Dragon Palace: A Journey to the Underground Karst Museum and the Legendary "Dragon Palace Under Heaven"

The Name "Dragon Palace" – From Geological Changes to Dragon King Legend

The name "Dragon Palace" originates from its mysterious underground cave world and is intertwined with the ancient legend of the Dragon King marrying off his daughter. According to legend, the Dragon King set up a crystal curtain here for his daughter's wedding and left Longmen Waterfall as the palace's treasure, testing those destined to find it. The limestone of this underground palace formed during the Triassic period 200 million years ago, preserving the life codes of ancient oceans. Shaped by regional crustal uplift and long-term groundwater dissolution, it formed this string of interconnected water and dry caves like pearls on a necklace.

The Path of Discovery – From Hidden Mountains to World Acclaim

The modern story of Dragon Palace is an epic journey from obscurity to global recognition:

Scientific Discovery and Opening (1984): The scenic area officially opened to the public, unveiling this "underground palace."

National Recognition (1988): Designated as one of China's second batch of National Scenic Areas.

Global Glory (2007): Recognized as one of the first batch of National AAAAA-level Tourist Attractions.

Brand Ascendancy (Present): Boasts unique natural resources including China's longest and most beautiful water cave, China's largest cave Buddhist hall (Guanyin Cave), China's largest cave karst waterfall (Longmen Waterfall), the world's lowest natural radiation rate measured by the China Atomic Energy Authority, the world's largest cluster of interconnected water and dry caves, and the world's largest plant character "Dragon" field.

Dive Deeper: Explore More Karst Wonders in China >>Zhijin Cave || Huangguoshu Waterfall

Nature's Artistry – A Museum of Cave Karst

The natural landscape of Dragon Palace is an eternal dance of water, stone, and time.

Longmen Waterfall – China's Largest Cave Karst Waterfall
This is Dragon Palace's most awe-inspiring visual icon. The 38-meter-high waterfall cascades from a cave skylight, its thunderous sound echoing through the cavern, with rainbows frequently appearing—revered as the "Palace Treasure." It is China's largest cave waterfall, with mist enveloping the area like a fairyland, earning it the nickname "Underground Niagara" from geologists. Standing on the viewing platform, the mist refreshes you instantly in summer, while winter reveals spectacular ice formations.

First Dragon Palace – China's Longest and Most Beautiful Water Cave
Stretching 840 meters, the First Dragon Palace consists of five sections: The Hall of Dragons Welcoming Guests, the Relief Fresco Hall, the Five Dragons Protecting Treasure Hall, the Crystal Palace, and the High Gorge Secluded Valley Hall. Taking a boat through the cave's underground river, the colorful cave formations above resemble a brilliant night sky, reflecting beautifully in the calm water below.

Dragons Welcoming Guests: Dozens of stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling vividly resemble dragons with claws outstretched.

Landscape Frescoes: Stone curtains and flowers formed over millions of years create various patterns on the cave walls, resembling natural landscape paintings.

Crystal Palace: A spacious hall with the richest stalactite formations, featuring scenes like "Dragon Daughter Sitting in Palace" and "Old Dragon Returning to Palace."

Second Dragon Palace – A Fantastical Journey Through a Time Tunnel
The Second Dragon Palace stretches 400 meters and is divided into four halls. The cave features rugged landscapes and bizarre stalactites, as if carved by knives and axes, with deep, mysterious pools and winding passages. The water curtain movie creates surreal effects, making a boat ride here feel like passing through a "time tunnel."

Dragon Palace Tianchi – The Place with the World's Lowest Natural Radiation
Tianchi, also known as Xiangshui Dragon Pool, sits at an altitude of 1,170 meters, measuring 220 meters long, averaging 50 meters wide, with a water surface area of 12,500 square meters and an average depth of 28 meters. Tianchi is a turning point of the Dragon Palace underground river, formed when the channel widened and underground water continuously dissolved the rock, eventually causing the cave ceiling to collapse. It has been measured by the China Atomic Energy Authority as having the world's lowest natural radiation dose rate, making it one of Dragon Palace's "Three Wonders."

