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Jiuhou Mountain, located 15 kilometers north of Zhao'an County, Fujian Province, boasts nine peaks standing side by side, resembling the dignity of a noble. The main peak, Xishanyan, rises 1,120 meters above sea level. The central scenic area spans 25 square kilometers, with a total area of 226 square kilometers. Jiuhou Mountain, with Jiuhou Zen Temple as its core, boasts eighteen scenic spots and twenty-four wonders, earning it the title "the most remarkable of all mountains" by the Southern Song Dynasty's top scholar. Its four unique features are "steep mountains, picturesque waters, enchanting trees, and secluded caves." Since the Tang Dynasty, the mountain has been a popular destination for scholars and literati to relax, retreat, and lecture. An ancient poem praised it, "Half of the famous sights of Beijing are within reach, and the highest peak in southern Fujian is also within sight," demonstrating the mountain's remarkable beauty.
The Eighteen Scenic Spots of Jiuhou Mountain are: Tiankai Gate, Chessboard Stone, Five Confucian Scholars' Study, Pine Stream, Arhat Cave, Carp Stone, Natural Bridge, Moon Table, Seaview Terrace, Cloud Root, Three Gems, Vase Stone, Fusheng Rock Chamber, Tea Garden, Wind-Moving Stone, Ox-Mian Stone, Waterfall Spring, and Incense Burner Stone. Jiuhou Mountain not only boasts beautiful natural scenery, but also boasts well-preserved ancient buildings such as the Jiuhou Zen Temple and Fusheng Rock Chamber, both built in the Tang Dynasty, as well as over twenty cliff inscriptions by famous poets and writers since the Song Dynasty.
South subtropical maritime monsoon climate;
Best in summer, cool and refreshing
It is recommended to visit for 2 to 3 hours
20 yuan
07:30-17:30
Jiuhou Mountain is known for its religious significance and natural beauty. It has been a site for spiritual practices for centuries, with temples and shrines dedicated to various deities. The mountain is also celebrated for its role in local legends and folklore.
Jiuhou Mountain is located in Zhangzhou, Fujian. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. There are no metro stations nearby, but local buses may offer routes that stop at the base of the mountain.
The mountain is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat and to experience a quieter atmosphere.
The entrance fee is generally between 20-50 RMB, depending on the area you wish to access. Tickets can be purchased on-site, as there are no online ticketing systems for Jiuhou Mountain.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. It is recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to avoid crowds.
A visit can take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on your hiking speed and the amount of time you spend at the temples or scenic spots along the way.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not typically offered, but a guidebook can be purchased at the entrance.
Start with a hike to the main temple at the summit, then explore the smaller shrines along the way. Finish by enjoying the views at the top or having a rest at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The mountain is best visited during daylight hours, especially for hiking and sightseeing.
It can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings and during the off-peak seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available along the trail. There are no major food stalls, so visitors should bring their own water and snacks. Some small souvenir shops may be found near the entrance.
The mountain involves a significant amount of hiking, which may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children can enjoy the area as long as they are supervised. Some parts of the trail are more accessible than others.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted on-site.
There are no restaurants inside Jiuhou Mountain, but several local eateries in the nearby Zhangzhou area serve Fujianese cuisine, including light meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, especially in the local eateries. Halal food may be more limited, but some restaurants can cater to special dietary needs upon request.
There are several hotels in Zhangzhou city center, within a 30-minute drive from Jiuhou Mountain. Options range from budget hotels to mid-range accommodations.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling items like incense, religious statues, and local handicrafts.
