
Yawushan National Forest Park is located south of Yuling Town, Lingbao City, Henan Province, at the junction of Henan, Shanxi, and Shaanxi Provinces. It is located on the northern peaks of the Qinling Mountains' main ridge. It is a national forest park, a national geological park, and one of Henan Province's top ten scenic spots. Yawushan boasts beautiful scenery and five distinct features: a large tourist area, a high elevation of its main peak, a long history, granite topography, and rapid development.
Yawu Mountain, dominated by its five steep and precipitous peaks, is characterized by its picturesque scenery, pagodas, caves, temples, and halls, and is steeped in Taoist culture. Yusuotian Lake, situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters, boasts a water area of 75,000 square meters, a rare alpine lake in the Central Plains. The construction of temples dedicated to Taoism on the mountain began during the Xianheng period of the Tang Dynasty, spanning over 1,300 years. Renovations followed during the Ming Dynasty and further developments during the Qing Dynasty, leaving behind over twenty temples and palaces. It was once an ideal place for ancestral worship and Taoist pilgrimage for residents of Henan, Shanxi, and Shaanxi provinces. Legend has it that the Great Emperor Zhenwu once practiced cultivation there.
Temperate continental climate
Best time to visit in spring and autumn
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
free
All day
Yawu Mountain is a natural landmark in Sanmenxia, known for its scenic beauty, biodiversity, and historical references in local folklore. It represents an important site for ecological preservation and outdoor recreation.
Located in Sanmenxia, Henan Province. Visitors can reach the mountain by local buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services. Walking or hiking is necessary to explore the mountain fully.
Open daily, usually from early morning to late afternoon. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
Entrance fees are generally low or free. Tickets, if required, can be purchased at the onsite entrance. Online booking is typically unnecessary.
Advance booking is usually not required unless visiting during holidays or for large organized groups.
2–4 hours depending on the chosen trails and pace of hiking.
Guided tours are occasionally available in Chinese; English-language guides are limited and may require prior arrangement.
Start at the base entrance → follow main trail to scenic viewpoints → visit summit → descend via alternate trail back to entrance, stopping at rest areas and notable natural features.
Night visits are generally not allowed for safety reasons. Special cultural events may occasionally be held during festivals.
Weekdays and non-holiday periods are least crowded. Weekends and public holidays see higher visitor traffic.
Basic facilities include rest areas, benches, drinking water points, and occasional food stalls near the entrance.
Trails may be challenging for disabled visitors. Elderly and children can access easier trails and rest areas, but summit paths involve steep hiking.
Cash is useful, but mobile payments are widely accepted at ticket booths and food stalls.
Nearby Sanmenxia city offers restaurants and small cafes serving local cuisine. Limited food stalls may exist near the base entrance.
Vegetarian options are generally available; halal options are limited and should be confirmed beforehand.
Hotels and guesthouses are available in Sanmenxia city, within a short drive from Yawu Mountain.
Small souvenir shops near the entrance may sell local handicrafts, postcards, and nature-themed items.
Taxi, ride-hailing, or local buses to reach Sanmenxia city center or other nearby attractions.