Luoyang Baiyunshan Mountain Scenic Area
Baiyunshan Mountain Scenic Area, also known as "Baiyun Mountain," is a nationally renowned 5A-level tourist destination in Guangzhou, China. Covering 20.98 square kilometers with 30 peaks, its main summit, Moxing Ridge, stands at 382 meters. Dubbed the "First Show of Guangzhou," the mountain is famed for its mist-covered valleys, lush forests, and panoramic views of the Pearl River Delta. Designated a UNESCO-supported ecological research zone, it combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, featuring ancient temples, historic trails, and modern attractions like Asia’s longest high-altitude zip line.
Historical Overview
Tracing back to the Neolithic Age, Baiyunshan has been a spiritual hub since the Southern Liang Dynasty when monks built Jingtai Temple. It gained prominence during the Ming and Qing dynasties as three of its landscapes were listed among the "Eight Great Scenes of Guangzhou." Post-1949, extensive reforestation and infrastructure projects revived the area, culminating in its 2011 recognition as a national 5A-level scenic spot. Today, it merges ecological preservation with recreational offerings, attracting over 16 million visitors annually.
Structural Layout
The area is divided into seven zones:
- Luhu Zone: Features Luhu Park and Xinghai Garden.
- Santai Ridge Zone: Home to the Cloud Platform Garden, Asia’s largest botanical garden.
- Mingchung Valley Zone: Known for birdwatching at Mingchung Valley and the Heavenly Spring Pool.
- Moxing Ridge Zone: The summit area with observation decks.
- Pearl Tower Zone: Highlights Peach Blossom Stream and Plum Valley.
- Fei’e Ridge Zone: Includes the Sculpture Park.
- Heyi Ridge Zone: Showcases Yunxi Ecological Park.
Key infrastructure includes cable cars, electric cart routes, and the Baiyun Flyso zip line.
Major Attractions
- Moxing Ridge: The highest peak, offering 360° views of Guangzhou.
- Cloud Platform Garden: A 10-hectare garden with European-style landscapes.
- Baiyun Flyso: A 1,500-meter high-altitude zip line (¥198 weekdays, ¥268 weekends).
- Nine-Dragon Spring: Historic springs with turtles and koi fish.
- Sculpture Park: Over 200 sculptures themed around nature and culture.
- Peach Blossom Stream: Blooms with peach and azalea flowers in spring.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Half-Day Route:
South Gate → Cable Car → Moxing Ridge Summit → Nine-Dragon Spring → Cloud Platform Garden → Exit.
Highlights: Skyline views, historic springs, and botanical gardens.
- Nature Explorer Route (5–6 hours):
South Gate → Mingchung Valley → Peach Blossom Stream → Sculpture Park → Baiyun Flyso → Exit.
Highlights: Birdwatching, floral trails, and adrenaline-pumping zip line.
- Comprehensive Full-Day Route:
South Gate → Cable Car → Moxing Ridge → Baiyun Flyso → Luhu Park → Sculpture Park → Exit.
Highlights: Summit panoramas, zip line thrill, and lakeside strolls.
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via WeChat mini-program "Baiyunshan Scenic Area" (7 days in advance).
- On-Site: Tickets available at entrances; limited availability during peak hours.
- Prices:
- Entrance: ¥5 (adults), ¥2.5 (students/seniors).
- Moxing Ridge: ¥5.
- Cable Car: ¥25 (uphill), ¥20 (downhill).
- Baiyun Flyso: ¥198–268.
- Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, seniors over 65.
Transportation
- Subway: Line 2 to Jiahewanggang Station, then taxi (¥25).
- Bus: Routes 24, 76, or 223 to Yuntai Garden Station.
- Cable Car: Operates 9:00–18:00 (¥25 one-way).
- Self-Drive: Navigate to "Baiyunshan Scenic Area" via Guangyuan Middle Road.
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Season: October–December (clear skies, autumn foliage).
- Avoid Crowds: Arrive early (7:30 AM) or visit weekdays.
- Essentials:
- Wear sturdy shoes (trails can be steep).
- Bring insect repellent and a reusable water bottle.
- Photography: No flash in temples; zip line videos cost ¥38.
- Prohibited: Drones without permits, loud speakers.