Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩, Lúdí Yán) is one of the most spectacular and famous attractions in Guilin, Guangxi Province. It’s known as the “Palace of Natural Art” because of its stunning limestone formations, colorful lighting, and ancient inscriptions.
- The cave is named after the reeds that grow outside, which local people used to make flutes. The area around the cave has long been known for these plants.
The Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩, Lúdí Yán) has a fascinating blend of natural history and human history — making it both a geological wonder and a cultural landmark in Guilin.
How did Reed Flute Cave form?
Reed Flute Cave is a limestone cave formed about 180 million years ago during the Permian period. The cave was created by karst processes — water erosion gradually dissolved the limestone over millions of years, creating deep caverns, tunnels, and the dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and stone pillars seen today.
The formations inside — such as columns, curtains, and crystal-clear pools — are the result of water slowly dripping through mineral-rich rock. Each drop leaves behind a tiny deposit of calcium carbonate, forming structures that take thousands of years to grow just a few centimeters.
Discovering history
Though the cave is ancient, human interaction with it has been documented since the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). Over 70 stone inscriptions inside the cave, some dating back as far as 792 AD, are poems and writings left by scholars, monks, and travelers. This proves that Reed Flute Cave was known and appreciated as a natural wonder for more than 1,200 years.
The cave was essentially forgotten for centuries, as vegetation overgrew the entrance and local knowledge faded. It was rediscovered in the 1940s by a group of Chinese refugees hiding there during World War II. Local children later guided people into the cave, which led to its modern development.
Reed Flute Cave was officially developed as a tourist site and opened to the public in 1962. Since then, it has become one of Guilin’s most visited attractions, drawing both domestic and international tourists, including political leaders and dignitaries.
What to see in Reed Flute Cave
Stalactites and Stalagmites
Inside the cave, you’ll find a fantastic display of natural rock formations, shaped over millions of years. These formations are lit with colorful LED lights, creating a magical, almost surreal landscape.
Named Rock Formations
Many formations have imaginative names based on their shapes, such as:
- Crystal Palace of the Dragon King
- Mountain with Fruit and Flowers
- Pines in the Snow
- Virgin Forest
- Sky-Scraping Twin Towers
Ancient Inscriptions
Over 70 inscriptions can be found on the cave walls, some dating back to the Tang Dynasty (around 792 AD), proving the cave has been a tourist attraction for over 1,200 years!
Light Show and Music
A sound-and-light show is often part of the tour, adding dramatic effects and classical music to highlight key sections of the cave.
Underground Lake and Reflections
The calm waters inside reflect the formations like a mirror, creating a stunning visual that feels like stepping into another world.
How to get there
Location: About 5 km (3 miles) northwest of Guilin city center.
By Taxi: About 15–20 minutes from downtown Guilin. Cost: around 20–30 RMB.
By Bus:Bus No. 3 or 213 goes directly to Reed Flute Cave. Get off at Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩) stop.
By Bike: You can also rent a bike and cycle from the city center along the river or quiet side streets (about 30–40 minutes).
Why you must visit it?
- One of China’s most beautiful caves — often referred to as the “Art Palace of Nature.”
- Historical significance — used by ancient poets, monks, and travelers for centuries.
- Iconic for Guilin tourism — next to the Li River and karst mountains, it’s a major highlight.
- A favorite of international visitors, including many world leaders who have visited it.
Visitor Info
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (may vary slightly by season)
- Admission Fee: Around ¥90 RMB (varies slightly depending on the season)
