Wenbi Mountain

What are the most recommended things to do in Wenbi Mountain?

Visitors to Wenbi Mountain can enjoy scenic hiking trails offering panoramic views of Lijiang and its surroundings. Explore ancient inscriptions on stone tablets, visit the Wenbi Temple, and take time to appreciate the cultural significance of this tranquil mountain. Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the natural beauty of the area.


Introducing Wenbi Mountain

Wenbi Mountain, located southwest of Lijiang Basin at an altitude of 4,350 meters, resembles a giant pen pointing straight to the sky, hence its name. At its foot lies Wenbi Lake, a lake resembling rippling emerald green ink. The mountain is reflected in the water, and the water reflects the mountain, creating a seamless harmony between the two.

Wenbi Mountain in Lijiang consists of twelve scenic spots, with Wenfeng Temple being the most prominent. Located in the heart of Wenbi Mountain, Wenfeng Temple was first built in 1739, the fourth year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign. The Four Treasures Dharma Kings of the Karma Kagyu (White Sect) of Tibet visited Lijiang and requested the prefectural governor, Guan Xuexuan, to advocate for the temple's construction. Construction took five years. The main hall was rebuilt in 1828, and the Tibetan name "Sangnajia Zhuolin" (Sangnajia Zhuolin) means "secret religious sanctuary and lama temple of bliss." It was later renamed Wenfeng Temple, which remains to this day. During its heyday, the temple boasted five large courtyards of public housing, 24 monk quarters, and hundreds of monks.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; Wenbi Mountain has preserved its natural and beautiful ancient landforms and forest vegetation. It is a modern tourist destination and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Wenfeng Temple and Lingdong;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

80 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-23:00


Most Popular FAQs for Wenbi Mountain

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

Wenbi Mountain is historically significant for its inscriptions, which were made by the Qing dynasty scholars. It’s a peaceful site for reflection, associated with the ancient customs of memorializing history and thought through stone carvings. The mountain also holds spiritual importance for locals due to its connection with Wenbi Temple.

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

Wenbi Mountain is located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, about 10 km from the city center. Visitors can take a taxi or private car from the city center to the base of the mountain. It is not easily accessible by public transport, so a taxi is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The mountain is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Avoid the summer months as it can get crowded, and the weather is hotter.

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

The entrance fee is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the mountain. There is no online ticketing system currently available.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Wenbi Mountain usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and the time spent at each stop, including hiking and exploring the temple and inscriptions.

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

The must-see highlights are the ancient inscriptions on stone tablets, the Wenbi Temple, and the panoramic views of Lijiang city and the surrounding mountains from the summit. The peaceful surroundings and the temple provide an excellent atmosphere for contemplation.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and local guides can provide a detailed history of the site. Audio guides are not available at the site, so it is recommended to hire a guide for a more enriched experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the summit of the mountain, where you can capture sweeping views of Lijiang and the surrounding valley. The stone inscriptions and Wenbi Temple also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Wenbi Temple at the base of the mountain, then hike to the top for the best panoramic views. Make sure to stop at the various stone inscriptions along the way to learn about the historical significance of the site.

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

There are no night visits or light shows available at Wenbi Mountain. The site is primarily a daytime attraction and is best visited during daylight hours.

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

Wenbi Mountain is usually not very crowded. The least crowded times are during the weekdays and in the early morning. Weekends and public holidays can attract more visitors.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. However, there are no large shops or restaurants on the mountain, so visitors should bring their own water and snacks if needed.

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

The mountain has steep sections and uneven terrain, making it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children may find the climb fun, but adult supervision is recommended due to the rocky paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used at Wenbi Mountain. While some smaller shops and vendors may accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay, it’s advisable to carry cash just in case.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes directly on Wenbi Mountain, but in the nearby Lijiang town, visitors can find a variety of restaurants offering Yunnanese cuisine and international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are some vegetarian and vegan options available in restaurants in Lijiang. Halal food options may be found in certain eateries catering to Muslim visitors in the town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in Lijiang, ranging from budget to luxury. Popular options include the Lijiang Ancient Town area, which is about 15-20 minutes from Wenbi Mountain by taxi.

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

Nearby attractions include the Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Black Dragon Pool Park, known for its picturesque views of the mountains. These attractions can easily be visited in a day trip alongside Wenbi Mountain.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops can be found in Lijiang Ancient Town, where visitors can buy traditional handicrafts such as wood carvings, silver jewelry, and Naxi-style textiles.

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

Taxi or private car is the best option to continue your trip after visiting Wenbi Mountain. Public transport is available but less convenient for longer distances.