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At Yinghua Mountain, visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring the scenic views, and visiting temples along the mountain path. The area is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. You can also visit the Yinghua Temple, which offers historical and cultural insights into the region.
Yinghua Mountain, formerly known as Zhangshan, is located 37 kilometers northwest of Shifang City, Deyang, Sichuan Province, and 98 kilometers from Chengdu. Designated as a provincial-level scenic spot in 1986, it covers 106 square kilometers. The summit reaches 3,160 meters above sea level, with the highest point in the area at 3,900 meters and the lowest at 871 meters. The entire scenic area embodies the characteristics of grandeur, uniqueness, strength, and beauty. Its unique topography and landforms have shaped Yinghua Mountain's magnificent and wondrous meteorological landscapes: the "Five Wonders" (sunrise, cloud waterfall, Buddha's light, holy lantern, and flower mountain) and the "Four Seas" (sea of clouds, sea of fog, sea of forests, and sea of flowers). Ancient geological formations have shaped the majestic and precipitous peaks, forests, and cliffs, leaving behind countless fascinating myths and legends.
Deyang City is located in the mid-latitudes of the subtropical humid monsoon zone, boasting a mild climate with distinct four seasons and abundant rainfall. The diverse topography and landforms within the city create significant climate variations, resulting in distinct local climates. Temperatures decrease with increasing altitude along mountain slopes, with significant vertical variations. The climate is diverse, ranging from mountain subtropical, warm temperate, temperate, cold temperate, and subarctic. The plains and hills in the central and southeastern regions (comprising 80% of the city's total area) are influenced by the subtropical latitudes and enjoy a warm and humid climate with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall, and a distinct continental monsoon climate.
March-June or September-November
Gold Rush
In ancient times, this ravine was known for its gold. It was a gift from Nuwa to the poor, who stipulated that each person could only take one piece of gold at a time. At first, the poor adhered to this rule. Later, many flocked to the ravine, pocketing handfuls of gold nuggets. But upon returning home, they found that all the gold nuggets had turned to stone. From then on, no more gold could be found in this ravine. To remember this lesson, later generations still call this place "Golden Rush," hoping their children would not be as greedy as they were.
Xiaodongtian
This is an empty valley. When you are in it, you will feel that "after twists and turns, you will find a different world", so this place is called "Little Cave Heaven".
Dragon Gate and Ladder
According to legend, a carp must leap over this "Dragon Gate" to transform into a dragon. Only by leaping over it can it ascend the "ladder to heaven" and become a dragon; otherwise, its body will be shattered and its soul will die in the dragon's mouth. Look, this toad, looking up at the sky below the Dragon Gate, is lost in thought as it gazes upon the ascending golden dragon!
Valley of Beasts
The rocks in the valley are of various shapes and shapes, some resembling birds of prey, some resembling beasts, and are so lifelike that they are beyond imagination. Some of them are "Sphinx", "Three Tortoises Stone", "Wild Boar Bathing" and so on.
Holding the Moon in My Arms
This thousand-year-old tree, with its roots wrapped around a massive rock, forms a rare sight in China: the moon embraced in its arms. This thousand-year-old tree extends a root like a giant hand, embracing the boulder around the waist. The tree stands proudly, the rock unmoving, as if they have been inseparable since Pangu created the world. Remember that crescent-shaped groove in the rock face of Lover's Valley? The tree embraces the moon that Dayu borrowed from Chang'e during his secret meetings with his lover. It turns out that Nüxi saw Dayu meeting with a mountain woman in Lover's Valley daily, using the moonlight for illumination. Fearing that her son would indulge in women and forget his father's wishes, Nüxi secretly instructed the tree spirit to extend a root while Dayu was carrying the moon to Lover's Valley. The spirit then snatched the moon away and held it in its arms. Dayu was helpless, realizing his mother was responsible. Filled with guilt, he resolved to focus on his studies and never visit Lover's Valley again. And this moon is held here day after day, year after year.
Dancing Skirt Waterfall: A rock blocks the water, forming a small pool. The water then flows out from a crack in the rock, cascading down to form a fan-shaped waterfall. The flowing water resembles the swirling skirt of a dancer, earning it the nickname "Dancing Skirt Waterfall."
Free entry to the mountain
8:00-18:00
Yinghua Mountain has long been a site for religious and cultural practices, particularly associated with Buddhism. The area features ancient temples and structures that date back several centuries, making it an important historical site in the Deyang region of Sichuan.
Yinghua Mountain is located in Deyang, Sichuan, about 50 kilometers from Chengdu. You can reach it by taxi or private car from Chengdu or Deyang. Public buses also connect to the mountain, though they may require a transfer.
The mountain is open for visitation throughout the day, but it's best to visit in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy the views and avoid crowds. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is most beautiful.
The entrance fee is typically around 50-60 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the mountain or at nearby ticketing locations in Deyang or Chengdu.
Booking tickets in advance is not required unless visiting during peak travel seasons or public holidays. For peace of mind, you may book tickets a few days in advance, especially if you plan to visit during these times.
You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to fully explore Yinghua Mountain, especially if you plan to hike and visit the temples. If you're more interested in leisurely sightseeing, an hour or two might suffice.
The must-see highlights include the Yinghua Temple, the mountain's natural rock formations, and the scenic viewpoints along the hiking paths. The views of the surrounding area from the summit are particularly stunning.
Guided tours are available, mostly in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, though it's recommended to check in advance. Audio guides may also be available, but primarily in Chinese.
The best viewpoints are found near the summit of Yinghua Mountain, where visitors can capture panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The temple area also offers beautiful photo opportunities, with traditional architecture set against the natural backdrop.
Start by exploring the base area and Yinghua Temple before making your way up the mountain trail. Stop at various viewpoints along the path, and finish your visit by reaching the summit for the best views of the area.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Yinghua Mountain. The site is best explored during the day, when you can fully appreciate the natural beauty and temple sights.
The mountain can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays, especially early in the morning, when crowds are minimal.
There are basic facilities including public restrooms and a few rest areas along the hiking trails. Food and water can be purchased near the entrance or at the base of the mountain, but there are limited options along the trail itself.
The mountain paths may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, as they involve some steep sections. However, children will generally enjoy the visit, especially the temple area and scenic spots at the base of the mountain.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at most locations around Yinghua Mountain. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas.
There are a few local restaurants and small cafes near the base of the mountain where visitors can enjoy Sichuanese dishes. Options in Deyang city offer more variety and comfort.
Vegetarian options are available in many local Sichuan restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be less common but can be found in Deyang city or larger restaurants catering to tourists.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Deyang city, which is about a 20-minute drive from the mountain. For a more luxurious stay, you can find mid-range to upscale accommodations in Deyang.
Nearby attractions include Mount Emei, the Sichuan Opera, and the city of Deyang itself, which is known for its historical sites. You can also visit the ancient Wuhou Temple, located a short drive away.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance and around the base of the mountain. Common souvenirs include local handicrafts, traditional Chinese items, and mountain-themed memorabilia like postcards and keychains.
After visiting Yinghua Mountain, taxis and buses are available for onward travel to other parts of Deyang or Chengdu. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility in exploring the region.
