Fanjingshan Mountain

Inscription: Added to the World Natural Heritage List in 2018 for its "outstanding universal value" in biodiversity and geological uniqueness.
Landforms: A metamorphic "island" amid karst terrain, with peaks like the 2,572m Red Clouds Golden Summit and Mushroom Stone (formed over 1 billion years).
Ecosystem: Covers 402.75 km², hosting 4,395 plant species (e.g., Fanjingshan fir) and 2,767 animal species, including the endangered Guizhou snub-nosed monkey.

Maitreya’s Bodhimaṇḍa: Revered as the Fifth Buddhist Sacred Mountain, with temples like Maitreya Temple and Cheng’en Temple linked by a vertigo-inducing bridge.
Pilgrimage: Over 48 historic temples once stood here, attracting devotees to its "sky-piercing" summits.

Red Clouds Golden Summit
- Height: 2,336m, split into two peaks symbolizing Buddha and Maitreya.
- Sunrise Views: A "sea of clouds" phenomenon at dawn.
Mushroom Stone
- Geological Wonder: A 10m-tall balancing rock shaped by erosion.
Wuyang River Valley
- Biodiversity Hub: Prime spot to spot rare birds and amphibians.

Hiking: 8,000-step trail (4–7 hours) or cable car (¥160 round-trip).
Photography: Best at Tangquan Platform for panoramic shots.
Festivals: Buddha Bathing Day (May) and Miao New Year (November).

Best Time: April–October (avoid July–August crowds).
Tickets: ¥290 (includes cable car + shuttle).
Access:
- From Guiyang: 4hr high-speed rail to Tongren South Station + 1hr shuttle.
- From Chongqing: Direct bullet train (2025 route, 3.5hr).

Protected Species: Fanjingshan fir (critically endangered) and Chinese giant salamander.
Sustainability: Electric shuttles and visitor caps (5,000/day) to preserve ecosystems.
Accolades:
- AAAAA Scenic Spot (China’s highest rating).
- NatGeo’s "Top 28 Places to Visit" (2019).

Pro Tip: For solitude, hike the West Route—less crowded but equally stunning.

Introduction