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Zimao Mountain, located in Zimao Town, Jinjiang City, Fujian Province, is one of the "Four Great Mountains of Quanzhou," along with Qingyuan Mountain, Peng Mountain, and Luoshang Mountain. Rising 517.8 meters above sea level, it is named for the purple clouds that often cover its summit. During the Tang Dynasty, the mountain boasted the Jinsulu Cave, where the Taoist Yuande practiced Taoism. Due to its lush vegetation and tranquil beauty, the mountain has earned the ancient reputation of "Purple Hat Soaring to the Sky" and is listed as one of the Ten Scenic Spots of Quanzhou. It has been a renowned tourist attraction since the Tang Dynasty.
The Zimao Mountains are a cascading tapestry of peaks, some towering and steep, others winding and subtle, some delicate and graceful, others captivating and captivating. Waterfalls cascade down the cliffs, and springs tinkle. Below, the Zihu and Zixi lakes ripple with emerald waters, some wide, some narrow, winding and winding with a graceful charm. The hillsides and fields surrounding the lakes are covered in lush greenery, with longan, lychee, bayberry, and persimmon trees offering thick shade. Within the mountains, Jinsulu Cave, Guxuan Temple, Guyuanshi, and Miaofengyuan were places where renowned Taoists throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties studied and cultivated. Baofu Temple, Anfu Temple, Puzhao Temple, and Wuta Rock all bear the imprint of Buddhist cliff carvings and other inscriptions by sages from past dynasties. The hundreds of stone carvings of the character "心" (heart) in various shapes scattered throughout the mountains are a truly remarkable cultural wonder in my country.
Subtropical monsoon maritime climate;
Best in summer and autumn
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
free
All day
Zimao Mountain is a culturally significant site known for its serene temples, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. The mountain is revered for its religious importance, particularly in Taoism and Buddhism, and offers visitors a peaceful retreat to connect with nature and spirituality.
Zimao Mountain is located in Quanzhou, Fujian. The best way to reach the mountain is by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking is not recommended due to the mountain’s elevation, but you can hike from nearby points once you reach the base.
The mountain is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
The entrance fee is approximately 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance, but no online booking is necessary.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance. However, during peak tourist seasons or special events, it may be a good idea to purchase tickets a day or two in advance.
A visit to Zimao Mountain typically requires about 3-4 hours, especially if you plan to hike to the summit and explore the temples and natural trails.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, offering insights into the history and significance of the temples and mountain. Audio guides in Chinese may also be available at the entrance.
Start at the base of the mountain and visit the temples as you ascend. Take the main hiking trail towards the summit, where you’ll find the most scenic views and highlights. If time permits, end your visit at one of the peaceful lakes for some relaxation.
Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no light shows. However, special tours may be available during festivals or holidays, which require advanced booking.
The mountain can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are public toilets available along the mountain trails. Water and light snacks can be purchased at small vendors near the entrance, but there are no large restaurants or food courts inside the park. Rest areas are available for visitors to relax.
The mountain is challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the steep trails. However, the main temple area and some lower trails are more accessible for families with children or those looking for an easier walk.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used in the area, especially for smaller vendors and food stands.
There are small local eateries in the nearby town that serve traditional Fujianese food. For a wider range of options, visitors can head to Quanzhou city center.
Vegetarian food is available in the area, and some local restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes. Halal food options may be found in nearby restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Quanzhou, and a few guesthouses near the base of the mountain. For a more relaxed experience, you can find resorts a bit further from the site.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling religious items, traditional Fujianese crafts, and mountain-themed souvenirs such as postcards and figurines.
