North Wudang Mountain (Zhenwushan) in Lüliang
North Wudang Mountain, also known as Zhenwushan Mountain (真武山), is located in the middle section of the Lüliang Mountain Range in Fangshan County, Shanxi Province. With an elevation of 2,254 meters at its main peak, Xianglu Peak (香炉峰), the mountain covers an area of approximately 80 square kilometers. The terrain consists of granite that has weathered over time to form 72 peaks, 36 cliffs, and 24 ravines, which give the landscape a rugged and dramatic beauty. Known for its “majestic, strange, perilous, and picturesque” characteristics, it has earned the title of “the First Mountain in the Three Jin Provinces” (三晋第一名山). As one of northern China’s Taoist sacred sites, North Wudang Mountain is home to several historic structures, including the Xuantian Zhenwu Temple (玄天真武庙) and the Taihe Palace (太和宫), along with mural and stone carvings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The mountain is also famous for its 1,400-step “Heavenly Ladder” (天梯) stone staircase.
History and Cultural Significance
Taoist activity has been recorded on North Wudang Mountain since the Tang Dynasty, and the main temple, the Xuantian Hall (玄天大殿), was first built prior to the Tang period. During the Ming Dynasty, significant renovations were carried out, and the mountain was renamed North Wudang Mountain. The mountain saw several repairs during the Qing Dynasty, with renovations continuing into the reigns of the Kangxi and Guangxu emperors. In 1994, it was designated as a National Scenic Area. Every year, a traditional Taoist fair is held from the first to the third day of the third lunar month, featuring Taoist rituals and folk activities.
Natural Wonders and Scenic Spots
The main peak of North Wudang Mountain, Xianglu Peak, is surrounded by nearly vertical cliffs, with only one path, the “Heavenly Ladder” (天梯), allowing visitors to climb to the summit. The 1,400 stone steps, carved into the mountain, are equipped with iron railings for safety in the steeper areas. Visitors can hear the unique “stone music” (石音) as they ascend, creating a mesmerizing experience. Along the way, various ancient trees, rocks, temples, and carvings are nestled among the lush forest, enhancing the landscape.
Some of the most notable rock formations include:
-
The Stone Monkey Watching the Sun (古猿望日)
-
The Stone Pig in Agony (石猪受难)
-
The Nine Dragons Emerging from the Cave (九龙出洞)
-
The Stone Elephant Guarding the Mountain (石象守山)
-
The Stone Sheep Pilgrimage (石羊朝圣)
-
The Stone Turtle Laying Eggs (石龟下蛋)
-
The Turtle and Snake Contesting Intelligence (龟蛇斗智)
The “Turtle and Snake Contesting Intelligence” (龟蛇斗智) is a particularly famous feature, where a mythical battle between a tortoise and a snake took place. According to legend, the tortoise and snake were both in the process of cultivating immortality when they began fighting. After 49 days of struggle, the snake was poised to defeat the tortoise, but upon the return of the deity Zhenwu, he intervened, halting the battle with a single touch. Both creatures were turned to stone, preserving their forms for eternity.
The forest is home to rare trees such as the Couple Pine (鸳鸯松), Welcoming Pine (迎客松), and the magnificent “Heavenly Supporting Pine” (擎天探海松), which stretches upward, seemingly reaching for the sky.
Taoist Temples and Buildings
The architecture of North Wudang Mountain showcases its long history as a Taoist center. Notable buildings include the Xuantian Hall, Taihe Palace, and various other temples such as the Spirit Palace (灵宫庙), Dragon King Temple (龙王庙), and the Three Officials Temple (三官庙). These temples have been renovated and restored multiple times over the centuries. The Dragon King Mountain was renamed North Wudang Mountain during the Ming Dynasty after extensive reconstruction by the local ruler.
During the Qing Dynasty, further repairs were made, and in 1984, the local government began efforts to preserve and protect the site. North Wudang Mountain was recognized as the only Taoist activity center in Shanxi Province in 1990, and it was included in the third batch of National Scenic Areas in 1994.
Best Time to Visit
North Wudang Mountain has a temperate climate, with an average annual temperature of 8.7°C. The frost-free period lasts for about 135 days, making the best time to visit between May and October. The stunning scenery during this period, with its vibrant spring flowers, lush summer greens, autumn colors, and winter snow, creates a picturesque backdrop for any visitor.
Access and Tickets
North Wudang Mountain is located approximately 120 kilometers from Taiyuan. Visitors can take a long-distance bus from Taiyuan to Xinzhou, then transfer to another bus that goes directly to the mountain.
Ticket prices:
-
Peak Season: 50 RMB
-
Off-Season: 15 RMB
