[2025 Kaili Attraction] Travel Guide for Xianglu Mountain (Updated Apr)

| Explore Xianglu Mountain in Kaili. Located about 15 km northwest of Kaili City, Xianglu Mountain is a peak with natural and cultural significance. Its name, meaning "Incense Burner Mountain," comes from its resemblance to an incense burner, especially when its peak, shaped like an incense burner tripod, is enveloped in swirling mist. I. Transportation Guide 1. How to Get There From Kaili City: By car/taxi: Navigate to "Xianglu Mountain," approximately 15 km, a 30-minute drive. There is a parking lot at the foot of the mountain (fee approx. CNY 10–20/day). Public transportation: Take a bus from Kaili Bus Station to "Huzhuang" (ticket price approx. CNY 5). After getting off, walk or take a motorcycle taxi (approx. CNY 10) to the foot of the mountain. Visitors from other areas: Take the high-speed train to "Kaili South Station," then take a taxi to Xianglu Mountain (approx. CNY 50) or transfer to a bus to the city center and then transfer again. Driving from Guiyang takes about 2.5 hrs via the Shanghai–Kunming Expressway and Kaili Ring Expressway. 2. Hiking Routes South Route (main entrance): Gentle slope, suitable for average visitors, with stone steps and viewing platforms along the way. The climb takes about 1.5 hrs. North Route: More rugged and steep, suitable for hiking enthusiasts. A guide is required (contact local villagers). II. Suggested Itinerary One-day tour recommendation: Morning: Arrive at the foot of the mountain → Hike (enjoy azaleas and unique rock formations along the way) → Reach the summit for a panoramic view of Kaili → Visit the ancient military camp ruins. Afternoon: Descend → Visit nearby attractions (e.g., Huzhuang Village for a Miao lunch) → Return or head to Xiasigu Town (40-minute drive). Two-day tour recommendation: Day 1: In-depth tour of Xianglu Mountain + surrounding Miao villages (e.g., Langde Miao Village). Day 2: Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village (stay overnight to enjoy the night view) or Mount Fanjingshan (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). III. Must-Try Experiences 1. Cultural Immersion Climbing Festival (19th day of the sixth lunar month): Sing with Miao youth, dance the Lusheng, and participate in blessing ceremonies (check specific dates in advance). Visit the ancient military camp: Explore the ruins of a Ming and Qing Dynasty military site and learn about the history of Miao resistance. 2. Nature Exploration "Wangtian Pond": A natural pool at the mountaintop, said to be a relic of immortals. Excellent for photography on foggy days. Spring Azalea Bloom: Wild azaleas bloom all over the mountain from April to May, perfect for photography enthusiasts. 3. Special Activities Miao Sour Soup Fish Feast: Enjoy this local delicacy in Huzhuang Village or Kaili City after descending the mountain. Handicraft experience: Try batik or silver jewelry making in nearby Miao villages. Driving experience: Enjoy the unique driving experience offered by the twenty switchbacks of Xianglu Mountain. IV. Practical Tips Best time to visit: April–May (flower season), September–October (crisp autumn air). Avoid the rainy season from June to August (slippery roads). Essential items: Non-slip hiking shoes, lightweight backpack, drinking water, sun hat, and raincoat. Safety tips: Do not explore undeveloped areas alone. It is recommended to travel with companions or hire a guide. The summit is windy and experiences large temperature differences, so bring a windproof jacket. Xianglu Mountain blends natural wonders with Miao culture, offering something for both hiking enthusiasts and culture seekers. It is a must-visit destination for exploring the culture and landscape of southeastern Guizhou.

