Lushan Mountain Scenic Area

Historical Overview

Lushan’s history dates back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE), when it was revered as a sacred Taoist mountain. Emperors and poets throughout Chinese history visited, including Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and Confucian scholars. During the Republic of China era (1912–1949), it became a retreat for intellectuals like Hu Shi and Xu Zhimo. The 1970 Lushan Conference, a pivotal political meeting, further etched its place in modern history. Today, it remains a symbol of China’s spiritual and cultural legacy.

Structural Layout

The scenic area is divided into five zones:

Central Zone:Five Old Men Peaks: Iconic granite pillars symbolizing longevity.

Lulin Lake: A serene reservoir surrounded by pines.

East Zone:White Deer Grotto Academy: One of China’s oldest universities (founded in 940 CE), promoting Confucianism.

Donglin Temple: A Buddhist monastery with a 1,600-year-old camphor tree.

West Zone:Flower Path (Huajing): A 3.5 km trail lined with azaleas and maples.

Dragon Head Cliff: A dramatic 1,000-meter cliff with panoramic views.

Hanyang Peak: The highest summit, offering sunrise and cloud-sea vistas.

North Zone:Biotite Granite Landform: Unique geological formations shaped over 1.3 billion years.

Major Attractions

Five Old Men Peaks: Granite pillars resembling five elderly sages, accessible via cable car.

White Deer Grotto Academy: Ancient classrooms, stone tablets, and the "Pavilion of Star Reading" where Zhu Xi lectured.

Lulin Lake: Boat rentals and a tea pavilion overlooking misty peaks.

Donglin Temple: Home to the "Pure Land" Buddhist sect, with a 30-meter-tall Avalokitesvara statue.

Lushan Botanical Garden: China’s first subtropical botanical garden, featuring 10,000+ plant species.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (1 Day):

Guling Town (entrance) → White Deer Grotto Academy → Lulin Lake → Flower Path → Return via cable car.

Highlights: Cultural landmarks, waterfall, and lake views.

Extended Route (2 Days):

Day 1: Guling → White Deer Grotto → Donglin Temple → Lulin Lake (night stay).

Day 2: Hanyang Peak (sunrise) → Dragon Head Cliff → Biotite Granite Landform.

Highlights: Sunrise, cliffs, and geological wonders.

Comprehensive Route (3 Days):

Day 1: Classic route + night market in Guling.

Day 2: East Zone (White Deer Grotto, Donglin Temple) + West Zone (Dragon Head Cliff, Flower Path).

Day 3: South Zone + North Zone (geological formations).

Highlights: Full immersion in nature, culture, and history.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official WeChat account "庐山智慧旅游" (Lushan Smart Tourism) or Ctrip (up to 7 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets available at Guling Town entrance; e-tickets scanned via QR code.

Prices:

Adults: ¥160 (peak season), ¥135 (off-season).

Students/Seniors: ¥80 (peak), ¥70 (off-season).

Cable Car: ¥80 round-trip.

Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.

Transportation

Train:High-speed rail to Jiujiang Station, then a 1-hour bus to Guling Town.

Bus:Direct buses from NAnchang (2 hours) or Wuhan (4 hours) to Lushan South Gate.

Car:Drive to Guling Town; parking available at the scenic area entrance.

On-Mountain Transport:Shuttle buses (¥70/day) connect major attractions.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Seasons:spring (April–May): Azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom.

Summer (June–August): Cool temperatures (avg. 22°C), ideal for escaping heat.

autumn (September–November): Maple leaves and clear skies.

Avoid Crowds: Weekdays and early mornings.

Weather: Summer is rainy; bring a raincoat. Winter (December–February) is snowy but icy paths require caution.

Essentials:

Wear hiking boots (uneven terrain).

Carry water and snacks (restaurants are sparse).

Photography allowed (tripods permitted in non-restricted areas).

Prohibited: Drones, littering, and feeding wildlife.