Hello, I’m Michael Zhang, a Chinese travel enthusiast who has journeyed across six continents and developed a deep passion for exploring both history and nature. I firmly believe that truly memorable travel stems from discovering the essence of a place. Today, I invite you to explore one of Guangzhou’s most treasured destinations—Baiyun Mountain. It’s not just a mountain; it’s a rich piece of Lingnan cultural memory and a spiritual landmark for the people of Guangzhou.

Summary

About Baiyun Mountain (Guangzhou Baiyunshan Scenic Area)

Baiyun Mountain, also known as the Guangzhou Baiyunshan Scenic Area, is located at the southern tip of the Jiulian Mountain range, part of the Dayu Mountains. It features over 30 peaks and spans an area of 20.98 square kilometers. The highest peak, Moxing Ridge, rises to 382 meters. Surrounded on three sides by plains, the mountain offers exceptional views of the entire city of Guangzhou and the vast Pearl River Delta. Baiyun Mountain has long been praised as “the most beautiful scenic spot of Yangcheng (Guangzhou).” After rainfall or during sunrise and sunset, clouds often roll in and linger over the peaks, creating a dreamlike landscape of mist and soft light. This is how it earned the name “Baiyun” (White Cloud) Mountain.

  • Address: No. 801, Guangyuan Middle Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours. Walking paths are accessible all day. Cable car and electric shuttle service runs from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Suggested Visit Duration: 3–4 hours
  • Best Season to Visit: All seasons
  • Ticket Price: 5 CNY
Baiyun Mountain view with Guangzhou skyline

Baiyun Mountain Map

Baiyun Mountain hiking map and attractions

Why You Should Visit Baiyun Mountain

Rich Natural Scenery

Located in the northeastern part of Guangzhou, Baiyun Mountain is classified as an urban mountainous forest eco-park with a forest coverage rate exceeding 95%. It’s often referred to as “the first scenic beauty of Yangcheng.” With its dramatic rock formations, lush vegetation, and crisp air, the area serves as Guangzhou’s natural green lung. The mountain’s highest point, Moxing Ridge, stands at 382 meters and ranks among the tallest in Guangdong Province. After rain, clouds frequently rise from the valleys, enveloping the peaks in a mystical mist—a scene that inspired its name, “White Cloud Mountain.”

Deep Cultural Heritage

The history of Baiyun Mountain can be traced back to the Neolithic Age. During the late Qin Dynasty, a renowned scholar named Zheng Anqi chose to live here in seclusion. In the Jin Dynasty, the famous alchemist Ge Hong practiced alchemy here. In the Liang Dynasty, the monk Jingtai established temples on the mountain, leaving behind numerous historical sites. During the Tang and Song Dynasties, many literary figures—including Du Fu, Li Qunyu, and Su Shi—visited the mountain and composed timeless poetry. These layers of history and cultural richness make Baiyun Mountain a true heritage landmark.

Top Things to Do in Baiyun Mountain

Main Attractions

Moxing Ridge

As the highest peak of Baiyun Mountain, Moxing Ridge rises to 382 meters and offers the best views in the area. From the summit, you can take in a panoramic view of the Guangzhou skyline, with the Pearl River weaving through the city and the urban towers blending seamlessly with green hills. It’s especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset, making it a perfect spot for both photography and quiet contemplation.

  • Ticket: 5 CNY/person, additional ticket required.
Moxing Ridge summit sign at Baiyun Mountain

Huangpodong Reservoir

Huangpodong Reservoir lies mid-mountain and serves both ecological and aesthetic purposes. With crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding mountains and trees, this man-made lake is peaceful and full of vitality. It’s an excellent place for walking and bird-watching. Thanks to its tranquil atmosphere, it’s also a favorite among locals for meditation and Tai Chi.

Scenic view of Huangpodong Reservoir at Baiyun Mountain

Yunxi Botanical Garden

Yunxi Botanical Garden is the most scientifically and visually enriching section of Baiyun Mountain. It features typical Lingnan flora along with rare tropical and subtropical plant species. The garden is divided into themed areas such as the fern section, medicinal plant garden, and bamboo grove. It’s ideal for families with children and botany lovers seeking an educational outdoor experience.

  • Ticket: 20 CNY/person, additional ticket required.
Autumn plants and stream at Yunxi Botanical Garden

Baiyun Mountain Ticket Guide

Baiyun Mountain tickets are sold based on the gate of entry. It is highly recommended to enter through the South Gate, which is the main entrance and also the most commonly used by visitors. Other entrances may be farther away or lack sufficient facilities.

Baiyun Mountain Ticket Prices

  • Adults: 5 CNY
  • Children: 2.5 CNY (ages 6 to 18)
  • Students: 2.5 CNY (university level and below)
  • Seniors: 2.5 CNY (ages 60 to 64)
  • Free Admission: Children under 6 years old or shorter than 1.2 meters; seniors aged 65 and above

Ticket Purchase Options

  • Online: via the official WeChat account
  • Offline: available at ticket booths near each entrance

Baiyun Mountain is ideal for hiking. Below are a few suggested routes:

