Live Your Best Lives
Guiguling National Forest Park is located in Shiquan County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province. It is the highest mountain in Shiquan. Guiguling is the hometown and place where Guiguzi, the teacher of Su Qin and Zhang Yi, the strategists and diplomats in the Warring States Period of my country, practiced Taoism and taught disciples. It is also a famous Taoist mountain in Shaanxi, known as "Little Wudang in Southern Shaanxi" and "Mount Zhongnan in the South".
Guigu Ridge is perpetually shrouded in clouds and mist. Clouds are the mountains' homes; the mountains are the clouds' home. Vast clouds and mist stretch for hundreds of miles. Amidst the surging sea of clouds, Guigu Ridge is perpetually immersed in an ethereal fairyland. Deep within the clouds and mist, Guigu Ridge hides many wonders rarely seen by the world.
Guiguling is surrounded by numerous peaks. Standing atop the ridge, one can see the peaks looming low on all sides, a sea of clouds swirling, the peaks looming in and out, like countless ships and islands floating on a vast ocean. At this moment, the clouds sway, the ships rock, the water stirs, the islands drift, and Guiguling Forest Park transforms into a vast, blue sea.
The subtropical continental monsoon climate is characterized by a humid and mild climate with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall, and a long frost-free period. Its characteristics are cold and dry winters, rainy summers with frequent summer droughts, warm and dry springs, and cool and humid autumns with frequent periods of rain. Spring, summer, and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
Guiguling, the main ridge of Guiguling National Forest Park, stands at 2,008.9 meters above sea level. It's known as the "Little Wudang" and the "Southern Zhongnan Mountain." Surrounded by numerous peaks, five ridges rise from the ground, extending radially in all directions. This is why the locals call it "Five Dragons Holding the Saint." Its towering height, so prominent among the peaks, inspired ancient scholars to describe it as "a breath that reaches the throne of the emperor."
Guiguling Tiantai Temple, also known as Tiantai Temple, is built on a terrace atop Guiguling Mountain. Originally built in the Western Jin Dynasty, it was expanded during the Sui and Tang dynasties, reaching its peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a renowned Taoist sanctuary in the Han River Basin of southern Shaanxi.
In the ancient fir forest, trees tower 30-50 meters tall, their tips reaching the sky. Some trees are so thick they require two or three people to embrace. The forest boasts tranquil streams, lush flowers and vines, shrubs and bamboos, and rare birds and animals. Tall ancient fir trees, low shrubs, and dense weeds cover the sky and the ground, creating a misty, dark, and humid forest. The dense trees and thick shade, like water, are a haven for wild animals. In addition to bears, wild boars, takin, musk deer, and even unicorns, there are also savage beasts.
The Great Bamboo Forest covers over 1,000 mu (approximately 1,000 mu), with each bamboo tree flourishing with lush branches and leaves, diverse shapes, and exceptional growth. The bamboo forest stretches for miles, its verdant bamboo boundless, earning it the nickname "a sea of bamboo." The dense bamboo groves flank the forest paths, leaving the ground pavement beneath your feet. The vast bamboo forests of Yunwu Mountain are a verdant park, filled with clear water, vibrant flowers and vines, and even rare animals roaming freely.
Xiaoyunwu Mountain, also known as Sanguochi, is located on the east side of Guigu Ridge. This peak, approximately 1,800 meters above sea level, originally formed a broad platform. Three large, naturally formed depressions formed on this platform. These three depressions are approximately the same size, over ten meters deep and about forty meters in diameter. Their shape resembles three large iron pots, hence the name Sanguochi.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
Peak season: 110 yuan/person, half price: 60 yuan/person;
90 yuan/person in off-season, 55 yuan/person at half price.
(All include scenic bus tickets)
08:00-17:30
Guiguling National Forest Park is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and is one of the key natural reserves in Shaanxi. The park plays a crucial role in preserving the region's ecosystem and offers visitors a glimpse into the pristine natural environment of the Qinling Mountains.
The park is located in Ankang, Shaanxi, and is accessible by taxi or private car from the city center. It is not served by metro, so taxis are the most convenient option. Walking is only recommended within the park once you arrive.
The park is open daily, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the forest is at its peak.
The entrance fee for Guiguling National Forest Park is approximately ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the park's entrance. Online ticket sales are generally not available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it may be helpful to secure tickets a few days in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
To fully explore the park, including its trails and scenic spots, you should plan for about 3 to 4 hours. If you enjoy hiking or photography, you may want to spend more time exploring.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. These tours usually provide insightful commentary on the park’s ecosystem and history. Audio guides are not typically available.
Start with the main trail leading to the observation points. From there, explore the different sections of the park, focusing on the areas with the richest flora and wildlife. Conclude with a walk through the forest to enjoy the peaceful environment.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Guiguling National Forest Park. It is primarily a daytime attraction.
The park is generally not crowded, except during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings, especially during the off-season.
The park has basic facilities, including public toilets and rest areas. There are no restaurants or food vendors inside, so it's best to bring your own snacks and water. Small souvenir shops are available near the entrance.
The park is accessible to most visitors, but the terrain can be hilly and challenging in some areas, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Paved paths are available, but assistance may be needed for certain trails.
Cash is accepted for entrance fees and souvenirs. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly accepted at the park.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the park. However, Ankang city offers a wide range of dining options, including local Shaanxi cuisine. Look for restaurants serving noodles, dumplings, and hotpot.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Ankang city, including vegetable dishes and soups. Halal food is also readily available due to the local Muslim population.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the park entrance selling local handicrafts, traditional artwork, and nature-themed items. Typical souvenirs include local herbs, wooden carvings, and regional snacks.
