Guifeng Mountain

Introducing Guifeng Mountain

Thirty kilometers southwest of Xi'an, at the junction of Chang'an and Huxian, there are the "Five Peaks of Zhongnan", namely Guifeng, Jinfeng, Miaofeng, Baofeng and Zifeng. There are thousand-year-old temples on the peaks from the Sui and Tang Dynasties. This place is known as the "Thousand Buddha Township of the Southern Five Peaks." Guifeng Temple is located on the Julong Ridge between Xiangyu and Gaoguanyu. It was built in the Sui Dynasty or earlier. It was the place where the fifth patriarch of Huayan, Master Guifeng Zongmi, preached, practiced seclusion, was cremated, and his stupa was located.

At the foot of the mountain, Xiangyu and Gaoguanyu flanked it, like two jade belts flowing year-round. The streams were crystal clear, with fish swimming in the shallows. The gurgling waters were like the sound of ringing pendants. Beside the temple stood a pool, Gaoguantan, so deep that its waters were bottomless. Under the autumn moonlight, the waters were as clear as a mirror.

Guifeng Ancient Temple has always produced many talented monks and was at its peak. It has a large number of cultural relics, including the Yu'an Mountain where the eminent monk Kumarajiva of the Later Qin Dynasty lived, the altar where the founder of Guifeng Zongmi preached, the remains of the Duduyuan Temple where the Tang Dynasty master Xuanzang preached, and the remains of the Bamboo Grove Garden where the monk Jianzhen lived. The Zen master Zongmi, who had been in seclusion on this mountain for more than 20 years, passed away in the Xingfu Pagoda Courtyard and was later cremated on this mountain. His relics are embedded in a stone chamber in the mountain and other holy sites.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate with distinct seasons: cold, warm, dry, and wet. Winters are cold, windy, foggy, and with little rain or snow; springs are warm, dry, windy, and changeable; summers are hot and rainy, with a prominent summer drought and frequent thunderstorms and strong winds; and autumns are cool, with a rapid drop in temperature and significant autumn rain.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended one-day tour

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Most Popular FAQs for Guifeng Mountain

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

Guifeng Mountain is a scenic and historic mountain near Xi’an, known for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, including ancient temples and local legends. It has been a site for leisure, pilgrimage, and nature appreciation for centuries.

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

Guifeng Mountain is located in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local buses, or private car. Walking is feasible from nearby residential areas, but public metro access is not direct.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to mild weather and vibrant foliage.

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

Entrance fees are modest or free for general access. Tickets for special areas or guided activities can be purchased on-site or via local online booking platforms.

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

Advance booking is usually not necessary. For guided tours or special events, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for casual exploration; 5–6 hours for full hiking and visiting temples or scenic spots.

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

• Mountain summit for panoramic views of Xi’an.
• Ancient temples and cultural landmarks on the trails.
• Forest trails with diverse flora and fauna.
• Scenic viewpoints along rivers and cliffs.

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

Guided tours are available mainly in Chinese. Audio guides in English or other languages are limited; translation apps can help foreign visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The summit for panoramic mountain and city views.
• Scenic cliffside viewpoints along trails.
• Temples and pavilions for architectural photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, follow the marked trails through the forest, visit key temples and cultural sites, reach the summit for views, then descend via a scenic path.

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

Night visits are generally not allowed. Special daytime tours may be available seasonally.

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

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Early morning visits are recommended for a quieter experience.

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

• Public toilets at main entry points and key scenic spots.
• Rest areas with benches along trails.
• Snack stalls or small shops near entrances and popular viewpoints.

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

Some areas are accessible, but steep trails can be challenging. Wheelchair access is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are generally accepted for tickets and small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants serve local Shaanxi cuisine, light snacks, and tea. Few options are inside the mountain park.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available nearby; halal options are limited and should be confirmed in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are available in nearby Xi’an neighborhoods, offering budget to mid-range accommodations.

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

• Xi’an City Wall
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda
• Huaqing Palace and hot springs

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the entrance offer local handicrafts, snacks, and small themed items related to the mountain and cultural heritage.

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

Taxi, ride-hailing apps, or local buses provide connections to Xi’an city center, train stations, and other nearby attractions.