Phoenix Mountain (凤凰山, Fenghuang Mountain) is located in Dandong City, Liaoning Province, China. Renowned as “the first mountain in Liaodong,” it boasts its highest peak, Zanyun Peak, which rises to an elevation of 836 meters. The mountain has a rich history, known as Wugushan during the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Its current name was bestowed by Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, Li Shimin, who visited the mountain during the Zhenguan era. Legend has it that a phoenix flew to pay homage to its ancestors, delighting the emperor and leading to the naming of the mountain, which has now been celebrated for over 1,300 years.
Phoenix Mountain is a mountainous scenic area primarily characterized by its stunning natural landscapes, supplemented by historical cultural relics and pastoral scenery that reflects the customs and traditions of the region. The mountain harmoniously combines the grandeur of Mount Tai, the steepness of Mount Hua, the tranquility of Mount Lu, the uniqueness of Huangshan, and the beauty of Mount Emei, earning it a reputation for its majestic and perilous features, clear springs and caves, exotic flora, and picturesque views in all four seasons.
One of the highlights of Phoenix Mountain is its annual temple fair held on the 28th day of the fourth lunar month, which primarily commemorates the Medicine King, Sun Simiao. This event features various folk religious activities, including a procession honoring the Medicine King and other traditional festivities.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Phoenix Mountain
- Vlog about the Phoenix Mountain
- Other Attractions in Dandong Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 6.00 – 16.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0315-7359661 |
Location and Transportation
Phoenix Mountain is located in the suburbs of Fengcheng City, Dandong, Liaoning Province, just 3 kilometers from the city center. It is part of the Changbai Mountain range. Visitors can easily reach Phoenix Mountain by taking a direct tourist bus from either Dandong Railway Station or the Dandong Bus Station.
Highlights of Phoenix Mountain
Stone Pavilion for Summer Retreat
As you explore Dandong’s Phoenix Mountain, the first breathtaking natural wonder you encounter is the grand Stone Pavilion. This impressive natural rock formation stands approximately half the height of the mountain, jutting out and resting at an angle. Facing south, it provides a perfect spot for relaxation. Inscribed on its surface are the powerful words “振衣千仞,直上青云” (“Shake off your clothes at a thousand fathoms and soar straight into the blue sky”), which are striking and emblematic of the mountain’s spirit. Above the pavilion, a resilient green pine tree stretches its branches, symbolizing hospitality and earning it the name “Welcoming Pine” (Yingke Song). Surrounded by lush greenery, with cliffs providing shade from the sun and the soothing sound of trickling water nearby, sitting within the pavilion brings a refreshing mountain breeze that rejuvenates the spirit and calms the mind.
Rushing Stream
At the entrance to Phoenix Mountain lies a stunning gorge formed by two towering cliffs, from which a mountain stream flows deep within. This clear, rushing stream winds its way out of the mountains, flanked by willows gently swaying along the banks. The lush vegetation thrives on either side, while a massive rock stands boldly in the stream, inscribed with the phrase “中流砥柱” (“Pillar in the Middle of the Stream”), celebrating its resilience. In the summer months, during rainy weather, the mountain springs burst forth, sending water cascading down like falling snow. The sound of the rushing water creates a delightful symphony that resonates through the air. Standing beside the stream at this time, visitors are treated to a spectacle of waterfalls and glistening silver droplets, as the mountain springs create a mesmerizing mist that enhances the beauty of the landscape.
Doumu Palace
Doumu Palace is situated atop Doumu Rock, located a short distance (about 200 steps) to the upper left of the Liberation Memorial Tower. Adjacent to the palace is a massive stone that stands upright in a flat shape, bearing the ancient Wei script inscription “出类拔翠” (“Eminent and Outstanding”) carved by Chen Jiqing. Behind the palace lies a large circular stone surrounded by an iron railing, on which a resilient pine tree grows. Visitors can climb the rock for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, earning it the name “Observation Platform” (Guanshengtai).
From this vantage point, visitors can gaze eastward to admire the full view of Ziyang Temple, with the distant Eastern Mountain undulating in the horizon. Looking westward reveals the magnificent Guanyin Pavilion, soaring into the sky. To the south lies the “Ancestral Worship Stone” (Baizu Shi), where the phoenix once paid homage to Emperor Taizong of Tang, bowing three times in reverence. The scene is truly a breathtaking sight that captivates all who behold it.
Sea of Clouds
After a rainfall or during early morning fog, the mountains come alive with swirling mists, resembling a sea of clouds. The mountain fog rises like smoke and cloud, spreading gently across the valleys, creating a mystical landscape where peaks appear and disappear, shrouded in mist. As visitors ascend the mountain, they find themselves walking on what seems like floating clouds, giving the sensation of being at the pinnacle of heaven. The clouds swirl around them like the graceful dance of the moon goddess, Chang’e.
In the event of a sunset following a light rain, a rainbow may arch across the sky, casting vibrant colors that resemble a celestial bridge stretching into space. Rare occurrences of “Buddha Light” may also be witnessed, where one’s shadow appears on the cloud sea, surrounded by two halos. Standing atop the mountain, enveloped by swirling clouds below, visitors feel as if they have transcended the earthly realm, entering a whimsical and ethereal paradise.
