Hike the trails of Yanshen Mountain to enjoy its stunning natural scenery, including lush forests and beautiful rock formations. Visit the temple at the top for a spiritual experience, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the surrounding nature for bird watching and photography.

Yanshen Mountain, also known as Putuo Rock, is located in Lianhua Village, Renhe Town, Panzhihua City, at an altitude of 1,900 meters. It is named after its shape, which resembles a seated Maitreya statue. The scenic area boasts stunning natural scenery and a rich variety of cultural attractions, most notably its excellent ecological environment and majestic rock formations.
From afar, Yanshen Mountain's lush greenery transforms into a vast expanse of inky black, with black and white boulders dotting the landscape, creating a magical and unique experience. The mountain's vegetation is remarkably well-preserved: Yunnan pines block out the sun, wildflowers bloom in the forest, and the lawns resemble a verdant carpet. The mountain's forests hum with the sound of waves, birds chirp, and flowers bloom, creating a vibrant and charming scene filled with wild charm.
In summer, the mountain is cool and pleasant with a gentle breeze. Even in the dog days of summer, you need to cover yourself with a blanket in the morning and evening. It is a good place to escape the heat in summer.
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Yanshen Mountain is known for its cultural and religious significance, with ancient temples and shrines scattered throughout the area. It has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries, and its scenic beauty has made it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.
Yanshen Mountain is located in the western part of Sichuan Province, near Chengdu. You can reach it by taxi or car, which takes about 1-2 hours from Chengdu city center. Public transport options are limited, so a private vehicle or tour is recommended.
The mountain is open year-round, with the best times to visit being spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be crowded, and winter can be cold and difficult for hiking.
The entrance fee is around 40-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate on-site. Online booking options are available through local travel websites, but advance booking is not always necessary.
Tickets do not need to be booked in advance unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays. It's recommended to book 1-2 days ahead if traveling during busy times.
Plan for 3-4 hours to hike to the summit, explore the temples, and enjoy the views. If you wish to explore the area further or relax in nature, a full day might be more enjoyable.
The must-see highlights include the temple at the summit, the panoramic views from the top, and the beautiful hiking trails that offer various landscapes. The surrounding natural areas are perfect for photography and bird watching.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and you can request a tour guide at the entrance. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but local guides provide detailed information about the history and significance of the mountain.
The best viewpoints are at the summit of Yanshen Mountain, where you can see a wide expanse of the surrounding forests and valleys. The trails leading up to the summit also offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Start with a gentle hike through the forest trails, then ascend towards the summit. Spend time at the temple, where you can enjoy the views and take in the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, descend via the alternate route, exploring additional scenic spots along the way.
Night visits are not common, as the mountain is primarily a daytime destination. There are no light shows or special tours, but some visitors choose to stay overnight at nearby accommodations to experience the mountain in the early morning light.
Weekends and public holidays can get crowded, especially in the summer. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons, outside of peak tourist seasons.
There are basic facilities, including toilets along the trails and at the summit. Some small food stalls are available near the entrance and along the path, selling snacks and drinks. Rest areas are located at intervals on the trails.
The mountain is mostly accessible to children and elderly visitors, but there are steep sections that may be difficult for those with limited mobility. The trails are not wheelchair accessible, so it may be challenging for disabled visitors to fully explore the site.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used and widely accepted for entrance fees and purchases at food stalls and local shops.
There are a few local restaurants near the entrance serving traditional Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot and noodles. You can also find small cafes offering tea and snacks along the trails.
Vegetarian options are available, and many restaurants offer dishes that can be modified for vegetarian diets. Halal food is not widely available in the area, but it's advisable to check with local restaurants in advance for any available options.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels and guesthouses near the base of Yanshen Mountain. Many visitors stay in Chengdu and travel to the mountain for a day trip, but a few options for overnight stays are available in the nearby area.
Nearby attractions include the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Mount Qingcheng, known for its Taoist temples and hiking trails. Both can be visited as part of a day trip from Yanshen Mountain.
There are a few small souvenir shops at the base of the mountain and along the trails, selling items like local crafts, tea, and small trinkets related to the region’s cultural heritage.
Taxis and private cars are the best options for continuing your trip. If you’re heading back to Chengdu, there are regular bus services available, or you can hire a car for a more flexible and convenient travel option.