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Fanzi Cliff is located west of Xixi, Mount Tai. Its peaks are so steep and towering, resembling a fan, hence its name. A Ming Dynasty inscription depicts a "cactus" on the cliff. An iron ladder leads to the cliff's summit, offering breathtaking views of Longjiao Mountain to the north, Aolai Peak to the west, and Longtan Reservoir to the east.
Fanzi Cliff, located on the west side of Xixi River on Mount Tai, is named for its towering, steep peaks, resembling a fan. A cliff carving inscribed with the words "Cactus" by Yang Bo, a Ming Dynasty artist, can be seen on the cliff. An iron ladder leads to the cliff's summit, offering panoramic views of Longjiao Mountain and Jiunv Village to the north and Aolai Peak to the west. Looking east, Longtan Reservoir shimmers like a dazzling pearl inlaid in Xixi River.
The main peak of Shanzi Cliff stands in the center of the scenic area. Wang Wuyu, a successful candidate in the imperial examination in the Ming Dynasty, once built a house on the cliff to study and invested in the construction of Yuanshi Tianzun Hall, Sun Temple, Lu Zu Temple and other temples. There are many cultural relics and historical sites here, and temples are everywhere.
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
Fan Cliff is a notable natural landmark within the Mount Tai region, known for its steep cliffs and scenic beauty. It has cultural significance due to its proximity to historical sites and its role in local legends.
Located in Tai’an, Shandong Province, near the Mount Tai scenic area. Visitors typically reach the base by taxi or private car from Tai’an city, then hike to the cliff via established trails.
Open daily from 6:00 to 18:00. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
Access is included with the Mount Tai scenic area ticket. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance.
Booking is recommended during peak seasons or public holidays, ideally 1–2 weeks in advance online.
Allocate 2–3 hours to hike to Fan Cliff, enjoy viewpoints, and return comfortably.
Guided tours are primarily in Chinese; audio guides are not commonly offered.
Start from the base trailhead, hike to Fan Cliff via scenic paths, pause at viewpoints, then descend using an alternate trail if available to experience different scenery.
Night visits and light shows are not available; special guided tours can be arranged during daytime hours.
Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times. Public holidays can be busy.
Basic facilities include restrooms near the trailhead, small food stalls, water points, and resting benches along the trail.
Steep trails make access challenging for elderly and children; disabled access is limited.
Mobile payments are widely accepted; cash may be needed at small food stalls.
Local restaurants and snack stalls are available near the trailhead offering Shandong cuisine and refreshments.
Vegetarian options are available; halal options may be limited.
Hotels and guesthouses in Tai’an city are 15–30 minutes by car from Fan Cliff.
Souvenir shops sell postcards, Mount Tai-themed handicrafts, Taoist charms, and local snacks.
Taxi or private car is recommended to reach other scenic spots or return to Tai’an city; public buses are also available for major tourist sites nearby.
