What to see at Tianmen Cave
Tianmen Cave is one of the world’s highest natural caves that go through a mountain: 131.5 m high and 57 m wide, like a gateway to the heavens. The plaza at the mouth is the best place to view and photograph it.
Getting up the 999 stairs
- The staircase has 999 steps and is fairly steep; normal fitness takes about 20–40 minutes;
- To save effort, ride the through-mountain escalator (included in the ticket) up to the cave area and enjoy the plaza view;
- If you tire easily or have children/seniors with you, take the escalator both ways and shoot from the plaza.
Stair-climbing tips
- Wear non-slip sports shoes, hold the handrail and rest on the landings;
- It’s windy and chilly — bring a jacket;
- Early morning and late afternoon are quieter with better light for photos.
Getting better photos
- From the plaza, shoot up with a wide lens to fit the stairs and the arch together;
- Use the arch as a natural frame around distant peaks and clouds;
- Sunbeams on clear days and mist after rain add depth and story.
