The Stone Flower Cave, formerly named Qian Zhen Cave, is located in Fangshan district, Beijing, 50km away from downtown. It was first discovered in 1446, Ming Dynasty by a Buddhist monk, Yuanguang. The structure of the cave is multi-level and multi-branch. To tourists the whole tour route is about 2.5km.

It is one of the biggest caves in China, and contains a superb collection of beautiful sights. At present, only two levels are open to the public. The first level is more than 300 meters long, and contains a corridor, a pool like a lotus flower, three big halls, and a cave with an inner cave. All these caves are 10 to 20 meters high and 4 to 30 meters wide, the corridor is 2 to 3 meters high and 2 to 5 meters wide. The second level is 30 meters below the first level. Its total length is nearly 1,000 meters, and there are lots of branches connected with the cave and stone or iron stairs for the visitor. The visitor can enjoy stalactites, cobbles, stone curtains, stone piliars, and stone flowers everywhere inside the cave-an eye-opening experience.

Travel tips:

Address: Nancheying Country, Fangshan District, 50km away from downtown

Entry ticket: 70 yuan; 50 yuan (students);

Transportation: Bus No. 917 or Shihuadong Tour Special Line

Websites: http://www.gjgy.com/shihuadong.htm

(China.org.cn May 17,2008)