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Yang Baoshan is a scenic area known for its natural beauty. The most recommended activities include:
Yangbao Mountain, located 10 miles north of Guiting County, is known in literature as " the most scenic spot in eastern Guizhou . " As early as the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was recognized as one of the three most famous Buddhist mountains and pilgrimage sites in Southwest China, along with Mount Emei in Sichuan and Mount Jizu in Yunnan. During the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty, the renowned Lotus Temple was built atop the main peak, Lianhua Mountain. At its peak, the temple boasted over 200 monks .
There are grand buildings such as Feifeng Temple in the back mountain, as well as the Fairy Cave where the founding monk Master Baiyun cultivated his body and mind. There are also more than 200 monk tombs and pagodas , which are rare in Jiangnan, China, unique in the southwest, and unique in Guiting. They date from the beginning of Kangxi ( 1661 AD ) to the end of Guangxu, and the tallest pagoda is more than 4 meters high.
Great scholars and celebrities throughout history, such as Qiu Heshi and Qiu Hejia, once studied here by candlelight at night, leaving behind many precious calligraphy works. It has been verified that during the Ming and Qing dynasties, Lianhua Temple was the Guizhou Sangha Department (the Sangha Department was established during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty).
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
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All day
Yang Baoshan is a significant natural and cultural destination in Guizhou. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. It also holds cultural importance for the local ethnic groups, who maintain traditional lifestyles that visitors can explore.
Yang Baoshan is located in Guiding Yinzhai, Guizhou Province. To reach the mountain, visitors typically take a bus or taxi from Guiyang, which is around 90 km away. Public transportation options are available, but taxis or private cars are the most convenient for this area.
Yang Baoshan is open year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring and autumn. The weather is mild, and the scenery is particularly beautiful during these seasons. Summer is also popular, though it can get crowded. Winter is less crowded but cold, with less vibrant scenery.
The entrance to Yang Baoshan is free for general access. However, certain activities like guided tours or specialized hikes may incur additional fees. These can usually be paid on-site or in advance at local tour agencies.
For general visits, booking tickets in advance is not required. However, it is recommended to book in advance for guided tours or specific activities, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
A visit to Yang Baoshan can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on your planned activities. If you are hiking or visiting local villages, you may need more time. For a more relaxed visit, 3-4 hours is typically enough.
The must-see highlights include:
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. For foreign visitors, English-speaking guides may be available during peak seasons, though it's advisable to check availability beforehand.
The best spots for photography include:
Start with a walk around the base of Yang Baoshan to enjoy the surrounding nature. Then, take a hike up to the summit for panoramic views. Afterward, visit the nearby villages to learn about the local culture, and finish with a rest by the river or in a local rest area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Yang Baoshan. However, visiting during sunrise or sunset provides a unique and beautiful experience, especially for photography.
The area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays in the off-season (winter or late autumn).
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. Food and water can be bought at local shops or small restaurants around the area. It is advisable to bring water and snacks if you're planning to hike or spend a long time outdoors.
Yang Baoshan has some accessible areas, but the mountain trails can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy the area but should be monitored during hikes. For those with mobility issues, the base of the mountain and nearby villages offer accessible routes.
Cash is commonly accepted, and mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are available in some areas. It's best to carry cash for smaller transactions, especially in remote areas.
There are local restaurants near the base of the mountain offering Guizhou cuisine, including rice, vegetables, and fish dishes. A few cafes in the area also serve light snacks and drinks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants, though they may be limited. Halal food options are not common in the area, so it is recommended to check ahead or bring your own food if needed.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near the site. For more luxurious accommodations, Guiyang, which is about a 1-2 hour drive away, offers a wider range of options.
Nearby attractions include:
Souvenir shops near Yang Baoshan sell local handicrafts, such as woven baskets, wood carvings, and textiles. You can also find locally made tea and herbal remedies as souvenirs.
After visiting Yang Baoshan, you can continue your trip by taxi or bus to nearby attractions or back to Guiyang. Guiyang has excellent transport links, including high-speed trains and buses to other regions of Guizhou.
