Fairy Cave in Tonghai County, Yuxi

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Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) is located in Lishan Township (里山乡), Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is approximately 5.5 kilometers from Tonghai County’s downtown area and lies adjacent to the road leading from Tonghai to Jianshui (建水).

History and Culture

Originally named “Xianren Cave” (先人洞, meaning “Ancestors’ Cave”), the site was renamed “Xianren Cave” (仙人洞, meaning “Immortal’s Cave”) after a visit by the famous Taoist Zhang Sanfeng (张三丰) during the Ming Dynasty. The cave is said to have been blessed by immortals. Fossils of ancient creatures such as saber-toothed elephants, rhinoceroses, wild boars, and macaques dating back 50,000 years have been discovered inside the cave.

Local Customs

Tonghai County (通海县) is home to various ethnic minorities, including the Yi (彝族) and Mongolian (蒙古族) peoples, known for their rich folk traditions. Local residents often hold ceremonial rituals during specific festivals to pray for favorable weather and good harvests.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Tonghai County enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons and mild temperatures. The most pleasant times to visit Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) are in the spring and autumn.

Recommended Attractions and Duration

Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞)

The cave features diverse and intricate stalactite formations. Notable spots include the “Immortal’s Ballroom” (仙人舞厅), “Fixed Mountain Divine Needle” (定山神针), and “Water Curtain Cave of Flower-Fruit Mountain” (花果山水帘洞).
Recommended visit duration: approximately 1.5 hours.

Dragon Pools at the Cave Entrance (龙潭)

At the entrance of the cave are two spring-fed pools with clear, sweet, and cool water that never dry up throughout the year.
Recommended visit duration: approximately 30 minutes.

Ticket Information

Admission to Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) is 20 RMB per person.

Transportation

By Car

From Tonghai County (通海县), drive approximately 5.5 kilometers along the road to Jianshui (建水) to reach the cave.

By Public Transport

Take a local bus from Tonghai County to Lishan Township (里山乡), then walk to the cave.

Local Food

Specialty foods from Tonghai County include:

• Tonghai Bean Sugar (通海豆末糖)
• Yuxi Candied Winter Melon (玉溪冬瓜蜜饯)
• Pocket Tofu (口袋豆腐)

Shopping

Popular local souvenirs include Tonghai Bean Sugar (通海豆末糖) and Yuxi Candied Winter Melon (玉溪冬瓜蜜饯).

Accommodation

Hotels in the County

There are several hotels available in Tonghai County, offering reasonably priced accommodations.

Guesthouses

Charming guesthouses are available around Lishan Township (里山乡), offering an opportunity to experience local life.

Visitor Tips

• Protect the Environment: Do not litter in the scenic area. Help preserve the natural surroundings.
• Safety First: Some sections inside the cave are narrow. Be cautious and follow safety rules and signage.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: Arrive in Tonghai County and visit Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) to explore the cave formations.

• Afternoon: Explore the Dragon Pools at the cave entrance and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Day 2

• Morning: Sample local cuisine and purchase specialty products in Tonghai County.

• Afternoon: Return to your next destination.

Final Thoughts

Lishan Xianren Cave (里山仙人洞) attracts visitors with its fascinating geological features and rich cultural heritage. May your journey to Tonghai bring you lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural and historical beauty of the region.