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Located northeast of Huainan City, a renowned energy city, Shangyao Mountain, nestled alongside the beautiful and fertile Gaotang Lake, embraces the scenic beauty of Shangyao Mountain. It is a multifunctional provincial forest park integrating ecotourism, cultural landscapes, religious beliefs, vacations and leisure, science education, and recreation and fitness.
Nestled against the majestic and picturesque Shangyao Mountain, the park faces a lake, and amidst rolling bamboo groves, lush forests, winding paths, vines, blossoming mountain flowers, and lush green grass, it captivates visitors with its dreamlike beauty. Gaotang Lake, with its vast expanse of emerald waters, is shrouded in mist and shrouded in clouds. The lake boasts an island, a pavilion, and a terrace nestled among green trees.
Within this 10.4 square kilometers of infinitely magical mountains and forests, natural and cultural landscapes complement each other, and scenic spots and historical sites blend seamlessly into one. Among them is the magnificent "Shenshan Ancient Temple," built in the Jin Dynasty . Dongshan Temple , originally constructed during the Hongzhi reign of the Ming Dynasty, boasts numerous temples, including the " Main Hall , " " Heavenly King Hall , " and " Guanyin Hall ." Eight unique ancient scenic spots remain: " Strange Peaks Blocking the Sun , " " Steep Cliffs Towering to the Sky , " " Rocks Exploding into Stone , " " Immortal Bridge , " " Immortal Cave , " and " Queen Mother Beach . "
This area is steeped in history and culture, home to the legendary "Gaotang Fu," written by Song Yu during the Warring States Period. The site of Shangtiantai, where King Xiang of Chu and Song Yu once visited Yunmeng Terrace , is also home . There's also a Taoist temple built during the Northern Wei Dynasty . Legend has it that this is the temple where Zhang Guolao attained immortality. It's also home to Zhu Yuanzhang, the beggar emperor's refuge, the site of his miraculous " epiphany, " and the " Morning Glory Lane " where he played as a child .
Suitable for all seasons
The park is divided into Dongshanhuai Scenic Area, Arboretum Scenic Area, Stone Shed Scenic Area and Xiangshan Scenic Area. The main attractions include Dongshan Temple, Siyuan Teahouse, and the Release Pond.
Recommended play time: 3-4 hours
26 yuan/person
All day
Shangyaoshan is a picturesque mountain known for its natural beauty and historical significance. It has been a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking tranquility. The area is also important for its biodiversity and as a place for spiritual reflection.
Shangyaoshan is located in Huainan, Anhui Province. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center. The nearest major transport hub is the Huainan Railway Station, which is about an hour's drive from the mountain.
Shangyaoshan is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is most beautiful.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40-¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through online platforms before your visit.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons or weekends to avoid long lines.
You will need about 2 to 3 hours to explore the main trails, viewpoints, and enjoy the scenery. If you plan to hike longer trails, it may take up to 5 hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be some audio guides in English. It is best to check availability at the entrance.
The best viewpoints are from the summit of the mountain, where you can capture the stunning panoramic views of the entire Huainan region. Other great spots include the lookout points along the hiking trails.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The mountain is best explored during daylight hours for safety and optimal views.
Shangyaoshan can get crowded on weekends and holidays, particularly in spring and autumn. Weekdays, especially in the early morning, tend to be less crowded.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small shops selling snacks and water. However, the area is not heavily commercialized, so it's advisable to bring your own supplies for longer hikes.
The main pathways are suitable for elderly visitors and children, though some of the more rugged trails may be challenging. Wheelchair access may be limited due to the terrain.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also available for convenience.
There are a few small restaurants and local eateries near the base of the mountain serving Anhui cuisine. The options are limited, so it's recommended to bring your own snacks if you're planning a longer visit.
Vegetarian food is available, but halal options may be more limited. It’s best to check with the local restaurants before ordering.
There are several hotels in Huainan city, located about 20-30 minutes away by taxi. For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are also guesthouses and inns near the base of the mountain.
There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, tea, and snacks. Typical souvenirs include handmade crafts, local tea, and traditional Anhui items.
After visiting Shangyaoshan, you can take a taxi or bus back to Huainan city center. If you're planning to explore nearby attractions, renting a car or using local public transport is a good option.
