Red Cloud Golden Summit (a must-see)
The most iconic sight of Fanjingshan. This giant rock pillar, about 2,336 m high, is split top to bottom by a natural fissure; two small halls at the top face each other across a stone bridge — one dedicated to Shakyamuni, one to Maitreya — earning it the name “City in the Sky.” The name comes from sunrise, when the clouds glow red and the summit seems wrapped in red mist. Climbing uses iron chains bolted to the cliff and parts are near-vertical; wear non-slip shoes, travel light and grip the chains; those afraid of heights or short on stamina can enjoy it from below.
Mushroom Rock (the landmark)
Fanjingshan’s most widely known visual symbol — a huge weather-carved rock, wider at the top than the bottom, about 10 m tall, standing firm on the ridge for millions of years. It is a 10-minute walk from the cableway’s upper station and is most visitors’ first stop.
Old Golden Summit (Moon Mirror Mountain)
At 2,494 m, the second-highest peak. A natural slab on top is smooth like a mirror, which ancients said reflected moonlight by night — hence “Moon Mirror Mountain.” Its broad views make it the best vantage point for the whole of the Red Cloud Golden Summit, and the climb is gentler, suiting most visitors.
Scroll Cliff (Ten Thousand Scrolls)
On the western ridge, formed of metamorphic rock with extremely clear horizontal bedding, stacked like thousands of scrolls — a vast natural library at a glance. This geological wonder records a long stretch of Earth’s history.
Chengen Temple
A historic temple first built in the Ming dynasty, in Ming–Qing style with red walls and dark tiles, beside Pudu Square. Its open front offers views of the Red Cloud Golden Summit and the cloud sea, making it an excellent rest stop on the climb.
Myriad-Meter Sleeping Buddha (a distant view)
Not a single spot but an illusion: from a certain angle several peaks line up as a reclining giant Buddha — head, body and feet clearly defined, about ten thousand meters long. Best viewed from around Chengen Temple; clearest on fine days, it needs a little imagination and the right weather.
Suggested order
- After the cableway, visit Mushroom Rock first (nearest), then climb the Old or Red Cloud Golden Summit based on stamina; Chengen Temple makes a good mid-way rest.
- The full East Gate route (including the Red Cloud Golden Summit) takes about 5–7 hours — plan your timings and note the last downhill cableway.
- Wear non-slip shoes and bring a light jacket (the summit is about 8–10°C cooler than the base), plus water and light snacks.