Huxue Cave – A Dry Cave Requiring Climbing
After visiting the Second Dragon Palace, you can explore Huxue Cave. This dry cave requires some climbing but offers unique formations worth discovering.

Human Craftsmanship – Wisdom and Culture Within and Beyond the Cave

Guanyin Cave – China's Largest Cave Buddhist Hall
Guanyin Cave is the largest cave temple in China, with a grand-scale Buddhist hall inside enshrining Guanyin Bodhisattva. Non-devout Buddhist believers should refrain from touching anything, especially accepting so-called "free incense."

Dragon Character Field – The World's Largest Plant Character Landscape
The Dragon Character Field uses two types of crops interplanted, tracing the cursive calligraphy of Tang Dynasty calligrapher Huai Su. Covering approximately 80,000 square meters, it is the world's largest single Chinese character and one of Dragon Palace's "Three Wonders." "Seeing the Dragon in the Field" comes from the Qian hexagram of the I Ching: "The dragon appears in the field; it is advantageous to see the great man." It represents the best wishes and blessings.

Xuantang – The Wonder of "Water Spinning While Mountains Stand Still"
Xuantang is another of Dragon Palace's "Three Wonders." This natural pond rotates clockwise, creating the unique phenomenon of "water spinning while mountains stand still." At dusk, with the setting sun, observing this spinning wonder offers a unique experience.

Buyi Ethnic Culture – Rich and Colorful Traditions
Dragon Palace Scenic Area is a multi-ethnic region, primarily inhabited by Han, Miao, Buyi, Bai, Tujia, and Gelao peoples, with Buyi being the main minority group. The ancestors of the Buyi people, the Baiyue, first invented rice cultivation, earning them the name "Rice Farming People." Buyi clothing is colorful and diverse, with folk crafts mainly including batik, embroidery, brocade weaving, and bamboo weaving. Traditional festivals include the Second Day of the Second Lunar Month, the Eighth Day of the Fourth Lunar Month, and the Sixth Day of the Sixth Lunar Month. Buyi opera and Bayin seated singing are long-renowned.

Taozi Village – China's Most Beautiful Leisure Village
Taozi Village is embraced by green mountains and surrounded by clear waters, with Guizhou-style white-walled, black-tiled houses nestled among trees. The village features constructed wetlands and has been awarded "China's Most Beautiful Leisure Village" by the Ministry of Agriculture and "National Civilized Village" by the Central Civilization Commission.

Photography & Exploration Tips:
Prime photo spots include iconic landmarks like Longmen Waterfall, the First Dragon Palace, and the Dragon Character Field viewing platform.
Cave lighting is dim; use your phone's night mode or bring supplemental lighting.
The cave maintains a constant temperature of 16-18°C year-round with humidity above 90%; wear easily removable layers and non-slip shoes.
The boat tour lasts approximately 40-60 minutes; sitting in the front offers the best views.
The water cave may close when water levels exceed safety limits; check weather conditions before your visit.

Five Must-Do Activities for a Complete Dragon Palace Journey

1. Take a Boat Through the First Dragon Palace, Explore the "Dragon King's Bedchamber"

Time: Any time; morning offers optimal cave lighting.

Experience: Travel 840 meters through the underground river by boat, with stalactites hanging above like scattered stars. Pass through five sections: Hall of Dragons Welcoming Guests, Relief Fresco Hall, Five Dragons Protecting Treasure Hall, Crystal Palace, and High Gorge Secluded Valley Hall, experiencing the grandeur of this underground palace.

Tip: Sit in the front for the best view; in some areas you can reach up and touch the stalactites—a unique experience.

2. Gaze Up at Longmen Waterfall, Feel the Power of the "Underground Niagara"

Experience: From the viewing platform, look up at the 38-meter cave waterfall thundering down, with mist enveloping the area and rainbows frequently appearing. This is China's largest cave waterfall, revered as Dragon Palace's "Palace Treasure."

Photography: Use slow shutter speed to create a silky effect for the waterfall and capture rainbow moments.

