Tucked away in the shadow of Thuy Son, one of the five peaks of the famed Marble Mountains in Da Nang, Am Phu Cave is a surreal blend of nature's raw artistry and Vietnam's spiritual folklore.

1. Where is Am Phu Cave? How to get there?

Am Phu Cave is nestled at the foot of Thuy Son, the largest peak in the Marble Mountains in Da Nang. Unlike the elevated grandeur of Huyen Khong Cave higher up the slope, Am Phu Cave in Da Nang sinks into the limestone bedrock, shadowy and imposing, giving off a mystical aura that matches its underworld theme. It is the second-largest cave in Thuy Son and one of the most symbolic caves in the region.

To get to Am Phu Cave from downtown Da Nang, follow Nguyen Van Linh Street east, then merge onto Vo Van Kiet Street toward My Khe Beach. From there, follow Vo Nguyen Giap Road south. Turn right onto Le Van Hien Street, and you will see the Marble Mountains on your right, with clear signage pointing to Thuy Son. Park nearby, purchase your ticket, and start your descent into this symbolic realm between life and the afterlife.

2. History of Am Phu Cave in Da Nang

The Am Phu Cave history is as captivating as its visual mystique. The name "Am Phu" translates to "Hell" or "Underworld," and it is not some poetic metaphor. The tale dates back to the early 1800s, during King Minh Mang's reign.

Legend has it that while traveling incognito, the king arrived at Thuy Son and became intrigued by a chillingly dark cave that exhaled cold air like a spirit's breath. He sent 12 guards in with torches to explore, but the flames died almost instantly in the haunting draft. Unable to explore further, Minh Mang threw a grapefruit with his name into the darkness. The next morning, a fisherman found it washed ashore - confirming that the cave was connected to the sea.

Since then, the locals believed this was a spiritual gateway where souls transition between life and the afterlife.

History echoes in every shadow inside Am Phu Cave

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3. Things to do on your visit to Am Phu Cave

3.1. Explore the cave structure

The Am Phu Cave tour feels like walking into a different realm. The pathway begins with a climb up stone steps and through towering archways that curve like a tunnel carved into the belly of the mountain. The vaulted ceiling looms high overhead - some sections reach between 45 and 50 meters.

As you move deeper, the space suddenly opens up. The cave splits into naturally divided sections along its walls, forming smaller chambers with unique shapes and sizes. Look up and you will see an abstract stone canvas: streaks of color and formations resembling birds, trees, people, deities - an otherworldly blend of nature and myth.

Go further still, and the cave grows even more expansive. To your right, a winding stone staircase disappears downward into the “Path to Hell,” twisting sharply through jagged rock. On the left, the “Path to Heaven” climbs toward a steep exit along the outer wall of the mountain, ending at a skylight that floods the cave in soft light. From here, you can glimpse Tam Thai Pagoda and a sweeping view of the Marble Mountains.

Am Phu Cave is eerie, dark, and powerful

3.2. Learn about good and evil

Am Phu Cave is more than just limestone and legend. It is a physical manifestation of Buddhist teachings. Here, statues and carvings depict punishments for greed, betrayal, and dishonesty. Monks will often guide visitors through tales of karma and redemption. In one chamber, sinners are impaled or dragged into molten pits. In another, they kneel in repentance. The duality is intense, but it delivers a message: live well, or pay later. The experience stays with you, like a whisper that keeps you in check.

3.3. Drop by nearby attractions

Once you have reemerged from the underworld, the surrounding Marble Mountains offer a contrast in serenity and beauty. A few steps up and you will reach Tam Thai Pagoda, one of the oldest temples in Da Nang. Don't miss Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village either. The artisans here have been chiseling marble masterpieces for centuries. Take home a hand-carved statue of the Buddha or a dragon to commemorate your journey.

Tam Thai Pagoda is a tranquil centuries-old temple

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4. FAQs about Am Phu Cave in Da Nang

4.1. When is Am Phu Cave open?

Am Phu Cave opens from 7 AM to 5 PM daily.

4.2. How much is the entrance fee?

The Am Phu Cave entrance fee is as follows:

Adults: 20,000 VND per pax
Children under 6 years old: Free of charge

4.3. What are some notes while visiting?

Wear comfortable walking shoes - there will be a lot of climbing and descending.
Dress modestly, as this is a sacred place.
Bring water and snacks.
Respect the space. No littering. No loud voices. And definitely no defacing the walls.

With towering vaulted ceilings, natural skylights, and intricately carved chambers, Am Phu Cave stands out as a stunning work of geological beauty. The cool air, vivid rock textures, and expansive structure make it a must-see attraction for nature lovers and explorers alike.

If you are planning an itinerary, carve out time for going from Da Nang to Hoi An (about 30 kilometers away). Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ancient architecture, lantern-lit alleys, artisanal shops, and riverside charm. After discovering the natural wonders of Da Nang, heading south to Hoi An offers a cultural counterpoint.

For a luxurious end to your journey, consider booking a stay at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An or enjoying family fun at the nearby VinWonders Nam Hoi An, one of the country's best amusement parks.