Never visit Mount Hengshan in summer! Because it's absolutely amazing! 4 hiking routes!
Mount Hengshan, this famous mountain carrying millennia of history and natural charm, attracts countless visitors with its beautiful scenery and profound cultural heritage. To have an unforgettable journey on Mount Hengshan, choosing the right hiking route is crucial. At the same time, the local cuisine and other attractions around Mount Hengshan can add unique joy to your trip. Below is a detailed guide on how to plan an exciting Mount Hengshan adventure.
1. Hiking Route Selection
(1) Classic Route
- Specific route: Enter the central scenic area from Kangjialong, pass by Huayan Lake to admire the mirror-like water reflecting green mountains and trees; then visit the Martyrs' Shrine to commemorate anti-Japanese heroes and feel the weight of history; next go through Chuanyan Shilin (Poetry Forest) to appreciate literary inscriptions; then pass by Banshan Pavilion, Xuandu Temple, Purple Bamboo Forest, Tiefo Temple, Xiangnan Temple, Patriarch Hall, Nantian Gate, Lion Rock, Gaotai Temple, Shangfeng Temple, and finally reach Zhurong Peak.
- Features: This is the shortest and easiest route, about 10km total, taking 4-5 hours. The picturesque scenery along the way allows full appreciation of Mount Hengshan's natural beauty and cultural sites, suitable for most visitors including elderly, children, and first-time hikers.
(2) Zen Route
- Specific route: Enter from Kangjialong, visit Mojing Terrace to experience Zen culture; Nantai Temple to appreciate ancient temple tranquility; Fuyan Temple to listen to Buddhist chants and feel profound Buddhist wisdom, finally reaching Zhurong Peak.
- Features: This route is full of Zen atmosphere, with each temple carrying deep Buddhist culture, suitable for visitors interested in Buddhism seeking spiritual peace. Walking here makes one forget worldly noise and immerse in serenity.
(3) Fanyin Ancient Path
- Specific route: Enter from Kangjialong, step into Fanyin Valley, follow winding streams to feel nature's beauty; pass Huayan Lake; then visit Martyrs' Shrine. The stone-paved path from Kangjialong to Martyrs' Shrine is highly recommended.
- Features: Accompanied by streams, waterfalls, and iron chains, like a thrilling canyon adventure. About 12-13km, taking 3-4 hours. Diverse plants and flowers allow full enjoyment of nature's gifts while hiking.
(4) Zeng Guofan Ancient Path
- Specific route: Enter from Hongqi Village, pass Baoxin Ridge to admire strange peaks and rocks; Huixian Bridge to feel its danger and mystery, finally reaching Zhurong Peak.
- Features: This best-preserved ancient path is winding and challenging. The breathtaking scenery provides a sense of achievement, suitable for adventurous visitors seeking unique experiences.
(5) Water Curtain Cave Route
- Specific route: Start from Dashan Temple, visit Zhusheng Temple, Nanyue Grand Temple, China Longevity Tripod, Kundaoxueyuan, Zhuling Palace, finally reaching Water Curtain Cave.
- Features: Mainly features foothill attractions with shorter distance and less physical demand, suitable for time-limited or physically weaker visitors to appreciate surrounding beauty without climbing.
2. Personal Considerations
(1) Physical Condition
- Weak or first-time hikers: Recommended classic or Water Curtain Cave routes. The classic route is gentle with good facilities; Water Curtain Cave requires minimal effort.
- Strong hikers seeking challenge: Choose Zeng Guofan Ancient Path or Fanyin Ancient Path for rugged trails and canyon adventures that satisfy challenge desires.
(2) Time Arrangement
- Limited time: Classic or Water Curtain Cave routes allow seeing highlights quickly.
- Ample time: Try Zen Route or Zeng Guofan Ancient Path to immerse in Buddhist culture or appreciate scenery leisurely.
(3) Scenery Preference
- Buddhist culture lovers: Zen Route is ideal with its temples conveying profound Buddhist wisdom.
- Canyon adventure seekers: Fanyin Ancient Path offers streams, waterfalls and iron chains like a natural adventure park.
- History enthusiasts: Zeng Guofan Ancient Path features well-preserved historical sites like Baoxin Ridge and Huixian Bridge.
3. Precautions
(1) Weather
Check forecasts and avoid bad weather. Trails are slippery mornings/evenings; recommended hiking time is 9am-5pm when dry and safe.
(2) Equipment
Wear comfortable, breathable sportswear and anti-slip shoes. Bring enough water (1-2L/person), high-energy snacks, first aid kit. For sunny days bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hat. For night/dawn hikes bring flashlight/headlamp.
(3) Safety Tips
Follow park rules, don't climb dangerous areas. Respect local customs and religions. Seek staff help when needed.
4. Other Attractions
(1) Nanyue Grand Temple
The largest palace-style ancient architectural complex in southern China blending Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian elements. Marvel at stone lions at Lingxing Gate and dragon reliefs at Imperial Stele Pavilion to feel historical and religious atmosphere.
(2) Scripture Collection Hall
Beautiful surroundings with blooming azaleas in May creating a flower sea. Stroll "Ten-Mile Tea Country" to experience tea picking and learn about Nanyue Cloud Tea's connection to Lu Yu's "Tea Classic".
5. Food Recommendations
(1) Nanyue Vegetarian Feast
Made with wild mountain ingredients. "Yipinxiang" uses mushrooms to imitate abalone; "Sanxian Soup" with bamboo fungus, lotus root and red mushroom is nutritious; "Shiyangjing" features tofu carved as lotus floating in clear soup, both artistic and delicious.
(2) Hengshan Fried Tofu
Golden fluffy tofu with silky interior, best braised with pork absorbing meat juices. Served with minced meat rice noodles makes authentic Hengyang breakfast.
(3) Guanyin Bamboo Shoots
Tender shoots unearthed in February, dried and preserved in tea oil. More fragrant over time. Served cold with salt and pepper, crispy and refreshing, once temple delicacy now local specialty.
Choosing suitable Mount Hengshan hiking routes combined with surrounding attractions and food will surely create a colorful, unforgettable trip. May this guide help you make wonderful memories at Mount Hengshan!