Located in Yueqing City, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, Yandang Mountain is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and UNESCO Global Geopark. Covering 450 square kilometers (186 sq km core area) with its highest peak Baigangjian at 1,150m, it's renowned for peculiar peaks, grotesque rocks, flying waterfalls, secluded caves and ancient temples, honored as "Famous Mountain by the Sea, Peerless Scenery under Heaven".
History and Culture
Formed by Cretaceous volcanic eruptions 120 million years ago, Yandang Mountain represents typical ancient volcanic geology in coastal Southeast China. During Northern and Southern Dynasties, Indian monk Nuo Ju Na established temples here, initiating Buddhist culture. By Tang Dynasty, it became a destination for literati like Li Bai and Du Fu who composed praising poems.
Northern Song Dynasty marked its golden age when Shen Kuo documented its landforms in "Dream Pool Essays". Ming-Qing periods saw formation of its "Two Spirits One Dragon" (Lingfeng, Lingyan, Dalongqiu) landscape system, highly praised by Xu Xiake who visited thrice. Since modern times, its geological and aesthetic values gained global recognition, becoming among China's first UNESCO Global Geoparks in 2005.
Main Attractions
Lingfeng Scenic Area
The essence of Yandang Mountain, famous for night views. Peaks like Clasped Hands, Couple, and Rhinoceros Watching Moon transform magically under moonlight, ranking first among "Three Wonders". Ancient caves preserve valuable cliff carvings and Buddhist statues since Tang-Song dynasties.
Dalongqiu Waterfall
One of China's highest single-drop waterfalls (197m) changing with seasons: mighty cascade in rainy season, silvery ribbon in dry spells. Qing poet Yuan Mei praised it as "Dragon Waterfall reaching heaven, single thread of silk falling". The crystal-clear pool below offers perfect summer retreat.
Lingyan Scenic Area
Centered around Lingyan Temple surrounded by peaks like Heavenly Pillar and Unfurled Flag. The thrilling "Flying over Lingyan" performance features acrobats walking tightropes and somersaulting between 200m-high peaks. Minor Dragon Waterfall, Fangdong Cave and Guanyin Cave compose "Eight Scenes of Lingyan".
Fangdong Scenic Area
Named for its square-shaped volcanic cave, cool and serene with historic inscriptions. The 100m suspension bridge between cliffs is a famous photo spot offering panoramic canyon views.
Cuisine
Yandang Mountain Stone Frog
Rare frogs from mountain streams with tender, nutritious meat. Braised with wild mushrooms is the most authentic preparation, a delicacy in local banquets.
Yueqing Yellow Croaker
Wild croakers from Yueqing Bay with delicate texture. Braised or in pickled vegetable soup are classic local recipes available at nearby restaurants.
Yandang Bamboo Shoots
Spring bamboo shoots are most delicious, prepared stir-fried, stewed or pickled. Shoots with old duck soup is a nutritious local specialty.
Ticket Information
Separate tickets for: Lingfeng 50 yuan, Lingyan 50 yuan, Dalongqiu 50 yuan, Fangdong 40 yuan. Combo ticket 200 yuan covers all. Transport fees extra. Free for children under 1.2m, seniors over 70, active military; students half-price.
Recommended Itinerary
Two-day ideal route: Day1 morning at Lingfeng (day view), afternoon at Dalongqiu, evening return for Lingfeng night view. Day2 morning at Lingyan for acrobatics show, afternoon explore Fangdong. Add Xianshengmen and Three-step Waterfall if time allows.
Transportation
- High-speed rail: To Yandangshan Station, then transfer by bus/taxi (~15min)
- Driving: Exit at Yandangshan on Shenyang-Haikou Expressway, ~10km along G104
- Flight: Wenzhou Longwan International Airport ~80km away, take airport shuttle/taxi
- Bus: Direct coaches from Wenzhou South Bus Station
Must-Visit Attractions
- Lingfeng Night View - Nature's Chinese landscape painting
- Dalongqiu Waterfall - Most spectacular in East China
- Lingyan Acrobatics - Thrilling high-altitude performance
- Fangdong Suspension Bridge - Exciting cliffside walk
- Guanyin Cave - Millennium-old temple embedded in cliffs
Travel Tips
- Best seasons April-June & September-November, avoiding rains and heat
- Don't miss Lingfeng night view - schedule evening visit
- Wear comfortable anti-slip hiking shoes for steep paths
- Prepare rain gear for changeable mountain weather
- Check fixed showtimes for Lingyan acrobatics when planning
- Choose licensed restaurants for wild delicacies
Precautions
- Protect geological heritage - no climbing or carving rocks
- Heed safety warnings - no entering restricted areas
- Watch steps near cliffs when taking photos
- Respect Buddhist culture - keep quiet in temples
- Preserve ecology - no picking plants or disturbing wildlife
- Bring warm layers for significant temperature drops