Reed Flute Cave is the headline cave of Guilin, set on Guangming Hill beside the Taohua River just north-west of the city centre. A walkway leads through a series of chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, stone curtains and columns, all lit with coloured lights that give the formations names and shapes in the imagination, from palaces to pagodas. Reflections in still pools double the effect. The cave is easy to walk and takes under an hour on a guided or self-paced route, which makes it a good first stop on a Guilin city day. This full-day tour from Guilin includes the cave along with the Xianggong viewpoint, a bamboo boat ride and an evening show, so it covers the broad range of the region's highlights at a modest price for those short on time.
Opening times and tickets
The cave opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon, with slightly shorter hours in the winter months from November, and the entrance closes earlier than the cave itself, so aim for the morning. Entry is a modest adult fee with discounts for children, and young children under about six enter free. Because tour groups arrive in waves, arriving at opening time or later in the afternoon makes the walkway much less crowded.
What you will see
The walkway runs through lit chambers and winds past formations that guides name after objects, animals and scenes. One of the largest chambers is often called the Crystal Palace, and its pools reflect the surrounding stone. The cave name comes from the reeds growing outside, which were once used to make flutes. The lighting is colourful rather than natural, which some visitors love and others find a little garish, but the scale of the formations is impressive either way.
Practical tips
The cave stays cool all year, so bring a light layer, and the floor can be wet and slippery, so wear shoes with grip. Photography is allowed but tripods are awkward in the crowds. Most tours link the cave with the nearby Elephant Trunk Hill and city sights, and some add a visit to a tea plantation. If you want a quieter look at caves in the region, consider the less visited ones near Yangshuo, which are more rustic and less lit.
What to expect
The experience
A guided or self-paced walk through lit limestone chambers on a level pathway, part of a full-day tour that also includes a viewpoint, a bamboo boat and an evening show.
Best time
At opening time or in the late afternoon, when the tour groups thin out and the pathway is quieter.
How long
The cave takes under an hour, and the full tour fills a day.
Tips
Bring a light layer because the cave stays cool, wear shoes with grip for the wet floor and arrive early to avoid the big groups.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want an easy, dramatic indoor stop in Guilin city.
- Families
- Easy walking on a level path, with colourful lights that children usually enjoy.
- Couples
- Atmospheric and cool on a hot day, and good for photographs of the reflections.
- Pair with
- Elephant Trunk Hill, a Li River cruise and the Guilin city evening lights.
- Time needed
- About one hour inside, or half a day with travel and other city stops.
Good questions
How long does it take to see Reed Flute Cave?+
Most people spend under an hour walking through the lit chambers. Add travel time and queues, especially at busy times.
What are the opening hours?+
The cave opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon, with shorter hours from November to March. Entry stops earlier than closing, so go in the morning.
Is the cave suitable for children and older visitors?+
Yes, the path is mostly level and well lit, though the floor can be wet. Take care with small children and wear shoes with grip.
Why is it called Reed Flute Cave?+
It is named after the reeds that grow outside, which were traditionally used to make flutes. The cave itself is known for its coloured lighting and large chambers.
Is the colourful lighting natural?+
No, the lights are added to highlight the formations and give them names. Some travellers love the effect and others prefer a more natural look.
