Xiqiao Mountain One-Day Trip: Hike, Breathe Fresh Air, and Maybe Even See Monkeys?

🌿 Basic Information Xiqiao Mountain is the only ancient volcano site in the Pearl River Delta. At 346 meters above sea level, it is lush year-round, making it a veritable "oxygen bar" for Foshan residents! Here, you'll find the world's largest seated Guanyin statue, the ruins of a 600-year-old quarry, and families of wild macaques that might pop up at any moment. During the summer and autumn, it's recommended to arrive before 8am to avoid the crowds and experience the magical morning mist. The scenic area is open year-round from 7:30am to 5:30pm. 📍 Detailed Address North Gate: Shannan Road, Huanshan Avenue, Xiqiao Town, Nanhai District, Foshan City / South Gate: Xiqiao Mountain South Gate Entrance. Important❗️ If you want to see the Nanhai Guanyin statue, enter through the North Gate. If you prefer hiking trails, choose the South Gate. Shuttle buses are available at both entrances. 🎫 Tickets Ticket Price: Free from October 2024!!! Sightseeing Bus: 20 round-trip; Cable Car: 30 round-trip, 20 one-way. 🚌 Transportation By Car: Navigate to "Xiqiao Mountain South/North Parking Lot." Parking can be difficult on weekends, so arrive before 9am. By Bus: From Guangzhou, take the Guangfo Line to Kuiqi Road Station, then transfer to Tourism Bus Line 1 to the North Gate. Within Foshan City, take Bus 226/227 to Dengshan Avenue Entrance. 🛵 Scooter: Shared electric scooters are available at the foot of the mountain. Enjoy a breezy ride around the mountain for 2 yuan/15 minutes. ✨ Must-See Attractions 1️⃣ Baofeng Temple + Nanhai Guanyin Statue The gleaming, 61.9-meter-tall seated Guanyin statue is so large that three adults could lie down on a single lotus petal of its base! Remember to circle the statue clockwise three times—it's said to be very effective for finding love. The 500-year-old bodhi tree in the temple is stunning in autumn, with golden leaves covering the ground, perfect for capturing photos with an ancient vibe. 2️⃣ Shiyan Rock An underwater palace left behind by ancient quarry workers! Take a boat inside to see chisel marks from the Song Dynasty and crystal-clear water revealing schools of stonefish below. The newly developed AR glasses experience is super cool, allowing you to see virtual miners at work. 3️⃣ Tianhu Park A mirror-like lake formed in a volcanic crater, with water and light shows daily at 10:30am and 3pm. On the island in the center of the lake, you'll find the "Cloud Tea House," where you can enjoy cloud-mist tea and watch egrets fishing for 38 yuan. 4️⃣ Jiulong Rock Home to wild macaques! Keep your snacks hidden—one of the monkeys is known to open backpack zippers. Visit in spring to see the cascading wisteria flowers, with purple vines taller than people. ⚠️ Helpful Tips • Vending machines are available midway up the mountain, but prices are high. Bring your own water and snacks. • Wear non-slip shoes! The mossy stone paths can quickly turn into an ice rink. • The Guanyin statue undergoes routine maintenance every Wednesday morning and may be temporarily closed. • Drone use requires prior registration through the "Xiqiao Mountain Tourism" mini-program. 🐾 Hidden Gem Try the "reverse tour" route: Enter through the South Gate → Cuiyan → Shiyan Rock → Tianhu → Guanyin Statue → Exit through the North Gate. This downhill route saves 70% of the effort! Visit Baiyun Cave at 5pm to see the sunset, with the pink and purple sky reflected on the eaves of the ancient academy—your phone will capture wallpaper-worthy photos effortlessly.