Asihatu Stone Forest
阿斯哈图石林
A rare stone forest of granite shaped by glacial processes, with columns standing in clusters along the ridges of the Greater Khingan Range.
Asihatu means 'steep rocks' in Mongolian. It is one of the core areas of the Hexigten World Geopark. The granite here was carved by Quaternary glacial action and long weathering into columns, towers, and castle-like stone forests. They are spread along ridges at an elevation of about 1,700 metres, and from a distance they look like rows of stone castles. The scenic area is divided into Zones 1 to 4, which are connected by shuttle buses and wooden boardwalks. Notable formations include 'Guan Yu Longing for Shu,' 'The Peach Garden Oath,' 'Mushroom Rock,' and 'Horse-Tethering Post.' A visit to the main areas takes about half a day. The site is about 90 kilometres from Jingpeng, and the roads are mountain highways, so self-driving or a chartered car is recommended. The summit is windy and the UV is strong, so bring sun protection and warm clothing. The site is open in peak season from May to October, and it is largely closed in winter.
Opening hours
Approx. May–Oct, 08:00–17:00; check the site's notices
Nearby sights
- Huanggangliang National Forest Park
- Reshuitang Hot Spring
- Baiyinaobao Sandy Spruce Forest
- Hexigten Global Geopark Museum
- Jingpeng Town
- Qingshan Granite Potholes
- Ganggeng Nur Lake
- Gongger Grassland