Fengdu County (丰都) is located on the southeastern edge of the Sichuan Basin, spanning both sides of the Yangtze River and positioned in the upper reaches of the river. With a history of over 1,900 years, Fengdu is steeped in a rich tapestry of ghostly legends. Many literary classics, such as Journey to the West, Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio, The Tale of Yue Fei, and The Legend of Zhong Kui, vividly depict Fengdu as a “Ghost City,” adding to its legendary allure.
Known as an ancient city built against the mountains and facing water, Fengdu was once referred to as “Bazi Biedu.” Its name was derived from a poem by Su Shi of the Northern Song Dynasty, which praised it as “Pingdu, the ancient famous mountain of the world.” Fengdu is part of the Taoist “72 Caves of Heaven and Blessed Places,” featuring 27 ancient temples and scenic spots.
Established as a county in the second year of the Yongyuan era during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Fengdu is famously recognized as the “Capital of the Ghost Nation” and the “Underworld of Yin.” It is believed to be a resting place for the souls of the deceased, steeped in mystery and supernatural tales, attracting visitors intrigued by its ghostly heritage and cultural significance.
Travel Information about Fengdu Ghost City
Ticket and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: 100 yuan
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: Ming Mountain Town, Fengdu County, Chongqing
Transportation Options:
- By Ship: Ferries operate from Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing to Fengdu Dock. For the latest schedule, consult the ticket office at Chaotianmen. The journey takes approximately six hours, stopping at the old county town of Fengdu, where you can disembark directly into the scenic area.
- By Bus: Buses to Fengdu depart from the Sigongli Long-Distance Bus Station in Chongqing. After arriving at the new county town of Fengdu, transfer to local transport (Route 109) to reach the scenic area.
Attraction Ratings
- Features: ★★★★★
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★★
- Adventure: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★★
- Romance: ★★
Highlights of Fengdu Ghost City
Ming Mountain (名山)
Ming Mountain, originally named “Pingdu Mountain,” was renamed due to a poem by Su Shi during the Northern Song Dynasty that praised it as “the ancient famous mountain of Pingdu.” According to legend, during the Han Dynasty, two individuals, Yin Changsheng and Wang Fangping, practiced Taoism on Pingdu Mountain and ascended to immortality in broad daylight. This led Taoists to designate the area as one of the “Cave Heaven” or blessed places of the Taoist realm.
By the Tang Dynasty, a misunderstanding combined the surnames of “Yin” and “Wang,” creating the term “Yinwang,” which phonetically resembles “Yama,” the king of the underworld. Consequently, Ming Mountain gradually became associated with the “Yin Cao Di Fu,” or the underworld. As a result, numerous temples related to this mythology were constructed over the years.
Today, the mountain features over 30 temples and halls, including significant sites like Hengha Shrine, Baoben Hall, Naihe Bridge, and Yuhuang Hall. Visitors can also find Baizi Hall, Wuchang Hall, and Daxiong Baodian, among others. Additionally, inscriptions and poems from various historical figures, such as Su Shi, Lu You, and Fan Chengda, adorn the mountain.
Due to the construction of the Three Gorges Dam, Ming Mountain has transformed into a peninsula in the Yangtze River, allowing visitors to access it by boat for sightseeing.
Shuanggui Mountain (双桂山)
After visiting the underworld city of Ming Mountain, visitors can cross the magnificent ancient-style iron chain bridge, known as the “Yin-Yang Bridge,” which connects the two mountains and leads them to the “world of the living” at Shuanggui Mountain. Standing at over 400 meters high and covering an area of approximately one square kilometer, Shuanggui Mountain is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, dense greenery, and gently flowing streams.
The area is interspersed with winding paths that offer a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect place for exploration and reflection. Notable structures include the Confucian Temple, the Deer Call Temple, and the Su Gong Shrine. Visitors can also find various springs, such as the Yuming Spring, enhancing the serene environment.
In addition to its natural beauty, Shuanggui Mountain features several monuments dedicated to significant historical figures. These include the Enlai Pavilion, which commemorates Zhou Enlai, and the Huguo Pavilion, honoring Liu Bocheng for his early efforts in the region. There’s also the Helong Pavilion, dedicated to He Long, adding to the mountain’s rich cultural tapestry.
Hengha Temple (哼哈祠)
Hengha Temple is dedicated to the legendary figures of the Hengha Generals, who are integral to local folklore. According to the tales, the first general, Heng, known as Zheng Lun, was originally a prominent general serving under King Zhou of the Shang Dynasty. He rose to the rank of Chief Military Supervisor and became a disciple of the Daoist master Du’e Zhenren, learning a set of unique skills that made him formidable in battle. Zheng Lun possessed the ability to create a thunderous sound from his nose, emitting two beams of white light that could mesmerize and draw in the souls of his enemies.
