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At Zhangjiagang Phoenix Mountain Scenic Area, visitors can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, exploring the mountain’s rich flora and fauna, and visiting temples or pavilions. The area offers stunning panoramic views and is a great spot for nature photography. You can also enjoy leisure walks around the tranquil lakes and take part in outdoor activities such as birdwatching and picnicking.
Located in the southeastern suburbs of Zhangjiagang City, the Phoenix Mountain Scenic Area encompasses Phoenix Mountain, Yongqing Temple, Heyang Folk Song Hall, and Tianzhuang Ancient Street. The scenic area's name derives from its main peak, which stands at 86 meters above sea level and only takes 20 minutes to reach. However, this isn't the scenic area's main attraction; several key attractions are scattered at the foot of the mountain, relatively far from each other. It's best visited by car.
Climbing Phoenix Mountain is secondary. The peach orchard southwest of the main peak is its real attraction. In spring, you can enjoy large areas of peach blossoms, and in July and August, you can pick peaches. Phoenix peaches have thin skin, large fruits, rich juice and sweet taste, which is a business card of the scenic spot.
Yongqing Temple, located at the southwest foot of Phoenix Mountain, boasts a long history, though the current structure is a modern reconstruction. The Wenchang Pavilion, atop the temple, is a landmark building, said to be a popular destination for college entrance exam and high school entrance exam candidates. About 450 meters northwest of Yongqing Temple is the Heyang Folk Song Museum, built to showcase folk songs composed by the people of Heyang. The museum features a stage, pavilions, and flowing water, reminiscent of the gardens of Suzhou, offering stunning scenery. Adjacent to the Heyang Folk Song Museum is an ecological park surrounding Phoenix Lake, offering free admission and a beautiful setting for a stroll.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
It is suitable for all seasons, but the best time to go is in spring and autumn. You can enjoy peach blossoms in spring and eat peaches in autumn.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours
20 yuan/person
8:30-16:30
Phoenix Mountain is known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. It has been a popular site for Taoist pilgrims for centuries and is home to several ancient temples and pavilions. The area is also significant for its biodiversity, being a haven for many local species of plants and animals.
Located in Zhangjiagang City, Jiangsu Province, the Phoenix Mountain Scenic Area can be accessed by taxi or bus from the city center. It is a short drive from Zhangjiagang Railway Station, and visitors can also opt for private transport to reach the base of the mountain, from where walking or hiking trails begin.
The scenic area is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the mountain is at its most scenic. Avoid peak summer months to enjoy a more relaxed visit.
The entrance fee to Phoenix Mountain Scenic Area is approximately ¥50-80, depending on the season and any special events. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance, or online through various travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or for special events. You can book tickets online up to a few days in advance.
To fully explore Phoenix Mountain, plan for about 2-3 hours. If you intend to hike the trails or visit multiple temples, you may want to set aside 4-5 hours for a more leisurely visit.
Key highlights include the panoramic viewpoints atop the mountain, the ancient temples such as the Phoenix Temple, and the picturesque lakes and streams. The trails offer beautiful natural scenery and opportunities for photography.
Guided tours are available at the Phoenix Mountain Scenic Area, usually in Chinese. It is recommended to arrange tours in advance if you prefer a guide. Audio guides may also be available, but primarily in Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are near the summit, offering sweeping views of Zhangjiagang and the surrounding countryside. The peaceful lakeside and the pavilions are also excellent spots for capturing tranquil, scenic shots.
Start your visit by taking the main trail to the top, where you can enjoy the view and explore the temples. Afterward, visit the lakes and serene spots lower down the mountain, and conclude your visit with a relaxing walk around the scenic areas.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Phoenix Mountain. The area is best visited during daylight hours, though special cultural events may occasionally be held in the evenings.
The scenic area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the summer and around major festivals. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons.
There are rest areas along the trails and at the base of the mountain. Basic facilities like toilets are available at key points. Small shops selling water, snacks, and souvenirs can be found at the entrance and along the hiking routes.
The mountain trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, but the area around the base and near the temples is accessible. There are also paved paths in certain sections, which are suitable for families with children.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards are also accepted at some of the larger shops and ticket booths, but it’s recommended to carry cash for smaller purchases or in case of technical issues with mobile payments.
There are a few local restaurants near the entrance offering traditional Chinese meals, including dishes such as noodles, dumplings, and stir-fried vegetables. Some cafes near the entrance also serve light snacks and drinks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants nearby, particularly in vegetarian Chinese dishes. Halal food may be more limited but can be found in certain restaurants in Zhangjiagang city.
There are several hotels nearby, including budget options and mid-range hotels. For a more luxurious stay, consider the nearby 5-star hotels in Zhangjiagang, such as the Jinjiang Inn or Zhangjiagang International Hotel.
Nearby attractions include the Zhangjiagang Museum, the Grand Canal, and several parks in the city center. These can easily be visited in a day trip from Phoenix Mountain, making for a comprehensive cultural and natural exploration.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance and along the trails, offering traditional crafts, local snacks, and Phoenix Mountain-themed items such as postcards and miniature statues of the mountain’s temples.
Taxis and public buses are readily available to continue your journey. The Zhangjiagang city center is a short taxi ride away, where you can find additional transportation options to other attractions in the area.
