First settled in the 1800s by missionaries and their families looking to escape sweltering Shanghai summers, Moganshan has since seen everyone from Chinese gangsters to Chiang Kai-shek and his wife Soong Mei-ling on their honeymoon in 1927. By 1910, about 300 foreigners had set up homes in Moganshan. Nowadays, it provides city dwellers with an easy escape back into nature.
Most visitors opt to spend some time hiking the mountain, located around 60 kilometers from the Zhejiang capital of Hangzhou. Local guesthouses and retreats also offer a variety of options including adventurous activities like horse riding and holistic retreats. It's busiest in the summer, but during the cooler months, Moganshan is ideal for those searching for a cozy cabin and fire to curl up next to.
Here our are tips on things to do and see during your trip to Moganshan.
1. Hike Mount Mogan
Moganshan offers numerous hiking trails that pass through bamboo forests, tea fields, and old stone houses built in the 1900s. There is an RMB80 fee to go onto the 719m high Mount Mogan, but once on it, you’ll be immersed in a cascade of mountains bedecked with bamboo and water reserves. A natural playground for hikers, cyclists and swimmers, there’s more to be explored in the 43-square-kilometer area than a weekend trip can allow for.
2. Swim in the Da Dou Wu Reservoir
Image by @aliciagarb_
Though technically forbidden — as the signs around the area warn — taking a swim in the crystal clear waters of Da Dao Wu Reservoir is the perfect way to cool down during those hot summer months. Get there by taking a short hike or grabbing a bike — most guesthouses offer them for rent.
3. Get Active at Discovery Adventures Moganshan Park
Created in part by Discovery Communications, this is the place to practice survival techniques and participate in outdoor adventure training experiences that will encourage you to learn and live a sustainable lifestyle. Programs include challenge courses, zip lines, adventure trekking and even hot air balloon rides for small and large groups. An on-site resort offers additional activities such as horseback riding, yoga and programs for younger adventurers.
discoveryadventuresmoganshan.com
4. Explore China Bamboo Sea
Sprawling throughout Anji county, the China Bamboo Sea covers 60,000 hectares and is home to the largest variety of bamboo in China, as well as numerous plants and animals. Hike the endless trails to see how many species you can spot – perhaps you’ll even cross the path of a panda. This green backdrop provided the setting for the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. It also produces 12 million commercial bamboo poles annually, ranking first in the nation.
5. Take a Dip in The Sword Pond
Also known as Jian Chi, this site is rumored to be where two swords – the Moye and Ganjian – were forged for Emperor Wu by the swordsmith Ganjang and his wife Moye under the imperial order in 770-476 BC. The name Moganshan is said to derive from the formation of these two swords. Nowadays this spot, which is filled by cascading waterfalls, makes for a refreshing dip after a long hike.
Where to Stay
naked Stables
Inviting guests to ‘relax, get active, and get naked,’ this eco-friendly sanctuary promotes a holistic approach to wellness through diet, treatments and exercise. On-site restaurants provide meals with fresh ingredients, and daily activities are endless. Go horseback riding, swim in one of three pools, pick tea, or participate in cultural and culinary events in the evenings. The supervised Kids Club allows parents to rejuvenate in the on-deck Jacuzzi...or at the central pool bar.
Le Passage Mohkan Shan
Set among the region’s scenic tea fields, this luxurious French country house offers an enchanting experience. Lounge by the spring water poolside sipping imported wines from Le Passage’s personal cellar, stroll through the antique rose garden and in the evening, curl up by wood-burning stoves with a book from the De Buffon Library. Be sure to enjoy at least one meal at The Armand David restaurant, which serves authentic French cuisine and offers cooking courses on Saturdays.
See listing for Le Passage Mohkan Shan
Forest Holiday House
Halfway up Moganshan and just a 30-minute hike from its main scenic area is Forest Holiday House, a budget option with rooms starting at RMB599 per night. Rent the whole thing out — with space for up to 20 people — for RMB5,000 a night. The two-story Chinese-European style resort is family-friendly and has a lounge area, kitchen and outdoor terrace with barbecue facilties.
Prodigy Outdoor Base
Also close to Da Dou Reservoir is Prodigy, a perfect spot for adventurous travelers on a budget. The guesthouse offers dorm beds for RMB200 per night, while standard single rooms with individual bathrooms go for RMB600 per night. You can also book the entire base for RMB6,500 per night. Prodigy offers biking, hiking, boating, farming and team building as part of its activities.
How to Get There
Moganshan is around 200 kilometers away from Shanghai. The most convenient way to reach Moganshan from Shanghai is by car, which takes around 2.5 hours. You can also opt for bus from the Old North Bus Station (80 Gongxing Lu), but the journey takes 4 hours (three buses departing at 6.30am, 11.50am, and 12.30pm daily). A faster option is the high-speed train to Hangzhou, then transfer to a taxi directly to Moganshan (a trip of 1.5 hours from Hangzhou).
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