Are friends in the south still debating where to see snow from December to February?
Here I share a few budget-friendly snow viewing spots
Round trips possible on weekends, fastest direct travel in 1.5 hours
Easily enjoy the rime and snowy scenery this winter❄️
Best Viewing Time
• From December to February each year is the best time to see snow at Hengshan. Temperatures usually range from -3℃ to 5℃, with frequent snowfall and lasting snow cover. After rain or snow, clear weather allows you to enjoy beautiful rime and possibly encounter a sea of clouds. The soft light at dawn and dusk is perfect for photography.
Transportation Guide
• External Transport: Take the high-speed train to Hengshan West Station, about 2 hours from Guangzhou South Station, with tickets around 259 yuan. After exiting, take a bus for about 10 minutes to reach Nanyue Bus Station.
• Internal Transport: There are shuttle buses within the scenic area, costing 45 yuan one way, 75 yuan round trip. However, shuttle buses may stop running during heavy snow, requiring hiking up the mountain.
Ticket Information
• Hengshan Scenic Area off-season tickets (November to April) cost 80 yuan per person. Students, seniors, and children enjoy half-price discounts.
Must-Visit Attractions
• Zhuru Peak: The highest peak of Hengshan, an excellent spot to view snow, sunrise, and sea of clouds. The trail behind the temple offers panoramic photo opportunities.
• Nantianmen: The climate dividing line of Hengshan. Beyond the archway lies a world of rime-covered trees, creating a strong atmospheric vibe.
• Nanyue Grand Temple: The largest temple in the south, with red walls and white snow complementing each other like an ancient painting. You can pray here and take majestic palace-style photos.
• Zeng Guofan Ancient Trail: Less crowded and beautiful, the stone path covered in ice and snow resembles a “pilgrimage heavenly road.”
Itinerary Planning
• Two-day, one-night trip: Day 1: Pray at Nanyue Grand Temple → take shuttle bus up the mountain → have vegetarian meal at Banshanting Pavilion → enjoy rime at Nantianmen → stay at mountaintop guesthouse. Day 2: Climb Zhuru Peak at 4 a.m. to watch sunrise → visit the “Longevity” stone carving at Zhuru Temple → hike down for tofu hot pot → buy longevity cakes as souvenirs and return.
Accommodation Recommendations
• Mountaintop Guesthouse: Convenient for early sunrise viewing, such as Wangritai Inn, priced 200-300 yuan/night, reservation required.
• Mid-mountain Inn: Cost-effective, such as Hengshan Gonghe Hotel, close to Banshanting Pavilion, around 150 yuan/night, good as a rest stop for hiking up.
Essential Gear
• Clothing: Down jacket, fleece liner, quick-dry clothes, windproof jacket, plus hat, gloves, and scarf are essential.
• Footwear: Non-slip hiking boots or snow boots, paired with crampons to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.
• Others: Thermos, hand warmers, trekking poles, knee pads, etc. Phones can easily shut down in the cold, so bring a power bank.
Notes
• Check snow conditions in advance via weather apps. When the forecast temperature is below 4℃, with a cold wave and over 50% chance of snowfall, the chances of seeing snow are higher.
• Mountain climbing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Nanyue Grand Temple is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Plan your trip accordingly.
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