Goddess Peak

Introducing Goddess Peak

The Goddess Peak is located on the north bank of the Wu Gorge of the Yangtze River, about 15 kilometers east of Wushan City, Chongqing . A huge rock stands out among the green peaks and clouds, like a graceful and beautiful girl. It is named the Goddess Peak and is one of the Twelve Peaks of Wushan.

Each of Wushan's twelve peaks has its own unique characteristics, but Goddess Peak is the most beautiful and famous. Three reasons explain its fame: first, the fictional story of a secret rendezvous between King Xiang of Chu and a goddess in Song Yu's "Ode to the Goddess"; second, the legend of the goddess Yao Ji descending to earth to aid Emperor Yu in controlling floods; and third, a rock shaped like a young girl stands proudly on the side of the peak. Poets and writers throughout history have dedicated numerous poems and songs to this peak.

In ancient Chinese mythology, Goddess Peak is said to be the incarnation of Yao Ji, the youngest daughter of the Queen Mother of the West. She once helped Emperor Yu of Xia dig a canal and drain the floodwaters. After the flood was averted, she remained in Wushan to ensure safe passage, earning her respect and worship from later generations. Across from Goddess Peak, beneath Feifeng Peak, stands the Book-Giving Platform, said to be where Yao Ji gave books to Emperor Yu of Xia. Originally, hymns to the Goddess were erected in the east and west of the county town, later renamed Ningzhen Temple.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, with the best red leaves in autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The round trip time for climbing the Goddess Peak is 3 hours, the speedboat time is one and a half hours, and the sightseeing time is one hour. It takes 5 and a half hours to easily climb the Goddess Peak. If you reach the mountain gate of the designated tourist attraction, 4 hours is enough to climb the Wushan Goddess Peak.

Recommended play time: 3-4 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:30-15:30 , last admission at 15:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Goddess Peak

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Goddess Peak, or Shennu Peak, is the tallest of the twelve unique peaks along the Wu Gorge. According to local legend, the peak resembles a maiden standing gracefully on the northern bank of the Yangtze River. It is named after Yao Ji, the youngest daughter of the Heavenly Mother, who descended to the mortal world to assist in flood control efforts. Moved by her compassion, she and her eleven sisters were transformed into the twelve peaks that line the banks of the Wu Gorge.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Goddess Peak is located in the Qijiang District of Chongqing, approximately 450 km from the city center. To reach the site, visitors can take a long-distance bus or train from Chongqing to Wushan County, followed by a local taxi or shuttle to the Goddess Peak Scenic Area. Alternatively, guided tours often include transportation to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Goddess Peak Scenic Area is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to May and September to October) when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscapes are most vibrant. It is recommended to arrive early in the day to fully enjoy the hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Goddess Peak. However, visitors may need to pay for transportation to and from the site, as well as any optional guided tours or boat cruises. Tickets for these services can typically be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not required for visiting Goddess Peak itself, as there is no entrance fee. However, for guided tours or boat cruises, it is advisable to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Goddess Peak typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the chosen activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and boat cruises. For a more leisurely experience, consider allocating a full day to explore the area and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the Goddess Peak itself, the Goddess Temple at the foot of Flying Phoenix Peak, and the Book Presenting Terrace. Additionally, the panoramic views of the Wu Gorge and the Yangtze River from various viewpoints along the hiking trails are not to be missed.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at Goddess Peak, typically in Mandarin. While English-speaking guides may be limited, some tours may offer basic English explanations. It's recommended to inquire in advance about language options if needed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are located along the hiking trails leading to the peak, offering sweeping vistas of the Wu Gorge and the Yangtze River. The Book Presenting Terrace also provides a unique perspective for photography, with its flat area contrasting against the surrounding mountainous terrain.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes starting at the base of the mountain, visiting the Goddess Temple, and then hiking up to the Book Presenting Terrace. From there, continue to the summit of Goddess Peak for panoramic views. Depending on time and energy levels, visitors can choose to descend via the same route or explore additional trails in the area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Goddess Peak. The area is best experienced during daylight hours, especially to enjoy the hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. It is advisable to plan visits during the day to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the site.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Goddess Peak can experience moderate to high visitor numbers during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, plan visits on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, and during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as rest areas and toilets are available at the base of the mountain and along the hiking trails. Visitors are advised to bring their own water and snacks, as food options may be limited within the scenic area. There are no major shopping facilities on-site, so it's best to purchase any necessities before arriving.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain at Goddess Peak includes steep and uneven paths, which may pose challenges for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. While some areas may have basic accessibility features, it's recommended to assess individual mobility needs and consider alternative sightseeing options if necessary.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and preferred in China. It's advisable to have a mobile payment app set up on your smartphone for convenience. Foreign credit cards may have limited acceptance, so it's best to carry some cash as a backup.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are limited dining options within the immediate vicinity of Goddess Peak. It's recommended to bring your own packed meals or snacks. For more substantial dining options, consider visiting Wushan County before or after your visit to the peak.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options may be available at some restaurants in Wushan County. Halal food options are limited in the area. It's advisable to inquire at local eateries about specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations near Goddess Peak are limited. For a wider selection of hotels, consider staying in Wushan County, which offers various lodging options ranging from budget to mid-range. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Wushan Goddess Temple, the Book Presenting Terrace, and other peaks along the Wu Gorge. A boat cruise along the Yangtze River offers views of these landmarks from the water. These sites can be combined into a day trip, with a guided tour providing convenient transportation and information.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are limited in the immediate area of Goddess Peak. In Wushan County, visitors can find local handicrafts, traditional Chinese teas, and regional snacks as souvenirs.