Things to Do at Reed Flute Cave

Complete Guide to Reed Flute Cave in Guilin

About Reed Flute Cave

Reed Flute Cave, known as the 'Palace of Natural Arts,' is one of Guilin's most spectacular limestone caves, located on the northwest side of the city. This 240-meter-long cave system has been a tourist attraction for over 1,200 years, with ancient inscriptions dating back to 792 AD found on its walls. The cave gets its poetic name from the reeds that grow outside its entrance, which were traditionally used to make flutes. What makes Reed Flute Cave truly magical is its stunning array of stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations illuminated by multicolored artificial lighting. The cave features over 70 inscriptions of poems and travel notes written in ink, making it a gallery of ancient Chinese calligraphy. The combination of natural geological wonders and artistic human touches creates an otherworldly atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries, earning it recognition as one of Guilin's must-see attractions.

What to See & Do

Crystal Palace

The cave's most spectacular chamber featuring towering stone pillars and formations reflected in an underground pool, creating a mirror-like effect

Ancient Inscriptions

Over 70 historical poems and travel notes dating back to 792 AD, written by scholars and visitors throughout the centuries

Mushroom Hill

A distinctive rock formation resembling a giant mushroom, one of the most photographed features in the cave

Virgin Forest

A section with dense stalactite formations that resemble a primeval forest canopy

Dawn in a Lion Grove

Rock formations illuminated to create the silhouette of lions in various poses, enhanced by dramatic lighting effects

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM (April-October), 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (November-March)

Tickets & Pricing

Adult tickets: ¥90-120 RMB; Children under 1.2m free, 1.2-1.4m half price; Online booking available with discounts

Best Time to Visit

Year-round destination; avoid Chinese holidays and summer weekends for smaller crowds; morning visits (9-11 AM) are less crowded

Suggested Duration

45-60 minutes for the guided tour; allow 1.5-2 hours including transportation and photo stops

Getting There

Reed Flute Cave is located about 5 kilometers northwest of Guilin city center. Take bus routes 3, 58, or tourist bus line to Reed Flute Cave stop. Taxis from downtown cost approximately ¥15-25 RMB and take 15-20 minutes. Many hotels offer shuttle services or can arrange transportation. The cave is also included in most Guilin city tour packages. If driving, parking is available on-site for a small fee.

Things to Do Nearby

Folded Brocade Hill (Diecai Hill)
Historic hill offering panoramic city views and ancient Buddhist carvings, 10 minutes away
Fubo Hill
Scenic hill with caves, temples, and the famous Sword-Testing Stone, 15 minutes from Reed Flute Cave
Guilin Museum
Modern museum showcasing local history, culture, and geological formations of the karst landscape
Jingjiang Princes' Mansion
Well-preserved Ming Dynasty royal residence in downtown Guilin with traditional architecture and gardens
Two Rivers and Four Lakes
Scenic waterway system perfect for evening boat cruises with illuminated city landmarks

Tips & Advice

Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip as cave floors can be slippery
Bring a light jacket as the cave temperature stays around 18°C (64°F) year-round
Photography is allowed but flash may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the cave
Join a guided tour for historical context and to learn about the geological formations
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups and enjoy better lighting for photos
The cave exit is different from the entrance, so don't worry about retracing your steps

Tours & Activities at Reed Flute Cave