Cuihua Mountain (翠华山), located in the northern foothills of the Qinling Mountains in the southern part of Xi’an, is a captivating natural and cultural gem. The mountain derives its name from the Cuihua Temple found on its slopes, where a statue of Cuihua, a legendary maiden, is enshrined. According to folklore, Cuihua fled to this mountain in pursuit of a free and unhindered marriage. She later attained immortality, giving the mountain its name, Cuihua Mountain.
The Cuihua Mountain Scenic Area is divided into three main sections: the Bishan Lake Scenic Area, the Tianchi Scenic Area, and the Shandong Rock Sea Scenic Area. Beyond the picturesque lake and mountain vistas, the region is also known for its dramatic landscapes, featuring cliffs, rugged peaks, massive rock formations, and barrier lakes created by landslides. It’s often referred to as the “Natural Mountain Collapse Museum” due to the fascinating geological formations on display.
For those seeking outdoor adventure, the Cuihua Mountain area offers opportunities for camping and hiking. Some visitors choose to camp overnight within the scenic area. While there are limited rural guesthouses near the Tianchi Scenic Area, many camping enthusiasts bring their tents and supplies. Near the “Tianchi” (Heavenly Lake), there’s also a “Snack Street” offering various dining options, although prices may be slightly higher than those outside the park.
Cuihua Mountain is not only a natural wonder but also a site with a rich historical and cultural background. Throughout the ages, it has served as the “Royal Shanglin Park” and the “Imperial Flower Garden” for various dynasties. During the Han and Tang dynasties, the Taiyi Palace and the Cuiwei Palace were constructed on its grounds. The mountain is also adorned with over 100 cliff carvings left by famous literati and scholars such as Wang Wei, Zu Yong, and Sima Guang.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Cuihua Mountain
- Vlog about Cuihua Mountain
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Sceneries near Xi’an
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.cuihuashan.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | Over 3 hours |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.00 (1st March – 30th November) 9.00 – 17.30 (1st December – 28th February the next year) |
| Ticket Price | 65 RMB (1st March – 30th November) 40 RMB (1st December – 28th February the next year) |
Location and Transportation
Cuihua Mountain is located about 40 kilometers away from the city center of Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. Its range is part of the Qinling Mountains, which is a major mountain range in China and divides the country into north and south.
To get there, you can take Bus 729 at Weiqu South Stop (韦曲南站, Weiqu Nanzhan), get off at Xi’an FanYi University (西安翻译学院), and then transfer to the shuttle bus of the mountain. The whole journey takes about 2 hours.
Highlights of Cuihua Mountain
Natural Scenery
Cuihua Mountain is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, which includes dense forests, rolling hills, and sparkling streams. The mountain range is covered with a variety of vegetation, including ancient trees, bamboo forests, and various wildflowers. The stunning natural scenery is especially breathtaking during the autumn season when the leaves of the trees turn golden and red. The park also boasts several waterfalls, including the Cuihua Mountain Waterfall, which adds to the beauty and serenity of the natural environment.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Cuihua Mountain offers a range of hiking and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. There are many hiking trails that lead visitors to scenic spots, such as the Cuihua Mountain Waterfall and the Baiyun Temple. The mountain range is also an ideal location for camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and stunning natural scenery as they explore the outdoors.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Cuihua Mountain has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several ancient temples and shrines. The Xingjiao Temple and the Baiyun Temple are significant landmarks for both religious pilgrims and visitors interested in Chinese culture and history. The temples have a long history, with the Xingjiao Temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and the Baiyun Temple built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The temples are well-preserved, and visitors can admire the exquisite architecture and learn about the cultural significance of the buildings. Additionally, the area surrounding the temples is dotted with historical relics, such as ancient pagodas and stone inscriptions, adding to the cultural richness of the site.
Rare and Endangered Animals
Cuihua Mountain is home to many rare and endangered animals, making it an important location for conservation efforts. Among the animals living in the area are golden monkeys, black bears, leopards, and several species of birds. The golden monkeys, also known as Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys, are a rare and endangered species that live in the forests of the mountain. Black bears and leopards are also found in the area, and visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitats. Additionally, the park is home to a variety of bird species, including eagles, pheasants, and owls.
Vlog about Cuihua Mountain
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Public Transportation: If you don’t have a car, you can take Metro Line 2 to the terminal station, Weihe Nan, and exit from Exit B. From there, you’ll find direct buses to Cuihua Mountain. These buses usually depart when they are full and will take you directly to the tourist center of the scenic area, making it a convenient option for transportation.
Dining Options: Cuihua Mountain has well-developed service facilities, including various dining options. There are many farmhouse restaurants available, offering local cuisine. If you have enough time, consider staying overnight at one of these farmhouses for an immersive experience.
Shuttle Service: Upon entering the scenic area, you’ll find shuttle buses available to take you directly to Tianchi (Heavenly Lake). The shuttle service costs around 20 yuan for a one-way trip and 40 yuan for a round trip. Since the main attractions start from Tianchi, taking the shuttle can help conserve your energy, especially as there may not be much to see along the way.
Summer Activities: During the summer, Cuihua Mountain is an ideal destination for cooling off and enjoying recreational activities like boating. Take the opportunity to relax and escape the heat by spending time around Tianchi.