The second general, Ha, named Chen Qi, was also a general under King Zhou. He received secret teachings from an enigmatic figure, allowing him to cultivate a powerful yellow gas within him. When he opened his mouth to unleash this energy, it surged forth and scattered the souls of his adversaries. Zheng Lun and Chen Qi famously fought against each other during the conflicts of the Zhou Dynasty, their battle marked by the resounding echoes of “one hum and one huff,” with neither emerging victorious.
After King Wu of Zhou defeated King Zhou of Shang, the revered sage Jiang Ziya returned to his homeland and conferred divinity upon both Zheng Lun and Chen Qi. They were appointed as guardians of the two mountain gates, tasked with spreading teachings and protecting sacred artifacts, ultimately becoming the deities known as the Hengha Generals. Today, Hengha Temple serves as a site of cultural significance, celebrating these figures who embody strength and protective powers.
Naihe Bridge (奈何桥)
Naihe Bridge is a renowned historical site situated halfway up Ming Mountain, within the “Ghost City” of Fengdu. Originally built as an annex to the Liaoyang Palace during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty, the bridge boasts over 500 years of history. It serves as a symbolic “bridge of judgment,” linking the realms of the living and the dead, and representing the moral balance between good and evil.
The bridge features two distinct sections: the left side, known as the Health Bridge, symbolizes a year-round blessing of health, while the right side, the Wealth Bridge, signifies an abundance of wealth each year. As visitors cross Naihe Bridge, they are invited to reflect on their lives and the choices they make, making it a profound part of the cultural landscape of Fengdu. The bridge not only connects different realms but also serves as a poignant reminder of the interplay between existence and the afterlife.
Liaoyang Palace (寥阳殿)
Liaoyang Palace originally served as a temple dedicated to the incense offerings for Zhu Chun, the King of Shu during the Ming Dynasty. Zhu Chun, known as the “Scholar of Shu,” is traditionally regarded as the eleventh son of the Hongwu Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang. He was granted the title of King of Shu in the twenty-third year of the Hongwu era (1390 AD).
Renowned for his literary and martial talents, Zhu Chun was an impressive figure, exuding the charisma of a great leader in every gesture. His exceptional abilities earned him the favor of Zhu Yuanzhang. After taking charge of Shu, he swiftly quelled the unrest caused by local factions and promoted moral education, implementing light taxes and fostering talent. His governance significantly improved the well-being of the people, leading to a period of peace and prosperity in the region, which is historically noted for enduring two hundred years without military conflict.
Hall of the Son of Heaven (天子殿)
The Hall of the Son of Heaven, facing east and originally constructed during the Western Jin Dynasty, boasts a history of over 1,600 years. The existing structure was rebuilt in the third year of the Kangxi reign (1664 AD) during the Qing Dynasty, making it more than 300 years old today. This grand hall consists of three main components: an archway, a mountain gate, and the main hall, all symmetrically arranged along a central axis.
The archway features a wooden and stone three-tiered eaves structure, while the mountain gate is adorned with a double-eaved, hip-style roof. Flanking the entrance are bell and drum towers, each capped with a four-cornered, pointed roof. The main hall itself is constructed from brick and wood, showcasing a gable roof supported by a traditional bracing system. As the heart of the ghost city, the Hall of the Son of Heaven represents the oldest building on Ming Mountain, distinguished by its impressive size, scale, and exceptional preservation.
Hall of Gratitude (报恩殿)
Originally constructed during the Republic of China period, the Hall of Gratitude was rebuilt in 1984. Inside the hall is a statue of the Bodhisattva Mulian, flanked by his disciples, Min Gong and Min Zhi. Mulian, also known as Mokuren or Mu Qianlian, was one of the ten principal disciples of Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni).
He is renowned for his immense spiritual powers, which allegedly allowed him to fly to the Trayastrimsha Heaven. Revered as the foremost practitioner of filial piety, Mulian is widely admired and worshipped, attracting a continuous stream of incense offerings throughout the year.
Hall of Wealth (财神殿)
The Hall of Wealth houses statues of two revered deities: the civil god of wealth, Bi Gan, and the martial god of wealth, Zhao Gongming. Bi Gan, the uncle of King Zhou of the Shang Dynasty, is known for his integrity and unwavering loyalty to the king. However, he was deeply troubled by the destructive influence of Daji, King Zhou’s consort, who led the king astray. Concerned about the king’s immoral behavior and tyranny, Bi Gan bravely admonished him several times, risking his life in the process. Unfortunately, his wise counsel was ignored, and he was cruelly executed by the king. To honor Bi Gan’s commitment to justice and fairness, the Hall of Wealth was established, and he was revered as the civil god of wealth.
