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The East Stone Shoot Scenic Area is located 15 kilometers southwest of Maotanchang Town, Jin'an District, Lu'an City, Anhui Province. Bordered by Dahua Mountain to the north, Wanfo Lake to the east, and Nanyue Mountain to the west, it lies on western Anhui's prime tourist route and offers convenient transportation. The area boasts numerous scenic spots, boasting the reputation of "Seven Ancient Villages, Eight Nunneries, Nine Cliffs, Ten Bends, Tiantai in the South, a Pond in the North, and Stone Shoots in the East and West Supporting the Sky." It is known as the "Little Huangshan" of the Jianghuai region.
The scenic area boasts a harmonious blend of mountains and water, a perpetually verdant landscape. Its highest peak, over 760 meters above sea level, boasts stunning scenery and a tranquil environment, boasting a vibrant mix of exotic flowers and plants, peculiar peaks and rocks, pavilions, corridors, waterside pavilions, temples, and Hui-style architecture. It is a truly unique destination for both sightseeing and nostalgic exploration, earning it the nickname "Anhui's Jiuzhaigou." The Shisun Mountain Scenic Area, located 9 kilometers south of Maotanchang Town, is surrounded by towering mountains and streams. A monolithic rock pillar rises from the ground, piercing the blue sky at a height of over 70 meters, a breathtaking sight. At the foot of the stalagmite, a stream flows through the boulders, forming waterfalls and deep pools. A traveler once wrote, "The rocks are tangled, the waters are deep and swift, the horse is light, the sky and earth are empty. Where the plains end, clouds embrace a solitary peak." A poem by Guan Linbian reads, "The stone road is free of mire, the rain clears in the empty mountains. The high peaks block the first rays of the sun, and the sounds of autumn fade between the songs. Withered leaves and flowers are about to fall, I leave alone to accompany my traveler. Deep in the bamboo groves of the village ahead, the scenery is naturally tranquil and peaceful."
The scenic area has a subtropical mild monsoon climate; the mountains and waters complement each other, and the area is evergreen all year round. The highest peak is over 760 meters above sea level. The scenery is beautiful and the environment is quiet, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Ancient Tea Tree, Qingyun Temple;
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East Shisun Scenic Area is known for its natural beauty, unique rock formations, and tranquil environment. It holds significant cultural importance as a place of worship, with several temples located throughout the area, making it both a natural and spiritual retreat.
Located in Anhui Province, East Shisun Scenic Area is accessible by taxi or private car from Huangshan City. There are also bus services available from the city to the scenic area.
The area is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is at its peak.
The entrance fee is around 40-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during holidays or peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient.
To fully explore the East Shisun Scenic Area, you will need approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the route you take and how much time you spend at each viewpoint.
The must-see highlights include the rock formations, clear water streams, lush forests, and the local temples. The scenic walking trails and panoramic viewpoints are also key attractions.
Guided tours are available, typically in Chinese. It is advisable to inquire in advance for any English-speaking guides or audio guides.
The best viewpoints are located at the top of the trails, where you can capture the full beauty of the surrounding landscape, rock formations, and forested hills.
Start by exploring the main trail that leads through the forest, then head to the viewpoints to capture the scenic landscape. Visit the temples and other cultural landmarks before finishing your visit at the rock formations.
There are no night visits or light shows in the East Shisun Scenic Area. It is best visited during daylight hours to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural sites.
The area can be crowded on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, try visiting on weekdays, especially early in the morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and small shops. Food options are limited, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or water with you.
Some parts of the scenic area may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, the main walking paths are suitable for children and families.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. It’s best to have both options available, especially for small purchases.
There are a few small local restaurants near the entrance of the scenic area, offering traditional Anhui dishes. For more options, head to Huangshan City.
Vegetarian food is available at nearby eateries, but vegan and halal options may be limited.
There are several hotels in Huangshan City, which is about 30 minutes away by car. There are also guesthouses and small hotels near the scenic area.
Other nearby attractions include Huangshan Mountain, Hongcun, and Xidi ancient villages, all of which can be easily combined into a day trip from East Shisun Scenic Area.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling traditional handicrafts, local tea, and small souvenirs such as postcards and trinkets.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Huangshan City, from where you can catch buses or trains to nearby destinations like Hangzhou, Shanghai, or Nanjing.
