Fengdu County

Introducing Fengdu County

Fengdu County is located in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, east of Chongqing, and in the heart of the Three Gorges Reservoir area. It is 172 kilometers from Chongqing's nine main urban districts and 476 kilometers from Yichang, Hubei. Established as a separate county in the second year of the Yongyuan reign of Emperor He of the Eastern Han Dynasty, Fengdu County boasts a history of over 1,900 years. Fengdu County's tourism resources primarily focus on natural and cultural attractions, including Fengdu Mountain (a national scenic area), Shuanggui Mountain (a national forest park), the Ghost Kingdom Temple (China's largest dynamic cultural landscape), and the Ghost King Stone Carving (China's largest rock carving).

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Most Popular FAQs for Fengdu County

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

Fengdu is known as the "Ghost City" due to its association with Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. The city is home to ancient temples, shrines, and sculptures that reflect traditional Chinese ideas about death, the afterlife, and judgment.

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

Fengdu is located about 170 kilometers northeast of Chongqing. You can get there by bus or taxi from downtown Chongqing. There are no metro connections directly to Fengdu, but buses are frequent and convenient.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Fengdu Ghost City is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is more temperate and the landscape is at its most picturesque.

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

Entrance fees for Fengdu Ghost City range from 60 to 100 CNY, depending on the package and attractions included. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through local travel platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. A few days ahead of your visit should suffice, though tickets can be bought on the day if available.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting Fengdu Ghost City can take 3-4 hours. If you plan to visit multiple temples, hike the surrounding mountains, or take a boat tour, it may take a full day.

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

The must-see areas include the Tongtian Avenue, the Mingshan Mountain, and the Yama Palace. Don’t miss the statue of the King of Hell and the various representations of the afterlife in the Ghost City.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are offered in both Chinese and English. English-speaking tours may be limited, so it’s best to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the Tongtian Avenue and the views overlooking the Yangtze River. The Yama Palace and surrounding statues also offer excellent photo opportunities, capturing the spiritual and mythical themes of the city.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Tongtian Avenue, then proceed to explore the various temples and shrines along the way. Be sure to visit the Yama Palace, then enjoy panoramic views from the top of Mingshan Mountain.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typical, but special cultural performances or festivals may be held during certain holidays. It’s recommended to check for any special events before planning your visit.

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

Fengdu can be crowded on weekends and during national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning.

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

There are rest areas, toilets, and food stalls around the site. Souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and snacks are also available, especially near the main tourist areas.

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

Fengdu Ghost City has some areas that may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors, such as steep paths and stairs. However, there are accessible routes for easier access to the main sites.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. It is advisable to carry cash as well, as smaller shops or remote areas may not accept cards or mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the entrance to Fengdu Ghost City offering traditional Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot and noodle dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants. Halal food is less common but may be available in some larger establishments in the area. It's advisable to check with the restaurant beforehand.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget and mid-range hotels in the nearby town of Fengdu. For higher-end accommodations, you may need to stay in Chongqing city center and travel to Fengdu for a day trip.

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

Nearby attractions include the Fengdu Yangtze River Cruise, the Shibaozhai Temple, and the Qutang Gorge, all of which can be easily combined for a scenic day trip along the Yangtze River.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around Fengdu Ghost City sell items such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, mythological statues, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include figurines and incense holders.

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

From Fengdu, you can take a bus or taxi back to Chongqing. For further exploration, renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit other scenic spots along the Yangtze River.