Liulangdong River Scenic Area in Qiubei County, Wenshan
Chinese Name: 丘北县六郎洞景区
English Name:Liulangdong River Scenic Area in Qiubei County, Wenshan
Location
Liulangdong Cave is situated 79 kilometers west of Qiubei County, Yunnan Province, near Xiaojiangkou Village in Chongtou Township.
Historical Background
The cave is renowned for being home to China’s first underground hydroelectric power station, the Liulangdong Hydropower Station. According to legend, the cave was named after Yang Liulang, a famous general of the Northern Song Dynasty who, after defending against the Khitan and facing betrayal by Pan Renmei, retreated to this cave.
Hydroelectric Power Station
The cave boasts a significant water flow, with a maximum rate of 92 cubic meters per second and an average annual flow rate of 23.2 cubic meters per second. In 1959, a dam was constructed inside the cave, creating a 30-meter-deep underground reservoir. This led to the establishment of a hydroelectric power station with a capacity of 12,500 kW × 2.
Cave Features
Liulangdong Cave features expansive chambers, with heights reaching up to 30 meters. The cave is adorned with an array of stalactites and stalagmites that resemble ceremonial vessels, bells, and mills, as well as lifelike figures of birds and animals. The cave is divided into two main chambers, which were originally connected but are now separated by the underground reservoir. The right chamber includes a 2-meter-high, 300-meter-long horizontal tunnel with lighting for easy access. The left chamber contains a stone trough used by Yang Liulang to feed his warhorses and a meeting hall, also known as a review platform.
Karst Landscape
Liulangdong Cave is a notable karst landform, featuring the intriguing “Wolong Cave” (or “Dinosaur Cave”), which is approximately 20 meters long and 1.5 meters high. The cave walls display distinct dragon bone traces and numerous dragon scale imprints, showcasing the remarkable natural formations.
Tourist Attractions
The Liulangdong Cave Scenic Area is renowned for its cave scenery, rich underground water resources, and unique karst landscapes. Visitors can explore the cave’s fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, experiencing the mystery and allure of the underground world. Additionally, the area features spectacular waterfalls and clear lakes, providing a serene retreat for visitors.
