Jigong Mountain Scenic Area is located in Shihe District, Xinyang City, Henan Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. As one of China's four major summer resorts, it covers a total area of 287 square kilometers with the main peak reaching 814 meters above sea level. The mountain is named for its resemblance to a rooster crowing at dawn. Situated on the north-south dividing line, it enjoys pleasant climate with an average annual temperature of 15.2°C and summer average of 24°C, renowned as "the boundary between Chu and Yu, rivaling Song and Heng Mountains".
History and Culture
Jigong Mountain boasts a long history and profound cultural heritage. Documented as early as the Northern Wei Dynasty over 1,400 years ago, it became a Buddhist sanctuary during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the early 20th century, missionaries and merchants from 23 countries built more than 300 villas of diverse styles here, forming a unique international architectural complex known as the "Museum of World Architecture".
Jigong Mountain also witnessed important modern Chinese history. After the Pinghan Railway opened in 1902, it became a summer resort for Chinese and foreigners. During the 1938 Battle of Wuhan, Chiang Kai-shek established his headquarters here to direct the war against Japanese invasion.
Main Attractions
Baoxiao Peak
The main peak of Jigong Mountain at 814 meters, resembling a rooster's head, is the best spot for sunrise viewing. A giant rock like a cockscomb crowns the peak, inscribed with "Baoxiao Peak". From the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of surrounding mountains and sea of clouds.
International Architectural Complex
A well-preserved modern architectural complex featuring over 300 villas in styles from 23 countries including the US, UK, France, Germany, Russia, and Japan. These buildings blend Eastern and Western architectural arts, with the most representative being Sweden Building, Marshall House, and Meiling Ballroom.
Longevity Valley
A 3-kilometer-long valley area with ancient trees, babbling streams, fresh air, and exceptionally high negative oxygen ion concentration. Main attractions include Rainbow Waterfall, Blue Dragon Pool, and Immortal Cave, making it an ideal summer retreat.
Yilu Villa
Also called "Villa of Ambition", it was the first large villa built by Chinese people on Jigong Mountain in 1921. The magnificent architecture combines Chinese and Western styles, embodying national pride and patriotism, standing in stark contrast to foreign villas.
Dadong Valley
A primitive ecological reserve covering about 20 square kilometers with over 95% forest coverage. Home to rare flora and fauna, it's ideal for eco-tourism and science education.
Cuisine
Xinyang Maojian Tea
One of China's top ten famous teas, produced around Jigong Mountain. The tender, straight tea leaves with visible white hairs yield clear liquor with elegant aroma and refreshing sweet aftertaste.
Nanwan Fish
A Xinyang specialty made with quality fish from Nanwan Reservoir. The tender, delicious fish is commonly prepared as clear stew or braised, a must-have for local banquets.
Gushi Goose Chunks
A traditional Xinyang dish using quality goose meat from Gushi County cut into chunks. The tender goose with rich broth has health-nourishing properties.
Recommended Nearby Cuisine
Other Xinyang specialties worth trying include Luoshan Large Intestine Soup, Xi County Crispy Baked Cake, and Huangchuan Tribute Noodles, available at restaurants near the scenic area or in downtown Xinyang.
Ticket Information
Jigong Mountain tickets cost 67 yuan per person during peak season (April 1-October 31) and 60 yuan during off-season (November 1-March 31). The scenic shuttle bus costs an additional 40 yuan. Seniors over 60 and students with valid IDs enjoy half-price discounts, while children under 1.4 meters enter free.
Opening Hours
The scenic area is open year-round from 8:00-17:30 during peak season and 8:30-17:00 during off-season. Ticket sales stop one hour before closing at each attraction.
Recommended Itinerary
Recommended one-day itinerary: Take the shuttle to Baoxiao Peak in the morning for summit views; then visit the International Architectural Complex and Yilu Villa; have lunch in the scenic area; tour Longevity Valley and Dadong Valley in the afternoon. Visitors with more time can stay overnight to experience the summer resort's night and morning atmosphere.
Transportation
- By car: From downtown Xinyang, drive south on National Highway 107 for about 38 km, turn onto Jigong Mountain Special Road as signed
- By bus: Take the Xinyang-Jigong Mountain tourist shuttle from Xinyang Bus Station directly to the scenic area
- By high-speed rail: Take high-speed rail to Xinyang East Station, then transfer by bus or taxi to the scenic area (about 45 km)
Must-See Attractions
- Baoxiao Peak: Main peak resembling a rooster's head, prime sunrise viewing spot
- International Architectural Complex: Over 300 villas in multinational styles, architectural treasure
- Longevity Valley: 3-km valley with high negative ion concentration, ideal summer retreat
- Yilu Villa: First large villa built by Chinese, symbol of national spirit
Travel Tips
- Summer is the best visiting season with cool pleasant weather
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the area involves considerable walking
- Consider hiring a guide for in-depth historical and cultural explanations
- Temperature varies greatly within the area; bring a jacket
- Allow at least 5-6 hours for visiting; 1-2 days recommended for thorough exploration
Precautions
- Protect historical buildings; do not touch or carve on them
- Be cautious of slippery mountain paths during rainy weather
- Smoking is prohibited in the scenic area; observe fire prevention regulations
- Take care of personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
- Respect local customs and visit courteously