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Niutou Mountain, one of Ankang's four famous mountains and one of Ankang's eight scenic spots, is also known as Niushan. Located in Hanbin District, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province, it is the highest mountain in central Ankang. Niutou Mountain boasts lush forests and beautiful scenery, and boasts numerous historical sites and attractions, including the Niushan Temple, the Golden Bull Cave, the Stone Fortress, and the Shuaiqi Mound.
Wang Xishun, a Qing Dynasty poet, wrote a poem: "The beautiful scenery of Jinzhou is so remote that it is difficult to climb over the mountains. The green peaks and red rocks are so beautiful that you can climb them. Looking into the distance, the setting sun is rising and falling, and the woodcutter points out that it is Niu Mountain." The poem refers to Niu Mountain, which is also Niutou Mountain. It can also be seen from the poem that Niu Mountain has a steep terrain and the scenery is ethereal and charming.
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.
Niutou Mountain is lushly forested and offers beautiful scenery. It boasts relics and scenic spots such as the Niushan Temple, the Golden Bull Cave, the Stone Fortress, and the General Flag Pillar. Founded in the Song Dynasty, the Niushan Temple has undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions, each commemorated by the erection of steles, now totaling 17.
There is a "Wangjing Stone" on the main peak of Niutou Mountain. According to legend, when Huang Chao started the uprising, he trained his troops on Niutou Mountain. After training every day, he would stand on this stone, face north and swear to overthrow the Tang Dynasty and wipe out Xijing. Therefore, people called this stone "Hate Jing Stone" or "Wangjing Stone".
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Niutou Mountain is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance in Shaanxi Province. The mountain is home to several ancient temples, which make it a site for religious and cultural activities. It also offers breathtaking views of Ankang, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Niutou Mountain is located in Ankang City, Shaanxi Province. You can reach the mountain by taking a taxi or private car from downtown Ankang. Public buses are also available. There is no metro service in the area, so walking up the mountain is possible but may be strenuous.
Niutou Mountain is open year-round, with the best time to visit being in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. The mountain is less crowded in the morning and weekdays, so visiting during these times is ideal.
The entrance fee to Niutou Mountain is typically around 50-80 CNY, depending on the time of year. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. Online ticket sales are available through some Chinese travel platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but for peak seasons or holidays, it is advisable to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance to avoid waiting in long lines.
To fully explore Niutou Mountain, plan to spend 3-4 hours. This will allow enough time for hiking to the summit, visiting temples, and taking in the natural scenery along the trails.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they can provide insights into the cultural and natural aspects of Niutou Mountain. Audio guides in English may be available, but it's advisable to confirm availability at the entrance.
Start by taking the cable car to the top of the mountain, and then explore the temples. Afterward, hike down to various scenic spots and enjoy the views. Finish by visiting the lower areas near the base of the mountain, where you can find shops and resting spots.
Niutou Mountain does not offer night visits or light shows. However, the tranquil atmosphere of the mountain is perfect for a peaceful evening walk if you arrive early enough in the day.
Niutou Mountain can become crowded during weekends and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning or off-season months (spring and autumn).
The mountain has basic facilities, including toilets and small food stalls. There are also water refill stations. Rest areas are available along the hiking trails, and there are shops selling snacks and souvenirs near the entrance.
Niutou Mountain is relatively accessible, but the terrain may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. The cable car offers a convenient way to reach the summit without much effort, but some trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Children can enjoy the mountain, but supervision is recommended due to the uneven paths.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, especially in smaller shops and food stalls.
There are small local restaurants and cafes near the base of Niutou Mountain that offer traditional Chinese dishes and snacks. For more dining options, Ankang City has a variety of restaurants that serve both local and international cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants in the area. Halal food may be more difficult to find, but there are some restaurants in Ankang City that cater to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Ankang City, which is around a 30-minute drive from Niutou Mountain. Options range from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. For more luxury options, you may need to stay in the city center.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance to Niutou Mountain. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, traditional snacks, and small trinkets related to the mountain's natural beauty.
From Niutou Mountain, the best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or private car. Public buses are available, but they may not be as convenient for further travel.
