Tianma Mountain, located in Songjiang District, Shanghai, is the highest peak among the Sheshan Nine Peaks and Twelve Mountains, with an elevation of approximately 100.23 meters, and it is also the highest point on Shanghai’s land.
This mountain is named for its shape, which resembles a celestial horse spreading its wings to fly. Tianma Mountain boasts beautiful natural scenery and high forest coverage, making it a tranquil spot in the suburbs of Shanghai, suitable for tourists to climb, hike, and explore historical sites.
Image from the internet
Reservation and Opening Hours:
- From May 1st to October 7th: Open from 08:30 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:00).
- From October 8th to April 30th: Open from 08:30 to 16:30 (last entry at 16:00).
Ticket Information:
- Adult ticket: 10 RMB per person.
- Student ticket: 5 RMB per person.
- Senior ticket: 5 RMB per person (for those aged 60 and above).
- Children: Free for those under 1.4 meters.
- Other preferential policies: Retired officers, retired military officers, active-duty military personnel, martyrs’ families, disabled persons, and military personnel can enter for free with valid identification.
Image from the internet
Transportation Guide:
- It is recommended to drive to the destination and navigate to the East Gate of Tianma Mountain. The park does not have a parking lot, so you will need to find a convenient place to park along the road.
- Public transportation: You can take the Metro Line 9 to Dongjing Station, then transfer to the Songjiang Bus No. 96 to Tianma Mountain Bus Station, and then walk approximately 1.3 kilometers to arrive.
Hiking Routes:
- Currently, Tianma Mountain Park is only accessible through the East Gate. The mountain climbing stone steps lead directly to the summit with a relatively gentle slope.
- There are several trails on the mountain, it is recommended to follow the signs to avoid getting lost.
Image from the internet
Attractions Recommended:
- Bao Zang Guang Pagoda: This ancient pagoda was built during the Northern Song Dynasty and is famous for its unique tilt, which exceeds that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. Despite its tilt, the pagoda has stood firm for thousands of years and is a landmark of Tianma Mountain.
- Ancient Ginkgo Tree: Next to the Bao Zang Guang Pagoda, there is an ancient ginkgo tree with a history of over 700 years. The tree has a thick trunk and lush foliage, making it another highlight of the mountain.
- San Gaoshi Cultural Memorial Garden: Built to commemorate the famous Yuan Dynasty literati Yang Weizhen, Qian Weishan, and Lu Juren, the garden features pavilions, towers, and cultural landscapes such as inscriptions and carvings.
- Shangfeng Temple Site and Bronze Guanyin Statue: Located at the highest peak of Tianma Mountain, although the temple no longer exists, the bronze Guanyin statue is still enshrined here.
- Dance Sword Platform and Yuansheng Building: Located on the west side of the mountain, it is a flat area and is said to be the place where ancient people danced with swords.
Sightseeing Suggestions:
- It is recommended to spend 2-3 hours for the visit, taking your time to appreciate the natural scenery along the way.
- There are no shops on the mountain, so it is advisable to bring some snacks and water with you.
- In the summer, be aware that there are many mosquitoes when hiking, so it is recommended to prepare mosquito repellent.
Image from the internet
Precautions:
- Dress Appropriately: It is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities to maintain comfort while climbing.
- Carry Essentials: Since there are no shops on the mountain, it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Also, carry sunblock, a sun hat, rain gear, etc., according to the weather conditions.
- Mosquito Protection: There may be mosquitoes on the mountain, so it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent or wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants.
- Safety First: Please pay attention to safety while climbing, follow the signs and warning signs within the scenic area, and avoid entering unopened or dangerous areas.
- Protect the Environment: Please do not litter and protect the natural environment. Take your waste back or put it in designated trash bins.
- Respect Cultural Relics: Tianma Mountain has many historical relics, please respect these cultural heritages and do not climb or damage ancient buildings and cultural relics.
- Be Aware of Opening Hours: Please visit within the opening hours, comply with the closing time of the scenic area, and ensure you have enough time to safely descend the mountain.
- Monitor Weather Changes: Check the weather forecast before going out to avoid visiting in adverse weather conditions.
- Elderly and Children: For the elderly and children, it is recommended to have family members accompany them and arrange the itinerary according to their physical condition.
- Emergency Situations: Be aware of the emergency contact numbers and rescue information of the scenic area, so you can seek help in time in case of an emergency.
- Reservation and Ticket Purchase: During peak periods, it may be necessary to make reservations or purchase tickets in advance, so please check the relevant information in advance and be prepared.
- Follow Scenic Area Regulations: Please comply with all the regulations of the scenic area, including no smoking, no pets allowed, etc.