With its main peak, Phoenix Mountain, at 2,572 meters, Mount Fanjing is the highest summit of the Wuling Mountain Range. It is renowned for its unique granite formations (Mushroom Stone, Golden Summit), well-preserved primeval forests, rich biodiversity, and its status as the bodhimanda of Maitreya. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2018.

Mount Fanjing is a pristine ecological “island” at this latitude, home to over 700 rare species like the Guizhou snub-nosed monkey and dove tree. Its geological wonders are astounding: the Red Cloud Golden Summit splits into two peaks connected by a bridge, each topped with a temple; the Mushroom Stone appears precariously balanced yet has stood for millennia. Buddhist roots trace back to the Tang Dynasty, with incense flourishing during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, embodying its name “Buddhist Pure Land.” Ancient temples like Cheng’en Temple nestle among the peaks, adding to its spiritual aura.

Visiting requires a shuttle bus, then a cable car (or hike), followed by a steep climb to the Red Cloud Golden Summit and Old Golden Summit—moderate fitness is needed. Key sights include Mushroom Stone, Cheng’en Temple, and Ten-Thousand Volume Rock. Best seasons are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November), when the climate is pleasant and mist-shrouded peaks create an ethereal scene. Summers are rainy, and winters may bring ice. Mount Fanjing is in Jiangkou County, Tongren City, accessible via Tongren Fenghuang Airport or high-speed rail to Tongren Station, then by bus.