Nandong Cave Scenic Area in Kaiyuan City, Honghe
Introduction
The Nandong Cave Scenic Area (南洞风景区) is located at the southernmost tip of Kaiyuan City (开远市), just 12 kilometers from the city center. It is 5 kilometers west of the Kunhe Highway (昆河公路) and 45 kilometers north of the capital of Honghe Prefecture (红河州), Mengzi County (蒙自县). The area benefits from convenient transportation, as the only narrow-gauge Kunhe Railway (昆河铁路) in the country passes through the region.
From the day the scenic area resumed operations until December 31, 2020, it offered free admission to all medical workers nationwide, including those from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
- Location: Kaiyuan City, Yunnan Province (云南省开远市)
- Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate
- Opening Hours: Open year-round, Monday to Sunday, 08:00 – 18:00
- Ticket Price: 50 RMB
- Famous Attractions: Taoyuan Cave (桃源洞), Jiulongtu (九龙图)
Scenic Area Overview
The Nandong Scenic Area is a natural landscape that combines mountains, water, and caves, showcasing breathtaking and unique scenery. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing a basin, the area features dramatic terrain with an elevation difference of 230 meters between the peak (1,300 meters) and the basin. The underground rivers, originating from a surface area of over 3,000 square kilometers, flow through the mountains, forming the Nandong River. The area’s karst topography features representative underground caverns and was designated as a national AA-level tourist attraction in 2005.
History of the Scenic Area
Historically known as “Amizhou,” Kaiyuan was famous for its eight scenic spots, with Nandong Cave considered the most significant, earning the nickname “Dragon Swims in Nandong” (龙游南洞). For centuries, it has attracted numerous visitors from around the world due to its unique and majestic landscape. According to historical records, the Ming Dynasty scholar Yang Sheng’an visited and was so enchanted by the scenery that he inscribed the characters for “Nandong.” In 1574, it was renamed “Tongling” by Yunnan’s governor Zou Yinglong, a name it has carried for over 400 years. During the Qing Dynasty, Nandong thrived with pilgrims and tourists, with various temples established within the caves.
Unique Features
Nandong consists of eight caves of varying sizes, some perched on mountainsides and others hidden beneath cliffs, each displaying a unique charm. The area’s water sources are derived from three main water systems: the first from surface basalt, the second from the Mingjiu Stone Cave in Mengzi, and the third is still under investigation.
Famous Attractions
- Taoyuan Cave (桃源洞): A representative underground cavern in southern Yunnan, it features over 8,000 meters of explored dark rivers, with 1,200 meters developed for tourism. The crystal-clear waters and impressive stalactites create a fairy-tale ambiance.
- Jiulongtu (九龙图): This 12-meter-long and 3-meter-wide artwork, inspired by the historical and cultural richness of Tongling Cave, symbolizes prosperity and highlights the theme of “Dragon Swims in Nandong.”
- Kunhe Railway (昆河铁路): Visitors can walk along the century-old narrow-gauge railway, experiencing the history and culture of the region.
Famous Activities
- Water Splashing Festival: Held annually in mid-April, this festival celebrates the onset of summer and attracts many tourists to enjoy the festive atmosphere amid picturesque landscapes.
- Cave Exploration Activities: Taking advantage of the natural geography, guided cave exploration tours are available from November to June, allowing participants to delve into the mysteries of the karst landscape.
How to Get There
To reach the Nandong Cave Scenic Area from Kunming (昆明市), travel via the Kunhe Highway (昆河公路) directly to Kaiyuan City, then follow local signs to the scenic area. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours by car.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and cave exploration.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring the caves.
- Consider visiting during the Water Splashing Festival for a unique cultural experience.
- Check weather conditions before your trip, as rain can affect cave accessibility.
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