Shutong Mountain

Introducing Shutongshan

Shutong Mountain, with its towering and graceful peaks facing the Li River to its right, is the most delicate and graceful peak along the Li River. A crack in the northern slope has revealed a rock about 10 meters tall, resembling a boy in ancient costume standing upright. This rock is called Shutong Stone, and the mountain gets its name from the stone. Halfway up the left side of the mountain, a long rock rises from the mountain, about ten feet tall, resembling a book boy with loose clothes and fluttering sleeves, intently reading a book in the morning.

There's an ancient legend about Shutong Mountain. Long ago, a dragon haunted the Li River, endangering the local people. A book-boy, gifted by his teacher, Wenquxing, with a heavenly book that could subdue demons and monsters, used it to subdue the dragon. Upon seeing the book, the dragon collapsed into the water. Fearing the dragon was feigning death, the book-boy transformed into a mountain, forever standing by the Li River, protecting the local people.

The nearby peaks also have their own unique appearances, and people have named them "Thumbs Pointing to the Sky", "Rooster Crowing", "Old Man Leading a Horse up the Mountain" and so on.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons;

It has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons, with rain and heat in the same season. The climatic conditions are very favorable, with abundant rainfall and sufficient sunshine. There is a saying that "there is little snow in the three winters and flowers bloom all year round."

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;

Famous attractions: Li River, Yulong River, etc.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Shutong Mountain

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shutong Mountain is a well-known natural landmark in Guilin, recognized for its picturesque landscapes and cultural significance. It is home to several ancient temples and natural reserves, offering insight into the region's historical and cultural heritage. The mountain has been a popular destination for both locals and tourists who appreciate its serene environment and beautiful vistas.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shutong Mountain is located in the outskirts of Guilin, Guangxi. Visitors can reach it by taxi or bus from the city center. The mountain is not directly served by the metro, so taxi and bus are the most convenient options. It’s a short drive, approximately 15-20 minutes from the central area of Guilin.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shutong Mountain is open year-round, with the best times to visit being in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and vibrant. The peak visiting hours are during daylight, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit early in the morning or during weekdays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Shutong Mountain is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance, and online booking options are available through local travel websites, particularly during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not essential but recommended during busy tourist seasons, such as summer or Chinese holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead is typically sufficient for securing tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Shutong Mountain generally takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the hiking routes you choose and how much time you spend at each viewpoint or temple. For those interested in hiking the entire mountain, you may need half a day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The key highlights include the panoramic viewpoints from the summit, the ancient temples scattered along the trails, and the lush natural scenery. The area also offers diverse flora and fauna, which are great for nature lovers and photographers.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may also offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides may also be available in various languages, including English, to help visitors understand the cultural and historical significance of the mountain.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are at the summit and along the hiking trail, where you can capture sweeping views of the Guilin countryside and limestone peaks. The temples and waterfalls along the trail also offer excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your hike from the base of the mountain, where you can visit the smaller temples and scenic spots along the way. The recommended route leads you to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. If you're short on time, you can choose a shorter route that takes you to a key viewpoint.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at Shutong Mountain. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the views are most vibrant. The quiet atmosphere also makes it ideal for peaceful walks during the day.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Shutong Mountain can become crowded on weekends and during national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak seasons like spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The mountain has basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops where you can buy drinks and snacks. However, there are limited food options, so it's recommended to bring your own water and snacks for the hike.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Shutong Mountain is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, as it involves some steep hiking trails. However, the base of the mountain and some lower areas are accessible, and children can enjoy shorter walks or visits to the temples.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops, so it’s advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants directly on Shutong Mountain, but nearby Guilin offers a variety of restaurants serving both local Chinese cuisine and international options. Many of these can be found in the city center, a short drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Guilin's city center, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes. Halal food is available in some restaurants that cater to Muslim tourists.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Guilin, including budget options and more upscale choices. Some of the hotels in the city center provide easy access to Shutong Mountain, and taxis can take you directly to the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Elephant Trunk Hill, the Reed Flute Cave, and Seven Star Park. These landmarks are all within a short drive from Shutong Mountain and can easily be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops in the Guilin area, selling items such as local handicrafts, tea, and silk products. Shutong Mountain itself does not have a wide range of souvenir options.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options after visiting Shutong Mountain are taxis or buses back to Guilin city center. You can also rent a bicycle for a more scenic route if you're continuing your exploration of the area.