Benxi Water Cave
Scenic Spot Introduction
Benxi Water Cave is Asia’s largest water cave, with a total length of 5800 meters and a tour route of 2800 meters. The water temperature inside the cave remains at about 12 degrees Celsius year-round, providing a cool summer refuge. It is famous for its unique karst landform and rich cave scenery.
Benxi Water Cave was formed about 500 million years ago during the Ordovician period of the Paleozoic era. Through long geological evolution, it has formed the spectacular underground cave system seen today. The water cave was discovered and developed in 1983 and has now become a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction. The cave is divided into two parts: the water cave and the dry cave. The water cave has a total length of 2800 meters, with a maximum depth of 7 meters and a maximum width of 38 meters.
The scenery inside the water cave is unique, with completely developed karst landforms such as stalactites, stalagmites, pillars, and curtains, each with different shapes. Among them, the “Elephant Playing in the Water,” “Galaxy Falls,” and “Crystal Palace” are the most famous landscapes. The underground river inside the cave is crystal clear, and visitors can see fish swimming in the water while boating, which is quite interesting.
Benxi Water Cave not only has high ornamental value but also important scientific research value. The cave preserves a complete geological profile and is a natural laboratory for studying the formation and evolution of karst landforms. At the same time, fossilized ancient organisms have been found inside the cave, providing important evidence for studying the ancient geographical environment.
As an important tourist attraction in Northeast China, Benxi Water Cave attracts a large number of tourists every year. The scenic area also has a geological museum, which popularizes geological knowledge to tourists through rich exhibits and interactive experiences. In recent years, the scenic area has continuously improved its supporting facilities and developed a night tour project, allowing tourists to appreciate the different beauty of the water cave illuminated by lights.
Must-visit Attractions
Underground River Rafting
- Spectacular Karst Cave
- Underground River
- Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
Stalactite Group
- Natural Stalactites
- Stalagmite Landscape
- Suggested viewing time: 30 minutes
Water Curtain Cave
- Waterfall Landscape
- Karst Cave Geomorphology
- Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes
Geological Museum
- Geological Exhibition
- Science Popularization Education
- Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes
Visiting Suggestions
Best Touring Route
- Geological Museum → Underground River Rafting → Stalactite Group → Water Curtain Cave
- It is recommended to follow the guide’s explanation
Touring Schedule
- Best to visit in the morning
- Avoid the noon peak hours
- Reserve time for taking photos
Practical Tips
- Wear non-slip shoes
- Bring warm clothing
- Prepare a waterproof camera bag
Transportation Guide
- Train: Get off at Benxi Station and transfer to the tourist line
- Bus: Take Bus No.5 in Benxi City
- Self-drive: Navigate to Benxi Water Cave Scenic Area
- Tourist line: There are direct buses from Shenyang, Dalian and other places
Recommended Delicacies Nearby
- Benxi Xiaoshi Barbecue
- Manchu Cuisine
- Farmhouse Specialties
- Wild Mountain Vegetables
Special Reminders
- Keep warm and cold-proof
- Wear non-slip shoes
- Follow the staff’s guidance
- Protect the karst cave landscape
- Keep the camera waterproof
- It is recommended to book tickets ahead of time
- Travel with caution on rainy days
- Elderly people should be cautious when participating in rafting.