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The Wuyue Ancient Road, dating back to the Wuyue Kingdom (present-day Zhejiang) and the Southern Tang Dynasty (present-day Anhui) during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, also features Tiejiang Mountain, located in the Yaotian Formation of Dalong Village, Wanjiaxiang, Ningguo City. Legend has it that in the early Ming Dynasty, deep in the mountains and dense forests of southern Anhui, the Ming government recruited a large number of blacksmiths to forge iron and swords, hence the name Tiejiang Mountain.
Hiking is best in spring and autumn;
free
All day
Blacksmith Mountain is historically significant for its ancient ironmaking techniques that were practiced in the area. The mountain was once a hub for blacksmiths, and its legacy is still celebrated through demonstrations of traditional metalworking. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its industrial history, makes it an interesting and educational destination.
Blacksmith Mountain is located in Xuancheng, Anhui Province. To reach the mountain, you can take a taxi or a private car from the Xuancheng city center. Public transport options may be limited, so hiring a taxi or joining a tour is recommended. Walking is only ideal for local exploration once you reach the base of the mountain.
The mountain is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer can be quite hot, and winter may be cold and less accessible due to snow or ice.
There is a small entrance fee to visit the Blacksmith Mountain area. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. It is not usually available for online booking, but some tour companies may offer packages that include entry fees.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors. However, if you plan to join a guided tour, it’s advisable to book at least a few days in advance to ensure availability.
You’ll need about 3-4 hours to explore the mountain and visit key attractions, including the hiking trails, iron-making sites, and scenic viewpoints. For a more relaxed experience or if you want to enjoy the village atmosphere, plan to spend a full day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it’s advisable to arrange for one in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.
Start your visit with a hike up to the main viewpoint for scenic views. Then, explore the iron-making historical sites along the way, learning about the region's industrial past. Afterward, take a stroll through the villages nearby for cultural immersion and a break at one of the local restaurants.
Night visits are not available at Blacksmith Mountain, as it is primarily a day-trip destination. Light shows or special tours are not commonly offered, but seasonal cultural festivals may provide unique experiences at certain times of the year.
Blacksmith Mountain can get busy on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are usually during weekdays, especially in the off-season months of winter and early spring.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water fountains are available. There are rest areas where you can relax, and small shops selling snacks, souvenirs, and drinks are located near the main attractions.
While the mountain is accessible for elderly and children, some of the hiking trails can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s recommended to check the trail difficulty before planning a visit for visitors with disabilities.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases in case cards are not accepted at remote locations.
There are local restaurants near the base of Blacksmith Mountain offering traditional Anhui cuisine, including local fish dishes, tofu, and mountain vegetables. For more options, you may find additional restaurants in the Xuancheng city center.
Vegetarian food options are available in local restaurants, particularly dishes made with tofu, vegetables, and grains. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in larger cities such as Xuancheng.
There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels near the base of the mountain. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can stay in the Xuancheng city center, where a wide variety of hotels are available.
There are souvenir shops near the base of Blacksmith Mountain selling local crafts, including handmade metalwork, pottery, and textiles. Local tea and agricultural products are also common souvenirs.
After visiting Blacksmith Mountain, you can take a taxi or private car back to Xuancheng city. From there, you can continue your journey by bus, train, or car to other nearby attractions in Anhui Province.
