Fairyland Cavern (Dongtian Xianjing)

Introduction & Historical Significance
Located in Jiulong Town, Yingde City, Guangdong Province, Dongtian Xianjing (Fairyland Cavern) is a nationally recognized AAAA-level scenic area and one of China's most iconic karst landscapes. Known as the "No.1 Tiankeng in South China," this 231-meter-deep natural wonder formed over 200 million years ago, embodying the region's rich geological history. Revered in local folklore as a divine realm created by the Nine Dragon Sons to bless humanity, it has served as a sacred site for healing rituals and cultural ceremonies since ancient times. As the core attraction of the Yingxi Fenglin Corridor, it integrates the essence of Lingnan (South China) culture with breathtaking natural beauty.

Architectural Layout & Design
The 15-square-kilometer park masterfully blends natural wonders with human craftsmanship:

• Tiankeng Spectacle: The 231-meter-deep sinkhole features cascading waterfalls, crystalline underground rivers, and vibrant vegetation, forming a self-contained ecosystem.
• Nine-Dragon Star Glass Observation Deck: Suspended 228 meters above ground with a 38-meter cantilever, it offers panoramic views of the karst landscape.
• Glass Slideway: A 388-meter-long slide descending 200 meters through lush forests.
• Suspended Wooden Walkway: A cliff-hugging path along the Tiankeng’s rim, revealing dramatic vistas of stone forests and emerald pools.
• Cultural Landmarks: Includes the ancient Nine-Dragon Well, Lotus Throne Rock, and Guanyin Blessing Stone—natural formations imbued with Buddhist symbolism.

Major Attractions

• Boating in Tiankeng: Navigate underground rivers beneath stalactite-adorned ceilings while observing rare plant species like wild orchids.
• Nine-Dragon Star Observation Deck: Experience sunrise/sunset through the "Heavenly Window" for surreal light effects.
• Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, paragliding, and the "Fairyland Kungfu Show" blending martial arts with local legends.
• Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional tofu-making (a Qingyuan intangible heritage) and seasonal Festivals like the March Torch Festival.
• Nightscape: Illuminated by lanterns during festivals, the site transforms into a ethereal wonderland.

Ticket Information

• Standard Admission: ¥70 (adult), discounts for children/elderly; combo tickets (¥150-200) include glass walkways and cultural shows.
• Free Access: Most natural areas; specialized zones require tickets.
• Reservations: Recommended for peak seasons; online booking available.

Transportation Guide

• Public Transit:
  • From Guangzhou: Direct buses from Luochongwei Station to Jiulong Town (10:40/16:30, 2h).
  • By High-Speed Rail: To Yingde Station, then bus to West Station + shuttle.
• Self-Drive: Guangzhou → Guangqing Expressway → Qinglian Expressway → Jiulong Exit → Provincial Road 348 (parking: ¥10/day).
• Local Transport: Electric shuttles and shared bikes within the park.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: spring (Mar-May) for azalea blooms and mild weather; autumn (Sep-Nov) for clear skies. Avoid summer monsoons and winter chills.
• Photography: Dawn for misty peaks; sunset for golden-hour lighting on pagodas.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove shoes in temples; respect local customs during festivals.
• Packing: Sunscreen, hats, layers, and sturdy footwear. Oxygen tanks recommended for high altitudes.
• Dining: Must-try dishes: Jiulong Tofu (non-heritage), Yingde Red tea-infused dishes, and bamboo-tube rice.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Fairyland Cavern + Jiulong Peak Forest Town (agricultural parks).
  • Afternoon: Yingxi Fenglin Corridor hike or Baojing Palace karst cave exploration.
  • Evening: Jiulong Ancient Town night markets or Golden Mountain snowscape viewing.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Shaxi Ancient Town for tea-horse road history or Deqing Cave for Buddhist grottoes.

Dongtian Xianjing epitomizes the harmony of nature, history, and ethnic culture in Guangdong's hinterland. As a beacon of eco-tourism and cultural preservation, it continues to enchant global travelers seeking transcendence in China's karst landscapes.