Yu Huang Mountain Scenic Area, situated to the south of West Lake, boasts a modest elevation of over 200 meters above sea level, making it an ideal spot for leisurely hikes. The mountain is graced with towering ancient trees and is home to numerous historical sites and relics from various dynasties. Among these, the Zi Lai Cave, located midway up the mountain, is a must-visit destination.
The scenic area offers several entrances. The main entrance is near the China Silk Museum on Yu Huang Mountain Road to the north, while two other frequently used entrances are near the Bagua Field Relic Park to the south. Visitors typically ascend from the main entrance and descend from the southern entrances. The entrance on Yu Huang Mountain Road provides a mountain road that can be driven up to the Fuxing Temple at the summit, but a hiking experience is more rewarding.
Starting from the main entrance, you will first encounter the Old Yu Huang Palace. Beyond this point, climbing the stone steps in front and crossing the mountain road, following the signs will guide you to continue upwards. Shortly after, a fork in the road presents itself. Turning left leads to the Ciyun Ridge Statues and the South Guanyin Cave, while turning right, a 15-minute walk brings you to the Zi Lai Cave.
The Ciyun Ridge Statues are relics from the Five Dynasties period, exquisite and valuable, with numerous statue remains preserved in the area. The Zi Lai Cave, on the other hand, is a true ‘cave heaven and blessed land,’ perpetually cool and especially inviting in summer when cool breezes emanate from within, drawing many to gather at the cave mouth for respite.The Zi Lai Cave is a major attraction of Yu Huang Mountain and serves as a junction. It also offers a great vantage point to overlook the Bagua Field below, with eight distinct fields surrounded by clear water. Outside the cave, a tranquil teahouse provides a place to enjoy a cup of tea while gazing at the Bagua Field and the distant Qiantang River view, a leisurely and comfortable experience. From the Zi Lai Cave, passing by the Seven Stars Pavilion and continuing upwards for about 10 minutes leads to the Fuxing Temple, from which one can descend via a small path through the Baoyue Pavilion and Deyi Pavilion to Hu Run Road. Alternatively, heading towards the Bagua Field Relic Park, one will pass by the Wu Yue Suburban Altar Relic, with remnants of ancient architecture on the ground, exuding a solemn atmosphere. The Bagua Field also features farmhouses for dining.
The entire area is open year-round from 06:30 to 17:00, but please refer to the specific opening times of the scenic area for accuracy.
Preferential policies include free admission for children under 6 years old or under 1.2 meters in height; half-price for minors aged 6 to 18 with valid identification, full-time university undergraduate and below students with valid identification; half-price for seniors aged 60 to 70 with valid identification; free for seniors aged 70 and above with valid identification such as a resident ID or senior citizen card; free for the disabled with a disability certificate issued by the Disabled Persons’ Federation; free for teachers with 30 years of teaching experience with a certificate issued by the Education Department; free for blood donors with a certificate issued by the Provincial Health Commission; free for military personnel, disabled military personnel, martyrs’ dependents, and dependents of military personnel who died in service with the corresponding military-issued certificates and certificates issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs; free for on-duty and disabled firefighters and academy students with valid identification, receiving the same treatment as active-duty military personnel; free for religious clergy and staff of the religious activity sites within the scenic area, and for religious believers of the same religion who have undergone religious ceremonies and hold valid identification (such as lay Buddhist or Taoist certificates, etc.).Essential Tips for Visiting Yuhuang Mountain Scenic Area:
1. Although the Zilaigong Cave is cool, it is also humid, and it is not advisable to stay inside for too long.
2. It is recommended to visit on a sunny day, as it is more suitable for long-distance viewing and photography.
Additional notes: Youths and students enjoy discounts upon entry with valid identification such as a resident ID, student ID, or household registration book; Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan youths enjoy discounts with valid identification such as the ‘Hong Kong and Macao Residents Traveling to Mainland Permit’ or ‘Taiwan Residents Traveling to Mainland Permit’ or student identification documents.
Free for provincial and ministerial level labor models and heroes with valid identification; free for members holding a ‘Hangzhou Rehabilitation Club Membership Card’; and free for holders of the Hangzhou City Park IC card.
