In-depth one-day tour guide to Longli Baiyu Cave | Explore the secret underground world, a perfect summer escape
After seeing too many noisy, conventional karst cave attractions, why not experience a different kind of underground journey at Longli Baiyu Cave? Here, there are no overly commercialized lights, preserving the original karst landscape. The million-year-old moonmilk formations create vast white jade-like waterfalls. You can paddle on the deep underground river, and outdoor activities like rope descent and via ferrata are all available. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 17 degrees Celsius year-round, instantly relieving the summer heat when you enter. The entire route is thoughtfully designed with a relaxed pace, so even first-time explorers can easily complete the tour. This tested one-day itinerary will help you plan your trip perfectly.
Basic travel information (please read carefully before your trip)
📍 Location: Tianbang Village, Guanshan Street, Longli County, Qiannan Prefecture. Navigate directly to Longli Baiyu Cave Visitor Center. Do not set the destination to the village, as it’s easy to take the wrong route.
🚗 Two travel options
1. Driving is the most comfortable: Take Guiyang Long Avenue from Guiyang. The road is smooth and it takes about 1 hour to arrive. The visitor center offers free parking.
2. Public transportation: Take the high-speed train from Guiyang North to Longli North Station, which takes 30 minutes. From the station, take a 20-minute taxi to the cave entrance. Alternatively, take a bus to Longli County and then a taxi into the mountains.
⏰ Fixed tour times, no walk-ins accepted, advance booking required
There are three daily groups: 9:30 AM morning session, 2:00 PM afternoon session, and 6:30 PM night tour. The 2:00 PM session is highly recommended. At noon, sunlight streams through the cave entrance, creating rich light and shadow effects inside, perfect for photos. Plus, you don’t have to get up early, making the experience much more comfortable.
💰 Two tour routes to choose from based on your preference
3. Leisure short loop, priced at 288 yuan. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, following only gentle trails. You’ll see the white jade waterfall and starry dome but no climbing or intense activities. Suitable for seniors, children, and those who prefer a relaxed pace.
4. Water and land long loop, the highlight of the entire route, priced at 588 yuan. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours with an all-inclusive price and no hidden fees. The base provides full protective gear, certified professional guides, and outdoor accident insurance. After completion, you’ll receive a cave exploration certificate.
Included activities: 30-meter vertical rope descent, via ferrata rock wall crossing, cave zipline, suspended slackline, and underground river paddleboarding.
Age limit is 5 to 55 years old. Those with high blood pressure, heart disease, claustrophobia, or severe fear of heights are not recommended to choose this route.
Complete afternoon one-day itinerary with a relaxed pace
1. 00 PM Depart from Guiyang, enjoy the continuous Qiannan mountain scenery along the way. The road is smooth with no rush. Arrive at Baiyu Cave Visitor Center at 2:00 PM sharp for check-in.
2. 00–2:30 PM Check-in and registration. The guide will distribute helmets, high-powered headlamps, harnesses, and anti-slip gloves. They will carefully explain cave safety rules and the special hand signals used inside the cave. When verbal communication is difficult, hand signals serve as the team’s communication method, which even beginners can quickly learn.
2. 30 PM Officially enter the cave. The first sight is the entire white jade waterfall wall, the origin of Baiyu Cave’s name. Layers of moonmilk formations are milky white and smooth, resembling large jade stones under the headlamp’s light. Water drips slowly along the stone curtains, and the dripping sound echoes quietly in the spacious cave.
3. 10 PM Reach the via ferrata section. Walk slowly along the steel cables on the rock wall, weaving through clusters of stalactites with a deep cave floor beneath your feet. Safety locks secure you throughout, and the guide stays with the group. No climbing skills are needed; anyone can complete the route at a steady pace.
3. 50 PM Arrive at the hidden Baiyu Pool deep inside the cave. A clear underground river lies quietly in the center, its surface as smooth as a mirror. Paddle slowly on the board, with reflections blending into the rock walls, making every photo stunning. The most breathtaking moment is the starry dome: everyone turns off their headlamps, and the cave ceiling’s tiny fluorite crystals glow faintly like a starry sky. Spend a few quiet seconds here, and you’ll feel completely calm.
4. 30 PM Start the cave challenge section, experiencing the 30-meter vertical rope descent, cave zipline, and suspended slackline in sequence. The guide controls the pace, avoiding intense activities all at once. You’ll gradually overcome nervousness. The wind rushing past your ears during the descent helps release built-up stress.
5. 30 PM Hike out along the dry cave trail, receive your underground explorer certificate, and conclude the day’s adventure.
6. 00 PM Drive to Longli County for a pot of authentic sour soup beef. The sour and spicy flavor refreshes you and relieves the day’s fatigue before heading back.
Five must-visit spots inside the cave
1. White jade waterfall: The entire mountain face is covered with million-year-old moonmilk formations, delicate and pure white. It’s the cave’s core attraction and a rare geological wonder.
2. Underground Baiyu Pool: The clear underground river paired with paddleboarding is the most photogenic spot on the route, with stunning water reflections.
3. Starry dome ceiling: Turn off all lights to see the cave ceiling’s tiny fluorite crystals shining like stars, creating an immersive atmosphere. Take a moment to soak it in.
4. Giant stalagmite forest: Tall stalagmites rise in clusters inside the cave. Wide-angle shots capture their grandeur perfectly.
5. Vertical rope descent canyon: Slowly descend in the dark canyon for an immersive underground adventure. This thrilling experience is a must for adrenaline seekers.
Clothing and essentials checklist to avoid common mistakes
1. Clothing: Wear quick-dry tops and pants. The cave is very humid, and clothes get wet easily during paddleboarding. Bring an extra set of clothes and a towel. The cave stays cool year-round, so a light jacket is recommended after the tour.
2. Shoes: Wear deep-treaded, non-slip sports shoes or creek shoes. Sandals and slippers are not allowed due to the cave’s wet and slippery floor. Safety is the top priority.
3. Essentials: A waterproof phone pouch is essential. Bring a small piece of chocolate and bottled water for energy. Avoid wearing valuable jewelry, as it’s easy to lose during climbing.
4. No need to bring headlamps or harnesses; the base provides all equipment.
Tips to avoid pitfalls during your visit
1. There is no cell signal deep inside the cave. Inform family or friends of your itinerary before entering. Always stay close to the guide. The cave has many forks, and wandering off alone is very dangerous.
2. Stalactites and moonmilk formations take tens of thousands of years to form and are very fragile. Do not touch or tap them. Damage is irreversible and will result in penalties.
3. Weekend and holiday spots are very limited. Book in advance. Tickets are not sold on-site, so do not go without a reservation.
4. No alcohol before the tour. If you are unfit, the guide has the right to refuse entry. Please follow the rules.
5. The cave is inside the mountain and unaffected by weather. Tours run rain or shine, so no need to change plans due to weather.
If you’re tired of the usual tourist spots, Baiyu Cave offers the perfect underground adventure. Escape the crowds and disconnect from your phone and the outside world. Experience nature’s million-year-old artistry, enjoy a cool retreat, and embrace the thrill of exploration.