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Dinghushan Scenic Area, located in Dinghu District, Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province, boasts lush green peaks, towering ancient trees, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flowers. It is considered one of the four famous mountains of Lingnan. Because the Tropic of Cancer passes through much of the Earth, it is mostly desert or steppe, leading scholars both Chinese and international to cite Dinghushan as the "Emerald of the Tropic of Cancer."
There are many different opinions about the origin of the name Dinghu Mountain. Some say that it is because there is a lake on the top of the mountain that never dries up, so it is named Dinghu; some say that it is because the central peak is round and beautiful, and the peaks at the foot of the mountain are divided into three parts, which looks like a tripod from a distance, so it is named Dinghu; there is also a folk legend that Huangdi once gave a tripod here, so it is usually called Dinghu Mountain.
Dinghushan is famous at home and abroad for its special research value. There are more than 2,300 species of higher plants. It is regarded as the "gene storage bank" and "living natural museum" of South China's biological species.
Dinghushan area has a subtropical monsoon climate with long sunshine and abundant solar radiation. It has neither severe winter nor scorching summer, and is warm all year round.
Baoding Garden
It has a strong classical culture and the architecture is simple and unique. It is themed on displaying the ancient Chinese tripod culture. There are replicas of various well-known tripods, such as the dragon-patterned tripod, the Qin Gong tripod, and replicas of the treasure tripod commemorating the return of Hong Kong and Macao, as well as the Duanxi Dragon Emperor Inkstone and the Nine Dragons Treasure Tripod.
Qingyun Temple
Located in a valley in the east-central part of Dinghushan Mountain, facing west and east, it has strong oriental architectural art features. The temple is rich in cultural relics and historical sites, and has a strong Buddhist culture. It is known as one of the four famous temples in Lingnan, along with Guangzhou Guangxiao Temple, Shaoguan Nanhua Temple and Chaozhou Kaiyuan Temple.
Butterfly Valley
To enter Butterfly Valley, you must take a boat tour. Enjoy a peaceful moment on Ding Lake, then step onto Wishing Island and approach the Butterfly Garden. Butterfly Valley boasts rich and diverse virgin forest vegetation, gurgling streams, and numerous waterfalls, including the Herringbone Falls and the White Elephant Falls, offering breathtaking natural beauty.
Recommended play time: 1 day
Dinghushan Gate Ticket 60 yuan/person
Xixi Wildlife Science Education Trail Science Education Fee: 50 yuan/person
Butterfly Valley package: 25 yuan/person
7:30-17:30
Dinghu Mountain, also known as Dinghushan, is one of the "Four Famous Mountains of Lingnan" in Guangdong Province. It was established as China's first national nature reserve in 1956, recognized for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Dinghu Mountain is located approximately 18 kilometers east of downtown Zhaoqing. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private car. Public transportation options may be limited; it's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance.
The scenic area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission at 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥76 (about $11 USD). Tickets can be purchased online through platforms like Trip.com or at the entrance gate. It's recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons.
While advance booking is not mandatory, it's advisable to purchase tickets at least a day in advance, especially during weekends and public holidays, to avoid long queues and ensure availability.
A visit typically takes about 4 to 6 hours, depending on the chosen routes and activities. Allocate additional time if you plan to hike extensively or visit multiple attractions within the scenic area.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides in English may be limited; it's recommended to check availability in advance or consider hiring a local guide for a more comprehensive experience.
A suggested route includes starting at the main entrance, visiting Baoding Garden, proceeding to Qingyun Temple, exploring Butterfly Valley (accessible by boat), and concluding with a hike to Feishuitan Waterfall. Electric vehicles are available for convenient transit between major attractions.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available. The scenic area operates during daylight hours, and it's advisable to plan your visit accordingly to fully experience the attractions.
The area can become crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, plan your visit on weekdays, preferably in the early morning hours.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations are available throughout the scenic area. Food options may be limited; it's advisable to bring snacks or plan meals at nearby establishments before entering the site.
The scenic area offers some accessibility features, including electric vehicles for transit between attractions. However, certain trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It's recommended to inquire about specific accessibility options at the entrance.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted at most locations within the scenic area. Credit cards may be less commonly accepted; it's advisable to carry sufficient cash or use mobile payment options.
While dining options within the scenic area are limited, there are several restaurants and cafes in the surrounding Zhaoqing area. It's recommended to dine before entering the scenic area or plan to return to the city for meals.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be available at some local restaurants in Zhaoqing. Halal food options are less common; it's advisable to check with individual establishments in advance.
Souvenir shops are available within the scenic area, offering items such as local handicrafts, tea, and themed memorabilia. Typical souvenirs include bamboo crafts, traditional tea sets, and local herbal products.
After visiting Dinghu Mountain, you can continue your trip by taxi or private car to nearby attractions. Public transportation options may be limited; it's advisable to plan your onward journey in advance.
