The entrance of the Fenghuang Mountain Forest Park. File photos

With warm spring days and clear skies, Shenzhen has entered the perfect season for outdoor adventures. A standout destination is Fenghuang Mountain in Bao'an District—known as "Bao'an's No. 1 Mountain." Its main peak, Feiyunding, also marks the starting point of the Kunpeng Trail, making it a favorite among hikers seeking both natural beauty and cultural charm.

A mountain steeped in blessings

Fenghuang Mountain is often described as a "land of blessings," a spirit embodied by Fengyan Ancient Temple. Built over 700 years ago by descendants of Wen Tianxiang, the famed Southern Song (1127–1279)patriot, it is one of Shenzhen's oldest temples. Visitors frequently stop here to pray and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

People enjoy hiking on Fenghuang Mountain.

Trails for every pace

For a gentle hike, the Bufu Ancient Trail offers a scenic route lined with stone steps carved with the character fu (fortune, 福). Shaded and gently sloped, it is ideal for casual walkers. More adventurous visitors can explore the park's wild trails—dirt paths through the woods and streams that invite quiet exploration. Safety is key: Wear sturdy shoes and avoid undeveloped areas.

Fengyan Ancient Temple

The hike from the mountain base to Fengyan Ancient Temple takes about 20 minutes. The route is lush and green throughout—cool, comfortable, and filled with fresh air.

In front of the temple lies a clear pond, while behind it is a "Fairy Well." Poems by literati are inscribed on the surrounding rocks. From Wanghai Tower, visitors can take in a panoramic view of the mountain's emerald landscape.

Locals say prayers for romance and relationships here are especially effective, and some visitors come specifically to worship. Deeper within the temple complex is a wish corridor, where people hang wish cards high above, believing that their hopes will come true.

Feiyunding: A view across Bao'an

Continuing from Fengyan Ancient Temple brings you to the final destination: Feiyunding.

Upon reaching the summit, the horizon opens up. This is the starting point of the Kunpeng Trail, and the Fenghuang Trail also begins here.

From the viewpoint, Bao'an's cityscape spreads out below with no obstructions. In the foreground, forests layer from dark to light green, rolling toward the mountain's base. Beyond, clusters of buildings stretch into the distance, with hints of the sea shimmering on the horizon.

With the city on one side and the mountains on the other, the effort of the hike fades away, replaced by a relaxing moment in the spring breeze.

Location: Fenghuang Mountain Forest Park (凤凰山森林公园)

Hours: 6 a.m.–6 p.m.

Transport: Take Metro Line 11 to Tangwei Station (塘尾站) or Fuyong Station (福永站), then take a taxi or bus to the entrance.

An aerial view of Fenghuang Ancient Village.

Fenghuang Ancient Village

At the foot of Fenghuang Mountain lies Fenghuang Ancient Village, with a history of more than 700 years. As early as the late Song (960–1279) to early Yuan (1271–1368) period, the village already existed. Today, it remains one of Shenzhen's best-preserved ancient villages, with the greatest number of ancient buildings and the largest area.

Blue-brick lanes and old-style courtyards still form the village's pulse. Ancient wells, oyster-shell walls, and intricate brick and wood carvings can be found throughout. Walking through the streets feels like stepping into a time capsule: Time moves outside, but here it slows down.

The village contains 360 residential buildings from the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties, along with five private schools, 12 ancestral halls, and 12 ancient wells scattered across the area.

The original residents were descendants of Wen Tianxiang, a Chinese national hero of the Southern Song Dynasty. A memorial hall dedicated to him, though small, clearly recounts his life. Next to it stands the Wenchang Pagoda, over 200 years old and considered a representative tower structure in Shenzhen. If you pass by, it is well worth a visit.

The village is also home to several other historic sites, each steeped in history—evoking a sense of stepping back 700 years.

Location: Fenghuang Ancient Village (凤凰古村)

Transport: Take Metro Line 11 to Tangwei Station (Exit B), then take a taxi. Alternatively, take bus M252 or M251 to Fenghuang Community Bus Stop (凤凰社区公交站).

Note: Some buildings are privately owned. Please do not enter without permission.