围石洞穴

Beneath our feet, the entrance to Shihua Cave whispers tales of an underground world. Shihua Cave, also known as Stone Flower Cave, isn’t just a hole in the ground. It’s a portal to a subterranean palace sculpted by nature over millennia. Discovered in 1446, Shihua Cave has long been recognized for its vibrant stone formations. It truly earns its nickname, the “Underground Pearl of Beijing.” Located about 50 kilometers west of Beijing’s city center in Fangshan District’s Nancheying Village, Shihua Cave is a testament to the power of water and time. This cave is a seven-layered wonder, with an underground river flowing at its deepest level. Currently, the top four layers are open to exploration, offering a 2,500-meter journey through sixteen magnificent halls. Imagine entering the No.1 Hall and gazing up at a colossal stalactite. This behemoth measures 18 meters high and 3 meters in diameter, claiming the title of the largest stalactite in China. Shihua Cave holds another national treasure, moonmilk. This rare formation, resembling delicate lotus blossoms, has a history spanning 10,000 to 50,000 years. If you were to touch them, they would dissolve into a watery residue. As we continue our exploration, we’ll encounter the largest and thinnest stone shields in China. The king of these formations stands 1.2 meters high with a diameter of 2.6 meters. In contrast, the thinnest shield is a mere 7 millimeters thick. Shihua Cave also boasts a breathtaking stone curtain. This massive drapery, 18 meters wide, consists of over 540 individual layers. Another unique feature is a delicate, transparent stone flag hanging from the cave ceiling. Before we descend into this wonderland, take a moment to appreciate the pictures at the cave entrance. These images showcase the beauty of karst caves around the world, highlighting the global significance of Shihua Cave. The area surrounding the cave also offers additional points of interest. You’ll find stone sculptures of Buddha carved into the cliffs and an exhibition hall displaying a collection of unusual stones. So, prepare to be amazed as we embark on a journey into the depths of Shihua Cave. The constant temperature of 13°C ensures a comfortable experience as we delve into this hidden world beneath our feet.