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Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountain trails. Hiking and nature walks are popular activities. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are also key attractions, as the area is home to various species. You can also enjoy photography in the natural surroundings and relax by the serene lakesides.
Songfengshan Nature Reserve is located in Shanhe Town, Acheng City, 45 kilometers south of Harbin City. It covers an area of about 146 square kilometers and is a forest ecological nature reserve.
Songfeng Mountain in the area was a Taoist holy place during the Jin and Qing dynasties. It was named Songfeng Mountain because of the many ancient pines on the mountain.
The five peaks of Beishan Mountain stand side by side, with strange rocks standing in rows, creating an interesting contrast. The mountain is covered with lush forests and abundant grass, and there are many protruding peaks on the top of the mountain.
At the foot of the scenic Shijingfeng Peak, there are still two ancient Taoist temple ruins built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty. These are the Haiyun Temple and the Sutra Library.
In addition, there are historical sites such as the worship platform, mountain spring well, stone treasure, old Taoist temple and the Go board where Taoist priests played Go in the past.
Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
long time
50 yuan
08:00--17:00
Songfengshan Nature Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural environment. The area is a key protected nature reserve aimed at conserving the local ecosystem, including rare plant and animal species. It also serves as an important area for scientific research on environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.
Songfengshan Nature Reserve is located in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from central Harbin. Public buses are also available, but taxis may be more convenient. The nature reserve is a bit remote, so walking from Harbin’s main areas is not advisable unless you’re prepared for a long hike.
The reserve is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer can be busy, while winter offers a peaceful, snowy landscape for visitors who enjoy cold weather.
The entrance fee is affordable, and tickets can be bought at the entrance. Online ticket purchases may be possible during peak seasons, but it’s advisable to check for availability in advance, especially during holidays.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless you’re visiting during peak travel seasons like Chinese New Year or the summer months. Booking a few days ahead is recommended for a smoother experience during these times.
To fully explore Songfengshan Nature Reserve, you will need about 3 to 4 hours. This will allow time for hiking, wildlife watching, photography, and enjoying the natural surroundings. If you plan to do a longer hike, it may take up to 6 hours.
The main highlights include the serene lakes, dense forests, and mountain views. Key areas for exploration are the main hiking trails and the observation points offering views over the surrounding natural beauty. Birdwatching is another popular activity, particularly in the forested areas.
Guided tours are available, and they typically speak Mandarin. If you need an English-speaking guide, it’s recommended to arrange one in advance. Audio guides are not commonly available, but a local guide will provide insight into the reserve's ecology and history.
The best photography spots are along the mountain trails and near the lakes, especially during sunrise or sunset. The forested areas also offer fantastic opportunities for capturing wildlife and the dense, green environment. The observation points high up on the mountain provide panoramic views of the surrounding region.
Start by exploring the lower trails near the lake, then gradually move towards the more elevated mountain paths for stunning views. Take breaks at the observation points, and make sure to explore the forested areas for wildlife spotting. The main loop around the reserve should take 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Songfengshan Nature Reserve. The reserve is best enjoyed during daylight hours, especially for outdoor activities like hiking and photography. Special tours or events may be held occasionally but are not regularly offered.
The reserve can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to enjoy a peaceful visit.
Basic facilities like public toilets, water fountains, and rest areas are available throughout the reserve. However, there are no major restaurants or shops inside the park. It’s recommended to bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to hike for an extended period.
While most of the reserve is accessible to families with children, elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges may find some of the mountain trails difficult. The main paths are mostly flat, but more strenuous trails may not be ideal for visitors with disabilities.
Cash is accepted for entrance fees and small purchases. Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in Harbin, so it’s advisable to have a mobile payment option ready. Credit cards may not be accepted inside the reserve itself.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the reserve. For dining, you will need to go to nearby areas in Harbin where there are a variety of local and international restaurants offering different cuisines.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at most restaurants in Harbin, especially in the city center. Halal food can also be found, particularly near the Muslim community areas in Harbin.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Harbin’s city center that are a short drive away from the Songfengshan Nature Reserve. The hotels near Harbin’s main attractions, such as St. Sophia Cathedral, are also a convenient base for visiting the reserve.
Nearby attractions include the Harbin Ice Festival (during winter), Saint Sophia Cathedral, and the Harbin Siberian Tiger Park. These landmarks are easy to combine with a trip to the Songfengshan Nature Reserve.
There are a few souvenir shops near the reserve where you can find local handicrafts and traditional Harbin-themed items such as fur hats, scarves, and trinkets. For a wider selection, visit Harbin’s shopping areas or local markets.
After visiting Songfengshan Nature Reserve, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to continue your trip in Harbin. The city is well-connected with public transport, and taxis are readily available for longer trips to nearby attractions.
