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Fanjing Mountain offers stunning natural beauty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recommended activities include hiking to the peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The Fanjing Temple, located on top of the mountain, is another must-visit, featuring historical architecture and serene surroundings. Visitors can also explore the lush forests, observe the diverse flora and fauna, and take photographs of the breathtaking scenery. The cable car ride is another option for those who prefer not to hike.
Fanjing Mountain, a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction, a national nature reserve, one of China's top ten summer resorts, and the famous Maitreya Bodhisattva's dojo in China. Fanjing Mountain, formerly known as "Three Valleys", is the fifth most famous Buddhist mountain in China, along with Mount Wutai in Shanxi, Mount Emei in Sichuan, Mount Jiuhua in Anhui, and Mount Putuo in Zhejiang.
A trip to Fanjing Mountain can be simply a lung-clearing journey, taking in the breathtaking views of the jungle's transformations from above via a cable car. Alternatively, you can take a deep breath and climb the 8,000 steps, tempering your will and savoring the exhilaration of conquering the mountain. Along the way, spot the Guizhou snub-nosed monkeys and pigeon flowers. Near the summit, take in the three wonders of Old Golden Summit, Mushroom Rock, and Red Cloud Golden Summit—a truly worthwhile visit. After descending, enjoy the charming Miao and Dong ethnic minority cuisine and a bonfire party.
The average annual temperature in Fanjing Mountain is 13.1℃ to 14.7℃. The average temperature in the hottest month (July) is 25.3℃, and the average temperature in the coldest month (February) is 2℃. The temperature decreases with increasing altitude.
A renowned pilgrimage site for Maitreya Bodhisattva, Fanjing Mountain boasts abundant wildlife and flora. Named after the "Pure Land of Brahma," it is a renowned summer resort and a renowned Buddhist mountain. Fanjing Mountain's pristine ecology is well-preserved, home to numerous rare species, and the mountain lacks any trace of artificial landscape construction. The main peak, the "Mushroom Rock," is a renowned landmark. Large at the top and tapering at the bottom, it stands approximately ten meters tall and has stood on the mountain for a billion years, making it a popular photo spot.
Recommended attractions: Golden Summit, Mushroom Rock, Prince Rock, Sakya Shop, Phoenix Mountain, Nine Dragon Pond
Tickets + round-trip sightseeing bus + round-trip cable car: RMB 290
Ticket price: 100 yuan
6:00-21:00
Fanjing Mountain has long been considered a sacred place in Chinese Buddhism and Taoism. The mountain is known for its distinctive landscape and the Fanjing Temple, which has stood for centuries. The area is also rich in biodiversity and is home to rare species such as the golden monkey. The mountain's cultural and ecological significance led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018.
Fanjing Mountain is located in Tongren City, Guizhou Province, China. It is about 2 hours by car from Tongren's city center. You can take a bus or taxi to the mountain's entrance, where you can take a cable car to reach the higher parts of the mountain. There are also walking paths for those who prefer to hike.
Fanjing Mountain is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and the mountain is lush with greenery. The peak season is during the summer months, but visiting in spring or autumn will help you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
The entrance fee to Fanjing Mountain is typically around 160 CNY, with additional costs for the cable car ride. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various Chinese ticket platforms. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid long waits.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking at least a week in advance is ideal to ensure availability, especially for the cable car tickets, which can sell out quickly.
You will need at least 4 to 5 hours to fully explore Fanjing Mountain, including the cable car ride, hiking, and visiting the Fanjing Temple. For those who prefer hiking, a full day may be required to explore more of the mountain’s trails and viewpoints.
The key highlights include Fanjing Temple, the breathtaking views from the summit, and the distinctive "Golden Summit" rock formation. The hiking trails offer spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Additionally, the cable car ride offers a unique perspective of the area’s natural beauty.
Guided tours are available, though most are conducted in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it’s best to arrange this in advance. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin, and foreign language support may be limited.
The best viewpoints are from the summit of Fanjing Mountain, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The "Golden Summit" rock formation is also a popular photography spot. The cable car ride provides another great opportunity to capture the landscape from above.
Start by taking the cable car to the upper parts of the mountain for panoramic views. From there, hike to Fanjing Temple, and explore its unique architecture and surrounding areas. For more adventure, you can explore other hiking trails that lead to scenic spots and natural viewpoints.
Fanjing Mountain does not offer night visits or light shows. The area is primarily a daytime attraction, with the temple and surrounding nature best explored during daylight hours. Special tours may be available for groups or during specific religious festivals, but it's advisable to check for availability in advance.
Fanjing Mountain can be crowded, especially during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the spring and autumn months. If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s best to visit early in the morning or during the off-peak season.
Basic facilities like toilets are available near the entrance and key stops along the mountain. Food and water can be purchased at the base of the mountain and some rest areas along the trail. There are also small shops where you can buy snacks and souvenirs.
The cable car is accessible for elderly visitors and those with mobility issues, but the hiking trails may be difficult for them due to the steep paths. Children can enjoy the easier trails, but it's important to supervise them closely. The temple itself is accessible for most visitors, but some areas may be challenging for those with mobility limitations.
Cash is still widely used at Fanjing Mountain, although mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are commonly accepted. It’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases or in case mobile payment options are not available at certain areas.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance of Fanjing Mountain offering traditional Guizhou dishes. However, dining options are limited on the mountain itself. For more variety, you can head to Tongren City for a wider selection of restaurants.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, as Guizhou cuisine features many vegetable-based dishes. Vegan and halal food options are less common, but some vegetarian dishes can be modified to fit vegan diets. For halal food, it is best to check in Tongren City.
There are several hotels near the entrance to Fanjing Mountain, including mid-range and budget options. For more luxurious accommodations, you can stay in Tongren City, which has a wider range of hotels and guesthouses.
Nearby attractions include the Wulong River and the Dajin Waterfall. Tongren City offers other cultural and historical sites, including the historic Qianxi Ancient Town. These can be combined into a day trip after visiting Fanjing Mountain.
There are souvenir shops at the base and along the trails, selling local handicrafts, religious items, tea, and other traditional souvenirs. Common items include prayer beads, incense, and Buddhist statues.
After visiting Fanjing Mountain, you can take a taxi or bus back to Tongren City. For further travel, Tongren has well-connected bus stations and train services to other major cities in Guizhou province and beyond.
