Shenxianju Scenic Area is located in Xianju County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The area is famous for its "peculiar peaks, strange rocks, waterfalls, and sea of clouds", featuring the world's largest rhyolitic landform group. The main peak stands at 1,271 meters above sea level, covering a total area of 158 square kilometers with 11 major scenic zones and over 100 attractions. The area boasts a 5-kilometer-long cliffside plank walk and various high-altitude experience projects.
History and Culture
Shenxianju has been a Taoist sacred site since ancient times, reputed as the dwelling place of immortals. During the Northern Song Dynasty, Emperor Zhenzong named it "Xianju" (meaning "Immortal Residence") for its "famous mountains surrounding like screens, with many dwellings of immortals", which became the county's name.
The area preserves numerous ancient cliff inscriptions and Taoist relics, the most famous being the "Tianmu Mountain" inscription dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake visited here three times and praised Shenxianju in his travel notes as having "mountain scenery like paintings and water sounds like zither music".
Local folklore includes many legends about immortals, such as the story that He Xiangu, one of the Eight Immortals, achieved enlightenment here, adding mystical charm to the scenic area.
Main Attractions
Guanyin Peak
Guanyin Peak is the iconic landmark of Shenxianju, resembling the Goddess of Mercy sitting on a lotus throne. The 919-meter-high peak presents different shapes from various angles, often shrouded in mist like a fairyland.
Via Ferrata
The Via Ferrata is a signature experience at Shenxianju, including cliffside walkways, suspension bridges, and rock climbing. The most famous is the 120-meter-long Nantian Bridge spanning two peaks, offering thrilling walks.
General Rock
General Rock is a group of giant stones resembling ancient generals, with the highest reaching over 100 meters. The rock surface is covered with honeycomb-like holes, characteristic of rhyolitic landforms.
Cuisine
Xianju Bayberry
Xianju Bayberry is a national geographical indication product, known for its large size, juicy texture, and sweet taste. The annual Bayberry Festival in June allows visitors to experience fruit picking.
Xianju Eight Bowls
A traditional Xianju banquet featuring eight local specialties including braised pork, claypot chicken, and stream fish, prepared with premium mountain ingredients for unique flavors.
Ticket Information
Entrance fee is 125 yuan per person, covering main attractions. Cable car tickets are extra: 55 yuan uphill and 45 yuan downhill. Discounts available for seniors over 60 and students, while children under 1.2m enter free.
Recommended Route
North Gate entry → Take Beihai Cable Car uphill → Visit Guanyin Peak → Experience Via Ferrata → Cross Nantian Bridge to South Area → Take Nanhai Cable Car downhill → Exit at South Gate. The full route takes about 4-6 hours.
Transportation
- Self-drive: From Hangzhou via Hangjinqu Expressway to Zhuyong Expressway, about 3 hours
- High-speed rail: Take train to Yongkang South Station, then transfer to scenic area shuttle
- Long-distance bus: Direct buses available from Hangzhou, Wenzhou to Xianju County
Must-See Attractions
- Guanyin Peak: Iconic landscape with misty fairyland atmosphere
- Via Ferrata: Exciting high-altitude experience
- General Rock: Unique rhyolitic landform
- Nantian Bridge: Suspension bridge spanning two peaks
Travel Tips
- Best seasons are spring and autumn, avoiding rainy season and extreme heat
- Allocate at least half a day for visit
- Wear comfortable sports shoes as some paths are steep
- Bring rain gear as mountain weather changes quickly
- Consider hiring local guide for cultural insights
Precautions
- Smoking and littering prohibited in scenic area
- High-altitude activities have age and health restrictions
- Bring jacket for significant temperature variations
- Avoid peak holidays for less crowds
- Do not climb or carve on natural formations