Guilin Reed Flute Cave: A Filming Location for Journey to the West

The Reed Flute Cave in Guilin, Guangxi, served as a filming location for Episode 17, "Three Attempts to Borrow the Palm Leaf Fan," of the 1986 version of Journey to the West. This karst cave is a breathtaking natural wonder, offering visitors a unique and extraordinary landscape. Formed over 700,000 years ago, the Reed Flute Cave was created by underground water eroding the fractured rock layers. The water dissolved calcium carbonate in the rocks, and over millions of years, the crystallized deposits formed stunning stalactites, stalagmites, stone columns, stone drapes, and stone flowers—hallmarks of karst cave formations. Inside the cave, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring. Notable features include: - **Lion Ridge Morning Glow**: A group of vividly colored stalactites resembling lions frolicking in the morning sun. The golden stalactites mimic the lions' manes, and under the lighting, they appear lifelike, as if the entire pride has come to life, showcasing the incredible artistry of nature. - **Red Silk Treasure Curtain**: A massive stone drape hanging vertically from the cave ceiling, resembling the red silk curtains of ancient emperors. Its texture appears soft and delicate, as if it could sway with a gentle touch. Surrounding stalactites, resembling tassels, add to the curtain's grandeur and mystery. - **Coiled Dragon Pagoda**: A stone column rising from the cave floor, encircled by multiple stalagmites that resemble dragons spiraling upward. The top of the column resembles an ancient pagoda, layered and intricate, exuding a sense of majesty and solemnity. - **Crystal Palace**: The widest section of the cave, measuring 93 meters at its broadest point and 18 meters at its highest. A giant palace lantern hangs in the upper left corner of the hall, casting a magical glow over the space, reminiscent of the Dragon King's Crystal Palace from mythology. The flat, spacious floor and intact rock ceiling with minimal fissures create an open and mysterious atmosphere. The scenic area has introduced the "Reed Flute: Mirror of the Cave" 4D visual show in the Crystal Palace. Using the 3,000-square-meter cave ceiling, the show projects stunning imagery of geological changes, including the Ice Age, tectonic movements, the revival of life, and the growth of stalactites. This fusion of natural wonders and modern technology offers visitors a unique visual experience. Visitor Guide: - **Location**: On the banks of the Peach Blossom River in northwest Guilin, Guangxi Province. - **Opening Hours**: During peak season, the cave is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It is recommended to visit early in the morning, ideally before 8:00 AM, to avoid the crowds between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. - **Transportation**: Visitors can take bus routes 3 or 213 directly to the scenic area. For self-driving, navigate to "No. 1 Reed Flute Road, Xiufeng District, Guilin City." Parking is available on-site. - **Must-See Attractions**: The Crystal Palace is a highlight, with its white stalactites reflecting in the pool, creating a dreamlike fairyland under changing lights. The "Snowman" is a rare calcite crystal formation that, combined with lighting, resembles a snowy kingdom. Lion Ridge Morning Glow showcases a mythical scene of stone lions illuminated by colorful lights. Additionally, the "Reed Flute: Heavenly Melody" light show inside the cave combines sound, light, and electricity to depict the evolution of underwater worlds and karst caves.