401 Cave Heaven (Sìlíngyī Dòngtiān)

401 Cave Heaven (Sìlíngyī Dòngtiān)

Also known as the 401 Command Project, 401 Cave Heaven is located at the foot of Zhuzhang Mountain between Xiling Village and Banjing Village in Zhangshui Town, Yinzhou District, approximately 50 kilometers from downtown Ningbo. It was a military defense facility — a national defense tunnel — constructed by the Nanjing Military Region during the 1960s and 1970s. At that time, the project site was personally surveyed and designated by the then Commander-in-Chief of the Nanjing Military Region, a general. Subsequently, the People's Liberation Army's 6418th Unit moved into villages such as Xiling and Banjing to carry out excavation work. However, the construction team withdrew not long after due to unforeseen circumstances. It wasn’t until the late 1960s, when the troops returned to Xiling, Banjing, and surrounding villages to resume the project, that the tunnel was largely completed, after which it was sealed off. Recently, due to changes in the international situation and defense preparedness posture, relevant authorities decided to open the "401 Command Project," giving the public the rare opportunity to visit and witness its unique and mysterious features.

Stretching over 1 kilometer in length, 401 Cave Heaven has several exits to the north and south, situated above the road on the southern foothills of Zhujiang Mountain. The main exit is located on the northern side of Zhujian Mountain’s foothills, alongside the road and the southern bank of the stream. The cave features a complex interior layout with spaces of varying purposes, twisting paths leading to secluded chambers, and an overall atmosphere of mystery...

401 Cave Heaven is located in the heart of Siming Mountain. Siming Mountain has long been a famous peak in eastern Zhejiang and is recognized as the ninth Cave Heaven of Taoism — the “Dan Mountain Red Water” Cave Heaven. It is also one of the Buddhist monastic centers of eastern Zhejiang, home to numerous temples and many eminent monks. In modern Chinese history, Siming Mountain is also one of the country’s most renowned revolutionary red bases.

The main peak of Siming Mountain is located in the northern part of Huangze Town, Shengzhou City, standing at an elevation of 1,012 meters. The landscape is breathtaking, characterized by overlapping mountain ridges, spectacular peaks, and beautiful waters — a view that has earned this famous mountain, which spans seven counties and cities in eastern Zhejiang, a reputation shrouded in mystery. According to the “Shanyan Zhi” (Record of Mountains and Waters) in the “Shan Lu”: “The territory of Siming Mountain spans over eight hundred li... to the east is the Mountain of Surging Waves, to the west stands the Ridge of Rushing Oxen, to the south lies the Momentum of Herding Sheep, and to the north rises the Cliff of Slithering Snakes.” Though Siming Mountain has many peaks, if ranked by height, Fuchuan Mountain at 1,021 meters is the tallest. However, the peak to its southwest, standing tall and majestic with exquisite views in all directions, uniquely dominates the range and thus has been named the “Main Peak of Siming Mountain.” Siming Mountain is often wreathed in clouds, located on the frontlines of East China, and has even been referred to as the “Second Lushan Mountain of China.”

As a newly developed tourist attraction, 401 Cave Heaven focuses on offering a national defense and preparedness experience. Aside from exploring the mysterious defense facilities, it also presents natural and cultural tourism activities such as enjoying lush mountains, clear waters, local customs, and traditions. The site provides distinctive dining, accommodation, and entertainment services. A trip to 401 Cave Heaven promises a refreshing, mysterious, and thrilling experience.

Address: Xiling Village, Zhangshui Town, Yinzhou District, Ningbo City

Type: Military

Recommended visiting time: 1 hour

Opening hours:

7:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission:

30 RMB per person