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The Shocking Stone and Calming Stone are famous for their unique geological formations. Visitors can hike the surrounding trails to admire the natural landscape, enjoy the fascinating rock formations, and learn about the local folklore tied to the stones. Photography is also a popular activity to capture the scenic beauty.
Located in Huayin, Weinan, Shaanxi Province, the Shocking Heart Stone and the Peaceful Heart Stone are scenic spots on Mount Huashan, both situated at the upper end of Baichi Gorge. Here, the cliffs are narrow and precipitous, seemingly merging, when two flying rocks push them apart, leaving a gap only wide enough for one person to pass. Diving under the rocks, those who fear the rocks might fall through the gap, are terrified. This is the "Shocking Heart Stone." Passing through them brings peace of mind, and upon looking back, one realizes the two rocks blocking the path are larger at the top and smaller at the bottom, allowing for safe passage. The latter rock is now known as the "Pacifying Heart Stone."
The name of the stone is engraved on it. Han Yu's poem describes it as "suddenly divine power is achieved, and murderous aura is visible on the sharp edges." Yang Sichang of the Ming Dynasty vividly describes the Shocking Heart Stone in his "Records of Mount Taihua": "In the gorge lies a large stone, from nowhere, like a rock trying to fall into a ravine but being held captive by two cliffs. It seems as if it were trying to descend, but is held captive by two cliffs. It seems to fear that the two cliffs may possess some mysterious power, a truly regrettable sight..." However, once visitors pass the Shocking Heart Stone and look back at the Calm Heart Stone, they can't help but laugh at their own panic at having passed it.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate offers four distinct seasons and abundant sunshine, making spring, summer, and autumn ideal for travel.
It is recommended to play for about 10 minutes.
Included in the Huashan Scenic Area ticket (peak season: 160 yuan/person; off-season: 100 yuan/person)
Peak season 07:00-19:00
Off-season 09:00-17:00
The Shocking Stone and Calming Stone in Huayin are significant natural landmarks, believed to hold cultural and spiritual importance. The stones are associated with local legends, which describe how their immense energy can either "shock" or "calm" those who visit. These formations have attracted both tourists and geologists for their uniqueness.
Shocking Stone and Calming Stone are located in Huayin, Shaanxi Province, near Mount Hua. The site is accessible by taxi from Huayin City. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from the city to the base of Mount Hua and then hike or take a cable car to reach the stones.
The site is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscapes are at their most picturesque.
The entrance fee for the Shocking Stone and Calming Stone area is approximately 60-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local travel platforms in China.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons (e.g., public holidays). Booking a few days ahead is recommended during these times to avoid long waits.
It typically takes around 2-3 hours to explore the area, including time for hiking, photographing the stones, and enjoying the scenic views. If you plan to explore nearby attractions, you might need more time.
The main highlights include the Shocking Stone and Calming Stone themselves, which are fascinating geological formations. The surrounding natural scenery and trails also offer a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing and photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some guides offering limited English-language options. Audio guides in Mandarin are also available, but English versions might be limited or unavailable.
The best viewpoints are from the nearby cliffs and observation areas that provide a clear view of the Shocking Stone and Calming Stone. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography.
Start by visiting the Shocking Stone and Calming Stone, followed by a hike around the nearby trails. Take breaks at the observation points to fully appreciate the landscape. End the visit by relaxing at a nearby rest area or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant.
Night visits and light shows are not common at this site. The attraction is best experienced during daylight hours, though special cultural events may occur occasionally during certain seasons.
It can get crowded during public holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The off-peak seasons (late autumn and winter) are the least crowded times.
The site has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and water stations. There are small shops selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs, but for more extensive dining options, visitors may need to go to Huayin City.
The main paths to the Shocking Stone and Calming Stone are moderately accessible, but the hiking trails may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. It is advisable to check with local authorities for specific accessibility details before visiting.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may be accepted at some places, but it’s always best to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case of payment system failures.
There are a few local restaurants near the entrance offering traditional Chinese dishes. For more dining options, the city of Huayin offers a variety of restaurants and cafés.
Vegetarian food options are available in nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal food might be more limited, but Huayin City has several options that cater to diverse dietary preferences.
There are various budget and mid-range hotels in Huayin City. For more luxurious stays, visitors can opt for hotels in Xi'an, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Nearby attractions include Mount Hua, one of China’s Five Great Mountains, and the Huashan Scenic Area. Both sites are easily accessible from Shocking Stone and Calming Stone, making them ideal for a combined day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the site selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, local artwork, tea, and snacks. Typical souvenirs include Mount Hua-related items and local crafts.
After visiting, taxis or buses can take you to nearby attractions like Mount Hua or Huayin City for further exploration. If you plan to visit Xi'an, you can take a bus or train from Huayin.
