The Sacred Spring in the Golden Shoal: Body Washing Cave and the Legend of Body Washing

The "Immortal's Bath" in the Golden Valley

Located in the middle-lower section of the Huanglong National Scenic and Historic Interest Area in Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, the Body Washing Cave (Xishendong) is a mystical natural wonder situated at an altitude of approximately 3,300 meters. It stands as a unique geological phenomenon within the core calcium carbonate landscape of Huanglong. Unlike the open pools found elsewhere in the valley, this attraction features a natural travertine cave formed where a constant-temperature mineral spring (maintaining 20-30°C year-round) gushes from the rock crevices,. The water accumulates into an emerald-green pool inside the cave, creating a steam-filled, dreamlike atmosphere where light refracts into seven colors against the crystal-clear calcified walls,. The cave is surrounded by magnificent golden calcium shoals that resemble "gold paving the ground," creating a rare spatial pattern described as "the cave within the shoal, and the shoal surrounding the cave".

A Sanctuary of Healing and History

Culturally, the Body Washing Cave is steeped in legend and history. It is revered by the local Jiarong Tibetan and Qiang people as a sacred site. Legends say that in ancient times, a Nyingma (Red Sect) high monk passed by and, seeing the auspicious Feng Shui, blessed the spring with magical power, after which the "Yellow Dragon" (Huanglong) deity appeared to guard it. Locals believe the water is "Holy Water" or "Wisdom Water" blessed by Padmasambhava, capable of washing away worldly dust, sins, and diseases, and bringing good luck and rebirth,. Historically, during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this spot served as a vital stop on the Songpan Ancient Road; merchants and pilgrims traveling this tea-horse trade route would stop here to bathe and pray for safety.

The Red Army and the Sacred Water

The site also bears significant revolutionary history. In 1935, during the Long March, the Red Army passed through Huanglong after crossing the snowy mountains. The soldiers used the warm waters of the Body Washing Cave to clean their wounds and rest,. The Red Army maintained strict discipline, respecting the local religious beliefs and the altar inside the cave, which fostered a deep bond with the local monks and villagers who provided them with guides and food. Today, an interpretative board near the cave entrance recounts these stories of the "Red Legacy," adding a layer of human warmth to the icy geological wonder.

A Symphony of Water and Stone

Visually, the Body Washing Cave offers a stunning contrast of textures and colors. The cave entrance is framed by a curtain of water cascading from the calcified cliffs above, forming a "water curtain cave" effect. In summer, the water flow is vigorous, resembling a pouring Milky Way; in winter, it freezes into magnificent ice curtains and icefalls, adding a pristine, silver enchantment to the golden shoals. The surrounding area is dotted with Mani stone piles and white pagodas, where believers perform "Wei Sang" (burning aromatic plants) and circumambulate to pray for harvest and peace. Whether you are marveling at the geological formation of the travertine or soaking your hands in the warm "holy water" to pray for blessings, the Body Washing Cave offers a profound connection to the spiritual and natural heritage of the plateau.