Bamianshan

Introducing Bamianshan

In a narrow sense, Bamianshan refers to Xiaobamianshan, located in Guidong County, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province. It gets its name from its eight-sided peaks. In a broader sense, it refers to the entire mountain range, a sub-unit of the Luoxiao Mountains. Its main peak, Shiniuxian, is located in Guidong County, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province. At 2,042 meters above sea level, it is the second highest mountain in Hunan Province.

Bamian Mountain boasts historical sites such as the former Nantian Warehouse and Bamian Mountain Stele, along with fascinating legends such as Guo Fazhu's suppression of demonic fires burning the mountain and the cultivation of lily fairies. Within the mountain's hinterland, three thousand-year-old ancient roads, the Upper, Middle, and Lower, stretch from Sidu via Jinyinpu, Xiaowuxi, and Jiangnaoli to Chizhuyuan and Qingshi in Zixing. This 40-kilometer route served as the main official route from Guidong to Chenzhou before the advent of highways. Legend has it that several scholars traveled this route to the provincial capital for the imperial examinations. To alleviate their fatigue, they agreed to recite a line of poetry every ten miles, resulting in the famous folk song: "Ten high dragons, twenty ox markets, rising blue smoke; thirty troughs, winding through valleys; forty green hills, invisible to the sky; fifty dragons, vast waters; sixty Miao men, ascending to heaven..."

Climate and best time to travel

From May to October every year

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

【Recommended attractions】

→ Main Peak: Shiniuxian

At 2,042 meters above sea level, it's the second highest mountain in Hunan Province. The area boasts high mountains and dense forests, offering spectacular scenery. With a bit of luck, you can even witness a beautiful sea of ​​clouds. Shiniuxian is also a renowned Buddhist shrine in Guidong and Zixing counties. While a temple once stood on the mountain, destroyed during the Cultural Revolution, some historical relics still remain.

→Observation Tower

Standing on the top of the slope under the blue sky and white clouds, you can gaze at the mountains in the distance and feel the heroic feeling of "standing on the top of the mountain, overlooking all the mountains". The weather changes, sometimes clear and sometimes cloudy, allowing people to appreciate different natural beauty.

→Nantian Old Warehouse Site

It has a certain historical significance and allows people to feel the traces of the revolutionary years. It is an ideal place to receive revolutionary traditional education.

【Recommended Play Time】

1-2 days

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Bamianshan

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

Bamianshan, located in Chenzhou City, Hunan, is renowned for its natural beauty, distinctive rock formations, and forested landscapes. It is significant as a local ecological and recreational area, attracting hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

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

Bamianshan is in Chenzhou City, Hunan Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car. Some local buses go near the entrance, followed by walking or hiking to explore the trails.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, generally from morning to late afternoon. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and scenery is most vibrant.

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

Entrance is usually free. Any special tours or guided hikes may have fees, payable onsite.

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

Advance booking is not typically required unless joining organized tours or group activities.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for 3–5 hours to fully hike the main trails and visit key scenic spots.

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

• Summit viewpoints with panoramic mountain views.
• Waterfalls and natural streams.
• Unique rock formations and cliff areas.
• Forested hiking trails.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; audio guides are limited or unavailable.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mountain peaks for wide panoramic shots.
• Waterfall areas and streams.
• Forested trails and rocky cliff sections.
• Sunrise and sunset locations for dramatic lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance and follow marked trails to the summit.
• Stop at waterfalls and viewpoints along the way.
• Return via loop trails to explore forested and rocky areas.

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

Night visits are generally not allowed; special tours may occasionally be offered during festivals or events.

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

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Early morning visits help avoid crowds.

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

Facilities include restrooms at the entrance, small food vendors, picnic areas, and rest stops along trails. Bring bottled water if needed.

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

Some trails are steep and uneven, limiting access for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can manage easier trail sections with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Vendors typically accept cash and mobile payments; card acceptance is limited.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants and small cafes near the entrance offer Hunan cuisine and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available; halal or vegan options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses in Chenzhou City provide convenient access within 20–40 minutes by car.

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

• Chenzhou Stone Forest
• Local rivers and scenic parks
• Historic or cultural sites within Chenzhou City

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local crafts, postcards, and small handmade items reflecting the region.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or private car to nearby attractions or city centers.
• Local buses connecting to Chenzhou City and surrounding areas.