Huangbaishan National Forest Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Huangbaishan National Forest Park?

  • Hike the scenic trails through dense forests and mountainous terrain.
  • Enjoy panoramic views from observation points and mountain peaks.
  • Explore waterfalls, streams, and natural rock formations.
  • Take photos of unique flora, fauna, and changing seasons.
  • Relax in picnic areas or designated rest spots surrounded by nature.

Introducing Huangbaishan National Forest Park

Huangbaishan National Forest Park, a National 4A-level tourist area, is located in the southern part of Shangcheng County, Henan Province, in the heart of the Dabie Mountains, at the junction of Henan, Hubei, and Anhui provinces. Known as "the crowing of a rooster can be heard in three provinces," it covers a total area of ​​4,010.6 hectares and is divided into five scenic areas: Jiutan Valley Scenic Area, Jiufengjian Mountaineering and Adventure Area, Daniushan Forest Bathing Area, Jieba Chong Ecological Tourist Area, and Huangbaishan Buddhist Cultural Area.

The area boasts picturesque mountains and clear waters, deep valleys, flowing streams, numerous pools and waterfalls, and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Nationally protected species such as the White-crowned Long-tailed Pheasant and the Shangcheng Fat Salamander are unique to the scenic area, while two thousand-year-old ginkgo trees are rare in China. The area has earned the reputations of "Plant Kingdom," "Animal Paradise," "Summer Resort," and "Home of Giant Salamanders."

Huangbai Mountain boasts a rich tapestry of cultural attractions and numerous historical sites. Fayan Temple, a Ming Dynasty-era institution of the Chu-Yu Zen sect, is renowned in three provinces; Xiying Pagoda, the tomb of Wunian, a disciple of the Sixth Patriarch Huineng; Huatan Academy, where the great Ming Dynasty thinker and writer Li Zhi lectured; and the legendary Huanghua Tianzi Temple, Shengguajian, the racecourse, Baizhanping, Liujiao River, and Gusaotan. These numerous cultural attractions have nurtured a rich historical and cultural heritage.

Climate and best time to travel

It is a transition zone from the northern subtropical zone to the southern warm temperate zone; in the scenic area, thousands of peaks are covered with green, thousands of waters compete for green, flowers bloom in spring, tall trees provide dense shade in summer, forests are colorful in autumn, and pines and bamboos stand proudly in the snow in winter. The scenic scenery is poetic and picturesque in all seasons, making it a great place to travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Nine Peaks Sea of ​​Clouds, the Pine Waves of East Peak, the Sunset Glow of Wanjia Mountain, the Grand Canyon of Huangbai Mountain, the Huanghua Emperor Temple, Shenggua Peak, the Racecourse, Baizhanping, Liujiao River, and Gusaotan, etc.

Recommended one-day tour

Tickets

The reference price for adult tickets during peak season is RMB 108 per person

The reference price for adult tickets in the off-season is 90 yuan per person

Attraction opening hours

6:00 AM - 6:00 PM


Most Popular FAQs for Huangbaishan National Forest Park

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

Huangbaishan National Forest Park is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. It plays an important role in forest conservation and eco-tourism in Henan, offering visitors a chance to experience natural landscapes and preserve ecological awareness.

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

The park is located in Xinyang, Henan Province. Visitors can reach it via taxi or private car. Local buses may stop near the park entrance, but walking from city center locations is generally not practical due to distance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is typically open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for visiting due to mild weather and vibrant natural scenery.

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

Entrance fees vary depending on season and specific areas visited. Tickets can be purchased onsite or through authorized online booking platforms.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead, to ensure entry and avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend 3–5 hours exploring key trails and scenic spots, but full-day visits are ideal for hiking and photography.

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

  • Observation platforms with panoramic mountain views.
  • Waterfalls and clear streams.
  • Dense forest trails with diverse plant species.
  • Rock formations and natural viewpoints along hiking routes.

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

Guided tours may be available in Chinese; international visitors typically explore independently as audio guides in other languages are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Mountain peaks and cliff edges for panoramic shots.
  • Waterfall areas for dynamic nature photography.
  • Forest trails with sunlight filtering through trees.
  • Observation decks overlooking valleys and distant mountains.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main entrance, follow the marked trail to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, take breaks at rest areas, and complete the loop back to the entrance for a full experience.

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

The park is primarily a daytime destination. Night visits, light shows, or special tours are not typically offered.

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

Weekdays are generally less crowded. Peak weekends and holidays, especially during autumn foliage season, attract many visitors.

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

The park offers public toilets, designated picnic/rest areas, small snack shops, and water stations near main trails and entrance areas.

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

Main entrance areas and some lower trails are accessible, but steep hiking trails and mountainous areas may be challenging for elderly visitors, young children, or those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at small shops, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants near the park entrance offer local Henan cuisine. Small cafes or snack stalls are available near scenic spots inside the park.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available at nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several guesthouses and mid-range hotels are located near Xinyang city and the park entrance, providing convenient access for visitors.

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

Nearby attractions include Xinyang Lingshan Temple and Shihe Park, which can be combined with a trip to Huangbaishan National Forest Park for a full-day excursion.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the entrance sell local handicrafts, postcards, and small nature-themed items like pinecone or wood crafts.

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

Taxis, private cars, and local buses are convenient for traveling to nearby city attractions or returning to Xinyang city center.