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Shengxianfang, located at the beginning of the Eighteen Bends of the Middle Road of Mount Tai in Shandong Province, is a two-pillar, single-door stone archway inscribed with the words "Shengxianfang" in regular script. The steep mountain and sheer cliffs here overlook the summit of Mount Tai, creating a fairyland just a stone ledge, evoking the feeling of ascending to heaven. Hence the name "Shengxianfang." Visitors who rest here often find themselves captivated by the senses. Gazing down the mountain, they often feel as if they are soaring into the clouds. Looking up, the South Gate of Heaven is just around the corner. Climbing with all their might, the summit of Mount Tai is within sight.
The all-stone structure, with two columns and a single door, is 2.82 meters wide and 4.5 meters high, built on a double-layered square stone foundation. The foundation stone is 1.82 meters long, 0.64 meters wide, and 0.5 meters high. The columns are square, with rolling stone piers at the bottom, shaped like animal heads. The columns are topped with a lintel, fascia, and lintel, with five dou (a type of dou) placed on top of the lintel. The roof features five ridges and four ridges, with the large ridge carved with rounded heads and relief carvings of tile ridges, ridges, and drips.
It has a temperate continental semi-humid monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, moderate cold and hot seasons, synchronized light and temperature, and simultaneous rain and heat. Spring is dry and windy, summer is hot and rainy, autumn is sunny and refreshing, and winter is cold and snowy.
It is recommended to play for one hour
Included in the Mount Tai scenic area ticket
All day
Shengxianfang is a historic neighborhood in Tai’an, Shandong, known for its traditional residential architecture and cultural heritage. It reflects the local lifestyle and craftsmanship of the region from past centuries and is an important site for understanding the social and cultural history of Tai’an.
Located in Tai’an city, Shandong Province. It is accessible via local buses, taxis, or private car from the city center. Walking through the neighborhood is the best way to explore its narrow streets and courtyards.
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for comfortable walking and photography.
Entrance is usually free, though some specific courtyards or exhibitions may charge a small fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site if required.
Advance booking is generally not required unless visiting special exhibitions or during local festivals.
1–2 hours are sufficient to explore Shengxianfang’s streets, courtyards, and cultural points.
Guided tours in Chinese may be available; English tours are rare and may need to be arranged via travel agencies.
Start at the main entrance, explore central courtyards, walk through alleys to the outskirts, and finish at any small exhibitions or souvenir areas.
Night visits are generally not available, and there are no regular light shows. Special cultural events may occasionally occur.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and national holidays. Early mornings are recommended for a quieter experience.
Accessible for elderly and children with moderate walking; some areas may have uneven pathways, which could be challenging for disabled visitors.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted at nearby shops and cafes.
Local restaurants and tea houses serve Shandong cuisine and light refreshments near Shengxianfang.
Vegetarian options are generally available; halal options may be limited and require checking in advance.
Several hotels and guesthouses in central Tai’an provide easy access to Shengxianfang, ranging from budget to mid-range options.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, miniature architectural models, postcards, and Mount Tai-themed items.
Taxis, local buses, or private car services connect visitors to other Mount Tai attractions or Tai’an city center. Walking trails can link to nearby scenic spots.
