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Walk along the scenic Weiping Phoenix Ancient Trail, which offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Enjoy the lush surroundings, picturesque views, and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for hiking and photography.
The Weiping Fenghuang Ancient Trail, located north of Weiping Town in Chun'an, departs from either the Liudu Yuanping River Line or the Qidu Yuanping Third Line, passing through Lingjiao Village and Fenghuang Village, and ends at Fengshan Zen Temple on the mountaintop. Spanning 5.6 kilometers, the trail boasts a rich history, abundant forest vegetation, lush ancient trees, and numerous cultural attractions, making it a great place to connect with nature, enjoy the forest, and maintain fitness and wellness.
Climbing up the ancient path paved with bluestone slabs, you'll feel a sense of emptiness as you walk along it. Standing at the top, you can gaze at the mountain spring in the distance, surrounded by pine and cypress trees, giving you a sense of the vicissitudes of life, like " an ancient road, a thin horse in the west wind . " There is also an ancient Guanyin Temple on the top of the mountain, weathered and detached from the world.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
The Weiping Phoenix Ancient Trail is a historic hiking path in Hangzhou, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese culture. It is named for the area's historical connections to the phoenix, symbolizing peace and prosperity. The trail has been used for centuries by locals and travelers, serving as a route to connect villages and showcase the beauty of the region.
The Weiping Phoenix Ancient Trail is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. It is best accessed by taxi or private vehicle from the city center. Alternatively, public buses can take you close to the trail, followed by a short walk.
The trail is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the heat and crowds.
The Weiping Phoenix Ancient Trail does not charge an entrance fee. However, some guided tours or special services might incur a cost. Tickets for guided tours can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for the trail itself. However, for guided tours or specific events, it’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance.
A typical visit will take around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the trail, including time for photography, rest, and enjoying the surroundings.
The key highlights include the picturesque landscape, ancient trees, and traditional architecture along the trail. Be sure to stop at the observation points offering views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and in some cases, English-speaking guides may be offered. Audio guides can also be available in multiple languages for self-guided exploration.
The best photography spots include the panoramic viewpoints on the trail, where you can capture the beauty of the natural surroundings and the old architecture. The phoenix-shaped hills are also a popular spot for photos.
It is recommended to start the hike at the base of the trail and follow it to the highest point, where you'll have the best views of the area. There are designated rest spots along the way to enjoy the scenery.
Night visits and light shows are not available on the trail, but the area can be visited during the day for a serene experience in nature. Special cultural tours may be offered on select days, especially during festivals.
The trail is generally less crowded during weekdays and in the early mornings or late afternoons. It can become busier during weekends and public holidays, especially in peak seasons like spring and autumn.
There are basic facilities like rest areas and toilets along the trail. However, there are no food or water stations directly on the trail, so it’s advisable to bring your own supplies.
The trail may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to its natural terrain and uneven paths. It is suitable for children, but parents should be cautious with younger kids as the trail can be steep in some areas.
Cash is generally not needed for the trail itself, but it is advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment apps (like WeChat Pay or Alipay) for any purchases made along the way, such as for souvenirs or food at nearby shops.
There are small local eateries and cafes near the trail’s entrance where you can try local Zhejiang cuisine. More dining options are available in the city center of Hangzhou.
Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, so it’s advisable to check menus in advance or bring your own snacks if needed.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located in Hangzhou, offering a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range. There are also boutique hotels closer to the trail in more rural areas for those seeking a more immersive experience.
Nearby attractions include West Lake, Longjing Tea Fields, and Lingyin Temple. These can easily be combined with a trip to the Weiping Phoenix Ancient Trail in a day, especially if you have access to transportation.
Souvenir shops can be found near the trail entrance and in Hangzhou, offering local crafts such as tea sets, silk products, and handmade goods that reflect the region's cultural heritage.
After visiting the trail, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to continue your trip to nearby attractions like West Lake or to the Hangzhou city center for more sightseeing or shopping opportunities.
