Located in Hexigten Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Asihatu Stone Forest is a rare granite stone forest landscape worldwide. As the core area of the Hexigten Global Geopark, it is hailed as the "Living Fossil of Glacial Relics" and the "Stone Forest Museum of the North".
Geological Wonders
Formation
- Geological Age: Formed during the Jurassic period about 180 million years ago
- Formation Process: Shaped by Quaternary glacial erosion and weathering
- Rock Type: Mainly granite, different from southern karst stone forests
Landscape Features
- Area: Approximately 15 square kilometers
- Altitude: 1700-2000 meters above sea level
- Morphology: Distinct layered structure resembling "thousand-layer cake"
Main Attractions
Four Scenic Zones
- Zone 1: Famous for figurative rocks like "Moon Castle" and "General's Bed"
- Zone 2: Spectacular stone pillars like "Pillar Holding the Sky"
- Zone 3: Delicate formations like "Seven Fairies" and "Arhat Array"
- Zone 4: Newest developed area retaining most primitive state
Iconic Landscapes
- Nine Fairy Peaks: Nine standing stone pillars resembling descending fairies
- Roc on Grassland: Giant granite looking like a spreading roc
- Stone Forest Maze: Complex network of stone alleys
Visitor Experience
Special Activities
- Geological Study: Explore mysteries of glacial relics
- Photography: Capture stunning light on stones at sunrise/sunset
- Grassland Hiking: Experience composite landscape of stones and prairie
Seasonal Features
- Summer: Green grassland with wild flowers among stones (Jun-Aug)
- Autumn: Golden grassland contrasts with grey-white rocks (Sep-Oct)
- Winter: Snow-covered stone forest resembling ink painting (Nov-Mar)
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Peak Season (May-Oct): 7:00-18:00
- Off Season (Nov-Apr): 8:30-17:00
Ticket Prices
- Adult: ¥140/person
- Shuttle Bus: ¥50/person (mandatory)
- Discounts: Half-price for students and seniors with ID
Transportation
- By Car: Via G16 Danxi Expressway to Jingpeng exit, then 80km drive
- Public Transport: Tourist shuttle from Chifeng or Jingpeng Town
- Nearest Airport: Chifeng Yulong Airport (about 300km away)
Tips
- Altitude Sickness: High elevation area, take proper rests
- Weather Changes: Mountain weather varies, bring windproof clothing
- Environmental Protection: Climbing on stones prohibited to protect fragile geology