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Hike along the ancient trails, experiencing the scenic landscapes and rich history of the area. Explore nearby temples and historical sites along the way. Take time to enjoy the tranquility of nature and capture photographs of the scenic views.
The ancient mountain trail refers to the path used to ascend Gushan Mountain. From the temple at the foot of the mountain, you ascend over 2,000 steps, passing the "Seven Pavilions and Seven Miles Road" (Dongji Pavilion, Shimen Pavilion, Chengyun Pavilion, Banshan Pavilion, Tea Pavilion, Songguan Pavilion, and Changing Pavilion) to reach the main gate of Yongquan Temple. Hiking enthusiasts should give this path a try. The tree-lined path passes seven pavilions, offering breathtaking scenery.
The first pavilion is the "Dongji Pavilion." After passing the temple, you'll reach the Dongji Bridge. After crossing the bridge and passing the pavilion, you'll begin the climb. Climb the 99 stone steps to the "Yangzhi Pavilion" (now abandoned).
The second pavilion is the Shimen Pavilion, also known as the Listening to the Waves and Watching the Waterfalls Pavilion. It is 367 steps away from the first pavilion. The gurgling stream is indescribable.
The third pavilion: "Chengyun Pavilion", has 271 steps between it and the previous pavilion. Along the way, there are stone carvings such as "Chengyun", "Yangtao", "Small Drum", "Heavenly Wind Blows Dreams", and "Wind and Waves Fly".
The fourth pavilion, "Banshan Pavilion," has 494 steps from the third pavilion to this one. The pavilion is named because it is located mid-mountain. After more than 100 steps past this pavilion, there is a stone inscription reading "Road to the Fairy Garden," where you can turn onto a small path to reach the Eighteen Caves. Nearly 300 steps beyond "Banshan Pavilion" is a stone inscription reading "Entrance to Taoyan Cave." Going east, you can reach Taoyan Cave and the Peach Blossom Temple.
The fifth pavilion, the "Tea Pavilion," is reached by about 520 steps past the Halfway Pavilion. It's named after the tea plantations nearby. Along the path, stone carvings such as "Can't Stop" and "Try Your Best" are found. Legend has it that during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, Li Bo, the prefect of Fuzhou, arrived here, breathless. He felt a sense of exhaustion while climbing higher, and a reluctance to return. He then inscribed "Can't Stop" on a large rock beside the pavilion.
The sixth pavilion: "Songguan Pavilion", is more than 300 steps away from the "Lotus Pavilion". Nearby there are stone carvings of "longevity", "dragon", "tiger", as well as "loyalty, filial piety, integrity, and chastity" written by Wen Tianxiang.
The seventh pavilion, the Changing Pavilion, is a few dozen steps past the Songguan Pavilion. Legend has it that the King of Fujian changed his clothes here before ascending the mountain to enter the temple. A couplet reads: "Opening the gate, I once admired the former king's rites; entering the temple, I change my clothes here." Climbing this high, one sweats profusely, and the altitude brings the chill, necessitating a change of clothing. Nearby stone carvings include the phrases "Don't Rest Halfway," "Clouds in the Eyes," and "The Path of Mind Must Be Calm."
Subtropical monsoon climate;
All seasons are suitable for hiking, but the best hiking seasons are spring and autumn.
Recommended time: about 3 hours
free
All day
The ancient hiking trails in Fujian have been used for centuries by local farmers, traders, and travelers. They connect important cultural and historical sites, offering a glimpse into the region’s heritage, natural beauty, and the lifestyle of past generations.
The hiking trails are located in the mountainous regions of Fuzhou, Fujian. They can be accessed by taxi or bus from the city center. It is best to take a taxi to the trailhead and then walk along the trails. Some trails also have public transportation access nearby.
The hiking trails are open year-round, with the best times to visit being in spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, and winter may bring heavy rainfall, making hiking more difficult.
There is generally no entrance fee for the trails themselves. However, some specific sites or temples along the trails may charge a small fee for entry. Tickets can usually be purchased onsite.
There is no need to book tickets in advance for the hiking trails. However, if you plan to visit specific temples or cultural sites along the trail, it’s best to check in advance for any entry requirements.
A full day is ideal for exploring the ancient hiking trails. If you plan to visit several cultural sites along the trail, you may need up to 6-8 hours to complete the hike at a relaxed pace.
Key highlights include the ancient stone pathways, traditional villages, temples, and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the valleys. The area is rich in biodiversity and historical significance, making it an enriching experience.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some English-speaking guides in popular tourist areas. Audio guides may be available in certain locations, but it’s recommended to arrange a guide in advance if you need services in English.
The best viewpoints are at the higher elevations of the trails, where you can see panoramic views of the valleys, surrounding mountains, and historical buildings. The old stone bridges and temples are also great photo opportunities.
The recommended route starts at the base of the mountain and ascends through the forested paths, passing by ancient villages and temples. It’s a good idea to take a circular route that leads you back to the starting point for a full experience.
Night visits or light shows are not typically available on the hiking trails, but certain temples along the way may host evening rituals. Visiting during the day is the best way to enjoy the full experience of the trails and surrounding nature.
The trails can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or early mornings. Spring and autumn are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available at key points along the trail. However, it's recommended to carry your own food and water, as there are limited options on the trail itself. Some small shops can be found in nearby villages.
The trails are not easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the uneven terrain and steep sections. However, children can enjoy the lower sections of the trail with some guidance and supervision.
Cash is generally preferred in the area, especially in remote villages. However, larger towns or tourist sites may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
There are several local eateries and tea houses near the trailheads where you can sample traditional Fujian cuisine. These include noodle shops, local street food stalls, and small cafes offering tea and snacks.
Vegetarian options are common in local restaurants, as vegetarian cuisine is a big part of Fujian’s culinary tradition. Halal food may be harder to find, but larger towns or cities nearby may have options.
Nearby accommodations include small guesthouses and boutique hotels in Fuzhou or near the trailheads. There are also traditional homestays in the surrounding villages for a more immersive experience.
Nearby attractions include the Fuzhou National Forest Park, Wuyi Square, and the famous Sanfang Qixiang historical district. These can be easily combined into a day trip from the hiking trails.
Souvenir shops along the trail sell local handicrafts, such as woven baskets, tea sets, and traditional clothing. In nearby towns, you can find locally produced teas, pottery, and other cultural items.
After visiting the hiking trails, taxis or buses are the best options for getting back to Fuzhou city. You can also continue your trip to other nearby historical sites or parks by public transport or taxi.
