Explore the Mysterious Longyou Caves: An In-Depth Guide
Longyou Caves, located in China’s Zhejiang Province, are an ancient mystery that still captivates archaeologists and history buffs alike. These man-made underground wonders are thought to have been carved by hand some 3,000 years ago and span an incredible 30,000 square meters in area!
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the mysterious Longyou Caves, from their origin to the many wonders that lay within them. So, grab your flashlight and let’s take a journey into the past.
What Are the Longyou Caves?
The Longyou Caves are a series of man-made underground chambers located in the village of Shiyan Beicun in China’s Zhejiang Province. The caves were first discovered in 1992 by a local villager and have since been explored and studied by archaeologists and historians.
The caves are carved from solid rock and span an incredible 30,000 square meters. This is an impressive feat, considering the fact that they were made by hand, with only primitive tools, some 3,000 years ago.
The Origin of the Longyou Caves
The origin of the Longyou Caves is still a mystery, as there is no written record of who built them or why. Theories range from the caves being used as a place of worship, to them being part of an ancient irrigation system, to them being used as a secret fortress by the Qin Dynasty.
What Is Inside the Longyou Caves?
The Longyou Caves are filled with wonders, both natural and man-made. Inside the caves, you’ll find an intricate network of tunnels, chambers, and galleries, all carved from solid rock. The walls are also decorated with carvings of animals, plants, and deities.
The largest chamber, known as the “Chamber of Light,” is said to be illuminated by natural sunlight. This is an impressive feat, considering the fact that the chamber is located 30 meters below the surface.
How to Visit the Longyou Caves
If you’re interested in visiting the Longyou Caves, you can do so by taking a tour. Tours are available from the nearby cities of Hangzhou and Yiwu and usually include a guided tour of the caves and a visit to the nearby village of Shiyan Beicun.
The Longyou Caves are open to the public from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and entrance fees are around 70 RMB (around $10 USD). It’s recommended that you wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight, as some of the tunnels can be dark.
Conclusion
The Longyou Caves are an ancient mystery that still captivates archaeologists and history buffs alike. These man-made underground wonders are thought to have been carved by hand some 3,000 years ago and span an incredible 30,000 square meters in area! Inside, you’ll find an intricate network of tunnels, chambers, and galleries, all carved from solid rock and decorated with carvings of animals, plants, and deities.
If you’re interested in visiting the Longyou Caves, tours are available from the nearby cities of Hangzhou and Yiwu. So, grab your flashlight and take a journey into the past with a visit to the mysterious Longyou Caves.