The Firefly Water Cave Tourism Area is located in Yishui County, Linyi City, Shandong Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. Covering a total area of about 25 square kilometers, the core attraction is the 1,200-meter-long Firefly Water Cave, with about 800 meters accessible to visitors. This is a rare firefly habitat in northern China, with a constant temperature of around 18°C inside the cave, making it suitable for visits all year round. The scenic area is famous for three main features: "firefly spectacle, underground rivers, and karst cave landscapes," earning it the title of "Asia's No.1 Firefly Water Cave."
History and Culture
The Firefly Water Cave was formed about 400 million years ago during the Paleozoic era and is a typical karst cave. Local folklore says this was once a "place where immortals practiced cultivation," and the fireflies in the cave were regarded as "guiding lights."
In the 1980s, local villagers accidentally discovered this natural cave and its firefly colony. After scientific investigation and protective development, it was officially opened to the public in 2005, becoming an important eco-tourism destination in Linyi City.
The scenic area also preserves historical relics from the Anti-Japanese War period when the Eighth Route Army was active here, showcasing the red culture of this old revolutionary base.
Main Attractions
Firefly Water Cave
A 1,200-meter-long underground cave, with 800 meters of waterway requiring boat tours. Tens of thousands of fireflies inhabit the cave ceiling, creating a spectacular "starry sky" in the darkness. The temperature inside remains around 18°C year-round with suitable humidity, making it visitable in all seasons.
Butterfly Valley
An ecological park covering about 30,000 square meters, home to tens of thousands of butterflies of dozens of species. The valley features a butterfly science museum, observation areas, and interactive experience zones where visitors can observe butterfly life habits up close.
Underground River Rafting
A 1.5-kilometer underground river rafting adventure where visitors ride special rubber boats led by professional guides through mysterious underground waterways, experiencing an exciting yet safe exploration journey.
Karst Cave Wonders
Includes special cave landscapes like the "Crystal Palace" and "Jade Pillar Forest," where various stalactites and stalagmites create breathtaking scenes under lighting, showcasing the marvels of karst topography.
Cuisine
Yimeng Stir-Fried Chicken
A Linyi specialty dish made with free-range local chicken and Yimeng mountain seasonings, featuring tender meat and rich aroma. Many farmhouse restaurants around the scenic area serve this local delicacy.
Pancake Roll with Scallion
A traditional Shandong snack consisting of crispy pancakes rolled with fresh scallions and sweet bean sauce, simple yet uniquely flavorful. Food stalls in the scenic area make them fresh, providing convenient snacks during tours.
Firefly Cave Fish
Wild fish living in the underground rivers of the Firefly Water Cave, exceptionally delicious due to the pure, unpolluted water. Steamed or braised are both excellent preparation methods.
Ticket Information
Peak season (April 1-October 31) tickets cost 98 yuan per person, off-season 78 yuan, covering main attractions like the Firefly Water Cave and Butterfly Valley. The underground river rafting requires an additional ticket (60 yuan/person). Seniors over 60 and students enjoy half-price discounts, while children under 1.2 meters enter free.
Tour Route
Recommended route: Visitor Center → Butterfly Valley → Firefly Water Cave (by boat) → Karst Cave Wonders → Underground River Rafting (optional) → Exit. The full tour takes about 3-4 hours. The best time to visit is summer evenings when you can see both cave fireflies and valley butterflies.
Transportation
- Self-driving: From downtown Linyi, take G25 Changshen Expressway to Yishui exit, then drive about 40 minutes
- Bus: Direct tourist buses available from Linyi Bus Station to the scenic area
- Train: Nearest station is Yishui Station, about 30 km from the scenic area
- Airplane: Nearest airport is Linyi Qiyang Airport, about 100 km away
Must-Visit Attractions
- Firefly Water Cave: Marvel at thousands of fireflies creating an "underground galaxy"
- Butterfly Valley: Get close to tens of thousands of butterflies
- Underground River Rafting: Experience a thrilling underground waterway adventure
- Karst Cave Wonders: Admire the marvels of karst topography
- Firefly Science Museum: Learn about firefly habits and conservation
Tour Suggestions
- Summer is the best season when fireflies are most active
- The cave is dark and floors slippery - wear non-slip shoes
- Keep quiet and avoid flash when observing fireflies
- Consider booking a guide for better geological/ecological insights
- Dining areas available, but you may bring simple snacks
Precautions
- Protect firefly habitats - no capturing or disturbing them
- No smoking or open flames in the cave
- Watch your step as some areas are slippery
- Rafting has age/height restrictions - check beforehand
- Advance booking may be required during special periods