Xianren Cliff (Immortal's Cliff)
仙人崖
A Danxia peak cluster beside Maiji Mountain, where shrines to the three teachings of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism sit in cliffside caves. It is quieter than Maiji Mountain and a secret spot for hiking in the Xiaolong Mountains.
Xianren Cliff is located in Maiji Town, Maiji District, about 15 kilometers from the Maiji Mountain Grottoes. It shares the Maiji Mountain Scenic Area and takes its name from a legend that immortals once cultivated here. The site consists of three Danxia cliffs (East, West, and South) and a peak called Yuhuang Peak. Temples built in the Southern and Northern Dynasties and rebuilt in the Ming and Qing dynasties sit inside natural rock niches. They include the Buddhist Randen Pavilion and Arhat Hall, the Taoist Jade Emperor Hall, and the remains of a Confucian academy, so all three teachings share one mountain.
Highlights: The "Xianren Cliff Great Hall" on the West Cliff is tucked beneath the towering overhang, and rainwater running off the eaves falls like a curtain. The East Cliff's Xianzhu (Offering Pearl) Mountain has a striking shape. From Yuhuang Peak you can look out over the whole Danxia pinnacle cluster and the Xiaolong Mountain forests, which turn gold and red in autumn.
The scenic area is quiet and heavily wooded, which makes it good for hiking. It takes about 40 minutes to walk from the gate to the West Cliff, then about 30 minutes more to climb Yuhuang Peak. The full visit takes 2 to 3 hours. Entry costs about 40 yuan, and there is a combined ticket with Maiji Mountain. Getting there: minibuses or charter cars run from the Maiji Mountain entrance and take about 20 minutes. If you drive, take the Maiji Mountain scenic road. Public buses are inconvenient.
Please note: The mountain paths are steep with many stone steps, so wear non-slip shoes. The cliff paths drip with water after rain and become slippery. Food is limited inside the scenic area, so bring your own food and water. Coordinates are approximate. Most visitors plan this for the afternoon after Maiji Mountain.
Opening hours
08:00–17:30