Misty Wonderland: The Mushroom Stone

Mount Fanjing, located in Tongren City, Guizhou Province, is a renowned Buddhist sacred site in China and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, famous for its unique "Mushroom Stone" and "Red Clouds Golden Summit." Here’s a detailed travel guide: --- **1. Basic Information** - **Address**: Jiangkou County/Yinjiang County, Tongren City, Guizhou Province (two mountain entrances) - **Best Season**: April–October (great for summer retreats; winter may bring closures) - **Ticket Prices**: - Peak season (March–November): ¥120/person - Off-season (December–February): ¥90/person - Sightseeing bus: ¥20 (round trip) - Cable car: ¥70 (one way), ¥140 (round trip; recommended as hiking takes 4+ hours) - **Opening Hours**: 8:00–19:00 (peak season), 8:00–18:00 (off-season) --- **2. Transportation** 1. **High Train/Airplane**: - Take a high-speed train to "Tongren South Station," then transfer to a bus to Jiangkou County (~1.5 hours). - Fly to Tongren Fenghuang Airport, then take a taxi to the scenic area (~1 hour). 2. **Self-Drive**: - ~4 hours from Guiyang; navigate to "Mount Fanjing Visitor Center" (East Gate in Jiangkou County). 3. **In-Scenic Area Transport**: - Sightseeing bus + cable car to the summit core area, followed by ~1 hour of hiking. --- **3. Recommended Itinerary (One-Day Highlights)** **Route 1: East Gate (Jiangkou) Entry (Mainstream Route)** 1. **Morning**: - Take the sightseeing bus to the cable car station (~30 minutes), then ride the cable car up. - After disembarking, hike to the "Mushroom Stone" (iconic photo spot). 2. **Noon**: - Climb the "Red Clouds Golden Summit" (2,336m; requires hands-on climbing, ~1 hour). - Alternatively, choose "Old Golden Summit" (2,494m; longer but less crowded). 3. **Afternoon**: - Visit "Chengen Temple" (Ming Dynasty ancient temple), then return to the cable car station. **Route 2: West Gate (Yinjiang) Entry (For Hiking Enthusiasts)** - A more primitive hiking route, suitable for fit travelers; takes 5–6 hours to summit. --- **4. Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Red Clouds Golden Summit**: - The summit splits into two peaks connected by a bridge, resembling a fairyland in mist. - **Note**: Long queues in peak season (1–2 hours); closed in rain. 2. **Mushroom Stone**: - A 1-billion-year-old weathered rock, the symbol of Mount Fanjing. 3. **Ten-Thousand-Meter Sleeping Buddha**: - Distant mountain resembles a reclining Buddha; best view from Old Golden Summit. 4. **Sea of Clouds**: - Most likely after rain; early mornings are ideal. --- **5. Accommodation Recommendations** 1. **Foot of the Mountain**: - Jiangkou County: Fanjingshan Qixi Resort Hotel (budget-friendly, close to East Gate). - Zhai Sha Dong Village: Homestays with Dong ethnic culture (3km from East Gate). 2. **Summit Accommodation**: - Only basic lodgings near "Wanbao Rock Restaurant" (simple conditions, ideal for sunrise photos). --- **6. Tips** 1. **Weather**: - Large temperature differences at the summit; bring windproof jackets (long sleeves even in summer). - Check weather in advance; rain and fog obscure views. 2. **Fitness Level**: - Red Clouds Golden Summit is steep; wear anti-slip shoes; not for those afraid of heights. 3. **Other**: - Arrive before 7:00 in peak season to avoid crowds. - Bring snacks and water (limited and expensive at the summit). --- **7. Nearby Attractions** - **Tongren Grand Canyon**: ~1 hour from Mount Fanjing; ideal for a second-day trip. - **Zhenyuan Ancient Town**: A scenic detour on the return (~2.5-hour drive). --- Mount Fanjing is perfect for travelers who love nature and culture, offering unique charm in both sunny and misty weather. Plan ahead for the best experience! 🌄