Yaoshan Mountain - The Roof of Guilin

Yaoshan Mountain scenic area, standing at 909 metres, received its name in 221 BC with the construction of the Yao Emperor Temple at its summit. As the tallest peak in the Guilin region, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape, limestone formations that define the area’s iconic scenery. This early naming coincided with the unification of China under the Qin Dynasty, marking Yaoshan as a site of both natural prominence and emerging cultural significance. The mountain's name, honouring the legendary Emperor Yao, reflects early Chinese reverence for virtuous rulers and sacred geography.

Long before it became a cultural landmark, Yaoshan’s origins were submerged beneath ancient seas during the Paleozoic era, over 360 million years ago. This region of present day Guangxi was once part of an expansive ocean floor. Over eons, tectonic forces uplifted the seabed and persistent water erosion sculpted the limestone into the gentle but distinct slopes visible today. This slow, natural transformation gave rise not only to Yaoshan but to the dramatic karst features that make Guilin a unique global geological treasure.

Contrary to pictures on the internet, the rickety old chairlift has been replaced with a modern and much safer cableway

While the original Yao Emperor Temple has long since collapsed, its legacy was carried forward by the Shoufo Temple, which thrived during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911 AD). This period saw renewed spiritual activity on the mountain, with pilgrims and monks trekking to its heights in search of enlightenment and divine favour. The Shoufo Temple became a symbol of continuity, anchoring the mountain’s spiritual relevance even as dynasties rose and fell. Its architecture, reflective of Qing aesthetics, harmonised with the natural landscape, reinforcing the ancient Chinese ideal of harmony between man and nature.

Yaoshan’s physical grandeur is matched by the mythological richness it inspires, with one of its most enduring legends being that of Chen Xiang, a heroic figure in Chinese folklore. Born of a mortal father and the heavenly goddess San Sheng Mu, Chen Xiang's story begins with a divine transgression. His mother defied celestial law by marrying a human, which enraged the Jade Emperor. As punishment, she was imprisoned beneath Hua Mountain, a place that is symbolically tied to Yaoshan. When Chen Xiang discovered the truth about his mother's fate, he was overcome with grief and determination. Armed with a magical divine axe, he trained in martial arts, battled mythical beasts and ultimately split the mountain with a thunderous roar to free her. This dramatic act of love and bravery not only liberated his mother but also became a timeless allegory for filial piety, perseverance and moral justice. The tale of Chen Xiang is more than just legend, it reflects deep Confucian values and enriches the cultural tapestry of Yaoshan, making the mountain a spiritual symbol as well as a geological marvel.

At the foot of Yaoshan lies the Mausoleums of the Jingjiang Princes, a vast and remarkably well preserved tomb complex dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Spanning approximately 100 square kilometre, this site is one of the most significant royal burial grounds in southern China. It houses more than 300 tombs, including the final resting places of eleven princes from the Jingjiang family, who were descendants of Zhu Shouqian, a nephew of the founding Ming emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang. The mausoleums are arranged according to traditional feng shui principles, with Yaoshan providing an auspicious natural backdrop believed to offer protection and spiritual harmony. Each tomb is marked by stone statues, intricate carvings and ceremonial gates that reflect the grandeur and authority of the Ming imperial family. Beyond its historical and architectural value, the complex underscores Yaoshan’s enduring role as a sacred and strategic site in Chinese royal and spiritual traditions.

For an exhilarating descent, the mountain features one of the longest toboggan slides in China. ​The Yaoshan Mountain toboggan run is approximately 1000 metres in length, featuring 18 turns as it descends from the summit. Alternatively, the newly upgraded cableway operates along a 1416 metre long route, connecting the base to the peak, with a height of nearly 450 metres. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and offers scenic views of the amazing landscape.

Today, Yaoshan remains not just a geographical landmark but a living embodiment of Chinese heritage. Its age, spanning over 2,200 years of recorded history and hundreds of millions of years geologically, anchors it as a bridge between earth’s natural past and humanity’s evolving beliefs. The mountain draws both tourists and pilgrims, offering a place for reflection amid its serene beauty and storied past. Whether viewed as a site of ancient worship, a testament to earth’s deep time or a canvas for moral mythology, Yaoshan continues to hold a revered place in the heart of Guilin.

Location : Qixing Park - 1 Qixing Road, Guilin, Gunxi, China

How to get there : Yaoshan located roughly 12km's from downtown Guiin. You can take bus 10, 16 or 24 from the city centre and get off at Jingjiangwangling bus stop. From there, you will walk about 10 minutes up to the entrance of Yaoshan Mountain. More conveniently, you can catch a Didi Taxi for about 25 yuan, right to the gate.

Attraction Info : The scenic mountain area is open between 8:30am and 6pm daily. While entry is free, a return chairlift ride will cost 75 yuan per person. Alternatively a one way chairlift up is 40 yuan and a toboggan slide back down is 35 yuan. There really isn't much up the top except the view, so an hour would be ample time here. As of March 2025, the mountain area looked to be undergoing extensive renovations. The café was also closed, so take water and snacks with you.

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