zhonglingshan

Introducing Zhongling Mountain

Zhongling Mountain is located at the junction of Zhengzhou and Luoyang, within Yingyang Town, 25 kilometers west of Dengfeng City. It borders Sanhuangzhai and Shaolin Temple to the southeast, and Dongzusi and Niuxin Mountain to the north. It stands at an elevation of 1,318 meters. Its unique natural landscape, resembling a saddled horse, has earned it the nickname Anpo Mountain. In summer, the mountain is often shrouded in mist and a purple aura descends from the east, earning it the nickname Ziyun Mountain. Some areas of the mountain are hollow, and walking on them creates a drumming sound, earning it the appellation Shitang Mountain.

Legend has it that this is where Nuwa, the ancestor of mankind, forged stones to mend the sky and dug earth to create humans. It is known as the "First Dragon Mountain Under Heaven." Zhongling Mountain, with its towering and precipitous peaks, unique caves and waterfalls, and breathtaking natural beauty, offers breathtaking views of Mount Song. Ascending along the stone steps and paths, visitors can admire the breathtaking panorama of Mount Song. Over 10 meters behind Anyang Palace, a yellow flag with the inscription "Tongtian Ling" hangs high above. Ahead lies a towering peak, with a Wanzhang Ravine to the east and a Qianren Gorge to the west, creating an unparalleled and treacherous landscape.

Climate and best time to travel

temperate monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00~17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for zhonglingshan

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

Zhongling Mountain is located at the junction of Yingyang Town (盈阳镇), Dengfeng City (登封市) and Foguang Township (佛光乡), Yanshi (偃师) in Henan Province.
Its altitude is over 1,400 m, and it is noted as a steep and rugged peak within the broader Mount Song range.
It carries mythological significance: it is said to be “the place where Nuwa (女娲), the ancestor of mankind, repaired the sky” according to local legend.
More broadly the region of Mount Song (of which Zhongling is a part) is one of China’s Five Great Mountains and has deep cultural, religious and historic value (taoist sites, Buddhist temples, mountain-worship).

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

The site is in Henan Province, China: roughly 25 kilometres west of Dengfeng City (登封市), which is under the jurisdiction of Zhengzhou (郑州).
To reach it:

• From Zhengzhou: travel by bus or car to Dengfeng, then local transport (taxi or minibus) to Yingyang Town or directly to the Zhongling Mountain scenic area entrance.
• Driving / self-drive is convenient if you have access; the mountain roads will be steeper near the top.
• Once at the entrance, you’ll proceed by hiking on stone steps/trails up the mountain. Walking shoes recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: According to one source the recommended sightseeing time is 2-3 hours for the attraction.
Best times to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for moderate weather and scenic colours. Early morning ensures fewer crowds and clearer views from the peak. Also, avoid heavy rain days (the trail is steep).

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

Ticketing: The attraction appears on travel booking sites (such as Trip.com) and tickets can be booked online in advance.
Specific price not fully listed in the source I found — recommend checking the current price on the official site or booking platform for the date of your visit.

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

Booking online is advisable especially during peak holiday periods or weekends, as the site is somewhat off-the-beaten path and may have limited capacity or transport access. A few days in advance is prudent.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow around 2-3 hours for a moderate hike up and down, as indicated by travel guides.
If you plan to spend more time photographing, enjoying nature, or combine with adjacent trails, allow half a day (3-4 hours).

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

• The main peak of Zhongling Mountain with steep cliffs and dramatic drop-offs — one visitor said “you feel like you are flying in the clouds”.
• Stone-step trails and mountain paths that ascend through forested areas and ridges.
• Any temple/shrine spots along the route (e.g., “Anyang Palace” mentioned near the main peak) where hikers pause to rest and take in views.

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

No specific information found in my research about guided tours or audio guides in foreign languages at Zhongling Mountain. If you require language support, consider hiring a local guide in Dengfeng.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The cliff-edge area behind the “Anyang Palace” marker where the drop-off and paper script “Tongtian Ling” are placed — offers spectacular views of peaks and abyss.
• A vantage point overlooking the ridges of Mount Song / valley below, when the clouds or mist settle in — offers atmospheric landscape shots.
• The ascend route’s forest-trail and stone steps during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) when light filters through the trees.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested route: Enter at scenic area base → follow trail up through forested steps → pass any mid-trail temples or rest spots → reach the main peak viewpoint (with drop-off / cliff) → pause for views & photos → descend via the same path.
Given the terrain is steep, allow for steady pace and rest stops.

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

No clear information found indicating night-visits, light shows or guided special tours at this mountain. It is likely visited during daylight hours only.

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

Because it is more remote and hiking-oriented, the crowds are moderate compared to major temples or popular tourist spots.
The least crowded times: weekdays (Monday-Thursday) and outside of major Chinese holidays. Early morning arrivals help avoid any local visitor peaks.

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

Basic facilities should exist near the entrance (ticketing, toilets, perhaps a small snack kiosk), but up the steep trails facilities will be limited. Bring your own water, snacks, and ensure you’re physically prepared for the climb.

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

The terrain is steep, includes stone steps and possibly narrow cliff-edge paths. Elderly visitors and very young children should proceed with caution. Disabled access likely very limited — this is a hiking mountain rather than a flat paved park.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

For ticket purchase and entrance at many Chinese scenic spots, online/mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay) or bank card are generally accepted. However, since this is a mountain area, it’s advisable to carry some cash for incidental purchases or transportation.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Near Dengfeng / Mount Song area there are local restaurants, mountain-inn diners and simple eateries catering to hikers and tourists. Inside the mountain trail likely no full-service café — bring bottled water and small snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Since the area is close to Taoist/Buddhist mountain sites, vegetarian options may be available at nearby temples or local eateries. Halal specific options may be scarce — if required, check with your hotel/guide ahead of time.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

In Dengfeng City there are guesthouses, small hotels and mountain lodges that serve visitors to Mount Song and its sub-attractions. Staying in Dengfeng gives you early-morning access to the mountain.

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

• Shaolin Temple (少林寺) — a major nearby cultural and martial-arts site.
• Other peaks/trails in the Mount Song scenic zone, such as Sanhuangzhai (三皇寨) or Niuxin Mountain (牛心山).
• The broader Mount Song scenic area itself, which offers temples, forest paths, historic academies and mountain peaks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — in the nearby tourist towns or at the entrance to the scenic area you will find souvenir stalls selling local handicrafts, mountain-theme trinkets, tea, calligraphy or small statues of mountain deities. On the trail itself limited options.

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

After your hike you can return by the same route (taxi or minibus to Dengfeng), then onward to Zhengzhou or other destinations. If you drive or hire a car, you can continue exploring other peaks in Mount Song or visit local towns in Henan. For public transport, ensure you check return bus/minibus schedules in advance.