China Travel

Muddy fun is the name of the game. The garish billboard outside entrance to the Black Buddha New Water Caves (hei fo xin shui dong) promises the spectacle of groups of happy Chinese tourists splashing in underground pools, slathered in clay-like mud and chances are that's just what you're in store for. 

There's no way to avoid the mud, so you might as well be prepared to join in the good-natured fun as you wade and boat and splash and slide through underground pools. Obviously, you'll want to dress for the occasion. We recommend an old swimming suit and a pair of sneakers with a decent grip sole. 

The caves are lit and a long way from their original state, but the "Black Buddha" rock formation and other impressive shapes add a lot of beauty and a touch of the sublime to the splashing and slipping. 

If you'd prefer to simply see the caves and avoid getting too wet or dirty, that can be arranged. Tour prices vary with group size and the caves are only open in the summer. Just down the road from Moon Hill, the caves make for part of a great day or two floating the nearby Yulong River, climbing a few hills, cycling about and otherwise frolicking amidst--and beneath--Yangshuo's karst peaks and valleys.