The rime on Xianglu Mountain in Qiandongnan is a great natural beauty in winter. The following is a related travel introduction: Viewing time Usually in winter, when cold air hits and the temperature drops sharply, the rime wonder may appear on Xianglu Mountain. For example, on January 11, 2020, the rime appeared on the top of Xianglu Mountain in Kaili. Transportation guide - Public transportation: You can take bus No. 201 at "Tianyi Shopping Mall, Real Estate Building, Ningbo Road West, 418 Hospital, Jinyu Shopping Mall" and other stations in Kaili City to "Wangjiatu" Station in Huzhuang Village, cross the road and walk about 50 meters to the left in the direction of Huzhuang Street, walk to the fork in the road and follow the road towards Xianglu Mountain to Zongtang Village, then walk along the small cement road to Tangfang Village, and you can climb the mountain. - Self-driving: Depart from Kaili and reach Xianglu Mountain via Longtou River and Provincial Highway 308. Scenic spot features - Xianglu Mountain is 1,233.8 meters above sea level. The mountain is shaped like an incense burner, with stone cliffs on all sides. Under the decoration of rime, the whole mountain is covered with silver, jade trees, and jade branches, like ice but not ice, like snow but not snow, like a fairyland. - There are natural and cultural landscapes such as springs, caves, stone gates, and ancient temples on the mountain, as well as relics reflecting the stories of uprisings and folk legends, such as Miao King Cave, a giant incense burner weighing thousands of tons, Seven Immortals Pool, and Stone Conch. While enjoying the rime, you can also feel the profound historical and cultural connotation. Travel tips - The temperature on the mountain is low, so you should take measures to keep warm, such as wearing down jackets, hats, scarves, gloves, and other warm clothes. - Climbing Xianglu Mountain requires a certain amount of physical strength. It is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes or hiking shoes. - You can bring some hot water and dry food to replenish energy during the tour.

My third time climbing Xianglu Mountain in Kaili, 22 years after my first time. The young man I was back then is now a middle-aged man. The mountain is still the same, but with government development and investment, the infrastructure has improved. Compared to the construction work we saw two years ago, the mountain path is now complete, and you can enjoy the views with peace of mind. Xianglu Mountain is located 15 km west of Kaili City, Guizhou Province. It has an altitude of 1,233.8 meters and a circumference of 15 km. It is surrounded by cliffs and resembles an incense burner. It has been regarded as a sacred mountain by the Miao people since ancient times. There is only a narrow path winding up the mountain, surrounded by mountains that look like swords piercing the sky. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Miao people used this mountain as a base for their uprisings. The mountain is covered with flowers, trees, and bamboo, and shrouded in mist. There are fertile fields, deep wells, and streams; ancient camps, temples, and the ruins of Nantianmen; and relics reflecting stories of uprisings and folk legends. Every year on the 19th day of the sixth lunar month, Miao people from 20 to 30 miles around gather here to celebrate the traditional "Climbing Festival." The elderly often go to the top of the mountain to sightsee and pray, while young men and women in traditional dress dance to the sound of the lusheng, or sit on the ground and sing stories, friendship, and love. The quiet mountain becomes a lively market and a sea of song and dance. Xianglu Mountain has long been a place for the Miao people to remember their national heroes and look forward to a happy life. Experience: Xianglu Mountain has a unique shape and is worth a half-day visit. It takes about 50 minutes to walk slowly along the 99 steps and around the mountain. It may take longer if you have elderly people or children with you. Including the drive out of the city and the walk from the village entrance to the mountainside, it takes about half a day. However, there are rice tofu and barbecue stalls at the village entrance, the mountainside, and the top of the mountain, and the prices are reasonable, so you can try them.

You have to see the sunrise at least once. Attraction address: Xianglu Mountain, Kaili City, more than 10 minutes from the city. Attraction transportation: Self-driving: Directly navigate to Xianglu Mountain, don't navigate to the south gate of Xianglu Mountain! Attraction address: Xianglu Mountain, Kaili City, more than 10 minutes from the city. Attraction transportation: Self-driving: Directly navigate to Xianglu Mountain, don't navigate to the south gate of Xianglu Mountain! Far! Bus: Take bus No. 201 to Qingkou Primary School, then navigate to Xianglu Mountain and get off and walk Tickets: No tickets required Other tips: It takes about 34 minutes to climb to the top of the mountain, depending on the individual. The best check-in point is at the top of the mountain, it's very photogenic! If you want to watch the sunrise, check the weather forecast, start climbing around 5 am, it is recommended to be earlier, wear a coat, the wind on the mountain is strong, and it may rain sometimes. Note: Pay attention to safety, don't litter on the mountain, and protect the environment! Bus: Take bus No. 201 to Qingkou Primary School, then navigate to Xianglu Mountain and get off and walk Ticket related: No tickets required Other tips: It takes about 34 minutes to climb to the top of the mountain, depending on the individual. The best check-in point is at the top of the mountain, it's very photogenic! If you want to watch the sunrise, check the weather forecast, start climbing around 5 am, it is recommended to be earlier, wear a coat, the wind on the mountain is strong, and it may rain sometimes. Note: Pay attention to safety, don't litter on the mountain, and protect the environment!