Lingyan Cave

Introducing Yeongam Cave

Lingyan Cave National Forest Park is a scenic spot that integrates natural and cultural landscapes. It is mainly divided into the Lingyan Caves Scenic Area, the Shicheng Ancient Trees Scenic Area, and the Ecological Tea Garden Scenic Area. It has recently been rated as a national AAAA-level scenic spot.

Climate and best time to travel

The county is located in the mid-subtropics and has the characteristics of the East Asian monsoon zone. It has a mild climate, abundant rainfall, a short frost period, and distinct four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lingyan Caves

The "Fang Yu Sheng Lan" (Fang Yu Sheng Lan) records that the caves, some large and majestic, others small and exquisite, feature clear springs, a playful interplay of water and rock, and a dazzling array of stalagmites, stone flowers, stone pillars, and stone curtains. Hundreds of scenic spots are also featured, including Penglai Fairy Pavilion, Jinque Yaochi, Yungu Youlong, Tianchi Lotus Fragrance, and Longmen Xieyu. Even more remarkable are the over 2,000 inscriptions preserved among the caves, including those by Yue Fei, Zhu Xi of the Wu Hui era, Lu Pan, the Imperial Censor in the 11th year of the Tang Dynasty's Dazhong reign, and Dai Xian of the Ming Dynasty, which date back to the Tang Dynasty.

Shicheng Famous Trees and Ancient Forests

Nearly 100 mu (approximately 16 acres) of ancient pines adorn the entrance of Shicheng Village, while around the village stand nearly 100 ancient maples, mountain cherry trees, ginkgo trees, Torreya grandis, yew trees, Chinese cedar trees, nanmu trees, locust trees, Castanopsis chinensis, scabra trees, and Hangzhou elms. Seventeen magnolia trees, some over a thousand years old, are particularly prominent in this area. Surrounded by mountains, the area boasts evergreen trees, gurgling water, and fragrant birdsong, making it an ideal destination for leisure, summer retreats, recuperation, and hunting.

Ecological Tea Garden Scenic Area

Located between the Lingyan Cave Scenic Area and the Shicheng Ancient and Famous Trees Scenic Area, the tea plantation spans 1,020 mu (approximately 1,020 acres) and is spread across a mountain slope shrouded in perpetual mist. A hundred-mu stone forest nestled within the tea plantation resembles a vast army, earning the nickname "Ten Thousand Horses Galloping." This truly remarkable stone forest, high on the periphery and low in the middle, resembles a basin. Rising from this small basin, the stone forest offers some towering, solitary figures, others huddled together, and still others clustered in clusters. During the first year of Shaoxing in the Southern Song Dynasty, Yue Fei, while leading his troops through Fuliang during his campaign against Li Cheng, stood on a ridge, gazing down at the stone forest shrouded in the morning mist. He exclaimed in awe, and with a spear, he carved the two characters "Guan Zhi" (Amazing View) into the high wall.

Surrounded by lush forests, the tea garden is filled with the fragrance of flowers and wild fruits year-round. The air is fresh and the environment is elegant. Certified by the Tea Research Center of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, this is an excellent base for producing organic tea. Currently, the ecological tea garden produces premium organic teas such as Wuyuan Mingmei, Jianfeng, Xianming, and Tianxiang (specially supplied tea). These teas, known for their beautiful appearance, bright tea, rich fragrance, and intense flavor, are popular both domestically and internationally. The ecological tea garden combines modern technology with ancient civilization, offering both production and processing as well as leisure and entertainment opportunities.

Tickets

50 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00 (peak season, March-November)

8:00-17:30 (off-season, December-February)

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Most Popular FAQs for Lingyan Cave

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Lingyan Cave is a historically and geologically significant site in Shangrao, Jiangxi, known for its limestone formations and cultural folklore. It has been a site of local religious practices and natural exploration for centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Shangrao, Jiangxi Province. Accessible via local buses or taxis from the city center. Walking is required within the cave area to explore safely.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open year-round. The best visiting times are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures inside the cave.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is generally modest, payable at the site. Online booking may be available through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is not strictly necessary, except during peak holiday seasons; 1–2 days in advance is sufficient if booking online.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1.5–3 hours, depending on whether you explore surrounding trails and cultural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main cavern with large stalactites and stalagmites
• Smaller side chambers with unique rock formations
• Entrance area with scenic viewpoints
• Nearby temples or shrines

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are generally available in Chinese. English or other language tours may be limited, so self-guided exploration is common for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Entrance of the cave for exterior landscape shots
• Main cavern interior for dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations
• Overlooking surrounding hills and rivers

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance → Explore the central cavern → Visit side chambers → Exit and walk surrounding trails for scenic views → Optional visit to nearby temples.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are usually not permitted. Light shows are uncommon, but special tours or cultural events may be offered during local festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays and mornings are least crowded. Holidays and weekends can be busier.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, benches, small refreshment stalls, and souvenir shops are available near the entrance and parking areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessible to elderly and children with caution. Some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users due to uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments and cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is recommended for small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries and snack stalls are available near the cave entrance and along access roads, offering regional Jiangxi cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available; vegan and halal options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are located within 5–10 km of the site, convenient for overnight stays.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Qinghua Town
• Shangrao Concentration Camp
• Xinjian Academy

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local crafts, small stone carvings, postcards, and snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, ride-hailing apps, or local buses are convenient for continuing travel to nearby towns or returning to Shangrao city center.