Reed Flute Cave
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Reed Flute Cave

4.4
·314 reviews·Gui Lin Shi, China

Explore a vast, ancient limestone cave in Guilin, illuminated with vibrant colors, showcasing incredible stalactites and stalagmites.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Reed Flute Cave

Reed Flute Cave

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a vast, ancient limestone cave in Guilin, illuminated with vibrant colors, showcasing incredible stalactites and stalagmites.

4.4
(314 reviews)

"Astonishing to see how nature forms these interesting stalactites and stalagmites, enhanced by pretty lighting."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Non-Slip Shoes

Floors can be wet and slippery. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the cave's many stairs.

💡 Embrace the Lights

The colorful LED lighting is part of the experience, enhancing the natural formations. Let your imagination run wild!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stalactite and Stalagmite Formations

Stalactite and Stalagmite Formations

Throughout the cave

Marvel at nature's artistry with diverse limestone formations resembling animals, people, and landscapes.

Colorful LED Lighting

Colorful LED Lighting

Throughout the cave

Experience the cave's natural wonders enhanced by vibrant, modern lighting that creates a magical atmosphere.

Subterranean Lake/Boating Area

Subterranean Lake/Boating Area

Deep within the cave

Discover a vast cavern, sometimes used for events, offering a unique perspective on the cave's scale.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

While not always strictly necessary, booking your Reed Flute Cave tickets ahead can save time, especially during peak seasons. Some reviews mention it wasn't too crowded, but it's always wise to check current recommendations to avoid queues for this popular Guilin attraction.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Reed Flute Cave involves a significant amount of walking, including stairs, and the floor can be wet. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential for navigating the cave safely and enjoying the exploration without discomfort.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Reed Flute Cave Guilin #reedflutecave #reedflutecaveguilin
fifi_culinary
22 likes • 555 views

👟 Wear Non-Slip Shoes

Floors can be wet and slippery. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the cave's many stairs. Reddit

💡 Embrace the Lights

The colorful LED lighting is part of the experience, enhancing the natural formations. Let your imagination run wild! Instagram

"Reed Flute Cave芦笛岩" in Guilin...dji osmo pocket3 . . . #china #guilin #walking #cave #reedflutecave #reedflutecaveguilin #中国 #桂林 #芦笛岩
lets_walk_around_the_world
12 likes • 1.5K views
Your next destination - Boating in this epic cave in 📍 China 🇨🇳 • 🧠 One notable location for boating in caves in China is the Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan) in Guilin. The Reed Flute Cave is a natural limestone cave that has been a tourist attraction for centuries. Boating in the Reed Flute Cave offers a captivating journey through a subterranean world filled with unique geological wonders, making it ...
theglobedestination
0 likes • 3.6K views

🚶 Skip the Cable Car

Many visitors find the cable car unnecessary and recommend walking up and down to save money and enjoy the surroundings. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The tour can take 75-120 minutes, so plan accordingly to fully appreciate the cave's wonders. Reddit

Reed Flute Cave 🪨 #travel #reels #reelsinstagram #summer #viral
khaledsw88
4 likes • 95 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Non-Slip Shoes

Floors can be wet and slippery. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the cave's many stairs. Reddit

💡 Embrace the Lights

The colorful LED lighting is part of the experience, enhancing the natural formations. Let your imagination run wild! Instagram

🚶 Skip the Cable Car

Many visitors find the cable car unnecessary and recommend walking up and down to save money and enjoy the surroundings. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The tour can take 75-120 minutes, so plan accordingly to fully appreciate the cave's wonders. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

The cave is huge and the lighting is spectacular, perfect for photos. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(314 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Reed Flute Cave for its breathtaking natural limestone formations and the spectacular, colorful lighting that enhances their beauty. Many describe it as a must-visit in Guilin, offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience. However, some note that the extensive walking and stairs can be challenging for those with mobility issues.

"One of the amazing things you can see in Guilin.

It is astonishing to see how nature forms these interesting stalactites and stalagmites. A few of them resemble animals, people, fruits, vegetables and landscapes. The way they are lit also makes it even prettier.

I would not recommend this for people with mobility problems because it involves quite a bit of walking up and down stairs.

The men's toilet was also special. The urinals are enclosed in glass and you can have a nice view while peeing 😁

Make sure you visit this place if you are in Guilin. Not to be missed."

Joseph Tan

"Nice cave walk exploration here to spend 1hr in it. Recommended. But beware that the floor can be wet. The cable car ride is just not worth it. Better walk up and down on your own."

