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Step into Sanyuan Cave and be transported back to the Tang Dynasty! This hidden gem in Xi'an dazzles with vibrant Buddhist murals and stone carvings that have retained their brilliance for centuries. Climb the ancient stairway and run your fingers over the weathered chisel marks - you'll literally touch history. Come at golden hour when sunlight transforms the cavern into a dramatic photogenic wonder, revealing details missed by most guidebooks!
Everything you need to know about Sanyuan Cave
Qujiang Hotel is a top choice near Sanyuan Cave, offering authentic Tang Dynasty architecture and a serene courtyard. Just a 5-minute walk from the cave entrance, it provides complimentary shuttle services to major attractions like the Terracotta Warriors. Guests can relax in traditional-style rooms or enjoy therapeutic hot springs. Nearby local food streets serve must-try dishes such as roujiamo and liangpi, delivering an immersive cultural experience.
Take Xi'an Metro Line 4 to Dajiaotai Station, then transfer to Bus 609 or a dedicated shuttle bus—just 15 minutes to the cave entrance. For self-driving, use GPS to locate "Sanyuan Cave Scenic Area," where a large parking lot with 200 spaces is available at reasonable rates. Alternatively, rent an electric scooter for scenic rides around the mountain area, offering panoramic views of the Qinling foothills and ideal for leisurely exploration.
Explore the natural limestone grotto trail illuminated with artistic lighting, perfect for photography and family outings. Participate in Taoist culture workshops outside the cave, learning how to craft talismans and perform blessing rituals. Every Saturday evening features a live light show projected onto the cave entrance, blending music, storytelling, and digital art to bring ancient legends to life. Nearby farms also offer hands-on wine-making sessions, using local millet and spring water to produce traditional rice wine—a memorable souvenir.
Yes, North Square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda is just 8 km away and perfect for families. It features interactive fountains, children’s play zones, and nightly performances at Tang Paradise. Nearby, Qujiang Pool Ruins Park offers nature trails, a small zoo with ducks and peacocks, and Hanfu rental services for family photo shoots—creating a magical journey back to the Tang Dynasty.
Sanyuan Cave is open year-round from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entry at 5:30 PM. Ticket prices are ¥50 for adults, ¥25 for students with valid ID, and free for visitors aged 65 and above. The site offers wheelchair-accessible paths and multilingual audio guides in Simplified Chinese, English, and Japanese. HopeGoo online in advance is recommended to avoid queues during peak seasons. Weekend events often include cultural exhibitions showcasing folk artifacts from the Qinling region—completely free to attend.
See what other travelers say about Sanyuan Cave
Staying at Angsana Xi'an Lintong was an absolute delight from start to finish. The resort’s ambiance is serene and beautifully maintained, with a spacious lobby that immediately puts you at ease. My room was spotless, featuring a private balcony overlooking lush greenery and a deep soaking tub—perfect for unwinding after a long day. What truly stood out was our host, Warm, whose genuine warmth and attentive service made all the difference. He went above and beyond with kindness and patience, making us feel like valued guests. The location is fantastic—just minutes away from the Terracotta Warriors and Huaqing Hot Springs, with easy access by car or public transport. Everything about this stay was exceptional, and I’d absolutely return in a heartbeat—especially if Warm is on duty again.
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