🇨🇳 Guifeng Scenic Spot — A Hidden Danxia Wonderland Near Shangrao, Jiangxi

Just outside Shangrao, the Guifeng Scenic Spot Area (龟峰景区) is a breathtaking escape of red cliffs, winding trails, and tranquil water, a natural masterpiece sculpted by time. Famous for its Danxia landforms, Guifeng feels like walking through a Chinese painting where mountains curve like dragons and stone peaks rise like turtles from the mist. It’s a place of silence, light, and color. But also one where planning your route in advance truly matters. The scenic area is vast, and depending on how much time and energy you have, there are multiple paths to choose from. 🗺️ Plan Your Route Before: Before starting your hike, take a look at the color-marked routes on the official map at the entrance: • 🔴 Red Route: The most recommended and balanced trail — perfect if you want to see the highlights without an exhausting climb. • 🔵 Blue Route: The longest one, combining both sides of the mountain. It’s challenging but rewards you with the most panoramic views. For the ideal flow, start from the left side with the boat ride, then continue along the right-side trail. This sequence allows you to move with the natural gradient of the mountain and enjoy the landscape progressively, calm water first, then dramatic cliffs and sky-high peaks. ⛴️ Tickets & Transport: 🎟️ Entrance Fee: Around 160 RMB, which includes both the boat ride (one-way) and the return shuttle bus. 🎫 Student Ticket: ~80 RMB with valid ID. 🚍 Transport: • Shuttle buses run directly to the boat dock from the main entrance. • At the end of your visit, return buses take you back to the gate — all included in the combo ticket. • If you prefer, cheaper tickets are available (without the boat or shuttle). The scenic area also connects easily from Shangrao City or Yiyang, with local buses taking about 20–30 minutes to reach the entrance. 🕒 Visiting Information: • Opening Hours: Usually 08:00–17:30, though seasonal changes may apply. • Best visiting time: Between 15:00 and 19:00, when the sunlight turns golden and the red cliffs glow in the evening haze. • You can buy tickets online (Trip.com) or directly from the ticket machines at the entrance — I personally bought mine there and it was quick and easy. If you’re unsure about current bus schedules (especially in low season), just ask a local or the ticket staff — they’re friendly and used to helping travelers find their way. 💡 Tips: • Bring water, light snacks, and good walking shoes, the trails can be steep in places. However, there’s also small stands where you can buy both food and drinks • The boat-first route is not only easier on the legs, but also the most scenic progression through the park. • Even if you visit spontaneously, Guifeng offers a perfect mix of adventure and serenity, a reminder that some of the best journeys are the ones you don’t plan too much.