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Xiao Wutai Mountain (Xiao Wutai Mountain), located at the junction of Wei County and Zhuolu County in Hebei Province, is the main peak of Taihang Mountain and the highest peak on the main range. Xiao Wutai Mountain has five commanding heights, namely East Peak, West Peak, South Peak, North Peak and Middle Peak. The altitudes of the five peaks are all over 2,500 meters, among which East Peak, with an altitude of 2,882 meters, is the most famous [1].
In addition to sedimentary rocks, there are numerous igneous and intrusive rocks. Faults are well developed, erosion is intense, and the terrain is steep, with deep gullies and steep slopes. Temperatures are low with large temperature swings, with precipitation concentrated in the summer. The frost-free period is short, the freezing period is long, and snow on shady slopes can remain unmelted year-round. The soil in Xiao Wutai Mountain varies significantly vertically: below 1,400 meters above sea level, chestnut soils are present; between 1,400 and 1,700 meters, brown soils are present, with some areas of loess; between 1,700 and 2,100 meters, mountain brown soils are present; and above 2,100 meters, subalpine meadow soils are present.
The vegetation is a summer-green broad-leaved forest with a complex flora and over 670 plant species. Vertical variations are evident: above 2,100 meters on sunny slopes, there are artemisia meadows; between 2,000 and 2,100 meters, there is subalpine shrubland dominated by birch; between 1,400 and 2,000 meters, there is mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest, with birch, poplar, Larix principis-rupprechtii, Chinese pine, white birch, and red birch as the main species; between 1,400 and 1,200 meters, there is secondary shrubland, dominated by sea buckthorn, hazelnut, hazelnut, and spiraea; below 1,200 meters, there is a crop zone. Besides the different altitude distribution on shady slopes, there are also coniferous forests dominated by Larix principis-rupprechtii and Picea truncatum, and broad-leaved forests dominated by birch and poplar. There are currently three state-owned forest farms.
Xiao Wutai Mountain is rich in animal resources, including the brown pheasant, a world-renowned rare bird and a first-class protected species, as well as rattlesnakes, leopards, musk deer, raccoon dogs, weasels and other animals.
Belongs to the warm temperate continental monsoon region
Jinhe Temple
3-4 hours
200 yuan/person
Xiaowutai Mountain is known for its historical and religious significance, particularly as a center for Buddhism. It has been a sacred place for centuries and is home to several ancient temples, making it an important spiritual site for both locals and visitors.
Xiaowutai Mountain is located in Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car, as public transportation is limited. The mountain is accessible by walking, but the steep trails require proper hiking preparation.
The mountain is open year-round. The best times to visit are in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal for avoiding crowds.
The entrance fee is generally around 40-60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites, particularly during peak seasons.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during the tourist season (spring and autumn). Booking 1-2 days ahead is recommended to ensure availability.
You will need approximately 3-4 hours to explore Xiaowutai Mountain, including hiking, visiting the temples, and enjoying the views.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it’s recommended to check in advance for availability.
Start with a hike through the temple areas, making your way up to the summit for a breathtaking view. Afterward, visit the monasteries and take some time to relax at the meditation spots before descending.
Night visits are not typical, as the area is primarily focused on nature and spirituality. However, some special events or prayer sessions may take place in the evenings depending on the time of year.
Xiaowutai Mountain can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls are available at the base and summit. More substantial meals and water can be found in nearby Zhangjiakou city.
The trails at Xiaowutai Mountain can be steep and challenging, which may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, some of the temple areas and viewpoints are accessible by cable car, which makes it easier for those with limited mobility.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in the area. Cash is also accepted, but mobile payments are more convenient and commonly used.
There are small restaurants and food stalls at the base of Xiaowutai Mountain offering local Chinese dishes. For more dining options, Zhangjiakou city offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are typically available in local restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. For more specific dietary needs, Zhangjiakou city offers a broader range of food choices.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near Xiaowutai Mountain. For more luxurious accommodations, Zhangjiakou city offers several options, ranging from budget to mid-range hotels.
There are small souvenir shops at the base of the mountain selling traditional Chinese crafts, local snacks, and trinkets like postcards, incense, and prayer beads.
