Adunchulu Stone Cave

Adunchulu Stone Cave

On the Xinhuaerhu Grassland, there is a unique scenic wonder — the magical Adunchulu Stone Cave. Located in the northern part of Adunchulu Sumu in the northwest of Xinhuar Right Banner, it borders Mongolia. The national first-class seasonal port, Arxat Port, lies within this Sumu.

Also called Agui Cave, Adunchulu Stone Cave is located eight kilometers from the Sumu center and 70 kilometers northwest of Altan Emel Town. Here, the grassland is lush and green, nestled against mountains and water, with grotesque rocks dotting the uniquely shaped terrain that exudes the charm of northern China and the allure of the frontier. Surrounded by rock formations resembling a herd of horses, local herders call it “Adunchulu,” meaning “a herd of stone horses.” The cave resembles a stone house with three entrances — two of which are like skylights embedded in steep cliffs, making them nearly impossible to climb. Only the southern-facing entrance allows one person to pass through. Yet the interior is quite spacious, accommodating six or seven people with ease. Even during the peak summer heat, cool breezes waft through the cave, making it a rare summer retreat. With its naturally formed, mystical charm, Agui Cave stands out as a unique gem on the Barhu Grassland, sparking visitors’ imaginations and leaving them in awe. Every year, it attracts a continuous stream of tourists who come specifically to see it.

Among the Mongolian people, Agui Cave is associated with an ancient and magical legend. It is said that the cave was once the dwelling place of Ixigenbu, a legendary Mongolian wrestling champion renowned for his extraordinary strength in ancient times. This heroic figure, with a colossal build and the strength to lift a thousand jin (approximately 500 kg), could shoulder two oxen with a cart axle and trek a hundred li (about 50 km) of mountain paths as if on flat ground. In search of a place to settle, he carried his mother to Adunchulu, where he was captivated by the picturesque grassland scenery of undulating rocks and stunning vistas, prompting him to decide to make it his home. Using his immense strength, he lifted a massive boulder and placed it among the surrounding rocks on the mountain to build a cave, providing shade and shelter from rain for his mother. He also dug several springs with his bare hands, ensuring a flowing supply of fresh water for her to drink. These are the Agui Cave and the clear spring that flows beneath the rocks today. The huge boulder above the cave is said to have been placed there by him; the two knee prints on the rock near the spring are marks left by Ixigenbu while drinking; and the imprints on the rocks are said to be from where he rested. He often helped poor herders and earned great respect among the local community. Later, the people of Adunchulu referred to the cave as the Filial Piety Cave, reminding future generations to always honor their parents. To this day, local residents often visit this site to pay tribute to the hero in their hearts.