Jiuxiang Scenic Region
FAQFrequently asked questions
What are the Jiuxian Caves and where are they?
This is a system of karst caves in Yunnan Province in southern China, in Yilian County near the city of Kunming. The caves stretch along the banks of the Maitian River and were formed in limestone, so they have nothing to do with Nepal, as is sometimes confused.
How to get there?
The most convenient way from Kunming is about 90 km to the caves. From there they take transport to the Ilyan district, and then the tourist complex itself.
What to see there?
The complex is divided into five zones: Dehong Bridge, Sanjiao Cave, Dasha Dam, Alulung and Mingyue Lake. Daehun Bridge itself is an underground natural arch with six sections, including the White Elephant Cave, Goddess Cave, Sleeping Dragon Cave, and Bat Cave. There is a ropeway for part of the route.
What is interesting about these caves from the point of view of geology?
Caves are multi-tiered - they were formed in layers due to the fact that the earth's crust was raised by shocks since the Quaternary period. Vaults collapsed in places, and this is how canyons and natural bridges appeared.
Is this officially a protected area?
Yes. The place was opened to tourists in 1989, in 1994 it received the status of a national scenic spot of China, and in 2009 it became the Yunnan-Jiusian National Geopark.
