Plan at a glance
Three entrances and separate tickets
Yuxi Three Caves is in Helang Town, Yangchun. The First and Second Cave entrance is about 700 metres from the Third Cave entrance, so navigate to the correct one. The First and Second Cave combined ticket is CNY 22 and includes a boat. The Third Cave is separate at CNY 41, with an additional CNY 18 boat ticket. The three caves do not share one ticket, one entrance, or one boat route.
The area usually opens 08:00–18:00, with last entry at 17:00; Qilindong closes at about 17:00. No advance booking is normally needed. The Third Cave short route takes 1–1.5 hours, and its combined land-and-boat route takes 1.5–2 hours. Visiting all sections requires time to change entrances.
Boats and water levels
The First and Second Cave ticket includes a boat, while the Third Cave boat is separate. After heavy rain, higher water or sediment can prevent boats from entering some sections. The boat route and operation depend on the day’s water and on-site arrangements.
Tickets and visit details
View visit options for this attraction and confirm the visit date and current arrangements before you go.
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The underground river in the First and Second Cave
The First and Second Cave suit visitors who want a short underground boat ride, limestone formations, and relatively easy movement outside the cave. The boat route may pass formations known locally as Crown Stone, Golden Bowl Cascade, and Three-Change Stone. The view depends on the boat path and the day’s light.
The Third Cave land-and-boat route
The Third Cave combines an underground boat, stairs through the North Cave, limestone formations in the South Cave, and a ceiling opening that brings in daylight. The main hall is about 60 metres high and nearly 100 metres wide. It suits visitors who want both a boat and a walk, while people with limited fitness can choose a shorter open route.
Build your day
A 1–1.5 hour Third Cave route
Enter the Third Cave, take the underground boat if it is operating, then walk through the North Cave, South Cave, and Qilindong before exiting. The North Cave has continuous steps, and the order of boat and walking can change with queues, water levels, and daily scheduling. Follow the on-site instructions.
Combining the First, Second, and Third Cave
If you want to compare all three, complete the First and Second Cave first, then walk or drive to the Third Cave entrance about 700 metres away. Each entrance has its own ticket, check, and boat arrangement. Do not use a First-and-Second-Cave ticket at the Third Cave, and do not assume the Third Cave boat covers the other sections.
Check the 17:00 last entry and Qilindong closing time before adding a second area. After heavy rain, if the water or visibility is unsuitable for boating, switch to a shorter walk or cancel the combination.
Get there
High-speed rail and driving
A taxi from Yangchun Station usually takes about 50 minutes, while public transport requires inconvenient changes. By car, navigate to the specific First-and-Second-Cave or Third Cave entrance. Parking is normally free, but one navigation point cannot replace the other.
Moving between entrances
After arrival, confirm which ticket and boat you have bought. The First-and-Second-Cave and Third Cave entrances are about 700 metres apart. Allow time for walking, parking, and queues; do not start the transfer just before closing.
Know before you go
Cave temperature, steps, and water
The caves stay around 20°C and the floor is wet. Wear shoes with good grip and bring a light jacket. The North Cave has many stairs. After heavy rain, water level, mud, and boat operations can change, so check the weather and follow the day’s on-site notice.
Food and supplies are limited around the attraction. Bring water and a simple snack. Visitors who tire easily, dislike cold caves, or should avoid stairs should choose the shorter, flatter route instead of forcing a complete three-cave visit.