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Laifengshan Forest Park offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the forest. The park is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore lush greenery, tranquil streams, and peaceful trails. You can also relax at one of the park's scenic rest areas, or visit the park's natural hot springs.
Laifengshan National Forest Park, located in Tengchong, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, covers a total area of 1,656.2 hectares and is divided into four separate areas. Due to its unique natural and cultural landscapes, it is known as a "green pearl" embedded in the first city on the extreme border.
The park's main scenic area is a shield-shaped volcanic cone, resembling an elephant. It's named after the legendary phoenix that visited it. The park boasts lush vegetation and diverse species, with forest coverage exceeding 90%. The highest elevation is 1,912 meters, while the lowest is 1,640 meters. The park is home to over 300 species of birds and 50 species of mammals.
The main gate, carved from volcanic rock, is simple and elegant. From the dirt road to the right of the gate, spiral upwards for about 450 meters to a small bridge. Cross the bridge and ascend 160 steps to the main gate of Laifeng Temple. Enter the main gate and walk through a small garden to the Main Hall and Jade Buddha Hall. Gardens flank the main hall, and on the left are a pond, curved railings, pavilions, and an ancient building beside the pond, its base resembling a section of an ancient city wall.
The tropical monsoon climate combines the advantages of continental and maritime climates. Winter and spring are sunny and warm, while summer and autumn have a mix of sunny and rainy weather and are cool and pleasant. All four seasons are suitable for travel.
The mountain houses Laifeng Temple, Tengchong's most renowned Buddhist site. Originally named the Dragon and Phoenix Temple, it was built during the Nanzhao period of the Tang Dynasty. It was renamed Laifeng Temple in the Ming Dynasty and later destroyed during the Xiantong War of the Qing Dynasty. The existing temple complex was rebuilt in 1887, the 13th year of the Guangxu reign. Laifeng Temple boasts elegant architecture and tranquil gardens. The Main Hall features a compassionate and majestic Buddha statue. The Jade Buddha Hall houses a white jade reclining Buddha and the Eighteen Arhats, donated by overseas Chinese in Myanmar, reflecting the characteristics of Theravada Buddhism. To the left of the Main Hall stands the Sakya Buddha Hall, housing a white jade seated statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. To the left of the Main Hall stands a replica of the four gates of the ancient Tengyue city, offering panoramic views.
To the right of the Main Hall, outside the garden, is the White Jade Patriarch Hall. Built in 1821 during the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty, it was rebuilt in 1837 after the Xianfeng and Tongzhi wars. It serves as a venue for jewelry and jade industry colleagues to worship their ancestor, White Jade Master, and to gather.
At the summit stands the Fengling Pagoda, built in 1827 during the seventh year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty and destroyed during the Anti-Japanese War. Remains of Japanese fortifications can be found around the pagoda's base, making it a county-level key cultural relic protection site. The pagoda faces the central axis of the Confucian Temple, its body shaped like a brush and its pool like an inkstone. The combination of these two elements fosters the emergence of talented individuals, leading the locals to call it the Wenbi Pagoda.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
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08:00-17:30
Laifengshan Forest Park is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. It has been a popular spot for eco-tourism and conservation efforts, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature while also preserving the local flora and fauna.
The park is located in Baoshan, Yunnan Province. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car from Baoshan city center. Public transport options are limited, but taxis and rental cars are readily available for visitors.
The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥30 to ¥50. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park entrance. Online ticket options may also be available during peak seasons or holidays.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak seasons or holidays to avoid long wait times. Booking a day or two in advance is sufficient if you plan to visit during busy periods.
You can explore the park in 2 to 3 hours, depending on the trails you choose and the activities you wish to do. If you plan to hike longer routes or visit the hot springs, you may want to allocate additional time.
The must-see highlights include the dense forested areas, serene streams, and scenic viewpoints. The park's hot springs are also a popular spot for visitors seeking relaxation. The main hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but the park does not offer audio guides. You can arrange tours at the park entrance or through local tourism agencies.
Some of the best viewpoints are found along the higher elevation trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountains. The peaceful streams and the hot springs area are also great spots for photography.
A recommended route is to start with a leisurely walk around the park's lower trails, then ascend to the higher trails for a better view. Be sure to visit the hot springs area for relaxation before finishing your trip with a relaxing stroll around the streams.
The park does not offer night visits or light shows. It is a daytime attraction, ideal for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings during daylight hours.
The park is generally less crowded on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons. Weekends and public holidays can be busier, particularly in the spring and autumn months.
The park has basic facilities such as toilets, drinking water stations, and several rest areas. There are no large shops or restaurants inside the park, but small food stalls may be available near the entrance.
The park is generally accessible for children and elderly visitors, though some trails may be steep or challenging for those with mobility issues. The park does not have extensive facilities for disabled visitors, so some areas may be harder to access.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted in the park. It's advisable to carry some cash, as mobile payments may not be accepted at all locations.
There are no large restaurants inside the park, but there are several local eateries and cafes in the nearby town of Baoshan offering Yunnanese cuisine. Some small snack stalls may also be available inside the park.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries in Baoshan, and some restaurants may offer vegan-friendly meals. Halal food is not widely available in the area.
There are several hotels in Baoshan city center, including budget, mid-range, and higher-end options. For a more rustic experience, you may find guesthouses and eco-lodges nearby offering a closer connection to nature.
Other nearby attractions include the Baoshan Ancient Town, where visitors can explore traditional architecture and local culture. The area is also known for its tea plantations, which can be easily combined with a visit to the forest park.
There are no dedicated souvenir shops inside the park, but visitors can find local handicrafts, tea, and other Yunnanese products in Baoshan's markets and shops.
Taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your trip after visiting the park. Baoshan city has bus services to nearby towns and attractions, but taxis are generally more convenient for tourists.
