Zhanggong Cave (å¼ å…¬æ´ž), also known as Gengsang Cave (庚桑洞), stands as one of the three natural wonders of Yixing, a city renowned for its limestone karst landscapes. Nestled at the foothills of Mengfeng Mountain to the west of Yixing, this captivating cave has a history that spans centuries.
In the Spring and Autumn period, a hermit named Gengsang chose to live in seclusion within the caves of Yufeng Mountain, giving rise to the cave’s original name, Gengsang Cave. Legend has it that during the Han Dynasty, Zhang Daoling, a prominent Taoist figure, embarked on a spiritual journey of cultivation within these very caves. Centuries later, during the Tang Dynasty, Zhang Guolao, another revered Taoist immortal, also took refuge in these mystical caverns. Consequently, the cave became known as Zhanggong Cave, a testament to its significant role in Taoist history.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhanggong Cave
- Vlog about Zhanggong Cave
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Yixing
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 79 RMB |
| Combined Ticket | 110 RMB (including admission, rafting, underground river exploration, and pottery gallery) |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 17.00 (1st March – 30th November) 8.00 – 16.30 (1st December – 28th February) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0510-87478808 |
Location and Transportation
Zhanggong Cave is situated at the foothills of Mengfeng Mountain, approximately 22 kilometers southwest of Yixing City. It is also about 60 kilometers southwest of Wuxi City in Jiangsu Province, China. To get there, you can follow the following steps:
- From Wuxi City: If you’re starting your journey from Wuxi, you can head to the Wuxi Train Station’s western parking area, where you’ll find direct minibusses (known as “ä¸å·´” or Zhongba) bound for Yixing. The fare for this ride is typically around 10 yuan. These minibusses provide a convenient and economical way to reach Yixing.
- From Yixing to Zhanggong Cave: After arriving in Yixing, you can transfer to another local bus, typically labeled as “游1,” which will take you directly to Zhanggong Cave. The bus station for this route is usually at the Yixing Bus Station. You can inquire about the bus schedule at the station or local information centers.
- Return Trip to Wuxi: If you plan to return to Wuxi from Zhanggong Cave, the last minibus departing from Yixing to Wuxi Train Station is typically at 20:00, so plan your visit accordingly.
Highlights of Zhanggong Cave
Underground Adventure
Zhanggong Cave offers visitors an awe-inspiring underground adventure, with its labyrinthine passageways stretching over 1000 meters. As one descends into the cave, a mesmerizing world of stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, and cascading stone formations unfolds. Climbing upward, you’ll encounter the magnificent Hall of the Sea King, also known as the Heavenly Canopy Chamber, the pinnacle of the cave’s natural beauty. Additionally, the cave boasts other captivating sections such as the Tunnel of Earthly Wonders, Seven Wonders Cave, Chessboard Cave, and the First Light of Dawn Cave.
Taoist Significance
The grandeur and natural wonder of Zhanggong Cave have captured the imagination of people from the Spring and Autumn period to the Qing Dynasty. It has always been renowned both locally and internationally, particularly for its pivotal role in the development of Taoist culture. In its heyday, the cave earned titles such as “The Most Extraordinary Cave in Southern China” and “The Premier Taoist Sanctuary in East China,” establishing its legacy as a place of immense significance in the realm of Taoism.
In Taoism, there are said to be thirty-six caves of heavenly abodes and seventy-two blessed lands where immortals reside and roam. Zhanggong Cave holds the distinction of being the fifty-eighth blessed land, a place of great spiritual significance.
Taosit Buildings
Within the cave, one can also find ancient Taoist structures like the Liangyi Pavilion, Hui Xian Bridge, and the Gateway Arch. At the cave’s entrance stands the Dongling Temple, which houses eight Taoist-themed halls adorned with thirty-six statues of deities, further accentuating the cave’s spiritual importance.
Various Entertainment
Beyond its historical and spiritual significance, Zhanggong Cave offers a range of recreational activities to delight visitors. The subterranean Jade Spring River invites adventure seekers to experience “Jiangsu’s First Underground River Drifting.” The cave also features immersive water curtain films and thrilling “Cave Exploration” tours, seamlessly combining elements of nature, history, culture, and entertainment.
Vlog about Zhanggong Cave
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Temperature Variations: As you descend further into Zhanggong Cave, the temperature drops noticeably. It becomes progressively cooler, resembling the atmosphere of a refrigerated space. It is advisable to bring an extra layer of clothing to stay comfortable.
Slippery and Dimly Lit Paths: The cave floor can be wet and slippery, and the lighting inside is dim. There are many steps and pathways to navigate, so it’s essential to be cautious of the conditions underfoot.
Underground River Exploration: On the left side of Zhanggong Cave, there is an opportunity for an underground river adventure. Visitors can row their own boats to explore the underground river. Initially, it might feel a bit overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes an enjoyable and interesting experience.
