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The Tongbai Mountain Huaiyuan Scenic Area is located in the middle section of the Tongbai Mountains, on the border between Henan and Hubei provinces, in the transition zone from the Qinling Mountains to the Dabie Mountains. It is the source of the Huai River, one of the ancient " Four Rivers ," and the natural boundary between the Yangtze and Huaihe River systems. This area boasts the long-standing Huaiyuan culture, the far-reaching Buddhist and Taoist traditions, the age-old Pangu culture, and the Soviet culture, which played a significant role during the civil war.
The scenic area is divided into four distinctive areas: Huaiyuan, Taohuadong, Taibaiding and Shuiliandong. There are 118 scenic spots including Taibaiding, the main peak of Tongbai Mountain with an altitude of 1,140 meters, the highest peak in southern Henan, Yuntai Zen Temple, the ancestral home of the Baiyun School of Zen Buddhism, which is famous both at home and abroad, and Shuiliandong, which is known as one of the " 36 Cave Heavens " in the world .
This is the center of China's Pangu culture. Pangu Mountain and Pangu Temples are ubiquitous. During the Han Dynasty, the " Jintai Temple , " inscribed by Liu Bang himself, was built . It was one of the five great Taoist temples in China at the time. Zhang Sanfeng, the founder of the Wudang sect, practiced Taoism here. The scenic area is dotted with numerous temples, interconnected by numerous temples, and boasts monks from both China and abroad.
The writing of "Journey to the West" also originated here. During the Ming Dynasty, Wu Cheng'en, who served as magistrate in Xinye County, Nanyang, a neighboring county of Tongbai, visited Tongbai Mountain many times. He later completed the immortal masterpiece "Journey to the West " based on the story of " King Yu Locking the Dragon " and incorporating place names such as the Water Curtain Cave in Tongbai.
In spring, enjoy cherry blossoms and azaleas; in summer, bask in the shade of trees and play in waterfalls; in autumn, enjoy red leaves and cultural activities; in winter, visit Taibai Mountain and admire rime.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
70 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
Tongbai Mountain Huaiyuan Scenic Area is a natural and cultural landmark in Nanyang, Henan, valued for its biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and historical sites, including ancient temples and cultural relics.
Entrance fees are usually 50–80 CNY depending on specific zones. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via official online platforms.
Advance booking is recommended during peak seasons and holidays, ideally 1–3 days ahead.
Half a day to a full day, depending on the number of trails and sites visited.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese; audio guides are limited.
Night visits are generally not available. Special events may occur during holidays or festivals but are limited.
Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Weekends and national holidays attract more visitors, especially at popular trails.
Main trails are suitable for moderately fit visitors. Some areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled; short accessible paths are available near entrance.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used.
Local restaurants near the entrance offer traditional Henan cuisine and snacks. Small cafes provide refreshments for hikers.
Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited, check in advance.
Several small hotels and guesthouses in Tongbai County are within a short drive of the scenic area.
Souvenir shops near the entrance sell local handicrafts, postcards, and small nature-themed gifts.
