Live Your Best Lives
Explore the historical cliff carvings, hike around the scenic area, visit the temple within the park, and take photographs of the stunning natural surroundings and intricate carvings.
Cliff carvings are also one of Gushan's scenic spots. According to records, there are 180 cliff carvings on Gushan, and it is estimated that there are no fewer than 300 carvings on the entire mountain. Among them is the four-meter-wide "Shou" character carved on the cliff below Heshui Rock. It was written by Zhu Xi, a great calligrapher of the Southern Song Dynasty.
The Gushan Stone Carvings, dating from the Northern Song Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty and into the present day, span nearly a millennium. Rich in content, they feature a wide range of scripts, including seal, official, running, cursive, and regular scripts. Among them are the handwriting of Cai Xiang, Li Gang, Zhao Ruyu, and Zhu Xi from the Song Dynasty, making them the Fuzhou Forest of Steles, a valuable reference for the study of ancient Chinese calligraphy. Within Fuzhou, over 100 cliff carvings dating from the Song Dynasty to modern times can be found at sites such as Aoding Peak, Qigong Temple, Penglai Peak, and Jinsulu Terrace. The inscription on Aoding Peak, written by Lü Wenchu in the first year of the Chunhua period of the Northern Song Dynasty, dates back over 1,000 years.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about half an hour
free
All day
The Cliff Carvings are significant cultural and historical landmarks dating back to the Tang and Song dynasties. These carvings represent the rich Buddhist heritage of the region, featuring inscriptions and artistic depictions of Buddhist teachings and deities.
The Cliff Carvings are located in the outskirts of Fuzhou, Fujian. You can reach the site by taxi or private car. There are also local buses that go towards the park, but a taxi is the most convenient option.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to enjoy the best lighting for photography.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance, but some online platforms might offer advance ticket sales.
Booking in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long queues.
You will need around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the cliff carvings, hike around the area, and take in the scenic views.
The main highlights include the Buddhist inscriptions carved into the cliffs, the temple, and the panoramic view from the top of the hill where the carvings are located.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides can also be rented at the entrance, though they may be limited to Chinese language.
The best photography spots are from the top of the hill, where you can capture both the carvings and the surrounding landscape. The carvings themselves also make for stunning close-up shots.
Start from the entrance, follow the path to the temple, and then ascend the hill to view the cliff carvings. Take your time to explore the inscriptions before heading back down.
There are no night visits or light shows available, as the site closes at 6:00 PM. The area is best visited during daylight hours.
The site can be crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities like toilets and rest areas. Small shops are available selling souvenirs and snacks. You may want to bring your own water and food for convenience.
The site involves some moderate hiking, which might be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Children can enjoy the site, but parental supervision is recommended for safety on the hike.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely accepted throughout the site and at the entrance.
There are a few local restaurants and tea houses nearby that serve traditional Fujian cuisine, but they are located a short distance away from the attraction. You may need to take a taxi to reach them.
Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, as well as some halal food options. However, it’s best to check the restaurant menu beforehand if you have dietary restrictions.
There are a few budget hotels in the Fuzhou area, and you may also find more luxurious options in the city center. The nearest options are around 20-30 minutes away by taxi.
Nearby attractions include the Fuzhou West Lake Park, the Fuzhou National Forest Park, and the Ancient Tea Road. These can all be visited in one day with a short drive between them.
There are small souvenir shops around the entrance where you can buy Buddhist-themed items, carvings, local handicrafts, and postcards.
You can take a taxi or local bus back to Fuzhou city center. Alternatively, if you're traveling to another attraction, taxis or private cars are convenient options.