Zhao Gongming, the martial god of wealth, is a legendary figure in Taoism. He is said to possess the power to summon thunder and lightning, control the weather, eliminate plagues, and cure diseases. Additionally, he oversees legal matters and ensures justice is served, earning him the title of a protector of the righteous and a promoter of prosperity in business. In the classic novel Investiture of the Gods, Zhao Gongming is portrayed as a deity who brings good fortune and captures fugitives. Along with his four associates, he is collectively referred to as the “Five Path Gods of Wealth,” making him a highly respected figure among the people.
Snow Jade Cave (雪玉洞)
Nestled along the left bank of Longhe Canyon, Snow Jade Cave is a stunning underground river cavern renowned for its breathtaking formations. The cave derives its name from the pristine white and jade-like quality of approximately 80% of its stalactites, earning it the title of “China’s Most Beautiful Karst Cave.”
Spanning three levels, the cave is divided into six major tour zones: “Gathering of Heroes,” “Heavenly Realm,” “Step by Step,” “Northern Scenery,” “Jade Palaces,” and “Bright Future.” Among its world-class wonders are four notable features: the largest and most abundant group of tower coral flowers (often referred to as the Terracotta Army), the crystal-clear and delicately thin Stone Flag King, a dazzling underground shield with a diameter of 4 meters, and the towering Goose Pipe King, which reaches an impressive height of 2.5 meters and stands resilient against frost and snow.
Beyond its captivating stalactite formations, Snow Jade Cave also boasts exceptionally pure and sweet water. The cave maintains a high carbon dioxide content, with temperatures consistently ranging from 16°C to 17°C, making it a location with significant therapeutic value. The high concentration of negative ions in the air is known to provide certain health benefits, particularly for respiratory conditions.
Visitor Guide for Fengdu Ghost City
Fengdu is not only famous for its historical sites but also for its mouthwatering cuisine. Here are some local specialties that you must try:
Oil Fermented Glutinous Rice (油醪糟): This dish appears dark due to the addition of sesame seeds. Made by frying peanuts and sesame in a pan to release their aroma, it is then mixed into glutinous rice balls (tangyuan). This combination enhances the naturally soft and chewy texture of the rice balls, making them even more fragrant and delicious.
Fengdu Spicy Dumplings (糊辣壳): This dish features thin-skinned, filling-packed dumplings, known as chao shou, cooked with dry red chilies that have been charred until dark. The result is a rich and aromatic flavor. The unique taste of the local “Huila Ke” chili is less spicy due to its preparation method, making it suitable even for those who are sensitive to heat.
Fengdu Jade Lamb (丰都翡翠羊肉): This dish consists of tender, juicy lamb coated with cumin and drizzled with a fresh, vibrant celery juice. Its enticing green color and spicy flavor make it a beloved homestyle dish, commonly found in many restaurants throughout Fengdu County.
Fengdu Hundred Sons Cake (丰都百子饼): Symbolizing a wish for many children and family reunions, this flaky and aromatic pastry is a staple among locals. In the Hundred Sons Hall of Fengdu Ghost City, visitors can enjoy freshly baked cakes and purchase packaged ones as perfect gifts for friends and family.
Fengdu Spicy Chicken (丰都麻辣鸡): This dish uses locally sourced free-range chicken. After thorough preparation and cooking, the chicken is drizzled with a special blend of spices, including Sichuan peppercorns, chili, and star anise. The dish is not only visually appealing with its vibrant color but also tender and spicy, making it a popular choice at specialty stores located at the entrance of Fengdu Ghost City and throughout the county.
Shopping in Fengdu
When visiting Fengdu, you’ll find a variety of unique local products that reflect the rich culture and culinary traditions of the region. Here are some must-buy items:
Fengdu Ghost Culture Spoon Paintings (丰都鬼域瓢画): This exquisite folk art captures the essence of Fengdu’s ghost culture. These paintings are typically created on naturally textured wooden spoons, featuring bizarre and exaggerated ghostly faces. The vibrant colors and bold compositions are full of imagination. Locals often hang these spoon paintings in their homes to ward off evil spirits. In 1994, the Ministry of Culture of China recognized Fengdu’s ghost spoon paintings as a “Unique Folk Art of China.”
Fengdu Xianjia Fermented Tofu (丰都仙家豆腐乳): Made from high-quality soybeans, this fermented tofu is flavored with a blend of rare Chinese herbs and spices, including white pepper and cardamom. The tofu undergoes a natural fermentation process, resulting in a rich aroma and a delicious taste. It is not only flavorful but also nutritious, containing various amino acids and vitamins, making it especially beneficial for the elderly and children by aiding digestion, stimulating appetite, enhancing memory, and promoting recovery.
Fengdu Red Heart Pomelo (丰都红心柚): This fruit is harvested in late October and boasts a rough skin, with large, juicy flesh of superior quality. The flavor is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a fragrant aroma. Currently, Fengdu’s red heart pomelos are in high demand and are sold across major cities in China, often exceeding supply.