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Hike through the scenic trails of Mingtang Mountain, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and visit the Mingtang Temple. There are also opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Mingtang Mountain is located in Yuexi County, Anhui Province, in the hinterland of Dabie Mountains in southwestern Anhui, 42 kilometers away from the county seat. Mingtang Mountain belongs to the Dabie Mountain system. It winds its way from the Duozhijian Mountains and is formed by three protruding peaks. The main peak is 1,563 meters above sea level. It was the place where Wu and Chu were connected in ancient times.
According to legend, more than 2,100 years ago, when Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, Liu Che, was offering sacrifices to the ancient Nanyue - Tianzhu Mountain, he set up a "Mingtang" for worship on the mountain, hence the name; the people because its graceful shape echoes the majestic and upright Tianzhu Mountain, and they are both in Anhui and only a hundred miles apart, there is a saying that "the two mountains are so tall that they are a pair", so they jokingly call Tianzhu Mountain "Male Anhui Mountain" and Mingtang Mountain "Female Anhui Mountain"; and because there is a natural rooster pattern on the stone wall of the main peak of Mingtang Mountain, and the peaks when viewed from the north look like a rooster's comb, it is also called "Jigong Mountain".
Natural landscape of Mingtang Mountain Scenic Area
Covering over 50 square kilometers, the main peak rises 1,563 meters above sea level. The scenic area is dotted with towering ancient trees and hidden gems. The ancient Taihu County Chronicles praised it as "three peaks piercing the sky, a scene of unparalleled beauty." Nestled deep in the mountains and ancient forests, Mingtang Mountain retains its pristine natural beauty, earning it the nickname "a treasure trove of plants and a paradise for animals." The scenic area is divided into five major sections: the majestic Mingtang Peak area, the Hulu River scenic area, the Donghechong scenic area, the Moon Cliff area, and the Gujing Temple exploration area.
Cultural landscape of Mingtang Mountain Scenic Area
Mingtang Mountain boasts many famous temples. Legend has it that in the first year of the Tang Dynasty's Zhide reign (756 AD), the great poet Li Bai fled Jiujiang to avoid disaster and settled on Mingtang Mountain via Sikong Mountain. He named the moon-shaped rock pillar east of Dujian "Beidouxing Tower" and wrote the four characters "Heavenly Brightness" on the banks of Hulu River, ordering his followers to carve them on the riverbed. Therefore, the ruins of "Taibai Inviting the Moon" can be found on Mingtang Mountain.
Mingtang Mountain Skywalk
120 yuan (peak season); 90 yuan (off-season)
Open all day
Mingtang Mountain is famous for its rich cultural history, including the ancient Mingtang Temple, which has been a site of worship for centuries. It’s also a well-known natural landmark in the region for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.
Mingtang Mountain is located in Anqing, Anhui Province. You can reach it by taking a bus or taxi from the Anqing city center. Public transport options are available, but taxis may be more convenient for direct access to the mountain.
The mountain is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its best.
The entrance fee is typically around 40-60 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and it’s advisable to check the official website for any online booking options.
Booking in advance is generally not required unless visiting during peak seasons or holidays. It’s recommended to book tickets a few days in advance during busy times.
To fully explore the mountain, including hiking, visiting the temple, and enjoying the scenery, you’ll need around 3-5 hours.
The main highlights include the Mingtang Temple, scenic hiking trails, and the panoramic viewpoints from the top of the mountain.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. You may need to arrange them in advance, especially if you require an English-speaking guide.
The best viewpoints are from the summit of the mountain and along the hiking trails, where you can capture the scenic views of the surrounding countryside and Mingtang Temple.
Start with the hike to Mingtang Temple, followed by a walk along the scenic trails. Finish by enjoying the panoramic views from the top of the mountain. You can also take time to rest at various scenic spots along the way.
Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no light shows at Mingtang Mountain. However, you can enjoy the natural beauty during the day and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
The mountain is generally less crowded on weekdays and during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn). Weekends and public holidays tend to see more visitors.
There are basic facilities including toilets, water stations, and rest areas along the trails. There are also small shops near the entrance where you can buy snacks and souvenirs.
The mountain features some steep trails, which may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, the temple and some areas near the entrance are more accessible to visitors of all ages.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are more commonly used, especially for purchases in the area.
There are a few small local restaurants and cafés near the entrance of the mountain, serving traditional Chinese dishes and local snacks. For a wider selection, you can head to Anqing city.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants. However, halal food options may be limited, and it’s recommended to ask restaurant staff for vegetarian or suitable alternatives.
There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Anqing city, which is about a 30-minute drive from Mingtang Mountain. Popular options include the Anqing Grand Hotel and local inns.
Nearby attractions include the Anqing Old City, the Huangmei Opera Museum, and the Qiandao Lake, which can all be visited as part of a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling local handicrafts, traditional tea, and snacks. Mingtang Temple also has a small shop offering religious items like incense and prayer beads.
After visiting Mingtang Mountain, you can take a taxi or bus to Anqing city. Public transportation is available, and taxis offer the most convenience for continuing your trip.
