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Thousand Turtle Mountain is known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Recommended activities include hiking to the mountain's summit for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, exploring the temple complex dedicated to the local deity, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of the area. It's also a great spot for photography, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the views. Visitors can also experience the local culture through festivals and traditional performances held throughout the year.
Liming Qiangui Mountain, located in Liming Township, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, is the largest and highest Danxia landform area discovered in China.
In the Qiangui Mountain Scenic Area, there are many red rocks with weathering surfaces forming beautiful tortoise-like (turtle shell, pineapple-shaped) structures. One of the hillsides is shaped like tens of millions of small turtles forming a large turtle, arranged naturally and orderly, as if moving towards the east where the sun rises. It is a unique Danxia scenery at dawn.
In winter, looking south from Qiangui Mountain, you can see the beautiful Laojun Mountain covered in snow. In spring, you can see the beautiful azaleas blooming among the fiery red rocks.
The temperate climate makes travel suitable all year round.
More than 3 hours
80 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
Thousand Turtle Mountain is a prominent cultural and natural site in Lijiang, Yunnan. The mountain gets its name from the many rock formations resembling turtles. It holds deep religious significance for the local Naxi people, who have built temples on the mountain. The site is a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering insights into the region’s spiritual practices and the Naxi people's connection to nature.
Thousand Turtle Mountain is located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, about 15 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town. The best way to reach the site is by taxi or private car. Public buses may also be available from Lijiang city center, but taxi or rental car provides the most convenient and direct access.
The mountain is generally open year-round, with no specific opening or closing times. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon will also allow you to avoid the midday crowds and enjoy more peaceful surroundings.
The entrance fee to Thousand Turtle Mountain is around 60-100 CNY, depending on the specific areas you plan to visit. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but some tours may offer online booking options for convenience.
It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you're visiting during peak tourist seasons or want to join a guided tour. If you prefer a guided experience, booking a day or two ahead is advisable, especially during holidays or weekends.
To fully explore Thousand Turtle Mountain, including the temples and hiking trails, you will need around 3 to 4 hours. If you're interested in hiking up to the peak for panoramic views, you may want to allocate an extra hour or so.
The must-see highlights include the temple complex dedicated to the mountain's local deity, the various rock formations resembling turtles, and the scenic viewpoints along the hiking trails. The panoramic views from the top of the mountain are also a highlight, providing a stunning perspective of the surrounding landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, though English-speaking guides may be less common. Audio guides are not widely available, but local guides are often an excellent way to learn about the cultural significance of the site.
The best viewpoints are found along the main hiking trail, particularly near the summit. From the top, you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The turtle-like rock formations also make for unique and interesting photography subjects.
Start your visit by exploring the temple complex and the cultural exhibits. Then, take the hiking trail up to the summit to enjoy panoramic views of the area. Be sure to take your time to explore the rock formations along the way, as these are some of the most unique features of the mountain.
Night visits are generally not available at Thousand Turtle Mountain, and there are no regular light shows. However, the site is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy the surrounding nature during the day.
The site can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays, avoiding national holidays and the summer peak season (July and August).
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the site. Food and water can be purchased at nearby stalls or local shops, but there are limited dining options on the mountain itself. It's recommended to bring snacks and water with you for the hike.
Thousand Turtle Mountain has some areas that may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the uneven terrain and the steep hike to the summit. However, the temple complex and some of the lower trails are more accessible for families with children or elderly visitors.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops or on-site, so it's a good idea to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
There are limited dining options directly on Thousand Turtle Mountain, but there are small restaurants and cafes near the base of the mountain where you can enjoy traditional Yunnan cuisine. Lijiang Old Town also offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants near Thousand Turtle Mountain, as Yunnan cuisine includes many vegetable-based dishes. Halal food may be limited, but some restaurants in Lijiang Old Town offer Halal options due to the presence of a Muslim community.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in Lijiang Old Town, which is around 15 kilometers from Thousand Turtle Mountain. You can find a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels and boutique stays.
Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which offers hiking and stunning views. These attractions can easily be combined in a day trip with Thousand Turtle Mountain.
There are small souvenir shops near Thousand Turtle Mountain and in Lijiang Old Town. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts such as Naxi embroidery, silver jewelry, and traditional Yunnan teas.
After visiting Thousand Turtle Mountain, you can take a taxi or bus back to Lijiang Old Town, where you can continue your journey. Lijiang also has a bus station and an airport for further travel options.
