
Fangcheng Shichuan Scenic Area (Seventy-two Ponds Scenic Area) is the entrance to the Funiu Mountain Tourist Area. Its highest peak is 762.3 meters above sea level and it covers an area of 10 square kilometers. It has resources such as mountains, water, forests, flowers, stones, ponds, waterfalls, etc. Shichuan health and leisure, Tianchi business vacation, military development experience, and original forest adventure are very popular among tourists. It is a leisure and tourism area that integrates natural health, sightseeing and entertainment, and business vacation.
At the eastern end of Funiu Mountain, fifteen kilometers north of Fangcheng County, lies Seven Peaks Mountain. These peaks, arranged in a straight line from west to east, are nearly equally spaced and towering side by side, their rugged and precipitous peaks resembling guards linked arm in arm. To the west of the Seven Peaks lies a three-kilometer-long ravine, topped by a waterfall over two meters high that cascades down the ravine to form Seventy-Two Pools. This is the Shichuan Scenic Area (Dahekou Village, Yangji Township, Fangcheng County, Nanyang City, Henan Province).
Formed 150 million years ago, the cascade stretches for four kilometers from top to bottom. Its grand scale, remarkable feat, and unique structure have earned it the nickname "Ishikawa Cave" from geologists, coining the term "Ishikawa" and adding it to the National Geological Dictionary. The structural fractures (joints) of the Izumibaishan granite, influenced by periodic uplift from neotectonic movements, have caused rivers to erode upstream, cutting downward at the intersection of X-shaped structural fractures in the granite valleys, creating the cascading waterfalls and rock caves.
The temperate monsoon climate is home to nearly a hundred rock caves scattered throughout the scenic area. These are variations of the basic cylindrical rock form, ranging in diameter from tens of centimeters to over 10 meters, and their depths (the shallowest being just over a meter) can reach as much as three or four meters, even reaching several meters below waterfalls or cascades. It's a great place to visit in all seasons.
Shichuan boasts a constant stream of springs year-round, with nearly a hundred stone ponds of varying shapes, cascading waterfalls, and a graceful beauty. In spring, flowers like forsythia and hussar flourish throughout the mountains, creating a sense of opulence and elegance. In summer, native forests like maple, poplar, and thorny autumn trees offer a vibrant and refreshing greenery. In autumn, walnuts, chestnuts, and hawthorns are a mouth-watering sight, and in winter, glaciers and icefalls create a vibrant and pure beauty. This four-seasonal beauty has earned it the reputation of a "paradise on earth," earning it the nickname "China's No. 1 Shichuan, a waterside wonderland for leisure."
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
Open all day
Ishikawa Scenic Area is a natural park in Nanyang, Henan, valued for its ecological beauty and recreational opportunities. It preserves local landscapes and provides a retreat for residents and tourists to connect with nature.
Located on the outskirts of Nanyang city, accessible via taxi or local bus. Private cars or ride-hailing services are convenient for direct access.
Generally open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic views.
Entrance fees may apply depending on the area or seasonal promotions, usually payable at the entrance. Some tickets may be purchased online through local tourism websites.
Advance booking is not typically required unless visiting during holidays or special events, in which case book a few days ahead.
2–4 hours depending on hiking trails chosen and leisure activities.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese; audio guides are generally not provided.
Start from the main entrance, follow marked trails to major viewpoints, visit streams or cultural spots, rest at pavilions, and loop back to the entrance.
Night visits are generally restricted. Special events or seasonal festivals may occur with organized tours.
Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Holidays and weekends see higher visitor traffic.
Facilities include public restrooms, benches, picnic areas, and small refreshment kiosks.
Some trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors; main paths are moderately accessible. Children should be supervised on hiking trails.
Cash is accepted for small purchases. Mobile payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay are widely supported.
Local eateries and small cafes are available near the scenic area entrance for snacks and meals.
Vegetarian options are generally available. Vegan or halal options may require inquiry at local restaurants.
Several hotels and guesthouses are within a 10–20 minute drive from the park.
Small souvenir shops may sell postcards, local handicrafts, and nature-themed mementos.
Taxi or ride-hailing services are convenient for reaching nearby attractions or returning to the city center. Local buses may connect to other sites.