Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), nestled on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Chongqing, is a mesmerizing fusion of folklore, religion, and artistry. Recognized as a national 5A-level scenic area and a cultural symbol, it spans Mingshan Mountain, Ghost World Palace, and Shuanggui Mountain, each revealing layers of China’s netherworld mythology.
Historical Roots
- Origins: Dating to the Han Dynasty (25–220 AD), Fengdu’s "Ghost City" legend began with Taoist immortals Yin Changsheng and Wang Fangping, whose combined surnames ("Yinwang") phonetically resemble "King of Hell" in Chinese.
- Cultural Synthesis: Over centuries, it absorbed Buddhist hell doctrines, Confucian moral teachings, and even Hindu influences, creating a unique "Three Teachings" afterlife narrative.
Key Attractions
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Mingshan Mountain (名山):
- Naihe Bridge (奈何桥): A symbolic boundary between life and death; local lore claims crossing it determines one’s fate in the afterlife.
- Huangquan Road (黄泉路): A path flanked by ancient cypress trees, leading to the Ghost Gate (83 steps representing life’s hardships).
- Temples: Over 27 shrines, including the Heng-Ha Generals Temple and Jade Emperor Hall, adorned with intricate carvings.
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Ghost World Palace (鬼国神宫):
- A modern complex featuring holographic projections of underworld trials and 1600+ statues of deities and demons.
- Highlights: "Ghost King" sculpture (18m tall), 18 Layers of Hell exhibits depicting moral punishments.
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Shuanggui Mountain (双桂山):
- A serene contrast with lush forests and the "Last Glance at Home Tower", where souls supposedly bid farewell to the living world.
Cultural Significance
- Moral Teachings: Fengdu’s vivid depictions of hellish punishments (e.g., tongue-ripping for liars) serve as Confucian-inspired moral warnings.
- Global Appeal: Featured in classics like Journey to the West and Liao Zhai, it attracts visitors intrigued by its "City of the Dead" mystique.
Visitor Experience
- Best Time: Spring/Autumn for mild weather; night tours (19:00–22:00) enhance the eerie ambiance.
- Tickets: ¥100 (Mingshan), ¥120 (Ghost World Palace); combo tickets available.
- Transport: High-speed train from Chongqing (1 hour) + bus/taxi to the site.
Fengdu Ghost City transcends tourism—it’s a living dialogue between myth and morality, where every sculpture and shrine whispers tales of karma and redemption.
