Abstract: In order to study the dynamic response of the large-scale underground cavern group during earthquakes，the large-scale underground cavern group of the Dagangshan hydropower is selected as the prototype to conduct the shaking table test. Being the first shaking table test on such field of research, the entire design of the experiment is given in detail. Firstly，basic simplified principles of the test，dynamic similar parameters derived by absolute similarity theory，simulation range, model dimensions and similar material ratio are given according to the objects and features of the test. Then，test boundary conditions and measurement system are designed. Polystyrene foam board is used as a flexible boundary and its material and geometric parameters are suggested. Strain brick sensors for measuring the internal stress of the surrounding rock are manufactured. Model making process, cavern forming and excavation are presented. Finally，input waveforms are elected and adjusted according to the similarity theory, and loading subsequence of the model test is given. Test data demonstrate that simplification of test conditions is reasonable, and the design and production of test model are successful, it can provide a guide for similar model designing and making.

Key words: shaking table test, large-scale underground cavern group, program design, absolute similarity theory, flexible boundary