or later to avoid rushing. We can help with purchase if needed.
Important information
Prices are valid at the time of creation. Ticket prices may change. Booking after prepayment. Cancellation less than 7 days before the tour is non-refundable.
