Abode of Immortals (Shenxianju): journey to the world of celestial beings
Deep in Zhejiang province, in Xianju County (which translates as "abode of immortals"), lies Shenxianju National Park (神仙居) — one of the most impressive places in Eastern China. Fantastic rock formations seemingly floating in the clouds, glass bridges over thousand-meter abysses, ancient Taoist legends, and incredible sunsets – this place is rightly called the "Abode of Immortals". In this article, I'll tell you everything you need to know about the trip: how to get there from Shanghai, what to see, when to go, and how much it costs.
🏯 Legend and history
According to legend, it was in these mountains that Taoist sages sought immortality. Emperor Zhenzong of the Song dynasty named the area "Xianju" — a place where immortals reside. The famous Tang dynasty poet Li Bai, in his poem "Dreaming of a Journey to the Heavenly Mountain Tiantai", praised the very views we can see today. The rocks themselves keep secrets: on one wall, researchers found mysterious signs resembling "tadpoles" — they were long thought to be ancient writing, but turned out to be natural patterns. Mystery and beauty have been intertwined here forever.
🌟 Main wonders of the park
Ruyi Bridge (如意桥)
A 130‑meter curved bridge resembling a jade ruyi scepter, a symbol of wish fulfillment. A blend of steel, wood and glass at a height of 140 meters. Designed by the team that built Beijing's "Bird's Nest".
Guanyin Peak
A natural rock 919 meters high, whose silhouette resembles the bodhisattva of mercy. It is the tallest freestanding pillar in the park, especially beautiful at dawn.
"Buddha's Reflection on the Lotus"
An artificial platform with a mirror effect and artificial mist. Creates the illusion of walking in the heavens. One of the most photographed spots.
Nantian Sky Platform
A glass floor jutting out over the abyss. Adrenaline and panoramic views for hundreds of kilometers. A must for the brave!
🚡 How to get there ("hassle-free ascent")
Shenxianju is unique in that reaching the summit is comfortable. Two modern cable cars (Nantian and Beihai) and even escalators built into the cliffs allow you to get up in just 15–20 minutes. This is ideal for families with children and those who dislike long treks. However, the walking trails on top are truly thrilling: they run along the edges of cliffs, connecting all the key points.
• By train: from Shanghai Hongqiao station to Jinyunxiandu station (~2 hours), then a 40 min taxi (≈150 yuan).
• By car: G15 expressway, travel time about 3 hours. There is a large parking lot at the entrance.
• With a guide: we can arrange a transfer with Russian-speaking accompaniment — a full day hassle‑free.
📅 Best time to visit
The park is beautiful at any time of year, but the most magical months are April–May and September–October. During these periods the weather is mild, there are fewer rains, and mornings often bring fog that creates the illusion of floating islands. In winter, the rocks are covered with frost, and in summer the coolness of the peaks provides relief. Tip: arrive at opening time (7:30‑8:00) to avoid crowds and catch the best light.
🍜 Local cuisine: what to try
Xianju County is famous for its gastronomic traditions. At the cafés on the summit and in the villages at the foot, be sure to order:
- "Eight Bowls" (八大碗) — a set of eight hearty dishes: lotus seeds, bamboo shoots, braised meat, fish, and more.
- "Dongkuai" waxberry — a huge sweet berry (local superfruit), ripens in June. Locals say: "Eat three hundred berries and you'll stay in Xianju".
- Yong'an River fish — tender fillet steamed to perfection.
🗺️ Trail map (clickable)
Click on the map to enlarge. Main trails and cable cars are marked in red.
🎒 Practical tips
- Footwear: only comfortable hiking sneakers – the trails are long, though relatively flat.
- Clothing: even in summer it's windy at the top, so bring a windbreaker. Sunscreen and a hat are mandatory.
- Food and water: there are cafés on site (noodles, rice), but prices are about 30% higher. We recommend bringing a thermos and light snacks.
- Tickets: entrance + round‑trip cable car is about 289¥ (approx. $40). The Nantian glass platform is an extra 99¥.
- Photography: the best light on Ruyi Bridge is after 2 p.m. Guanyin Peak is best shot in the morning, when the sun hits its front.
- Connectivity: 4G works great, no cash needed – Alipay/WeChat Pay are accepted everywhere.
⏱️ Sample one‑day itinerary (from Shanghai)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from hotel in Shanghai (car/train) |
| 10:00 | Arrival at South Gate, purchase tickets |
| 10:30 | Nantian cable car ascent (10 minutes) |
| 11:00 – 15:00 | Walk along the summit: Ruyi Bridge, Guanyin Peak, Buddha's Reflection platform, lunch |
| 15:30 | Descent by cable car or on foot (optional) |
| 16:00 | Departure back to Shanghai |
| 19:30 | Arrival in Shanghai, end of program |
🎬 Video: Flight over the Abode of Immortals
• Basic option (help with tickets, train + taxi) — from $350 per group of 1‑3 persons.
• By car (sedan, guide‑driver) — from $450 per group up to 3 persons.
Entrance tickets and meals are paid separately. It is possible to stay overnight at a hotel near the park if desired.
Shenxianju is more than just a park. It is a journey into a world where reality intertwines with legend, and every bridge or rock holds a thousand‑year history. If you want to see China not only through its skyscrapers but also its soul – be sure to visit the Abode of Immortals. Write to us on Telegram or WhatsApp, and we will arrange an ideal trip without any worries.