Baohuashan National Forest Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Baohuashan National Forest Park?

  • Hike along the forest trails to enjoy the lush greenery and mountain scenery.
  • Visit scenic viewpoints for panoramic views of the forest and surrounding landscapes.
  • Explore waterfalls, streams, and natural rock formations within the park.
  • Have a picnic or relax in designated rest areas surrounded by nature.
  • Photography of flora, fauna, and the serene forest environment.
  • Participate in eco-tourism or nature education activities if available.

Introducing Baohuashan National Forest Park

Baohua Mountain, located north of Jurong City in Jiangsu Province, lies on East China's golden tourism route. Originally named Huashan, it earned its name due to the yellow blossoms that blanket the mountain in spring. The mountain gained widespread fame after its founder, the eminent monk Baozhi of the Liang Dynasty in the Southern Dynasties, ascended the mountain, built a hermitage, and preached Buddhist scriptures.

Baohuashan Forest Park is renowned for its four wonders: the beauty of the foothills, the elegance of the peaks, and the deep caves and ravines, as well as the beauty of the misty clouds. Longchang Temple, nestled amidst the forest, has long been a magnet for pilgrims due to its status as the "first famous mountain of the Vinaya school." It is said that Emperor Qianlong visited Baohuashan six of his seven trips south of the Yangtze River, a testament to its prestige in the Buddhist community.

Climate and best time to travel

Baohua Mountain holds its renowned annual "Paoshan Festival" in late April each year. Visitors can enjoy fresh air, enjoy traditional folk culture displays, handicraft performances, folk song performances, and participate in activities such as a national jog, a kite festival, a water splashing festival, an autumn festival, a beer and food festival, and a photography competition.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Qianhua Ancient Village

This village, steeped in the quaint charm of the Ming and Qing dynasties, boasts restored architecture that reflects the cultural heritage of the period. Its refined, elegant architecture showcases the rich folk customs of the period. Qianhua Ancient Village, primarily composed of wooden buildings, boasts the Qianlong Imperial Brush Archway, the Ming and Qing Town, the Water Show Dance Hall, the Fragrant Restaurant, the Qinhuai Water Pavilion, the Free Life Bridge, and the Baozhi Shrine, among other attractions.

Longchang Temple

It was the largest ordination center in modern times, renowned both domestically and internationally. Due to years of war, only a little over 300 rooms remain at Longchang Temple. According to the Baohua Mountain Chronicle, "The Baohua Vinaya School was the most prominent of the 480 Buddhist temples in Jinling."


Recommended play time: 4-5 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person (including Qianhua Ancient Village and Longchang Temple)

Attraction opening hours

9:00 - 22:30


Most Popular FAQs for Baohuashan National Forest Park

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

Baohuashan National Forest Park is a protected forest area in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, valued for its biodiversity, scenic mountains, and ecological importance. It serves as a natural retreat and promotes environmental awareness and eco-tourism.

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

The park is located in Baohuashan, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or rideshare from Zhenjiang city center. Some local buses go near the park entrance, and private cars can park at designated areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal due to pleasant weather and beautiful foliage.

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

Tickets are approximately 50–70 CNY per person. Tickets can be bought at the park entrance or through official online booking platforms.

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

Advance booking is recommended on weekends, public holidays, and peak seasons, ideally 1–2 days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours are generally sufficient to explore main trails, viewpoints, and key natural spots.

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

  • Main forest trails and mountain paths
  • Waterfalls and streams
  • Panoramic viewpoints and scenic terraces
  • Flora-rich areas with diverse plant species
  • Eco-education zones if available

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

Guided tours are mainly in Chinese. Limited English-speaking guides may be arranged through local travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Mountain peaks and observation decks
  • Near waterfalls and streams
  • Along forest trails with panoramic vistas
  • Seasonal flower areas during spring and autumn

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, follow primary forest trails to viewpoints, visit waterfalls and streams, then return via connecting paths to the exit, stopping at rest areas as needed.

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special tours may be offered during festivals or eco-events; check locally before visiting.

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

Weekdays and mornings are less crowded. Public holidays and weekends can be busy.

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

Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, benches, a small café or snack kiosks near the entrance, and limited souvenir shops.

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

Main entrance areas and some trails are accessible, but mountainous paths and natural trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the entrance, food outlets, and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small cafes and local restaurants are near the park entrance offering local Jiangsu cuisine and snacks. Lakeside or scenic restaurants may also be found nearby.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan or halal choices are limited and may require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and small resorts are located within a short drive from the park entrance.

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

  • Qingming Mountain scenic areas
  • Zhenjiang Vinegar Culture Museum
  • Jinshan Temple
  • Local tea plantations and forest trails

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local crafts, small plant-based products, forest-themed items, and Jiangsu snacks.

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

Taxis, rideshare services, and local buses connect to Zhenjiang city center and nearby towns efficiently. Private car rentals are also convenient.