Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), located in Chongqing, China, boasts a rich history that spans nearly 2000 years. This captivating destination holds a unique place in Chinese folklore as the mystical junction between the human world and the netherworld. Comprising three distinct sections – Fengdu Mountain, Ghost World Palace, and Shuanggui Mountain – it is a place where myth and reality converge to create a truly enchanting experience.
Fengdu Mountain, the highest of the three sections, offers breathtaking views of the Yangtze River and surrounding landscapes. Ghost World Palace is a complex of temples and shrines adorned with intricate sculptures and paintings that vividly depict the underworld and its various deities. Shuanggui Mountain is known for its serene natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to explore lush forests and tranquil paths.
Fengdu Ghost City provides a fascinating glimpse into Chinese folklore, spirituality, and history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and immersive cultural experience.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Fengdu Ghost City
- Vlog about Fengdu Ghost City
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Facts about Fengdu City
- Other Attractions in Fengdu
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
| Ticket Price | 90 RMB |
| Cable Car | One-Way: 20 RMB Return: 35 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 17.20 |
| Area | 0.45 square kilometers |
| Telephone Number | 0086-023-70613203 0086-023-70613323 |
Location and Transportation
Fengdu Ghost City is situated in the southwestern part of China, in the municipality of Chongqing. More precisely, it is located on the northern bank of the Yangtze River, approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) downstream from Chongqing city center.
Tourists from Chongqing can take a High-Speed Train at Chongqing North Railway Station to Fengdu County and then transfer to Bus Fengdu 204 or 115 or a taxi to get to the Ghost City. There are numerous trains commuting between these two places. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs 41.5 RMB. If you choose to take a taxi to cover the second half of the journey (about 9.5 kilometers), the fare stands at around 23 RMB.
Highlights of Fengdu Ghost City
Fengdu Mountain
Fengdu Mountain, a prominent feature within Fengdu Ghost City, is a spiritual haven adorned with over 27 temples, each dedicated to a diverse array of deities. Among these revered figures are the Heng Ha Generals, esteemed protectors in Buddhism, Ksitigarbha, a compassionate deity who comforts and aids spirits in the underworld, and Sun Simiao, a renowned doctor from the Tang Dynasty. Additionally, Bi Gan and Zhao Gongming, both celebrated gods associated with wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture, find their sanctuaries here. This sacred mountain is a testament to the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that converge within Fengdu Ghost City, making it a captivating destination for spiritual seekers and culture enthusiasts.
Naihe Bridge
Naihe Bridge, an iconic feature of Fengdu Ghost City, holds a profound place in Chinese mythology. According to legend, it serves as the gateway to the netherworld. In the afterlife, virtuous souls are able to traverse the bridge successfully, proceeding toward their final destination. However, for those who have led malevolent lives, a grim fate awaits. As they step upon the bridge, they are met with a sinister descent into the Blood River below, where they encounter torment by bronze snakes and iron dogs. Naihe Bridge, with its chilling folklore, embodies the moral and spiritual significance that permeates the mystical realm of Fengdu Ghost City.
Ghost World Palace
The Ghost World Palace, an extraordinary attraction within Fengdu Ghost City, immerses visitors in a captivating and eerie journey through the afterlife. Through ingenious special effects and meticulously crafted settings, this palace vividly recreates the mystical underworld that awaits souls after death. It offers a hauntingly realistic portrayal of the rewards awaiting the virtuous, the punishments reserved for the wicked, and the intricate process of reincarnation. Stepping into this palace is like crossing into another realm, where ancient Chinese beliefs about morality, justice, and the cycle of life and death come to life, making it a thought-provoking and unforgettable experience for those who dare to explore its depths.
Ancient Stone Steles
The ancient stone steles in Fengdu Ghost City are invaluable relics that provide a window into the rich historical and cultural tapestry of this mystical destination. Ten of these ancient stone steles were meticulously crafted during the Tang Dynasty, while two date back to the Ming Dynasty, and three hail from the Qing Dynasty. These steles serve as historical archives, chronicling the construction of numerous temples, intricately detailed paintings depicting revered deities from Chinese folklore, and poignant poems that delve into the enigmatic realms of the underworld. As tangible records of the city’s enduring significance and spiritual heritage, these stone steles offer visitors a profound glimpse into its past, making them an integral part of the site’s allure.
Vlog about Fengdu Ghost City
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Reconstruction Concerns: The original spooky charm of the Ghost City has been lost due to reconstruction efforts. Some visitors express disappointment that the city was demolished a decade ago and what exists now is essentially a recreated version.
Artificial Feel: Some visitors find that the Ghost City feels too artificial. They mention examples like a large stone with inscriptions being labeled as the “Stone of Three Lives” and a man-made gate being called the “Ghost Gate”.
Ticket Price: Some visitors feel that the ticket price is slightly expensive, especially considering their disappointment with the attraction. They suggest that unless you have a strong interest in the religious or cultural aspects of the Ghost City, it may not be worth the visit.
Attractions Within the City: The attractions within the Ghost City are criticized for lacking authenticity. Visitors mention makeshift food streets, unimpressive mounds resembling graves, and temporary stages, but nothing that truly embodies the essence of a haunted city.
Cultural Significance: While the Ghost City promotes positive values and virtues through its cultural elements, some visitors feel that this aspect is overshadowed by the lackluster presentation of the attraction. They suggest that despite its reputation, the Ghost City fails to stand out from other similar tourist destinations and lacks a unique representation of ghostly culture.
