Tai Xu Cave

Tai Xu Cave

Tai Xu Cave

Tai Xu Cave is located in the mountain belly of Yanziyan, about 2 kilometers southwest of the city. The main entrance, now known as the Rear Cave, stands approximately 50 meters high and can be directly accessed via a 3-kilometer road from Gaokui Huang’an. The cave is tall, deep, spacious, and features caves within caves (divided into upper, middle, and lower sections; the middle and lower caves extend about a li deep to the cliffs on the western side of Wan’an, with the upper cave boasting the most spectacular stalactite formations). Inside the cave, the stalactites are uniquely shaped and naturally formed. Outside the cave, there are layered green hills and ancient towering trees, along with pavilions and temples built during the Ming Dynasty. The south-facing Rear Cave is shrouded in deep radiance and mysterious light, resembling a fairyland, hence it is also called the “Tai Xu Immortal Cave.” The cave contains magnificent and colorful spiritual rocks and stones, particularly notable for scenic wonders such as “Dragon and Tiger in Peculiar Shapes,” “Drums and Bells with Lingering Melody,” “Monk Worshiping Guanyin,” “Ten Thousand Buddhas Gathering on the Cliff,” “Golden Sand Shining on the Ground,” “Lakeside Terraced Fields,” and “Leaky Bright Immortal Chamber.” The cave was developed as early as the Ming Dynasty, with pavilions, terraces, towers, and chambers built for visitors. During festivals, Nuo opera and storytelling performances were held. Over the dynasties, more than 40 cliff inscriptions by literati have been preserved. Today, people frequently visit the cave during weekends and holidays.