The Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail is perfect for scenic hiking, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical exploration. Visitors can walk through lush forests, see traditional stone bridges, and enjoy views of Shaoxing's countryside. The trail also offers a chance to learn about ancient Chinese culture and architecture through preserved relics along the path.

The Eighteen Kuiling Ancient Trail is a great hiking route that runs from Kuiling through Zhudong Reservoir to Qianzhang Valley. It features Danxia peaks, secluded valleys and clear waters, and is a great place for fun in the mountains and water. It offers both lively and quiet scenery, and its scenery is comparable to traditional classic routes such as Huihang and Tianmu.
The Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail is different from the traditional way of walking through the Qianzhang Yougu. The Yougu route walks in the canyon with mountains rising one after another on both sides, while the Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail walks on the mountain ridge, with a wider view and you can overlook the Yougu and Chiyan in the distance.
Suitable for all seasons
The Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail is 10km long and takes about 5-6 hours to hike.
free
All day
The Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail is part of the historic routes once used for trade and communication between towns. It showcases traditional Chinese architecture, including ancient bridges, inscriptions, and stone carvings, making it a cultural heritage site of significance.
The Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail is located in Shaoxing, Zhejiang. Visitors can reach it by taxi or bus from Shaoxing city center, or they can take a personal vehicle to the trailhead and explore on foot.
The trail is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty is at its peak.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the trail entrance on-site, and online booking options are not commonly available, although they may be an option during peak seasons.
Booking in advance is not typically necessary, except during peak tourist seasons or holidays. A few days in advance should suffice if planning to visit during these times.
It generally takes around 3-4 hours to fully explore the Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail, allowing time to hike, take photos, and appreciate the surrounding landscapes.
Key highlights include the ancient stone paths, traditional stone bridges, and inscriptions along the trail. The scenic views of the Shaoxing countryside and the historical sites provide a culturally enriching experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available on-site, but English-language options could be limited.
For the best photography opportunities, visitors should stop at the high points of the trail where panoramic views of the forest and countryside can be captured. The ancient stone bridges and cultural inscriptions also make excellent photo subjects.
Start at the trailhead, following the main path that winds through the forest. Take your time at scenic spots, such as the old bridges and inscriptions. Conclude your visit by reaching the highest viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail. Special tours may be arranged for groups, but they are not commonly offered.
The trail can become crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit for fewer crowds is on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
There are basic facilities like rest areas and toilets at the trailhead. Snacks and bottled water are available for purchase, but there are no major shops or restaurants along the trail itself.
The trail is somewhat rugged, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children and able-bodied adults will have no difficulty navigating the trail, but those with mobility issues may struggle with the uneven path.
Cash is commonly accepted at the trail entrance, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted on-site.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside the park. However, visitors can head to Shaoxing city for a variety of dining options, including local Zhejiang cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available at food stalls near the entrance. For vegan or halal food, Shaoxing city offers a broader selection of dining establishments.
Several hotels are located in Shaoxing, ranging from budget to mid-range options. The closest accommodations are around a 20-minute drive from the trailhead.
Nearby attractions include the Shaoxing Ancient City, Shen Garden, and the Lu Xun Memorial Hall. These can easily be included in a day trip from the Shiba Kuiling Ancient Trail.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance where visitors can purchase traditional items such as locally made pottery, paper crafts, and bamboo products.
Taxis or buses are available to return to Shaoxing city after visiting the trail. Visitors can also continue their journey to nearby attractions or take a train to other destinations in the region.