Bushaoshan Mountain Stone Forest, Kunming
Introduction to Bushaoshan Mountain Stone Forest
Bushaoshan Mountain (步哨山) is located to the east of the Grand Stone Forest (大石林) and south of the Small Stone Forest (小石林) within the renowned Stone Forest Scenic Area (石林风景区) in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming, Yunnan Province. The mountain is bordered by East Forest Ring Road, extending in a north-south direction in a strip-like formation. The mountain’s landform is characterized by an eastern slope platform of the Grand Stone Forest’s karst eroded depression.
The name “Bushaoshan” (步哨山) originated from the late Qing Dynasty, when the Yi people’s rebel army leader, Zhao Fa (赵发), stationed troops here and established sentry patrols on the mountain. With an elevation of 1,796.7 meters, Bushaoshan Mountain is nearly 50 meters higher than Wangfeng Pavilion (望峰亭) in the Grand Stone Forest, making it the highest point within the Stone Forest Scenic Area. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of vast forests, whispering pines, and scattered stone pillars.
Key Attractions in Bushaoshan Mountain
- The Five Stone Gates of Bushaoshan (步哨五石门): A unique stone formation resembling five gates.
- Bushaoshan Pine Waves (步哨松涛): A scenic area filled with dense pine trees, creating a beautiful contrast with the stone formations.
Within the Bushaoshan area, there are numerous towering stone pillars and sharp peaks, offering a remarkable stone forest landscape. Additionally, the area contains giant marine fossils, such as gastropods and coral fossils, which tell the story of the vibrant marine life that flourished in this region 270 million years ago when it was part of an ancient seabed.
Hiking and Exploration Experience
A small trail on the roadside leads into the Bushaoshan Stone Forest. Notable spots include the Stone Prison (石监狱), the Council Hall (议事厅), and the Skyline Crack (一线天). These areas are often less crowded compared to the Grand and Small Stone Forests, allowing visitors to enjoy photography and leisurely exploration at their own pace. Many find Bushaoshan Mountain even more interesting due to its solitude and peaceful atmosphere.
Visitors are often drawn to the mountain’s highest point, offering even more breathtaking views than those from the popular Wangfeng Pavilion. While Wangfeng Pavilion is a must-see on guided tours, the view from the top of Bushaoshan Mountain provides a more impressive and less frequented perspective.
Climbing Bushaoshan Mountain
Despite the remoteness of the area, Bushaoshan Mountain is relatively easy to climb. Visitors can enjoy wandering among the uniquely shaped stone peaks, which are scattered across the highest terrain within the entire Stone Forest. It’s a peaceful spot, often devoid of crowds, allowing for a tranquil and reflective experience in nature.
From the summit of Bushaoshan, visitors can gaze over the surrounding stone formations and landscapes, gaining a sense of accomplishment after the quick climb. For those with the physical stamina, ascending Bushaoshan Mountain is well worth the effort for the incredible views and solitude it offers.
Travel Tips
- Recommended Duration: 1-3 hours
- Opening Hours: 07:30-17:30 (Open year-round from January 1 to December 31)
- Location: Within the Stone Forest Scenic Area (石林风景区), on the east side, in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming, Yunnan Province.
Notable Quotes and Inscriptions:
While exploring the mountain, some visitors may come across an old sign that has been marked with various scratches and complaints about the management of the area. One example reads: “They only informed us upon arrival that climbing was prohibited due to poor management, with no prior warning.”
From the summit, visitors can truly appreciate the view, feeling as though they can overlook all other mountains from this elevated perspective: “One glance from Bushaoshan, and all the mountains seem small!” (一览众山小)
Bushaoshan may not be a tall mountain, but it offers quick and rewarding hikes. For those with the strength and desire to explore, a journey up Bushaoshan reveals captivating and curious stone peaks, which form the highest terrain within the entire Stone Forest area.
Attractions Listed:
- Bushaoshan Mountain (步哨山)
- Grand Stone Forest (大石林)
- Small Stone Forest (小石林)
- Wangfeng Pavilion (望峰亭)
- The Five Stone Gates of Bushaoshan (步哨五石门)
- Bushaoshan Pine Waves (步哨松涛)
- Stone Prison (石监狱)
- Council Hall (议事厅)
- Skyline Crack (一线天)
