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Guyaju Caves
| Admission Fee: | CNY 55 Free for children under 3.9 feet (1.2 meters). |
| Opening Hours: | May to October: 07:30 – 18:00 November to April: 08:00 – 17:00 The ticketing hours end half an hour before the closing time. |
Nestled within a secluded gorge in the western reaches of Yanqing County, the Guyaju Caves, also known as the Ancient Cliff Dwellings, lie approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Beijing. Spanning over 24.7 acres (100,000 square meters) along the precipitous cliff face, this site stands as the largest known complex of ancient cliff residences in China. Carved into the rugged terrain of the gorge, over 100 stone chambers line both sides of the 33-foot-wide (10 meters) chasm, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives, history, and cultural traditions of the enigmatic ancient inhabitants of northern China.
Despite extensive study, the exact origins, history, and purpose of these caves remain shrouded in mystery. While the prevailing theory attributes their construction to the Kumo Xi People during the Five Dynasties Period (907 – 960), alternative perspectives suggest they may date back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD). The uncertainty surrounding their origins, coupled with a wealth of intriguing tales and folklore, only serves to enhance the captivating allure of the Guyaju Caves.
