Nestled in the outskirts of Chengde City, Hebei Province, Qingchuifeng National Forest Park (磬锤峰国家森林公园), colloquially known as Bangchui Mountain and historically as Shiting, stands as a testament to the breathtaking natural beauty that graces the landscape of northern China. Spanning a total area of 10,600 hectares, the park seamlessly integrates with the renowned Chengde Mountain Resort and Eight Outer Temples, forming a harmonious tapestry of natural and cultural wonders.
The park is celebrated for its distinctive mountainous terrain and lush greenery. A myriad of wildflowers, including rhododendrons, peonies, roses, lilacs, cherries, mountain chrysanthemums, and carnations, bloom throughout the park. Complementing the floral display are over 300 varieties of trees, such as Chinese pine, maple, birch, poplar, spruce, and Chinese tulip tree. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, boasting nearly a hundred species of birds, including mandarin ducks, golden-winged birds, indigo buntings, pheasants, yellow birds, cuckoos, and deer, goats, roe deer, badgers, foxes, and wild rabbits.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Qingchuifeng
- Vlog about Qingchuifeng National Forest Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Qingchuifeng National Forest Park
- Other Natural Sceneries in Chengde
Basic Information
| Estimated Lenth of Tour | 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 50 RMB |
| Cable Car | One-Way: 50 RMB Round: 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 18.00; Last admission: 17.10 |
| Area | 10,600 hectares |
| Altitude | 596 meters |
| Reputation | Four-Star Scenic Area |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0314-2057090 |
Location and Transportation
Qingchuifeng National Forest Park is strategically nestled within the enchanting city of Chengde, a historical and cultural hub located in the northern part of Hebei Province, China. This picturesque park is situated approximately 260 kilometers (162 miles) northeast of Beijing, the capital city of China, making it easily accessible to both domestic and international travelers.
Tourists from other cities can first take a train to Chengde Railway Station (承德火车站) and then transfer to bus 28 or a taxi to cover the remaining 8 kilometers.
Highlights of Qingchuifeng
Qingchuifeng Peak
Qingchuifeng Peak, also known as Bangchui Mountain, has been standing tall and proud for approximately 3 million years. Its towering presence, reaching a height of 596.26 meters, resembles a laundry mallet with a tapering form. This unique formation earned it the moniker “Hammer Peak” among the locals. The stone hammer, a remarkable geological wonder, stands at 38.29 meters, with an average diameter of 15.04 meters at the top and 10.27 meters at the bottom. The base rises to a height of 21.13 meters, with a length of 38 meters and a width ranging from 3 to 5 meters. With a volume of 6508 cubic meters and a weight of approximately 16,200 tons, Qingchuifeng’s stone hammer is rightly hailed as a global marvel.
Hiking Trails
A notable feature near Qingchuifeng Peak is the “Toad Stone,” located 500 meters to the south. This natural protrusion resembles a gigantic toad, stretching about 20 meters in length and 14 meters in height. Its cliffside features a horizontal stone gap, creating the illusion of a toad leaping into the azure sky, head held high, with its mouth slightly agape.
Baoshan Temple
Situated approximately 200 meters north of Qingchuifeng Peak is the Baoshan Temple. Constructed in the middle to late Qing Dynasty, the temple was overseen by the venerable monk Maxiang. Facing west and backed by the remnants of a stone wall formed simultaneously with Qingchuifeng, the temple’s stone wall stands at about 4 meters in height and 20 meters in length. The temple comprises a single courtyard with a main hall featuring three bays. Inside the hall, five Buddha statues are enshrined, including Tsongkhapa, the Fifth Panchen Lama, the Seventh Dalai Lama, the immovable Vajra, and Maitreya Buddha. To the south of the temple, outside the hall, stand two additional statues: the auspicious Heavenly Mother and Milarepa.
Vlog about Qingchuifeng National Forest Park
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Parking Facilities: The park entrance has a parking lot for visitors’ convenience.
Hiking Route and Duration: The hiking trail starts from the south gate of Qingchuifeng National Forest Park, leading to the summit, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. At the summit, you can enjoy views of the hammer-shaped mountain peaks.
Cable Car Option: After reaching the summit, there is an option to take a cable car down for 50 RMB. If you choose not to use the cable car, you will need to return via the same hiking route.
Hiking Intensity and Seasons: The overall hiking intensity is not high, with the trail consisting mainly of mountain paths and steps. It is well-suited for spring and autumn visits. In September, the cool mountain breeze at the summit provides a comfortable experience.
Facilities Nearby: The park is in proximity to various facilities:
- 2.6 km from Chengde Museum
- 3.5 km from Chengde Mountain Resort
- 4 km from Putuo Zongcheng Temple
