Lion Pass

Introducing Lion Level

Located in Xuan'en County, Enshi Prefecture, Hubei Province, Lion Pass is one of the three ancient passes and one of the ancient markets of Xuan'en. The area boasts majestic mountains, with five large and small rocky peaks shaped like intersecting tiger teeth. Two of these peaks, shaped like lions, guard the key route to the Changtan River, hence the name Lion Pass.

The entire scenic area is surrounded by three canyons. Caves, pictographic stones, waterfalls and other attractions are scattered throughout the canyons. It is a good place for people to relax and experience the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.

The scenic area is divided into the dry canyon sightseeing belt and the water canyon sightseeing belt, also known as " Mandarin Duck Gorge " and " Male and Female Gorge " . There are dozens of tourist attractions such as the Dream Bridge, Macaque Water Village, Lion's Roar Waterfall, Lion's Mouth, Golden Cat Challenge, Lion Guarding the Pass, One Line of Sky, Lion's Roar Rock, Tiankeng Waterfall, etc. The natural and cultural landscapes complement each other, which is intoxicating.

Climate and best time to travel

The scenery varies throughout the year, and the best time to travel is from April to October

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Bridges of Madison County

Looking down from above, the winding floating bridge stretching across the water is breathtaking; walking on the bridge, the lush green mountains on both sides are refreshing. Tourists dressed in their best, wearing cheongsams, leave beautiful silhouettes on the floating bridge.

Monkey Building

A stilt-style monkey building was built for the original macaque community. It is located at the foot of towering mountains, standing on layers of rocks, with blue sky and white clouds above and gurgling streams below, providing good protection for the macaques. The macaques play, chase and fight each other.

Recommended play time: more than 3 hours

Tickets

120 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Lion Pass

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Lion Pass in Enshi, Hubei, is historically significant for its natural beauty and role in ancient trade routes. The pass, marked by the Lion Pass Arch, has been a gateway for travelers and traders, making it a symbol of the region's cultural heritage and strategic importance over centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Lion Pass is located in Enshi, Hubei Province. To get there, you can take a taxi or bus from the Enshi city center. There are no direct metro lines, but the scenic area is easily accessible by road. Walking around the park is a pleasant option once you're there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Lion Pass is open year-round, generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the natural surroundings are at their most vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Lion Pass is approximately ¥50 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some local travel agencies may offer package deals for the region.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays. In such cases, booking at least a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Lion Pass usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, allowing time for hiking, sightseeing, and photography.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Lion Pass Arch, which is a cultural and historical symbol.
• Scenic trails offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
• Waterfalls and natural springs that are great for photography.
• Traditional villages and local craftsmanship.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to book in advance for foreign language services.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Lion Pass Arch offers an iconic view of the surrounding landscape.
• From the mountain trails, you can capture breathtaking views of the valleys and rivers.
• The waterfalls and caves in the area also provide stunning photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the Lion Pass Arch, then hike along the scenic trails to the surrounding areas. Don't miss the waterfalls and caves. Finish with a walk through the local villages to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no light shows or special night tours available at Lion Pass. The attraction is best enjoyed during daylight hours, especially for the outdoor activities and scenic views.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park can be crowded on weekends and during Chinese holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets are available at various points within the park.
• There are small food vendors offering local snacks and beverages.
• Rest areas are available throughout the park for relaxation.
• Shops near the entrance sell souvenirs and local products.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The main areas of Lion Pass are accessible to elderly and children, but some of the hiking trails may be challenging. For disabled visitors, it's advisable to check with local guides for accessible routes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used and convenient for purchasing tickets, food, and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants in nearby villages offer authentic Hubei cuisine, including fish and pork dishes.
• There are small food stalls around the entrance selling snacks and drinks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants, particularly dishes made from tofu and vegetables. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in some of the nearby towns catering to Muslim travelers.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are guesthouses and hotels in Enshi city, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
• For a more immersive experience, some visitors opt for stays in nearby villages, where local homestays are available.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Enshi Grand Canyon is a nearby natural attraction worth visiting.
• Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau is another nearby scenic area for a more extensive nature exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops at the entrance sell local handicrafts, including traditional clothing, pottery, and local food items like dried fruits and herbs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Lion Pass, taxis or local buses are available to take you to other attractions or the Enshi city center. The Enshi Railway Station is also a convenient option for traveling to other destinations in Hubei.