Ziyun Mountain

Introducing Ziyun Mountain

Ziyun Mountain in Xiangcheng County lies at the eastern foot of the Funiu Mountain Range. Composed of nine peaks, eighteen peaks, five lakes, and one river, it covers a total area of ​​approximately 50 square kilometers. Known as the "front garden" of Pingdingshan City, it is now a National AA-level scenic spot and a provincial forest park. Known for its unique beauty, secluded nature, and ancient history, it showcases the most extensive oak forest in northern Jiangsu Province, a treasure trove of rich Neo-Confucian culture, and a blend of cultural and natural landscapes.

The tens of thousands of mu oak forest on Ziyun Mountain is known as the "No. 1 oak forest in Jiangbei". It is lush and verdant in late spring, and the forest is full of colors in late autumn, which outshine the red flowers. Li Min, the Minister of Revenue in the Ming Dynasty, built Ziyun Academy here to promote Confucian culture. It was the academic center of China at that time, and thus made Ziyun Mountain famous throughout the world.

Ziyun Mountain has had an important influence in history. According to legend, Dayu (Guangchengzi) once practiced in this mountain, the Yellow Emperor once visited Dayu here in admiration of his reputation, Laojun once lived in seclusion here, and during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Liu Xiu stopped here to rest when he moved his troops. Relics such as the horse drinking place and the horse tying locust tree were left here. Li Min, the Minister of Revenue of the Ming Dynasty, founded the Ziyun Academy here, and the Crown Prince Zhu Youtang (later Emperor Hongzhi) came here to study. Today, it is still a place that students rush to visit.

Climate and best time to travel

Boasting a warm temperate subhumid monsoon climate, the mountain is blanketed in purple blossoms of peony in spring and summer, while wild chrysanthemums blanket the landscape in autumn. Dotted throughout the mountain are scenic spots such as Ziyun Academy, Mingjing Lake, Wolong Lake, Tianchi Lake, and Dayui Dongtian. A kilometer-long red stone forest stretches across the cliffs at the southern end, its diverse stone pillars forming a magnificent formation. It's a great place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Purple Cloud Red Leaves are a spectacular autumn spectacle, showcasing the foliage of the 10,000-acre oak forest on the slopes of Ziyun Mountain. Frost-damaged leaves blanket the mountain in crimson, creating a fiery, rosy glow, a scene evoking the saying, "frost leaves are redder than February flowers." The crimson leaves of Ziyun Mountain are renowned throughout Zhongzhou and are a beloved sight for visitors.

Sun Moon Lake is a famous pond in the Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area of ​​Xiangcheng County. It is located in Mengliang Village on the top of Lingwu Mountain. It is composed of two pools, east and west, formed by the accumulation of mountain springs. The east pool represents the sun and is the best place to watch the sunrise from the east. The west pool represents the moon. On the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, it is a unique experience to look down at the moon in the pool. The two pools are close to each other, hence the name Sun Moon Lake.

Ziyun Academy is located in the heart of the Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area. Nestled amidst mountains and a vast oak forest, the academy, built along the mountainside, offers beautiful scenery and a pleasant environment. Surrounded on three sides by Danxia Peak, Ziyun Peak, and Shuyuan Mountain, the academy is surrounded by a lush, verdant oak forest, creating a unique landscape in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Originally grand and well-equipped, the academy now occupies 6,825 square meters, with three courtyards. From south to north, the academy features two cypresses (hundred), three stones (ten), an empty bridge, Lingxing Gate, Dacheng Hall, Xuansheng Hall, Chongde Hall, Zhuxian Hall, and Guangye Hall.

Moon-Watching Pavilion is a renowned pavilion within the Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area in Xiangcheng County. Climbing the pavilion offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding scenery: purple clouds in spring, green fields in summer, crimson leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter. The moon is particularly captivating on the 15th day of each lunar month, provided the sky is clear. A shimmering jade disc slowly emerges from the eastern peak of the Academy Mountain, bathing the entire mountain range in brilliant moonlight. The mountain appears serene and tranquil. The occasional chirp of a night bird drifts through the valley, further accentuating the tranquility of Ziyun Mountain's nighttime scene. This scene is captivating, evoking a sense of wonderland. Moon-Watching Pavilion is a key cultural landmark of Ziyun Academy.

Danxia Sunrise is the best spot for viewing the sunrise on Ziyun Mountain, named after its location atop Danxia Peak. Every clear morning around 6:00 a.m., visitors can admire the spectacular Danxia sunrise from the Danxia Peak Observation Deck. Before sunrise, the surrounding peaks appear vast and shrouded in a light mist. This Danxia sunrise adds a touch of charm to the Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area, leaving visitors spellbound.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Ziyun Mountain

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

Ziyun Mountain is historically significant for its cultural and religious sites, including ancient temples and shrines. It has been a center for local pilgrimage and is valued for both its natural beauty and historical heritage.

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

• Located in Xuchang, Henan Province.
• Accessible by local bus routes from Xuchang city center.
• Taxis or rideshare services are convenient for direct access.
• Walking is possible from nearby accommodations if close to the base of the mountain.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and vibrant scenery.

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

Entrance fee is around 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; some local tourism platforms may offer online booking.

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

Booking in advance is usually not required. For weekends or holidays, it is advisable to book 1–2 days ahead to ensure entry without waiting.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours depending on the trails taken and the number of temples or scenic spots visited.

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

• Summit viewpoints with panoramic views of Xuchang.
• Historical temples and shrines along the trails.
• Natural scenic spots including rock formations, forests, and streams.

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

Guided tours are sometimes available in Mandarin. Audio guides are generally not offered in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The mountain summit for cityscape and horizon views.
• Along scenic trails with forested areas and rock formations.
• Near temples or shrines for a combination of architecture and nature.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, follow the marked trails to the temples, then continue to the summit for panoramic views. Descend using a different path to explore additional natural spots and rest areas.

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

Night visits and light shows are not generally available; the mountain is open during daylight hours only.

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

It can be busy during weekends and public holidays. Weekday mornings are the least crowded.

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

• Public toilets along the main trails.
• Rest areas and benches for breaks.
• Small food stalls or vendors near the entrance, limited options on trails.
• Souvenir shops near the parking or entrance area.

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

The base areas and main entrance are accessible, but steep trails and stairs may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised on hiking trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, mobile payments, and cards are generally accepted at the entrance and nearby vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants and small cafes are available near the base of the mountain, offering Henan cuisine and light refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants; halal options may require inquiry in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several budget and mid-range hotels are located within a short drive from Ziyun Mountain, providing convenient access for visitors.

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

• Wenfeng Tower
• Yuzhou Jun Official Kiln Site Museum
• Local parks and historical streets in Xuchang city

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the entrance sell postcards, small handicrafts, and items featuring the mountain’s natural and cultural symbols.

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

• Taxi or rideshare to other Xuchang attractions.
• Public bus for local sightseeing.
• Private car for trips to surrounding Henan historical sites.