Keelung Xianyan Cave

Keelung Xianyan Cave

Xianyan Cave is located in Xian Dong Li, Zhongzheng District, to the northwest of Keelung. It is a natural sea-eroded cave, with the sea originally right next to it. However, due to coastal uplift, it is now over 10 meters away from the water. Legend has it that immortals once cultivated themselves here and ascended to heaven, hence the name "Xianyan."

The area around Xianyan Cave is dotted with naturally formed, uniquely shaped rocks and stones, offering a captivating landscape. As you climb the steps, you’ll see the three characters “Xian Dong Yan” (Immortal Cave Rock) inscribed on a stele. Beside the stone staircase in front of the cave stands a grand and majestic Buddha statue for worshippers. Inside Xianyan Cave, there are mainly the Main Cave, Right Cave, and Left Cave. The interior is quiet, dimly lit, winding, and mysterious. On the stone walls on both sides of the main cave, there are many exquisitely carved Buddha statues and ink inscriptions. At the end, there is also a Buddha statue for worship. To the right is a small cave that is not easy to explore further, but visitors can burn incense and offer prayers outside its entrance. The left cave is completely dark, so visitors must bring their own flashlights to explore. The passage inside varies in width and undulation—you’ll need to crouch or sidestep your way through. After about 80 meters, the view suddenly opens up.