Yuntai Mountain, Lianyungang – Ticket, Opening Hours, Location, and Highlights

Wanshou Valley, a deep and rugged canyon stretching approximately 2 kilometers, derives its name from Wanshou Mountain located to the south of the gorge. The valley features sheer cliffs, flowing azure waters, melodious bird songs, fresh air, pleasant climate, and pristine ecology. Notable natural landscapes within the valley include Jiu Shou Jing Tan (Nine Longevity Mirror Pool), Dao Ya (Overhanging Cliff), Fo Guang Ya (Buddha Light Cliff), and Mu Fo Tai (Bathing Buddha Platform). The combination of green mountains, clear waters, pathways, secluded valleys, ancient trees, and unique flowers creates a picturesque scenery, making it an ideal destination for exploring and escaping the summer heat.

Covering an area of 300 acres, the Yuntai Stone Forest is a stunning landscape where peculiar stones stand tall in various shapes and sizes. Noteworthy rock formations include the “Ten Thousand Scrolls of Sutra Stone,” “Thunderstruck Stone,” “Immortal Peach Stone,” “Reclining Buddha Stone,” “Avalokiteshvara Stone,” “Reclining Tiger Stone,” “Divine Turtle Stone,” “Arhat Cave,” and “Listening to Sutras Platform.” The lifelike and vivid appearance of these natural sculptures showcases the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of nature.

Amidst these peculiar stones, the region hosts the largest native Catalpa tree forest in East China, with trees over a hundred years old, towering and casting shade. During the flowering season, the area transforms into a sea of blossoms, creating a scenic route of 500 meters that meanders through secluded paths, winding peaks, and beautiful stone formations.

Wudao Temple, also known as Sanjiao Temple, is nestled in the central part of Huangmao Peak, north of Yuntai Mountain, at an altitude of 323 meters. With roots dating back to the Tang and Song dynasties, Wudao Temple was officially constructed in the 42nd year of the Ming Wanli era (1614) and underwent reconstruction in the 12th year of the Qing Shunzhi era (1655). Unfortunately, during the Japanese invasion in 1938, the temple suffered severe damage from bombings, leaving only a few wall foundations, including the mountain gate, main hall, and central hall. The surroundings of the Wudao Temple site are enveloped in lush trees, bamboo groves, and flowing springs, creating an exceptionally tranquil environment. It stands out as one of the premium attractions in the Yuntai Mountain scenic area, boasting rich historical significance, cultural depth, and environmental value.

Faqi Temple derives its name from the meaning “the origin of Buddhist teachings.” The temple’s origins trace back to the Han Dynasty, and it boasts a history of over 1,900 years. Initially, during the Han Dynasty, monks from the Kangju Kingdom in the Western Regions translated scriptures and propagated Buddhism here. In the Qing Dynasty, Faqi Temple expanded to include 24 courtyards, housing over 300 monks. The temple complex comprised structures such as the main hall, central hall, Hall of Heavenly Kings, Pure Land Pavilion, Maitreya Hall, Scripture Repository, Dharma Hall, Abbot’s Room, Ancestral Hall, warehouse, and over 200 dormitories. It gained fame for its grandeur and became a cultural hub for Buddhism in the northern Jiangsu and southern Shandong regions.

Throughout its nearly 1,900-year history, Faqi Temple played a unique role in facilitating cultural exchanges among China, Japan, and Korea. Japanese Buddhist monk Ennin left his mark here, and Silla people considered the location of Faqi Temple in Sucheng as their second home. Notably, Korean national hero Zhang Baogao started his journey here, adding to the temple’s significance in the shared history of these three countries.

Lian Island

Lianyungang Old Street

Lianyungang Western Sea Barrier