Am Phu Cave: Where the Earth tells stories of the beyond

Contents

1. Overview of Am Phu Cave in the Marble Mountains

1.1. Location

Am Phu Cave is located in the Marble Mountains, a scenic cluster of limestone and marble hills about 9 km southeast of Da Nang’s city center. Specifically, Am Phu Cave sits at the base of Thuy Son, the most famous of the five mountains. Unlike the majestic Huyen Khong Cave located higher up, Am Phu Cave lies low, waiting to surprise visitors with its shadowy charm.

Is Am Phu Cave in the Marble Mountains? – Yes! (Source: Collected)

From the Dragon Bridge, it takes just 15 minutes to get to the cave by car. The most direct route follows Bach Dang Street, then Le Van Hien Street, which leads straight to the entrance of the Marble Mountains. For a convenient and eco-friendly ride, consider using the electric taxi service of Xanh SM. You can book a Xanh SM ride easily via the mobile app.

1.2. Opening hours & entrance fees

Am Phu Cave in Da Nang is open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Am Phu Cave entrance fees are as follows:

• General admission to the Marble Mountains: 40,000 VND/person
• Elevator ticket (optional): 15,000 VND/ride
• Additional ticket for Am Phu Cave: 20,000 VND/person

1.3. History

Am Phu Cave history dates back to the early 19th century, during the reign of King Minh Mang. On a visit to Thuy Son, the king noticed the cave’s eerie atmosphere. He named it “Am Phu”, inspired by both the ominous ambiance and the Yin-Yang philosophy. In Vietnamese folklore, where there is heaven, there must be hell. If Thuy Son holds the path to the skies, Am Phu Cave is believed to be the gateway to the underworld.

Legend also has it that as the king’s guards entered the dark, wind-swept entrance with torches, the flames were extinguished by a mysterious breeze. Unable to proceed, the king had a pomelo marked with his name thrown into the cave. Days later, a fisherman found it at sea, which means the cave was connected to the ocean.

Am Phu Cave was named after a chilling royal encounter (Source: Collected)

2. Highlights of Am Phu Cave, Da Nang

Exploring Am Phu Cave is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Da Nang. From stunning rock formations to symbolic pathways representing heaven and hell, the cave offers more than just visuals – it delivers a story.

2.1. Mysterious beauty of the cave

Stepping into Am Phu Cave is like walking into another dimension. The arched entrance leads into a shadowy corridor that suddenly opens up to a towering chamber. Some parts of the cave reach heights of 45-50 meters, where natural skylights beam through the cracks.

The cave is divided into several chambers, each with unique rock formations resembling animals, gods, and mythical creatures. The deeper you go, the wider it becomes. On the right lies the “path to hell”, a winding descent with jagged steps and tight corners. On the left is the “path to heaven”, which climbs steeply toward a narrow tunnel leading back into daylight. From this upper vantage point, you can see Linh Ung Pagoda and Tam Thai Pagoda in the distance. Thanks to natural air vents, the cave remains dry and cool year round, with temperatures hovering between 18-20°C.

Am Phu Cave, Marble Mountains offers an ideal escape from Da Nang’s tropical heat (Source: Collected)

2.2. Lesson on good and evil

More than just a natural marvel, this mysterious cave is a journey through morality. Statues and altars throughout the cave represent Buddhist teachings about karma, sin, and redemption. The famous “Nine Levels of Hell” are depicted here, with vivid sculptures showing punishments for various sins.

You begin your Am Phu Cave tour at the “Bridge of Life,” which is flanked by fearsome stone guards. Moving through, you will encounter courts of judgment, scenes of torment, and finally, enlightenment. At the end of the path, natural light breaks through, symbolizing rebirth and the triumph of virtue.

The journey inside Am Phu Cave delivers a profound message: Evil will be punished, and goodness will be rewarded. It teaches the principle of cause and effect, reminding people to cultivate kindness, avoid wrongdoings, and strive for a better life in a peaceful world.

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3. Tourist attractions near Am Phu Cave in the Marble Mountains

In addition to Am Phu Cave in Da Nang, there is plenty more to explore around the Marble Mountains:

• Non Nuoc Pagoda: A peaceful Buddhist temple nestled amidst nature, known for its calm vibes and marble statues.
• Tam Thai Pagoda: One of the oldest pagodas in the region, dating back to the 17th century. A must-see for architecture lovers.
• Van Thong Cave: Offering a vertical climb to the top of the mountain and rewarding you with panoramic views of Da Nang.
• Huyen Khong Cave: A vast open-roof cave filled with incense smoke and sunlight streaming through the ceiling.
• Tang Chon Cave: Less visited but equally enchanting, known for its dramatic lighting and mysterious corners.

Huyen Khong Cave is known for its dramatic natural skylight (Source: Collected)

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4. Extra notes for your first trip to Am Phu Cave

Before setting off, here are a few tips to make your Am Phu Cave tour smoother:

• Wear comfy shoes: You will be climbing steep steps and navigating uneven pathways.
• Bring a flashlight or use your phone light: While there is some lighting, deeper areas can be very dim.
• Avoid rainy days: While the cave stays dry, the surrounding steps can be slippery.
• Mind your step: Some pathways are narrow and steep. Always use handrails where available.
• Respect religious sites: Dress modestly and be mindful around statues and altars.
• Buy your tickets at the entrance of the Marble Mountains.
• Get an Am Phu Cave map at the entrance or ask the staff for navigation tips.
• Avoid using flash while taking photos: It preserves the cave’s natural feel and respects fellow visitors.

Am Phu Cave is more than an attraction; it is a thought-provoking journey through myth and morality. With its impressive rock formations and chilling tales, it is no wonder why this cave ranks high among Da Nang’s spiritual sites. 

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