This summer brings an exciting surprise among the guides at Zhijindong Cave. A group of distinguished scholars specialising in karst geology have volunteered to serve as exclusive tour guides for young visitors in this magnificent subterranean wonderland. Accompanied by professional geologists, participants will unlock the Earth’s secrets spanning 260 million years and experience the grandeur of nature and miracles of life amid spectacular karst landscapes.

Recognised by UNESCO as a Global Geopark, Zhijindong Cave is hailed as the King of Chinese Caves, an underground artistic palace and treasure trove of geological science. It preserves records of the Earth’s evolution stretching back 260 million years. With an explored length of 12.1 kilometres, the cave features 47 giant halls and more than 40 types of stalactite sedimentary formations. It ranks among the world’s top cave systems in terms of the density of underground halls, diversity of stalactite types and concentration of rare landscapes. Far more than a tourist attraction, Zhijindong Cave is an open “living geological textbook” beneath the earth, awaiting exploration, study and protection.

Over 20 senior experts in karst geology have gathered voluntarily at Zhijindong Cave to deliver free popular science study activities. Taking the cave as a natural classroom, they transform theoretical geological knowledge from textbooks into tangible experiences, guiding teenagers to discover the mysteries of karst evolution over hundreds of millions of years.

【Panel of Geological Experts】

The study tour offers a wealth of engaging experiences:

Geology Popular Science Classroom | At the Visitor Centre, experts illustrate cave formation mechanisms with cave models and interesting animations, laying a solid theoretical foundation for cave exploration.

Expert-Led Cave Expedition | Small exclusive groups of 9–12 participants escorted by two experts, who answer questions on-site. Visitors get an up-close view of ancient karst formations including stalactites and stalagmites.

Exclusive Closing Ceremony | A concluding ceremony is held at the cave exit. Experts issue study certificates, sign souvenirs and take group photos, creating memorable moments for this subsurface adventure. From preparatory geology lectures to immersive cave exploration, participants learn through observation and inquiry. The abstract figure of “260 million years” in textbooks turns into tangible awe and curiosity.

        This subterranean wonderland forged over 260 million years awaits discovery, understanding and protection. This summer, venture into Zhijindong Cave UGGp together with geological experts, and let the seed of environmental protection take root deep within the earth.