Live Your Best Lives
At Dai'ao Mountain, visitors can enjoy scenic hiking, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The area is also perfect for photography, nature walks, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the mountain. For those interested in cultural experiences, visiting the temples and historical sites in the area is highly recommended.
Dai'ao Mountain, located in Lujiang County, encompasses Lujiang County in Hefei, Congyang County in Tongling, and Tongcheng City in Anqing. Its unique shape, resembling a giant turtle, gives it its name. The mountain boasts beautiful scenery and numerous unusual rocks, but due to its remote location, it's primarily visited by locals and outdoor enthusiasts.
The highest peak of Mount Dai'ao is Longwangding, which is 270 meters above sea level. Local farmers regard Longwangding as a weather report. There is a saying that " Longwangding attracts clouds, it will either rain or turn cloudy. " There is a Longtian Temple built on Longwangding. Standing on the top of the mountain, you can overlook the farmland and villages below the mountain.
In addition, many celebrities are buried in Da'ao Mountain. The tomb of Zhu Haimen, grandfather of aesthetician Zhu Guangqian, is at the foot of Shuangshi Peak. The tomb of Yao Dingzu, a great essayist of the Tongcheng School, is on the flat ground between Shuangshi Peak and Guojian Peak. The tombstone is engraved with " Tomb of Yao Cuilin, Secretary of the Central Secretariat of the Ming Dynasty " .
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
Dai'ao Mountain, located in Hefei, Anhui, is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The area is not only a popular spot for outdoor activities but also holds cultural importance due to its temples and ancient structures that have been standing for centuries. It is a place where visitors can connect with nature and history.
Dai'ao Mountain is located in the northeastern part of Hefei. You can get there by taking a taxi or private car, which are the most convenient options. Public buses may also run to the base of the mountain. Walking is possible but can be tiring, especially when reaching higher viewpoints.
Dai'ao Mountain is open year-round, though it is best visited in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild. The opening hours are typically from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for visiting to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
The entrance fee to Dai'ao Mountain varies, typically around 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate or online in advance for convenience, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during busy seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long lines. You can book tickets online 1-2 days ahead of your visit.
A visit to Dai'ao Mountain typically takes 3 to 4 hours, including hiking, visiting temples, and enjoying the views. If you plan to hike more extensively or visit multiple sites, you may want to allocate a full day.
The main highlights include the summit with panoramic views, the ancient temples, and the scenic hiking trails. The area surrounding the mountain also features rich flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the entrance. Audio guides may be available for rent, but availability in languages other than Mandarin might be limited.
The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for panoramic photos. There are also several spots along the hiking trails that provide excellent views of the area, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Start at the base of the mountain and take the main hiking trail leading up to the summit. Along the way, stop at the ancient temples and viewpoints. Depending on your pace, you can complete the hike in about 2-3 hours.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Dai'ao Mountain, as the area closes in the evening. However, the mountain is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views.
The mountain can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Basic facilities such as public restrooms and rest areas are available throughout the site. There are small food vendors selling snacks and bottled water, but there are no large shops or restaurants on the mountain.
While the base of the mountain is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, the hiking trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the nature walks, but some sections of the hike may require supervision due to the terrain.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the entrance and for purchasing tickets. However, it's a good idea to bring cash for smaller purchases at local vendors.
There are a few small eateries near the base of the mountain offering traditional Anhui cuisine. You can find more dining options in the city of Hefei, which is a short drive away.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries, particularly dishes with tofu and vegetables. Halal food options may be found in the nearby city of Hefei, but they are not commonly available on the mountain itself.
There are several hotels in Hefei, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. For those wanting to stay closer to the mountain, local guesthouses are available near the base.
Other nearby attractions include the Anhui Provincial Museum, Hefei Swan Lake, and the Hefei Botanical Garden. These can all be easily combined in a day trip from Dai'ao Mountain.
There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, tea, and mountain-themed products like postcards and handmade goods.
After visiting Dai'ao Mountain, you can take a taxi or bus to nearby attractions in Hefei. The city has a well-connected metro system, making it easy to continue exploring.
