Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area is located in the southern part of Song County, Luoyang City, Henan Province. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction known for its peculiar peaks, sea of clouds, sunrise views, primitive forests, and waterfalls. The main peak, Yuhuangding, stands at 2,216 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in the Funiu Mountain range. The scenic area covers a total area of 168 square kilometers with a forest coverage rate of 98.5%, earning it the nickname "Natural Museum". Major facilities include the Baiyun Mountain Cableway and Yuhuang Pavilion.
History and Culture
Baiyun Mountain has a long history, with Taoist activities dating back to the Eastern Han Dynasty. Legend has it that Zhang Daoling, the founder of Taoism, practiced cultivation here, and Taoist relics remain on the mountain. Tang Dynasty poets Li Bai and Du Fu visited the area and left poems about it.
During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Baiyun Mountain became an important Taoist holy site in western Henan, with many Taoist temples built on the mountain. Yuhuang Pavilion was first constructed during the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty and after several renovations became the landmark of Baiyun Mountain.
During the Anti-Japanese War, Baiyun Mountain was an important part of the western Henan anti-Japanese base area, with revolutionary relics remaining on the mountain. In 1988, it was designated as a national nature reserve, and in 2005, it was rated as a national 5A-level tourist attraction.
Main Attractions
Yuhuangding (Jade Emperor Peak)
Yuhuangding is the main peak of Baiyun Mountain at 2,216 meters above sea level, with Yuhuang Pavilion built on its summit. From the top, visitors can overlook the spectacular sea of clouds, making it the best spot for sunrise viewing. Along the way, you can see strange pines and peculiar rocks with magnificent scenery.
Jiulong Waterfall (Nine-Dragon Waterfall)
With a drop of 103 meters, Jiulong Waterfall is the largest waterfall in Baiyun Mountain. The waterfall cascades down in nine levels, resembling nine flying dragons, creating a majestic sight. It's particularly spectacular during the summer when water volume is abundant.
Baiyun Lake
Baiyun Lake is located at an altitude of 1,500 meters, covering an area of about 30,000 square meters. The lake water is crystal clear, surrounded by mountains whose reflections create picturesque scenery. Lakeside leisure trails and viewing platforms are available.
Primitive Forest
The primitive forest of Baiyun Mountain covers 80 square kilometers and is known as a "natural oxygen bar". The forest features ancient towering trees and rich vegetation, including rare species like Chinese yew and ginkgo trees, with abundant wildlife resources.
Cuisine
Song County Mutton Soup
Song County Mutton Soup is made with locally raised goats and secret spices. The milky white soup has a delicious flavor and is considered an excellent dish for warming up in winter.
Luoyang Water Banquet
The Luoyang Water Banquet is a traditional local feast featuring mainly soup dishes with 24 courses. Signature dishes include Peony Swallow Dish and Fake Sea Cucumber, known for their light and fresh flavors.
Wild Vegetables
Baiyun Mountain is rich in various wild vegetables such as ferns, Chinese toon, and wild mushrooms. Whether stir-fried or served as cold dishes, they offer unique flavors and are highly nutritious.
Ticket Information
The entrance fee for Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area is 120 yuan per person, covering main attractions within the area. The cableway ticket is purchased separately: 60 yuan for a one-way trip and 100 yuan for a round trip. Opening hours are from 7:00 to 18:00 (April to October) and 8:00 to 17:00 (November to March of the following year).
Recommended Itinerary
One-day tour recommendation: Scenic area entrance → Take cableway up the mountain → Yuhuangding → Baiyun Lake → Jiulong Waterfall → Primitive Forest → Return. For a two-day tour, visitors can stay overnight on the mountain and explore other attractions the next day.
Transportation
- Self-driving: From downtown Luoyang, take Luoluan Expressway to Song County exit, then drive about 40km to reach the scenic area
- Bus: Tourist shuttle buses are available from Luoyang Bus Station directly to Baiyun Mountain
- High-speed rail: Take high-speed rail to Luoyang Longmen Station, then transfer to tourist shuttle
Must-Visit Attractions
- Yuhuangding: Highest peak of Baiyun Mountain at 2,216m, famous for sea of clouds and sunrise
- Jiulong Waterfall: 103-meter nine-level waterfall with magnificent momentum
- Baiyun Lake: Alpine lake at 1,500m elevation with picturesque scenery
- Primitive Forest: 80 square kilometers of forest known as "natural oxygen bar"
Travel Tips
- Best travel season is from April to October, ideal for summer retreat
- Wear comfortable sports shoes as some sections are steep
- Bring warm clothes due to significant temperature differences on the mountain
- Carry sufficient water and snacks as supply points on the mountain are limited
- Photography enthusiasts may bring tripods for capturing sea of clouds and sunrise
Precautions
- Smoking and open flames are prohibited in the scenic area
- Protect the environment by not littering
- Be cautious of slippery paths during rainy days
- Follow scenic area regulations and do not enter restricted areas
- Cableway operation is weather-dependent and may suspend during strong winds