Live Your Best Lives
Zhangshiyan Scenic Area, located southwest of Zanhuang County, Hebei Province, 100 kilometers from Shijiazhuang City, is a nationally recognized key scenic spot. It boasts a wealth of unique geological and geomorphological features, as well as associated historical and cultural attractions embodying the concept of harmony between man and nature. The Zhangshiyan landform, named after it, is considered one of China's three most famous sandstone landforms, along with the Danxia and Zhangjiajie landforms.
The scenic area can be divided into four relatively independent small scenic areas, namely the Jiunv Peak Scenic Area, Yuantong Temple Scenic Area, Paper-Paste Trap Scenic Area and Frozen Ice Background Area. The main landscapes include red cliffs, clear springs and waterfalls, ancient temple inscriptions, and frozen pillars forming a forest. It can be said that there are scenery at every step.
The scenery of Zhangshiyan in four seasons is unique: birds singing and flowers blooming in spring, sea of clouds and flying springs in midsummer, red leaves covering the mountains in late autumn, and icicles forming forests in early winter.
The best places to view the sea of clouds and mist are Shirenzhai Village, Jiunv Peak, Yunchao Pavilion, and Camel Rock.
You can see the Buddha's Light Mirage at Xianren Peak, Bijia Peak, Sanzhan and Camel Rock.
Recommended play time: about half a day
Peak season (April-October): 50 yuan/person
Off-season (November to March): 30 yuan/person
08:00-17:00
Zhangshiyan is known for its unique rock formations, which have been a subject of local legends and cultural significance. It is an important natural heritage site in Hebei, attracting visitors for both its scenic beauty and historical temples.
Zhangshiyan is located in the Shijiazhuang region of Hebei Province. The best way to get there is by taking a taxi or a private car from Shijiazhuang city center. Public buses may also be available, but taxis offer more convenience for tourists.
The site is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most picturesque. Avoid the peak summer months when it can get crowded.
The entrance fee for Zhangshiyan is typically around 30-50 RMB, depending on the specific areas or attractions you plan to visit. Tickets can be bought on-site, and some online platforms may offer ticket booking in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary but can be recommended during peak tourist seasons. If you prefer to avoid long queues, booking a day or two in advance is advisable.
A visit to Zhangshiyan can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend hiking and exploring the temples. If you wish to visit nearby scenic spots or enjoy a full day of hiking, consider allocating a whole day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local operators may offer English-speaking guides, though they are not as common. Audio guides may be available in Chinese.
Begin your visit by exploring the temples at the base of the mountain. Then, hike up the trails to explore the main rock formations and scenic viewpoints. Finish the day with a visit to the lower paths and surrounding forest for a peaceful experience.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Zhangshiyan. The site is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate its natural beauty.
The site can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are typically early in the morning or on weekdays during non-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities are available at the entrance, including toilets and water stations. There are also small local shops selling snacks and drinks, though options may be limited inside the park.
The terrain in Zhangshiyan is rocky and uneven, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Some areas may be accessible for families with young children, but it's advisable to take care on the trails.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards are not always accepted, so it's best to carry cash or use mobile payments.
There are small local restaurants and cafes in the area serving Chinese food. The options are limited, so it is recommended to bring snacks or lunch if you plan to spend the day there.
Vegetarian food options are available at most local restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but some restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes.
There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near Zhangshiyan. For more upscale accommodations, consider staying in Shijiazhuang, which is about an hour's drive from the attraction.
Small souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, traditional Chinese goods, and snacks. Popular souvenirs include handcrafted pottery, local artwork, and other cultural trinkets.