This summer, escape the scorching sun and journey into the hidden depths of Lingnan, where ancient caves offer a natural air-conditioned retreat.
Lianzhou Underground River, Qingyuan (清远连州地下河)
National 5A-level scenic area
Widely regarded as Guangdong's finest underground river, Lianzhou Underground River runs through a magnificent karst cave that has been shaped over 200 million years.
Half the tour is on foot, half by boat, gliding 1,500 meters along the water. Inside are caves within caves, rivers within caves and even waterfalls. The star attraction, the "fairy field," is a set of layered calcified terraces that look like rice paddies.
With a constant temperature of 18°C year-round, this northern Guangdong classic is perfect for summer family adventures, offering an immersive trip through a subterranean water wonderland.
Lingxiao Cave, Yangchun, Yangjiang (阳江阳春凌霄岩)
National 4A-level scenic area
Often called the grandest cave chamber in southern China, this vast natural karst hall in western Guangdong boasts a dome soaring more than 60 meters overhead and over 10 towering stalactite pillars standing like colossal stone giants.
Boats run along an underground river on the bottom level and cliffside inscriptions from the Ming and Qing dynasties add a touch of history. The terrain is gentle enough for all ages, and the dramatic rock formations make for unforgettable photos.
Gufo Rock, Lechang, Shaoguan (韶关乐昌古佛岩)
National 4A-level scenic area
Named for its countless natural stalagmites that resemble Buddha statues, this cave spans three levels and extends nearly 600 meters. It is adorned with stalactites and stone drapes in every imaginable shape, and even preserves 300-million-year-old marine coral fossils.
Quiet, serene and steeped in a Zen-like atmosphere, it is the perfect destination for those seeking peace and tranquility away from the summer bustle.
Panlong Cave, Yunfu (云浮蟠龙洞)
National 3A-level scenic area
One of the world's three great "stone flower" caves, Panlong owes its fame to its rare "gemstone flowers," or moonmilk deposits, crystal-clear calcite formations that grow in every direction, seemingly defying gravity.
Few other caves in China have anything like them. The cave is arranged across three levels: a cavern, a corridor, and an underground river. A true natural stone museum, it is an excellent stop for geology buffs and family field trips alike.
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Author | Jiang Chang
Photos | Nanfang Plus