KF Yap

"One of the Top limestone caves. The entrance is 90 RMB. The tour takes between 75-120 Minutes. Some Stalactites are more than 30m high. It is a great experience"

Andreas Wethli

What People Like

Stunning natural formations
Vibrant LED lighting
Impressive scale

What People Dislike

Lots of stairs
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Reed Flute Cave from Guilin city center by taking a local bus or a taxi. Buses are a budget-friendly option, while taxis offer more convenience. Many travelers opt for taxis for a direct route to the cave entrance. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Reed Flute Cave for visitors who are driving. It's convenient for those exploring Guilin by car. Instagram

While possible, walking to Reed Flute Cave from the main Guilin city center is a considerable distance. It's more common to use public transport or a taxi for a quicker journey. Instagram

For families, taking a taxi or a pre-booked car service is often the most comfortable and efficient way to get to Reed Flute Cave, minimizing travel stress with children. Instagram

Some tour operators and hotels in Guilin offer shuttle services or organized tours that include transportation to Reed Flute Cave, which can be a convenient option. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Reed Flute Cave is approximately 90 RMB. It's advisable to check the latest pricing before your visit, as it can change. Reddit

While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid potential queues and ensure entry. Reddit

Your ticket typically includes entry to the cave and a guided tour. The tour provides insights into the cave's formations and history. Instagram

Discounts may be available for certain groups such as students, seniors, or children. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official website for current discount policies. Reddit

Reed Flute Cave is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to confirm the exact opening and closing times before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

A visit to Reed Flute Cave usually takes between 75 to 120 minutes, allowing ample time to explore the formations and listen to the guide. Reddit

Reed Flute Cave involves a significant amount of walking and stairs, making it challenging for individuals with mobility problems. It's not generally recommended for those with significant walking difficulties. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Reed Flute Cave, and many visitors capture the stunning formations and lighting. Instagram

Yes, a guided tour is typically included with your ticket. Guides provide information about the cave's geology and legends. Instagram

The temperature inside Reed Flute Cave remains relatively constant throughout the year, typically cool and damp, offering a respite from the outdoor heat. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically no dining facilities directly inside Reed Flute Cave. You'll find food options available near the entrance or back in Guilin city. Reddit

It's generally best to consume food and drinks before entering the cave to maintain its pristine condition. Water bottles are usually permitted. Reddit

The area around Reed Flute Cave has some local eateries, but for a wider variety of dining experiences, it's recommended to head back to Guilin city center. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every section of the cave offers unique photo opportunities, from the grand halls to intricate formations. The areas with dramatic lighting are particularly photogenic. Instagram

While photography is permitted, it's advisable to check if flash photography is allowed, as it can sometimes be restricted to protect the cave's delicate formations and the lighting system. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for capturing the cave's atmosphere. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for the larger caverns. Instagram

Drone photography is generally not permitted inside natural attractions like Reed Flute Cave due to safety and preservation concerns. Instagram

The cave's built-in LED lighting is designed to highlight the formations. Experiment with different angles and settings to capture the vibrant colors effectively. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Reed Flute Cave can be a magical experience for families, with its colorful lights and fascinating rock formations that spark imagination. Instagram However, parents should be aware that the cave involves a lot of walking and stairs, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Reddit Consider bringing a carrier for infants. The guided tour can keep older children engaged with stories and explanations of the cave's natural wonders. Instagram

Opting for a taxi to reach the cave can make the journey smoother with kids. While there are no dining facilities inside, packing some snacks and water is a good idea. The sheer scale and visual spectacle of the cave are often a hit with children, making it a memorable part of a Guilin trip. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Reed Flute Cave is a dream destination with its dramatic limestone formations and vibrant, artful lighting. Instagram The interplay of natural rock and colorful LEDs creates unique photographic opportunities. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the large caverns, while a camera with good low-light capabilities will excel in this environment. Instagram

Experiment with different angles and exposure settings to make the most of the dynamic lighting. While flash photography might be restricted, the existing illumination is often sufficient for stunning shots. Be mindful of other visitors and the tour flow to capture your desired images without causing disruption. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology of Reed Flute Cave

Reed Flute Cave, or Ludi Yan, is a magnificent example of karst topography, formed over millions of years by the dissolution of limestone rock by water. This natural process creates the spectacular stalactites (hanging from the ceiling) and stalagmites (rising from the floor) that are the cave's main attraction. The cave's vast chambers and intricate formations are a testament to the slow, persistent power of nature. Instagram

The diverse shapes within the cave have inspired many names, with formations resembling animals, people, and even everyday objects. This natural artistry is further enhanced by the modern LED lighting system, which illuminates the geological wonders in a spectrum of colors, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere. The interplay of natural rock and artificial light is a key element of the visitor experience. Instagram

This cave has been a tourist attraction for centuries and has even hosted national leaders, highlighting its significance and beauty. The sheer scale of the cave, with some stalactites reaching over 30 meters high, makes it one of the most impressive limestone caves in the region. Reddit

Navigating the Cave: What to Expect

Upon arrival, visitors often have the option of taking a short cable car ride up to the cave entrance, though many reviewers suggest walking is preferable to save money and enjoy the surroundings. Reddit Once inside, the path is well-maintained but involves numerous stairs, both ascending and descending, so comfortable, non-slip footwear is crucial. Reddit

The guided tour is a significant part of the experience, with guides explaining the history and legends associated with the various formations. While the tour is informative, some visitors note that the cave is quite spacious, allowing for personal exploration and photography. Reddit The journey through the cave typically lasts between 75 to 120 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of its natural and illuminated wonders. Reddit

Be prepared for a cool and damp environment inside the cave, regardless of the outside weather. The unique lighting system transforms the natural rock into a vibrant, almost otherworldly landscape, making it a visually stunning experience. Instagram

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