Inside China's wildest cave basketball court

Local residents gather at the entrance of Fengming Cave to witness the basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Beneath the majestic mountains of Guizhou province lie some of nature's most awestruck wonders: vast karst caves formed over millions of years. Many of these natural caverns feature distinct acoustics and stable temperatures, making them sanctuaries for gatherings, performances and even sports activities.

Residents of Heishui Town have made the most of this natural gift by transforming Fengming Cave into a vibrant basketball venue.

Located in Yanhe Tujia autonomous county, Guizhou province, Fengming Cave welcomed guests from around the world on March 28. A friendly match between local residents and international participants of the 2026 China Storyteller Partnerships filled the cavern with cheers and chanting, as the sound of bouncing basketballs echoed through the towering limestone chamber.

A bird's-eye view of the Fengming Cave basketball court within the karst cavern. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The game offered visiting content creators a rare opportunity to experience China's grassroots basketball phenomenon known as "Village BA", where community spirit, local pride and a passion for the sport come together. Under the dramatic, stalactite-lined cave ceiling, players and spectators shared the excitement, turning the natural cavern into a lively arena of cultural exchange.

For many of the international guests, playing basketball deep inside a cave was an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by towering rock formations and energized by the enthusiasm of the local crowd, they discovered that the spirit of sport can thrive even in the most unexpected places.

Spectators pack the natural "stadium" ahead of the highly anticipated basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

International guests pose for a group photo before the basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The international guests' team huddles to discuss strategy during the basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Players pose for a group photo following the friendly basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Players compete for the opening tip-off as the basketball game begins inside Fengming Cave in Guizhou province, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

American guest Thomas Hopkins dribbles the ball during the friendly basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Youth performers deliver a traditional martial arts dance during halftime of the basketball game held inside Fengming Cave in Guizhou province, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

International guests pose for a group photo after the basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

British content creator Sophie Chen poses with a local fan for a selfie after the final whistle, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

An international guest poses with locals for a selfie after the basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

British content creator Simon Phillips smiles for a selfie with the local people after the basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]