Reed Flute Cave in Guilin 2024-2025

Traveling underground has never been so exciting!

Best time: all year round

Known as one of the top four tourist sites in the town, the Reed Flute Cave got its name from the unique type of reed which grows outside and can be turned into melodious flutes.

The cave is situated in Lujia Village and represents a stalagmite, stalactite, and rock formation depository, illuminated with bright coloured lights. Its fascinating gallery of natural sculptures looks more like a 240 meter long blazing underground palace. Every limestone formation has its poetic Chinese name, such as the Virgin Forest, the Flower Mountain, or the Crystal Palace. Many of them have been compared to distinct shapes of natural images and mythological creatures. Moreover, inside the cave, you will find more than 70 ink-inscriptions which can be dated back as far as 792 AD.

One trip to the cave lasts about an hour. You enter it and go through a U-shaped sight-seeing route to enjoy various locations. After that, you exit it from another cave quite close to the entrance.

Practical info

When is the cave the best to visit?

Reed Flute Cave is open year-round, but visitors will enjoy the cave's full natural beauty from April to October. Traveling at this time will enable visitors to enjoy the warmth of the weather and the full natural scenery of the surrounding area. Tourists are also advised to steer clear of public holidays to avoid crowds and have the best experience possible.

How long does it typically take to explore the cave?

Reed Flute Cave generally takes about an hour to explore. However, this may differ depending on the number of visitors present at that time. The path is U-shaped and is well-maintained, paved, lit, and accessible to tourists of all ages. Visitors could also spend additional time checking out the area around the cave.

Are visitors allowed to take photos in the cave?

Absolutely! Photography is allowed inside the cave, and visitors are encouraged to do so. The cave is home to masses of natural sculptures and limestone formations that make for some fantastic shots. For the preservation of the cave's natural structure, visitors are prohibited from using tripods, and flashes are not allowed as they could damage the cave's natural features. Visitors should always remain aware of their surroundings and be respectful of the environment.

Does Reed Flute Cave offer tours or special events?

Reed Flute Cave does indeed offer visitors a choice of specialty tours and events. For instance, tourists can enjoy a sound and light show that enhances the dramatic beauty of the cave. There is an annual lantern festival to be enjoyed in the evening. Visitors can also take in a performance from a local music ensemble. Interested visitors can find out more about these options on the attraction's official website or from local tour operator's.

What are the other nearby attractions visitors can visit in Guilin?

Apart from the Reed Flute Cave, there are several other attractions visitors will find just as fascinating. Tourists cannot leave Guilin without visiting Elephant Trunk Hill, one of the city's iconic attractions. Seven Star Park, Ling Canal, and Fubo Hill are other places tourists can explore. The city also boasts of a beautiful river cruise on the Li River that visitors must try. Tourists can also check out Silver Cave or the Crown Cave, among other caves around the city.