Located in northern Xixia County, Nanyang City, Henan Province, Laojieling is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and core area of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Covering approximately 153 square kilometers, its main peak - Jijiaojian - stands at 2,212.5m, the highest point of Funiu Mountain range, renowned as "The Ridge of Central China." Straddling the Yangtze-Yellow River watershed and China's north-south climate transition zone, it's famed for four natural wonders: spectacular peaks, sea of clouds, sunrise, and vast forests.
History and Culture
Formed 800 million years ago in the Neoproterozoic era as part of the Qinling orogenic belt, it became a UNESCO Global Geopark core area in 2006.
The area preserves historical relics including Chu Great Wall remnants (Warring States Period) and Yunyan Temple (Tang Dynasty). Legend says Laozi preached here, leaving Taoist sites like Laojun Terrace.
It's also a revolutionary base where the Western Henan Anti-Japanese Vanguard established footholds during WWII.
Main Attractions
Jijiaojian Peak
The 2,212.5m summit offers panoramic views where "one foot stands on two cities, one gaze covers three counties." Its observation deck is perfect for sunrise and cloud sea views, with both Yangtze and Yellow River basins visible on clear days.
Continental Divide
Marked by a monument, this geographical wonder shows northern slopes draining into the Yellow River while southern slopes feed the Yangtze - a unique watershed spectacle.
Immortal Peaks
A group of fantastically-shaped rock formations, the tallest resembling a celestial guide. Often shrouded in mist, it's a photographer's paradise.
Cloud Sea Spectacle
With over 200 cloudy days annually (best summer-autumn), peaks emerge from rolling clouds like fairyland islands.
Virgin Forest
Pristine ecosystem with 98% forest coverage ("natural oxygen bar"), featuring ancient trees including rare Taxus chinensis and ginkgos.
Cuisine
Xixia Mushroom Banquet
As China's "Mushroom Town," Xixia offers delicious dishes like clay-pot chicken with mushrooms and fried mushroom slices.
Wild Mountain Vegetables
Local wild mushrooms and edible plants like fiddleheads served cold, stir-fried, or in soups with unique flavors and health benefits.
Danjiang Fish
Wild fish from nearby Danjiangkou Reservoir, especially the famed "Danjiang Fish Head Soup" - tender with rich broth.
Local Delicacies
Xixia County (40-minute drive) offers Henan specialties like stewed noodles, spicy soup, and mutton soup.
Ticket Information
Admission: 90 yuan (peak season April 1-October 31), 60 yuan (off-season). Shuttle bus 30 yuan round-trip. Seniors (60+) and students get 50% discount with ID. Children under 1.4m free.
Opening Hours
Open year-round: 7:00-18:00 (peak season), 8:00-17:00 (off-season). Allow 4-6 hours (full day recommended).
Recommended Tour Route
Main entrance → Shuttle to cable station → Cable car up → Continental Divide → Immortal Peaks → Jijiaojian (sunrise/clouds) → Virgin Forest → Return. Fit visitors can hike instead.
Transportation
- Self-drive: From Zhengzhou via Zheng-Luan Expressway to Xixia exit, then 30km north on G311 highway
- Bus: Tourist shuttles from Nanyang Bus Station
- High-speed rail: To Nanyang East Station, then transfer to scenic area shuttle (~2 hours)
- Air: Nearest airport is Nanyang Jiangying (~2.5 hours by car)
Must-See Attractions
- Jijiaojian Peak: Summit Funiu's highest point for sunrise views
- Continental Divide: Unique two-river-basin experience
- Immortal Peaks: Photograph surreal rock formations
- Cloud Sea Spectacle: Capture fairyland-like cloud views
- Virgin Forest: Breathe fresh air in pristine woodland
Travel Tips
- Plan 1-2 days (summit lodging for sunrise views)
- Wear anti-slip hiking shoes and bring trekking poles
- Prepare for changeable weather (rain gear/warm layers)
- Photographers: pack wide-angle lenses and tripods
- Protect environment - no picking plants/animals
- Book limited summit accommodations early in peak season
Precautions
- Some trails are dangerous - stay away from cliffs
- No littering - preserve pristine environment
- Stay in designated areas
- Heart patients should avoid strenuous activity
- Suspend hiking during thunderstorms
- Inform family of itinerary due to spotty cell service