Shoe Mountain offers great hiking trails with scenic views, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking up to the peak for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Other activities include exploring the nearby temples and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It's also ideal for picnics and relaxation in the natural surroundings.

shoe mountain,Located in Poyang Lake, nine kilometers south of Shizhong Mountain in Hukou County, Jiujiang City, at the confluence of the Yangtze River, it is the only large island on the lake surface spanning over a hundred miles from south to north. Dagu Mountain is high at one end and low at the other, and from a distance it looks like a giant shoe floating in the blue water, hence the name " Shoe Mountain ."
Xieshan is surrounded by rolling blue waters and cliffs on three sides. Only in the northwest corner can you moor a boat to the island, where you can gaze westward at the emerald peaks of Mount Lushan and northward at the delicate stone bell. The island is shrouded in lush greenery, with the surging waves of the lake and the shadows of sails in the mist in the distance, creating a world of vast skies and waters.
The mountain is covered with tall and straight pines and lush green trees. In the forest is dotted a beautiful ancient building - Tianhua Palace. The palace has majestic halls and magnificent statues. The morning bells, drums and Buddhist music on weekdays make people feel like they are floating in the air.
From the summit, one can gaze upon the vast expanse of Poyang Lake and the breathtaking beauty of Mount Lu to the west. A Ming Dynasty poem by Chen Yunde praises this scene: " Who has cut a green lotus, and planted it alone in Penghu Lake? It divides the Five Old Clouds equally, and draws water from the distant Jiujiang River. Sun and moon rise and fall together, and mist and clouds flow in opposite directions. Its mighty power blocks the raging waves, and its beginning and end are in harmony with the heavens. "
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
102 yuan/person ( entrance fee + boat ticket )
8:00-18:00
Shoe Mountain is named for the shape of its peaks, which resemble a shoe. It has historical significance in local culture, with nearby temples and ancient sites that add to its appeal. The mountain is considered a serene spot for both spiritual reflection and outdoor recreation.
Shoe Mountain is located in Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province. Visitors can take a taxi or drive directly to the mountain. Public buses are available from Jiujiang city center. From the base of the mountain, walking trails lead up to various points of interest.
Shoe Mountain is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is cool and the scenery is at its best. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee for Shoe Mountain is generally low, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the mountain. It is recommended to buy tickets on-site, as online options are limited.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Shoe Mountain. Visitors can purchase tickets upon arrival, though during peak seasons, it may be a good idea to check availability or buy tickets a day or two before your visit.
To fully explore Shoe Mountain, allow around 3 to 4 hours. This includes time for hiking to the peak, enjoying the views, and visiting the temples and other points of interest along the way.
The main highlights of Shoe Mountain include the peak, offering sweeping views of the region; the ancient temples nestled along the trails; and the scenic walking paths through lush greenery. There are also several serene spots perfect for resting or taking photos.
Guided tours are available on-site, typically in Mandarin. It's advisable to check in advance if you need an English-speaking guide, though self-guided visits are also popular due to the well-marked trails.
The best viewpoints are from the mountain’s peak and the various observation decks along the hiking trails. The views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are breathtaking, especially during early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photography.
The recommended route starts with a walk through the base, visiting the temples. Then, hike up the main trail to the peak for panoramic views. Depending on time and energy, you can explore the surrounding trails before heading back down. The hike typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace.
Currently, Shoe Mountain does not offer night visits or light shows. The mountain is best visited during the day to enjoy the natural scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Special tours may be available during festivals or holidays.
The mountain can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during the spring and autumn. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak season.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas at the base of the mountain. There are also food stalls offering snacks and drinks. For more substantial meals, visitors can explore restaurants in the nearby town of Jiujiang.
Shoe Mountain has some trails that are accessible for elderly and children, but the steep hiking paths to the peak may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. It’s recommended to stick to the lower areas of the park if accessibility is a concern.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the park. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in case of connectivity issues for mobile payments.
Inside the park, there are small food stalls serving local snacks and drinks. For a wider range of dining options, visitors can head to Jiujiang city, which has many restaurants offering Chinese and international cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at the food stalls inside the park. However, halal food is not commonly found in the park itself but may be available in restaurants around Jiujiang city.
There are a variety of accommodations near Shoe Mountain, including budget hotels, mid-range options, and luxury hotels in Jiujiang city. Some hotels may offer shuttle services to the mountain.
Nearby attractions include Lushan Mountain, known for its stunning views, and the Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge. These can easily be combined in a day trip with Shoe Mountain for a full day of exploration.
There are small souvenir shops around the base of Shoe Mountain selling local handicrafts, such as embroidered goods, ceramics, and postcards. These are perfect for remembering your visit.
After visiting Shoe Mountain, taxis or buses are the best way to continue your journey. Jiujiang Railway Station offers train services to other parts of Jiangxi Province and beyond for further exploration.