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Xiaonanyue is a scenic area in Anhui, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and cultural significance. Recommended activities include:
Located in the southern suburbs of Huoshan County, Xiaonanyue, a provincial-level scenic area, boasts lush greenery, towering ancient trees, and over 2,000 species of flora and fauna. Legend has it that in 122 BC, Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty ascended this mountain during his southern tour and was granted the title of "Fuheng" by imperial decree.
On the summit stands the Nanyue Shrine (commonly known as the Nanyue Temple), built during the Han Dynasty. The current inscription was written by Zhao Puchu, and the four large characters "Han Emperor's Imperial Edict" remain inscribed on its west gate. The east gate dates back to the Ming Dynasty, and the main gate inscription, "Little Nanyue," is inscribed by Yu Youren. The temple complex includes the front hall, back hall, three palaces, and the Guanyin Hall. Major attractions include Nanyue Tianchi, Test Heart Cliff, Flagpole Cliff, Zuoci Cave, Pearl Lake, Dafeng Cave, Xiaofeng Cave, Jiuya Ancient Maple Tree, and the Martyrs' Cemetery.
Nanyue Mountain, known as the "Famous Mountain of Western Anhui," is located 2.5 kilometers south of Huoshan County, at an altitude of 405 meters. Its summit covers an area of approximately 1,815 square meters. Legend has it that the mountain was named after Emperor Wu of Han during an ascension ceremony. The inscription "Han Emperor Le Feng" ("Seal of the Mountain") still adorns the west gate of the temple. The mountain measures approximately 2,000 meters from north to south and 3,000 meters from east to west. Its southern slopes are steep, while its northern slopes are gentle. Both the east and west sides of the summit extend southward. Nanyue Mountain was originally known as Tianzhu Mountain, Huoshan Mountain, and Hengshan Mountain. In modern times, it has also been called Little Nanyue Mountain.
Subtropical monsoon climate; the climate is warm and humid, with abundant rainfall and distinct four seasons, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Nanyue Tianchi, Test Heart Cliff, Flagpole Cliff, Zuoci Cave, Pearl Lake, Big Wind Cave, Small Wind Cave, Nine-leaf Ancient Maple Tree and Martyrs Cemetery, etc.
It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours
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Open all day
Xiaonanyue, located in Anhui province, is a historically significant area, known for its rich cultural heritage. It has been a place of worship and pilgrimage due to its ancient temples and natural beauty. The area also serves as a key symbol of Anhui’s spiritual and natural landscape.
Xiaonanyue is located in the southwestern part of Anhui, about 50 kilometers from the provincial capital, Hefei. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Hefei to reach the site. Walking is recommended once you are near the mountain trails.
The area is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
The entrance fee is approximately 40-60 RMB depending on the areas you wish to visit within the attraction. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some attractions may offer online booking options.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for most visitors, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (April to October) to avoid long lines.
To fully explore Xiaonanyue, including hiking and visiting the temples, you will need around 4 to 6 hours. If you wish to explore the surrounding villages or take a boat ride, consider spending an entire day.
Key highlights include the mountain temples, the scenic viewpoints along the hiking trails, and the serene lakes in the area. The panoramic views from the mountain top are especially beautiful and should not be missed.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tour operators may offer basic tours in English. Audio guides can also be rented at certain attractions, but they are generally in Chinese.
The best viewpoints for photography include the top of the mountain, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding forests and valleys. The temples and pagodas also offer great photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Start by visiting the temples near the base, then hike up the mountain trails to reach the peak for panoramic views. Afterward, take a boat ride on the nearby lakes to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Night visits are not common, as most visitors prefer to explore during daylight. However, there may be special cultural events or festivals held in the area during the evening, particularly around traditional holidays.
The area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the spring and autumn. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays in the off-peak months, such as during the winter or early spring.
Facilities include basic rest areas, toilets, and local shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Food options are available at the entrance and near the scenic spots, offering traditional Chinese meals and snacks.
The main paths and temples are accessible for children and elderly visitors, but the mountain trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some areas may not be wheelchair accessible due to the natural terrain.
Cash is commonly used, though mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted in many places. Credit cards may be accepted in some hotels and larger restaurants, but it's a good idea to carry cash for smaller vendors.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the base of the mountain serving traditional Anhui cuisine, such as stews, tofu dishes, and river fish. Some mountain-top cafes also offer light snacks and tea.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the local restaurants serving traditional Chinese cuisine. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but there are typically vegetarian dishes available.
There are several hotels near the base of Xiaonanyue, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. For more luxury options, consider staying in nearby cities like Hefei and taking a day trip to Xiaonanyue.
Nearby attractions include Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the historic city of Hefei. Both can be visited in a day trip from Xiaonanyue.
There are souvenir shops selling traditional Anhui handicrafts, such as tea sets, embroidery, and local art. Popular souvenirs include local teas and snacks.
After visiting Xiaonanyue, you can continue your trip by bus or taxi to Hefei or other nearby cities. Trains and buses also connect to Mount Huangshan, which is a popular next destination.
