Crystal Palace in Wudalianchi

Wudalianchi Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace, also known as the Ice Cave, was formed 512,000 years ago. Its formation is due to two main factors: the presence of island-like permafrost layers underground from ancient volcanoes, and the cooling effect of cold air on flowing volcanic lava. As the surface of the lava solidified into a hard shell, the lower part continued to flow. In areas where subsequent lava supply was insufficient, hollows were formed. Influenced by the temperature of the permafrost layer, after the entire lava mass cooled and solidified, caves of varying sizes and unique features filled with frost and ice were created.

The Crystal Palace stretches over 150 meters in length and is 23 meters deep. The main cave hall at the front covers an area of 400 square meters, with two additional side branches. The highest point inside the cave reaches 5 meters, and the ceiling has a dome-like shape. The average year-round temperature is minus 5°C. The cave walls feature various uniquely shaped lava flow marks, while the ceiling is adorned with pendant lava stalactites. Jade-like frost flowers spread throughout the cave, crystal clear, adding a delicate and graceful beauty to the rugged underground lava cave. The ice at the bottom of the cave remains frozen all year round, and colorful ice sculptures make you feel as if you’ve entered a fairyland—truly, “frost flowers appear in the height of summer, and ice sculptures shine brilliantly in the peak of heat.” Entering the underground lava tunnel in the height of summer offers a special kind of “surprise.” The “Four Wonders and Four Oddities” of Wudalianchi include “viewing ice and snow in the dog days,” which refers to this place.

Flying Stone The ancient stone pit to the east of Crystal Palace was formed 700,000 to 880,000 years ago. Some say it was formed by lava flows from the Jiaodebu Mountain eruption, while others claim it was hurled here during the Longmen Mountain eruption. It is confirmed to be a remnant of an ancient volcano. Don’t underestimate these irregular stones—they have obviously been smoothed and polished by tens of thousands of years of weathering. Their texture is “extremely” hard, with a very high iron content. Thieves who tried to use the stones for construction found that neither hammers nor explosives could break them. A poet praised them: “Eight hundred thousand years of meteoric rock, small as a pillow, large as a millstone, unyielding even under thunder and fire, growing only tougher with time.”

Underground Ice River is also a lava ice cave, stretching 515 meters in length. The cave floor is covered with smooth, mirror-like ice in a stepped, sloping formation. At the end of the cave are two massive lava pillars, said in legend to be where a white dragon was chained—hence the folk name “White Dragon Cave.” It is currently the longest discovered volcanic underground lava tunnel in China, formed by the same process as Crystal Palace. The scaly cave walls of White Dragon Cave feature various thorny lava stalactites, covered with frost and icicles. The cave floor is frozen with an ancient ice river, and the year-round temperature is around minus 5°C.

The Crystal Palace scenic area takes advantage of the natural conditions inside the cave to create numerous ice sculptures, allowing visitors to enjoy the fun of viewing ice art even in the hot summer. Stepping through the icy cave entrance and descending the steps, you’ll find yourself in the world of Crystal Palace. Multicolored lights, graceful fairies, and glittering jade trees make it seem as though you’ve entered a fantastical fairy realm.

Visiting Wudalianchi Crystal Palace, like other scenic spots and historical sites, offers charm in every season—spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Only by being there can you truly appreciate the picturesque beauty of the landscape. Therefore, before you go, it’s good to learn about the general overview of the Wudalianchi Crystal Palace scenic area. If you’re traveling with a tour group, the guide will provide insights into the cultural and geographical aspects of Crystal Palace. For independent travelers, be sure to check out recommended must-see spots. Finally, when traveling with family or friends, a camera is essential to capture the joyful moments of your trip to Wudalianchi Crystal Palace.

Address: Inside Wudalianchi Scenic Area, Wudalianchi Town, Wudalianchi City, Heihe City

Type: Cave geological landform

Recommended visiting time: About 1 hour

Phone: 0456-7296999