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China travel and tour destination Heng Shan

China Destination Guide - Heng Shan 衡山

Heng Shan in Hunan province (there is another in Shanxi province) is another of the 5 sacred Taoist mountains and also the most southerly. For 2,000 years it has been visited by Emperors, writers, painters and poets and there are many inscriptions on the rocks. There are 72 peaks with Zhurong Peak being the highest at 1,290m and which has sunrise viewing platforms as well as a Shaolin temple. With lush vegetation and rushing streams Heng Shan is considered the most graceful of the 5 sacred peaks.

➤ TCTC Tip: Don't confuse this Heng Shan with the mountain of the same name in Shanxi province!

What there is to see at Heng Shan:

The Nanyue Temple has nine courtyards with the main hall supported by 72 stone pillars, which symbolize the 72 peaks of the mountain.
Reaching Zhurong Peak for sunrise is the aim for many visitors to the mountain.
Tripitaka Temple is reknown for its architecture and is surrounded by oddly shaped ancient trees.
The Water-Screen Cave under Zigai Peak is one of Heng shan's most popular sites and is best visited in summer when the falls are swollen by rain.
For some serene contemplation head to Fangguang Temple set within a forest of ancient trees.

Best time to visit Heng Shan

April and May as well as September and October are the best months. It can get cold on the mountain in the winter months and the summers are hot, humid and rainy lower down but still cool at the higher peaks.

Best reason to visit Heng Shan

Considered one of the better of China's sacred mountains to visit this is an ideal place to lose yourself in ancient culture for a day or two.

Our last word on Heng Shan

Another off the beaten tourist path destination, HengShan is a must for those interested in the sacred mountains or who are on a second, more indepth trip to China.