Introducing Xikou Xuedou Mountain
The Xikou-Xuedou Mountain Scenic Area consists of three scenic areas: Xikou Town, Xuedou Mountain, and Tingxia Lake. It is famous for its Shan River, ancient temples, the hometown of the Jiang family, and waterfalls in the secluded valley. As early as the Han Dynasty, it was known as the "Penglai of the Sea".
Here you can find a series of cultural landscapes such as the "Jiang Family Former Residence", a national key cultural relic protection unit; Xuedou Mountain, which was named "the famous mountain that responded to a dream" because Emperor Renzong of the Northern Song Dynasty visited here in his dream; Xuedou Temple, one of the "Ten Zen Temples in the World"; and the world's tallest outdoor bronze sitting Maitreya Buddha statue.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons, spring, summer and autumn are the best
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Xuedou Mountain Scenic Area includes Qianzhang Rock, Miaogao Terrace, Sanyintan, Zhang Xueliang's First Confinement Place, and the Xuedou Temple Big Buddha Scenic Area.
Recommended play time: about 1 day
Tickets
Xuedou Mountain Scenic Area Ticket: 150 yuan/person (including Xuedou Mountain Ticket 120 yuan/person + Xuedou Mountain Transportation Fee 30 yuan/person)
Attraction opening hours
Xuedou Mountain Scenic Area : 8:10-17:10
(Qianzhang Rock, Xuedou Temple Giant Buddha Scenic Area, Zhang Xueliang's First Confinement Place)
Sanyintan Scenic Spot : 8:20-17:00
Xufuyan Scenic Spot : 8:30-16:50
Xuedou Mountain tourist bus service is open from 08:00 to 17:20
Most Popular FAQs for Xuedou Mountain in Xikou
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Xuedou Mountain is a well-known Buddhist site in Zhejiang, with a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The mountain is home to Xuedou Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region. It is an important cultural and religious landmark, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike with its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Xuedou Mountain is located in Xikou, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China.
- The easiest way to reach the mountain is by taking a taxi from downtown Ningbo, which is approximately 40 km away.
- Buses are also available from Ningbo to Xikou, where you can catch a local bus to the mountain.
- The mountain is not directly accessible by metro, so taxi or bus are the best options.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Xuedou Mountain is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful.
- Avoid visiting during major Chinese holidays when the site can get crowded.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The entrance fee for Xuedou Mountain is around ¥80-100 for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. For convenience, some travel agencies offer package tickets, which may include a cable car ride or guided tour. Online ticketing may also be available depending on the season and special events.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary, except during peak tourist seasons or special events. It's advisable to book a day or two in advance if you're visiting during holidays or weekends to avoid long lines.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
It typically takes 2-4 hours to fully explore Xuedou Mountain, depending on whether you are hiking or taking the cable car. If you plan to visit the temple and take a scenic walk, allow extra time for relaxation and photography.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Xuedou Temple, known for its grand architecture and serene atmosphere.
- The scenic views from the top of the mountain, including panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
- The nature trails and waterfalls that offer a peaceful escape into nature.
- The Buddhist statues and the famous "Xuedou Mountain Buddha" in the temple.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. For foreign visitors, it may be necessary to request an English-speaking guide in advance through travel agencies. Audio guides may also be available in several languages, but it’s best to check in advance.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The summit of Xuedou Mountain offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for panoramic photos.
- Along the hiking trails, you can capture photos of beautiful waterfalls, lush greenery, and traditional architecture.
- At sunset, the view of the temple and surrounding hills creates a picturesque scene for photographers.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start by visiting Xuedou Temple, then take a scenic walk along the nature trails leading to the summit.
- For a shorter visit, take the cable car to the top and explore the temple and viewpoints before descending.
- If time allows, enjoy a tea break at one of the nearby tea houses while soaking in the mountain views.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
There are no regular night visits or light shows at Xuedou Mountain. However, the temple is occasionally open for evening prayer sessions or special Buddhist events, which can provide a unique spiritual experience. It’s best to check the schedule in advance if you're interested in such events.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Xuedou Mountain can get crowded during weekends and Chinese public holidays.
- The least crowded times are on weekdays during the off-season (autumn and winter), especially in the early mornings.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets are available throughout the area.
- There are several small food stalls and restaurants offering local dishes and snacks.
- Water and refreshments are also sold in the shops at the base and summit of the mountain.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- The temple area and surrounding grounds are accessible for elderly visitors, although the hiking trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Children will enjoy the natural beauty and temple, but some areas may require supervision due to steep paths.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used at the site.
- Credit cards may not be accepted in all locations, so it’s advisable to use mobile payment methods or carry cash.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- There are a few tea houses and restaurants near the base of Xuedou Mountain offering local specialties such as tea, rice dishes, and vegetarian options.
- Nearby Ningbo city also has a wide variety of restaurants, including international options.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian food is available, especially in the local tea houses and Buddhist temple areas.
- Halal food options are limited in the immediate vicinity, but may be found in larger cities like Ningbo.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Xikou, offering basic accommodations with mountain views.
- For more luxurious stays, Ningbo city offers a range of hotels that are about an hour's drive from Xuedou Mountain.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- The Xikou Scenic Area, known for its natural beauty and historical significance, is a great place to explore nearby.
- In Ningbo, the Tianyi Pavilion and the Ningbo Museum offer more cultural experiences to complement a visit to Xuedou Mountain.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops at Xuedou Mountain sell Buddhist items, traditional tea sets, incense, and local handicrafts.
- You can also find local tea, especially Longjing tea, which is popular in the region.
