Nestled outside Beijing, the Guyaju Cave Dwellings offer a unique window into China’s past. Carved into towering limestone cliffs, these mysterious abodes date back over a millennium to the Tang dynasty. Visitors can explore the intricate caverns, gaining insight into the lives of the Xiyi ethnic minority who once called this place home. But the adventure doesn’t end there – this private tour also presents the option to discover the iconic Great Wall and Ming Tombs, immersing you in layers of Chinese history and natural splendor.

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Key Points

This private day tour from Beijing includes a visit to the Guyaju Cave Dwellings, a less touristy site with 117 interconnected caverns.
The tour also offers optional visits to the Ming Tombs and sections of the Great Wall at Badaling or Juyongguan.
A guided boat ride through the stunning Longqing Gorge, known for its karst formations and scenic bays, is included.
The tour provides insight into the lives of the Xiyi ethnic minority who once lived in the Guyaju Cave Dwellings.
An English-speaking guide accompanies the tour, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Beijing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private day tour from Beijing takes visitors to explore the Guyaju Cave Dwellings and the scenic Longqing Gorge.

The tour lasts 8 hours, with pickup from your Beijing hotel. An English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout.

An 8-hour private tour from Beijing with an English-speaking guide accompanying you throughout.

The tour includes a boat ride through Longqing Gorge and access to the 7th-century Guyaju Cave Dwellings.

Optional visits to the Ming Tombs and Great Wall sections at Badaling or Juyongguan are available.

The tour concludes with drop-off at your Beijing hotel.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is offered, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

Looking for more options in Beijing? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Guyaju Cave Dwellings

Carved into the rugged limestone cliffs during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), the Guyaju Cave Dwellings beckon visitors with their unique architectural features and historical significance.

The 117 caves resemble an ant farm, grouped into two rock face villages. Exploration of these ancient abodes offers a less touristy experience, as limited historical knowledge shrouds the site in mystery.

Visitors can wander through the interconnected caverns, marveling at the ancient craftsmanship and the captivating views over the surrounding landscape.

The Guyaju Cave Dwellings provide a glimpse into the lives of the Xiyi ethnic minority who once called these cliffs home.

Experiencing the Longqing Gorge

What awaits visitors at the Longqing Gorge? A guided boat tour through a stunning natural wonderland.

The highlights include:

Beautiful karst formations
Bell Mountain, a must-see landmark
Phoenix-Coronet Island, a picturesque island
Dongdazhai, a scenic bay area
Moon Bay, a tranquil, crescent-shaped inlet

Often compared to the iconic Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, the Longqing Gorge offers a chance to immerse in China’s breathtaking landscapes.

The guided tour allows visitors to fully appreciate the gorge’s natural beauty and geological significance.

Visiting the Ming Tombs

After exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Longqing Gorge, visitors have the option to visit the historic Ming Tombs. The Ming Tombs are the final resting place of 13 Ming dynasty emperors, offering a glimpse into China’s imperial past. A guided tour includes the Sacred Way, lined with impressive marble statues, and Dingling Tomb, the burial site of Emperor Wanli and his empresses, where treasures from the underground palace can be seen.

| Site | Features | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Sacred Way | 18 pairs of marble figures | 1-2 hours |

| Dingling Tomb | Underground palace with treasures | 1-2 hours |

| Other Tombs | Additional imperial burial sites | 1-2 hours |

More Great Tours Nearby

Hiking the Badaling Great Wall

Although renowned for being one of the most popular sections of the Great Wall, Badaling offers visitors a chance to hike along this iconic fortification.

Here are five highlights of the Badaling Great Wall experience:

Well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and structures
Opportunities to challenge yourself with steep climbs or take the easy route via cable car
Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
On-site facilities like restaurants, shops, and restrooms for convenience
Less crowded sections for a more peaceful Great Wall exploration

The Badaling Great Wall is a must-see for any Beijing visitor seeking an authentic Great Wall adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Beijing

Exploring the Juyongguan Great Wall

While the Badaling Great Wall captivates with its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture, the Juyongguan Great Wall offers a unique perspective on the logistics and governance of the Yuan Dynasty.

Less crowded than Badaling, Juyongguan features various structures built for management and control. Explore the strategic significance of this important pass that was crucial for Yuan Dynasty operations.

Juyongguan Great Wall features structures built for Yuan Dynasty management and control of this strategically crucial pass.

Hike along the ancient ramparts and discover the clever engineering that allowed the Chinese to defend this vital choke point.

Though not as picturesque as Badaling, Juyongguan provides an insightful look into the Great Wall’s military function.

Inclusions and Important Information

The Guyaju Cave Dwellings tour includes a private English-speaking guide, private transfer service, lunch, and entrance fees. This comprehensive package ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Some important details to note:

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for some light hiking and exploration.
The tour concludes with a drop-off at your Beijing downtown hotel.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Reserve now and pay later option available.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and unique experiences, though caution about crowds during peak season.

Customer Reviews

Based on 5 reviews, the Guyaju Cave Dwellings tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and unique experiences at the caves and Longqing Gorge.

However, some express concerns about tourist crowds during peak season.

One reviewer notes the limited historical information available about the caves, making the visit less touristy and more intriguing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Caves?

Photography and videography are generally allowed inside the Guyaju Cave Dwellings, though visitors should be mindful of preserving the site. Some restrictions may apply to protect the caves’ delicate structure and historical integrity.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Guyaju Cave Dwellings?

The best time to visit the Guyaju Cave Dwellings is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Avoid summer’s heat and winter’s cold for the most pleasant experience exploring the unique cave dwellings.

Can We Stop for Local Cuisine During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a stop for a local lunch, allowing you to sample the regional cuisine. The knowledgeable guide can provide recommendations on delicious and authentic dishes to try during the day-long excursion.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age or mobility restrictions for the tour. However, it’s recommended that guests wear comfortable shoes, as the visit to the Guyaju Cave Dwellings involves some walking. The tour is suitable for most travelers.

Are There Any Covid-19 Safety Protocols in Place for the Tour?

The tour follows current COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include mask-wearing, social distancing, and regular sanitization. Travelers should check with the tour provider for the latest requirements before their visit.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Beijing offers a unique opportunity to explore the Guyaju Cave Dwellings, providing insight into the lives of the Xiyi ethnic minority. Visitors can also opt to visit the historic Ming Tombs and iconic sections of the Great Wall, enhancing their understanding of China’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With a less touristy atmosphere, this tour provides a fascinating and enriching experience for those seeking to delve deeper into China’s cultural heritage.