3. Hike Through Huxue Cave, Discover Dry Cave Wonders

Experience: After visiting the Second Dragon Palace, head to Huxue Cave to explore its unique dry cave formations. The stalactites here take various shapes, as if carved by knives and axes, requiring some climbing to enter—a hidden world worth discovering.

Tip: The cave floor can be slippery; wear non-slip athletic shoes.

4. Witness Xuantang's Spinning Wonder, See the World's Largest Plant Character

Experience: Visit Xuantang at dusk to observe the natural phenomenon of "water spinning while mountains stand still." Then head to the Dragon Character Field viewing platform to see the world's largest single Chinese character, covering over 80,000 square meters.

Cultural Insight: "Seeing the Dragon in the Field" from the I Ching represents the best wishes and blessings.

5. Visit a Buyi Village, Experience Batik Making

Location: Taozi Village or surrounding Buyi settlements.

Experience: Explore Buyi stone architecture, try your hand at batik making, and taste Buyi specialties like five-color flower rice and sour fish soup.

Respectful Reminder: Please respect local customs when entering villages and ask permission before taking photographs.

Suggested Itineraries

Important Note: Dragon Palace Scenic Area consists of two main sections: Longtan Secret Realm and Tongxuan Pastoral Area. A full tour takes approximately 3-4 hours.

One-Day "Essence Express" Tour:

Arrive at Dragon Palace Visitor Center before 9:00 AM → Dragon Character Field viewing platform for photos (20 mins) → Take shuttle bus to Longtan Transfer Station (3.5 km) → View Longmen Waterfall (optional sightseeing elevator ¥20/person to save energy) → Tianchi Waterfall Viewing Platform → Tianchi Pier boat into First Dragon Palace (approx. 30 mins) → Second Dragon Palace boat ride (approx. 20 mins) → Lunch within the scenic area → Afternoon visit Huxue Cave (dry cave, approx. 40 mins) → Pass through Longteng Fort, Yulong Cave, Shuangkeng, Jiujiu Tun, Dizang Hall to Guanyin Cave (China's largest cave Buddhist hall) → Take shuttle bus from Xuantang Transfer Station back → Depart in the evening.
IntoTravelChina Tip: This itinerary takes approximately 4 hours. Arrive early to avoid peak crowds. The cave is cool; bring a light jacket.

Two-Day "Deep Exploration + Peripheral Tour" (Highly Recommended):

Day 1: Dragon Palace Underground Exploration

Morning arrival, check into a hotel in Longgong Town or Anshui city center

Lunch: Taste Anshun specialties like Guojuan (rice rolls) and Posu Bao (flaky buns)

Afternoon: Follow the route above to explore Dragon Palace's core attractions, focusing on First Dragon Palace, Second Dragon Palace, and Longmen Waterfall

Evening: Watch Xuantang's spinning wonder at dusk, photograph the Dragon Character Field at sunset

Dinner: Savor Buyi Eight Bowls and five-color flower rice

Overnight in Longgong Town, enjoying the sounds of frogs and insects

Day 2: Huangguoshu Waterfall + Stone Village Tour

Early morning departure to Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area (approx. 30 km, 30 mins drive)

Full day exploring Huangguoshu Grand Waterfall, Doupotang, and Tianxingqiao

Afternoon visit Stone Village (10-15 mins drive from Huangguoshu), explore Buyi stone architecture and batik craftsmanship

Evening depart or continue your Guizhou journey

For a three-day trip, add Day 3: Visit Gehe River Scenic Area to witness the "Heavenly Light" phenomenon.

IntoTravelChina Advantage: We can reserve the most suitable accommodations for you, arrange ticket reservations, transportation connections, and cultural experiences, and provide detailed route maps and time management recommendations.

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How to Get There: A Seamless Connection Guide
Dragon Palace is located in Longgong Town, Xixiu District, Anshun City, Guizhou Province. It is 27 km from Anshun city center, 116 km from Guiyang, and only 30 km from Huangguoshu Waterfall, with convenient transportation access.

By Air: Fly to Guiyang Longdongbao Airport, take airport shuttle to Anshun (approx. 1 hr), then transfer to Dragon Palace special line bus (approx. 40 mins).