  • Route 1 (4–5 hours): Best for outdoor enthusiasts with good physical stamina. Enter from the South Gate and exit from the West Gate. The 10 km route takes about 4 hours, passing by the Summit Square → Moxing Ridge → Mingzhu Pavilion → Huangpodong Reservoir → Bee World. Alternatively, enter from the South Gate and exit from the North Gate, which takes 5 hours and covers 13 km.
  • Route 2 (3 hours): Ideal for families with kids or elderly travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace. Enter through the South Gate and exit from either the South or West Gate. Take the sightseeing bus or cable car (3.2 km, 15 minutes) to Summit Square → walk around Jiulong Spring / Stele Forest → take the elevator up to Moxing Ridge (1 hour) → take the Yunshan D Line (10 CNY, 2 km, 10 minutes) back to Summit Square → take Yunshan A Line to return to the South Gate (20 CNY) or B Line + C Line to exit via West Gate (total 30 CNY).
  • Route 3 (2 hours): Designed for those wanting a quicker experience focused on the reservoir area. Enter and exit through the West Gate. Note: this route does not reach Moxing Ridge. Take the Yunshan C Line shuttle (3 km, 10 minutes) to Mingzhu Pavilion → explore Huangpodong Reservoir (1 hour) → return via the same shuttle to the West Gate.

There are several restaurants located near Summit Square on Baiyun Mountain. In addition to local Chinese cuisine, you’ll also find familiar options like KFC and McDonald’s.

If you want convenient access to Baiyun Mountain, it is best to stay near Yuexiu District. Yuexiu suits most travelers and is especially convenient if you stay near the “Gongyuanqian” metro station. This area connects to Metro Lines 1 and 2, making it easy to reach most of Guangzhou’s top attractions and offering plenty of dining options. It is also close to the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, Sacred Heart Cathedral, and Pearl River Night Cruise Pier. Reaching Canton Tower, Guangzhou Opera House, the Guangdong Museum, and Baiyun Mountain is also very convenient. Additionally, transportation to and from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is easy. For a more detailed hotel guide, check out the Guangzhou Hotel Recommendation.

CityNote Sino Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Memorial Hall Metro Station)

CityNote Sino Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Memorial Hall Metro Station)
  • Location: 5-minute walk to Memorial Hall Metro Station, 10-minute walk to Yuanquian Metro Station.
  • Price Range: 349 RMB
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: 4.6 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, triple rooms

Excellently situated near the A exit of Memorial Hall Metro Station. Starbucks and 7-11 are right downstairs, providing great convenience for accessing Beijing Road, Chen Clan Academy, and other attractions either by walking or a short taxi ride. Additionally, it’s a direct ride from Guangzhou South Station on Metro Line 2 without any transfers.

The rooms are satisfactory and comfortable. Although small, they are fully equipped with all necessary amenities. Delicious late-night porridge is also available.

Ying Shang Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Pedestrian Street)

Ying Shang Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Pedestrian Street)
  • Location: 9 minutes walk from Yuanquian Metro Station
  • Price Range: 350 RMB
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.7 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, robot room service

The hotel is well positioned near Gongyuanqian Metro Station, nestled in a quiet area despite its proximity to the lively surroundings. Directly opposite the Yuexiu District People’s Government. Attractions like Beijing Road, People’s Park, and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall are nearby, with the South Vietnam King Museum just a 10-minute walk away. The metro is also within short walking distance, with numerous dining options available just downstairs.

The hotel maintains a clean and orderly environment. The rooms are not only clean and odor-free but also offer a tranquil atmosphere that allows guests to quickly escape the hustle and bustle. Additionally, the breakfast is quite extensive and the service is exceptionally attentive.

Guangdong Guest House

Guangdong Guest House
  • Location: 8 minutes walk from Yuanquian Metro Station, 12 minutes walk from Memorial Hall Metro Station
  • Price Range: 591 RMB
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.8 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, paid indoor swimming pool, triple rooms, family rooms

The Guangdong Guest House, situated on the site of a former royal residence, boasts a rich historical heritage. It is conveniently located for taxis and also near a metro station for those concerned about traffic. The hotel is also a short walk, approximately fifteen minutes, from Beijing Road Pedestrian Street.

Although the hotel’s exterior shows its age, the rooms are newly refurbished, spacious, and very clean. The beds and pillows are particularly comfortable. The hotel’s restaurant offers excellent dishes, especially the traditional Guangzhou morning tea.

How to Get to Baiyun Mountain from Downtown Guangzhou

Since the South Gate is the main and most commonly used entrance, it’s recommended to use the following routes to reach it from the city center. Take Metro Line 11 and get off at Yuntai Garden Station. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the South Gate entrance.

By Metro

From downtown Guangzhou, take Metro Line 1 to Chen Clan Academy, then transfer to Line 8 and get off at Caihongqiao. From there, transfer to Line 11 and get off at Yuntai Garden. Exit from Exit A, and walk 15 minutes to the South Gate.

By Bus

Several public bus lines stop near the South Gate of Baiyun Mountain. You can take Bus 24 or Tourist Bus Line 1 and get off at the Yuntai Garden Terminal.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing App

Taking a taxi from central Guangzhou to Baiyun Mountain takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately 30 CNY.

FAQ

Is Baiyun Mountain suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes. If you’re using a stroller or wheelchair, follow the same routes used by the electric shuttle buses for easier access uphill.

Where can I store luggage?

At the main South Gate entrance, there is a self-service luggage locker area on the left. Small lockers cost 10 CNY/24 hours, and large lockers cost 20 CNY/24 hours. The large lockers can fit suitcases up to 24 inches.

Essential Guangzhou Travel Resources