Live Your Best Lives
At Dahengshan, visitors can explore the peaceful mountain environment through scenic hiking trails, visit ancient temples and pagodas, and enjoy panoramic views from various viewpoints. The site is also popular for photography, particularly during the early morning and sunset hours, capturing both the natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Daheng Mountain, located in the central Jianghuai region, is 16 kilometers from Mingguang City and stands at an elevation of 234 meters. It boasts a national wild natural ecological forest. On satellite maps, the Jiuquchi River resembles a jade longevity lock strung together, with the surrounding reservoirs like diamonds embedded within the lock.
Daheng Mountain was formed during the Quaternary orogeny, dating back 70 million years. The mountain boasts the remains of the ancient Chaiwang City, the remains of Zhu Yuanzhang's garrison, the remains of the Yuan Dynasty Fahua Chan Temple , two Yuan Dynasty pagodas, an ancient well, and a pond for releasing animals.
The east and south of Daheng Mountain are rolling hills, and the west and north are flat plains dominated by water. There is no industrial pollution or city noise within a radius of dozens of miles, only the tranquility of the mountains.
The four seasons are distinct, the rainfall is abundant, and the climate is pleasant. The wild chestnut forests are full of fruits every autumn, and the wild jungles and shrubs are lush and green.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Dahengshan is an important cultural and spiritual destination in Anhui, known for its historic temples, Buddhist sites, and traditional Chinese architecture. It holds significant cultural value as a religious center and a retreat for those seeking tranquility in nature. The mountain is also associated with ancient Chinese philosophies and traditions.
Dahengshan is located in Hefei, Anhui, China. The best way to reach the site is by taxi or private car from Hefei city center, which is about 30 km away. Public buses may be available, but a taxi is more convenient. Once there, visitors can walk along the hiking paths to explore the mountain.
Dahengshan is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the mountain landscape is at its most vibrant. Weekdays, especially mornings, tend to be less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
The entrance fee is usually modest, with a few additional charges for specific activities or temple visits. Tickets can be bought directly at the entrance. During peak seasons, it is advisable to check for online booking options, especially for guided tours or special events.
For general visits, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, during peak tourist seasons or for guided tours, it is recommended to book tickets 1-2 days in advance to secure your spot and avoid long lines.
To fully explore Dahengshan, including hiking the trails, visiting temples, and enjoying scenic views, you should allow 3-4 hours. If you want to explore deeper into the mountain or take part in more in-depth cultural activities, it may take 5-6 hours.
The must-see highlights include the ancient temples on the mountain, the Dahengshan Pagoda, and the scenic viewpoints offering views of the surrounding landscape. The hiking trails that lead to the peak provide breathtaking panoramic views of Hefei and the surrounding countryside.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be provided in Chinese, but foreign-language options are limited. It is advisable to check with the local service providers in advance for availability of guides in English or other languages.
The best viewpoints are along the hiking trails and near the top of the mountain, where you can capture panoramic shots of the valley and surrounding countryside. The temples and pagodas also offer excellent photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Start by visiting the main temple area at the base of the mountain. Then, follow the scenic hiking trails leading up to the higher temples and viewpoints. Finish the visit by relaxing and enjoying the surrounding nature at one of the peaceful spots at the summit.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at Dahengshan. However, the mountain is beautiful at dusk, and evening walks are popular among those who want to experience the tranquility of the place after the crowds have gone.
The area can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visiting on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, will allow you to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
There are public toilets, water stations, and small rest areas along the main trails. Food stalls and local eateries provide snacks and refreshments, and there are souvenir shops where you can purchase local handicrafts.
The main paths and temple areas are accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some of the steeper trails may be challenging for those with limited mobility. It is advisable to consult with staff for accessibility information and assistance when visiting the mountain.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at most facilities. Some small vendors may only accept cash, but most major attractions, restaurants, and shops accept mobile payments or cards.
There are small local restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain offering traditional Anhui cuisine. For a wider variety of dining options, the city of Hefei, which is about a 30-minute drive away, has many restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Vegetarian food is available at most restaurants, with many local dishes featuring vegetables and tofu. Vegan and halal food options may be limited, especially in the rural areas, so it’s advisable to ask the restaurant staff for recommendations.
There are several hotels in Hefei city center, about 30 km from Dahengshan, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For those seeking more scenic stays, there are guesthouses and small hotels closer to the mountain.
Nearby attractions include the Hefei Swan Lake and the Anhui Provincial Museum. You can also visit the Li Hongzhang Memorial Residence, which is a short drive away. These can easily be combined into a day trip from Dahengshan.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local crafts, traditional Chinese art, and religious items such as small statues and prayer beads. Anhui tea and local snacks are also popular souvenirs to take home.
After visiting Dahengshan, taxis and public buses are available to continue your trip to other parts of Hefei or nearby attractions. Private car rentals are also a convenient option for those wishing to explore the region further.