By High-Speed Rail/Train: Take high-speed train to Anshun West Station, transfer to tourist shuttle directly to the scenic area (approx. 30 mins); or take regular train to Anshun Station, take special line bus from Anshun East Bus Station to Dragon Palace (approx. 1 hr).

Self-Drive: Navigate to "Dragon Palace Scenic Area Visitor Center." From Guiyang, self-drive takes approx. 2 hours; from Anshun city center, approx. 40 minutes.

From Nearby Attractions: Huangguoshu Waterfall to Dragon Palace is approx. 30 mins drive, perfect for combined tours.

Important Return Reminder: Scenic area hours are 08:30-17:00 (off-peak) and 07:30-17:30 (peak). Anshun West Bus Station has special line buses directly to Dragon Palace; it's recommended to catch one before 17:30.

Best Time to Visit
Dragon Palace is suitable for visiting year-round, but the high-water season from May to October offers the best views, and summer is ideal for escaping the heat.

High-Water Golden Season (May-Oct): Maximum water flow, Longmen Waterfall at its most spectacular, abundant underground river volume. Summer cave temperatures at 18°C provide natural air conditioning—perfect for cooling off.

Spring (Mar-Apr): February and March are the best times to view Anshun's rapeseed flowers, with karst mountain rapeseed flower landscapes surrounding the area.

Autumn (Sep-Nov): Clear, crisp weather with pleasant temperatures, ideal for hiking.

Winter (Dec-Feb): Fewer visitors, enjoy a more peaceful experience, occasionally witnessing spectacular ice formations.

Accommodation Options

Longgong Town/Area (First choice for convenient access):

Dragon Palace Bieyuan: Located within the scenic area core, 5-minute walk to the boat pier. Open the window to mountain views, fall asleep to the sound of the underground river at night.

Dragon Palace Buyi Farmstay: 500 meters from the scenic area exit, offering Buyi cultural experiences. Recommended dishes: sour fish soup and cured meat hot pot.

Anshun City Center (Comfortable choice):

Wide range of hotels, including brand hotels like Hampton by Hilton with good value. Approximately 40 minutes drive from the scenic area. Suitable for travelers prioritizing comfort.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Advice:
We recommend planning and booking at least one month in advance, especially for summer and holidays. Booking through us provides real-time availability and allows us to package accommodation, tickets, and transport for a seamless itinerary. Tell us your budget and needs, and we will match you with your ideal "Dragon Palace Home."  >>Consult now for customization

Dragon Palace is the perfect starting point for exploring the karst wonders and ethnic cultures of central Guizhou.

Classic 2-Day Central Guizhou Karst Loop: Dragon Palace (Underground Karst Museum) → Huangguoshu Waterfall (Asia's Largest Waterfall, 30 mins drive) → Stone Village (Buyi Stone Architecture and Batik Culture). A perfect journey integrating underground wonders and above-ground waterfalls. 

3-Day Panoramic Tour: Dragon Palace → Huangguoshu → Tianxingqiao (Water Forest) → Doupotang (Filming Location for Journey to the West) → Anshun Confucian Temple (Ming Dynasty Architecture). Experience Anshun's diverse culture and natural wonders. 

The story of Dragon Palace spans 200 million years of geological transformation, the eternal sculpting of rock by flowing water, and the beautiful legend of the Dragon King marrying off his daughter. IntoTravelChina specializes in creating deep, personalized, and worry-free travel experiences in China. Our travel experts can:

Tailor-Make Your Itinerary: Design the perfect route including Dragon Palace and surrounding attractions based on your interests and schedule.

Provide One-Stop Service: Secure ticket reservations, unique accommodations, transportation connections, local guides, and activity arrangements.

Arrange Exclusive Experiences: Off-peak boat time slots, Buyi batik workshops, prime photography spot guidance for the Dragon Character Field, and more.

Let your Dragon Palace journey transcend sightseeing—immerse yourself in the wonders of karst landscapes and the rich tapestry of ethnic culture.

Start Planning Your Journey Now
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