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Visit the Axe-split stone, which is a unique natural rock formation. Explore the surrounding nature trails and enjoy the scenic views. It's an excellent spot for photography and hiking.
Axe-Split Rock is located within the Huashan Scenic Area, south of Yuquan Road in Huayin City, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province. Located on the west peak of Huashan Mountain, it is named after the famous myth of Chenxiang splitting the mountain to save his mother. The rock is actually formed by spherical weathering of granite.
An axe-split rock sits atop the peak, over ten feet tall and several feet long. Its waist is split into three sections, as if split by an axe. A hollow forms between the rock and the peak, barely wide enough for one person to crawl into. Lying on one's back, one can see the uneven top, resembling the marks left by a woman lying down. The indentations of her belly and breasts are clearly visible. Beside the rock stands a massive iron axe, crafted by later generations to embellish the story. Inscribed on the axe handle is a poem: "A precious axe from the immortals, seven feet and five inches long. Given to Chenxiang, to split the mountain and save his mother."
Huayin has a pleasant climate with four distinct seasons and an average annual temperature of 13.7 degrees Celsius, making it a great place to travel in any season.
The Axe-Split Rock sits atop the peak, over ten feet tall and several feet long. Its waist is split into three sections, as if chopped by an axe. Near the rock stands a massive iron axe, a creation of later generations to fabricate the story. On the axe handle is a poem: "A precious axe from the immortals, seven feet and five centimeters long. Given to Chenxiang, to split the mountain and save his mother."
It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours.
Included in the Huashan Scenic Area Pass.
Dongshanmen Cableway: 7:00-19:00 in peak season, 8:30-17:00 in off-season;
North Peak Cableway: Peak season: 7:00-19:00, off-season 9:00-17:00;
Xishan Gate: Open 24 hours a day.
The Axe-split stone is a natural rock formation located in Huayin, Shaanxi, known for its distinctive shape that resembles an axe splitting a stone. It holds cultural and geological significance due to its unique appearance and location within the Huashan mountain range.
The Axe-split stone is located in Huayin, Shaanxi Province, China. You can reach it by taxi from Huayin city or Xi'an. The site is accessible by bus or walking, with a short hike required to reach the stone.
The site is open daily. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Morning visits are recommended for a peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via local online platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient.
Exploring the Axe-split stone and its surroundings will take around 2-3 hours, depending on the time spent hiking and taking photographs.
The main highlight is the Axe-split stone itself, along with the surrounding mountainous scenery and nature trails. It's a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some local guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are not commonly available, so a local guide is recommended for more detailed information.
The best photography spots are near the Axe-split stone, with the surrounding mountain views providing a stunning backdrop. The hiking trails also offer excellent panoramic views.
Start by visiting the Axe-split stone, then hike the nearby trails for additional scenic views. The area is not very large, so a simple loop around the site will be sufficient to enjoy the main highlights.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this site. It is best visited during daylight hours for safety and optimal photography.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-season, especially early in the morning.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and food stalls near the entrance. There are no large shops or extensive dining options on-site, so it's advisable to bring water and snacks.
The site involves some hiking, which may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and those in good health will enjoy the scenic nature trails.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. It's advisable to carry both cash and a mobile payment option for convenience.
There are simple food stalls near the site offering local snacks. For more extensive dining options, you can visit Huayin city or Xi'an.
Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal food options may be limited. It is recommended to bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
Several budget hotels and guesthouses are available in Huayin city. For more upscale accommodations, consider staying in Xi'an, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Nearby attractions include Huashan Mountain, Xian City, and the Terracotta Army. These can be easily combined into a day trip or weekend excursion.
There are small souvenir shops near the site selling local crafts, including jade carvings, Taoist artifacts, and traditional teas.
After visiting Axe-split stone, taxis and buses are the best options to continue your trip. You can also catch trains to Xi'an or other major cities from Huayin.
