Dear traveler, if you come to Hangzhou, don’t just sail across West Lake. There’s another way to touch the city’s soul—climb Baoshi Mountain (宝石山), also known as Precious Stone Hill. This quiet ridge north of the lake is more than a viewpoint. It’s a cultural treasure filled with legends, stone pathways, and timeless charm. In this Baoshi Mountain Hiking Guide, I’ll take you step by step into its serenity and beauty, just like a local friend leading you along hidden trails.
1. The History and Legends of Baoshi Mountain
The name Baoshi Mountain, or Precious Stone Hill, does not only come from ordinary rocks. Instead, it begins with a legend. Long ago, a phoenix flew across West Lake carrying a glittering gem. As it soared above the northern shore, the gem slipped from its beak. It fell into the hills and transformed into the mountain itself.
Even today, the story feels alive. At sunset, the red grains in the rhyolite glow like fire. The rocks shimmer as if covered in jewels. Locals call this sight Precious Stone Hill Floating in the Rosy Cloud (宝石流霞), one of West Lake’s celebrated Ten Scenes.
However, the mountain’s spirit is tied to a real figure—Ge Hong (葛洪), a Daoist master from the Eastern Jin dynasty. He was a philosopher, an alchemist, and a doctor. Legends say he lived here in seclusion, building a hut at Ge Ling (葛岭) in the west of Baoshi Mountain. He searched for immortality and wrote his masterpiece, Baopuzi (抱朴子). Because of him, the hill still carries an air of mysticism.
Next comes another tale, softer and more tender. At the foot of the ridge stands Baochu Pagoda (保俶塔). The people of the Wuyue Kingdom built it to pray for their king, Qian Hongchu (钱弘俶), who had been summoned to Bianjing. They longed for his safe return. The pagoda’s name, “Baochu,” reflects that wish. First raised over a thousand years ago, it was rebuilt in 1933, and its graceful silhouette still rises proudly today.
Finally, I climbed toward Toad Peak (蛤蟆峰), the rocky platform at the summit. From here, the view swept in all directions. I saw the Broken Bridge, the White Causeway, and the wide waters of West Lake. The wind was cool, the horizon endless. Every legend, every stone, seemed to whisper as I stood there.
2. Baoshi Mountain Hiking Route: Two Paths, Two Moods
Baoshi Mountain, or Precious Stone Hill, is full of winding trails. I explored many, but two stood out. Each one offered a different pace and a different mood.
Route One: A Quick Glimpse of West Lake
This path is perfect if time is short. It is direct, efficient, and leads straight to the most breathtaking view. I started from Beishan Road, also known as Beishan Street (北山街) .
Running between Baoshi Mountain and the northern Inner West Lake, Beishan Road is a 3-km asphalt road that starts at the Broken Bridge.
At Beishan Road (北山路), I turned onto the Baochu Pagoda Front Hill Road (保俶塔前山路). Instantly, the city noise faded. Green trees wrapped around me, and stone steps guided my climb.
Soon I spotted a cozy corner—the “Innocent Age Book Café.” (纯真年代书吧). It was the perfect place for tea and a quiet pause before moving on.
Next, the elegant Baochu Pagoda (保俶塔) appeared. Slim and graceful, it reminded me of a quiet young woman watching over the lake. Built during the Five Dynasties and restored in 1933, it still stands tall at 45 meters. Its brick structure, shaped like a wooden tower, has guarded this hill for centuries.
However, the real climax of this route waited ahead at Toad Peak (蛤蟆峰). The last section demanded both hands and feet on the rocks, so non-slip shoes were essential.
Then, suddenly, the summit opened before me. The entire West Lake unfolded like a painting—Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, and the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon stretched across the water. Far in the distance, modern Hangzhou rose against the sky.
Finally, I sat down on the stone platform. The lake breeze brushed my face. Boats drifted below, their ripples catching the sunlight. The whole world seemed to pause.
Tip: The climb takes around 30 minutes. The return by the same route is easy and relaxing.
Route Two: A Deeper Journey Through Culture and Nature
If you crave more than a quick view, this Baoshi Mountain Hiking Route is for you. It offers history, Daoist culture, and endless scenery.
I began at the Huanglong Cave (黄龙洞) entrance. The path here felt quieter, shaded by thick bamboo groves. Stone steps twisted upward, each turn leading me deeper into the forest.
First, I reached the tomb of Niu Gao 牛皋 (1087 – 1147) . He was a Southern Song general who fought bravely against the Jin under General Yue Fei. Standing before his resting place, I paused. The silence of the pines seemed to echo his courage.
Next, I climbed toward the Sunrise Terrace (初阳台). Legends say Ge Hong (葛洪) once absorbed the essence of the sun here.
Today, it’s simply a perfect spot for dawn views. Even at midday, I felt the energy of this open ledge. From Sunrise Terrace, you can enjoy sweeping views of West Lake and catch the sunrise over the water.
Soon, the trail guided me to Baopu Daoist Temple (抱朴道院), hidden on Ge Ling’s slope. Yellow walls and black tiles rose among ancient trees. Incense drifted in the air. Inside, I imagined Ge Hong refining elixirs centuries ago. The temple felt timeless, a quiet refuge from the city below.
Then, I walked up along the trail and followed the main path east. The calm suddenly opened into vast horizons at Toad Peak. I hauled myself up Toad Peak, using both hands and feet.
The climb was hard, but every step was worth it. The lake glittered below, the city stretched beyond. Here, history met the present in one sweeping view.
Finally, I visited Baochu Pagoda once more. From there, I descended along Baochu Pagoda Front Hill Trail back to Beishan Road. The path ended at the Broken Bridge, just in time for West Lake’s golden sunset.
Tip: This route takes about two hours. Some steps are steep and rugged. Save your energy, and let Baoshishan reveal its layers slowly.
3. How to Reach the Trailheads
Finding the start of each Baoshi Mountain Hiking Route is simple once you know where to go.
First, for the shorter route, I headed to Baochu Pagoda Front Hill Road (保俶塔前山路). I took Metro Line 2 and exited at Fengqi Road Station, Exit B. Next, I walked about 20 minutes along Beishan Street on the northern edge of the West Lake. Soon, I spotted a clear sign pointing to the entrance. The city slowly faded behind me, and the mountain path waited ahead.
For the deeper route, the journey was even easier. I took Metro Line 3 and left at Huanglong Cave Station, Exit D. Then I walked forward for only 250 meters. A bold trail sign stood there, marking the way into the woods.
Both paths were easy to reach, yet each promised a very different mood. Whether quick or slow, Baoshi Mountain always felt just a step away from Hangzhou’s busy streets.
3. Baoshi Mountain Hiking Tips for Foreign Travelers
Let me share a few things I learned on my hike. These Baoshi Mountain Hiking Tips might make your journey smoother.
First, the mountain itself is always open, and it’s free. However, Baopu Daoist Temple has set hours—8:00 to 17:00. The ticket is only 5 yuan, and it’s absolutely worth visiting.
Next, safety is important. Wear shoes with good grip. When I climbed Toad Peak, the rocks were smooth, and sturdy soles gave me confidence. In addition, dress lightly. Breathable clothes will keep you comfortable on the stairs. Don’t forget mosquito repellent. In summer, the forest hums with insects.
Meanwhile, carry water and small snacks. A short pause with a sip or bite can refresh you more than you think.
Timing also matters. I suggest hiking on a sunny day. The lake sparkles best under blue skies. For the most magical moment, reach Toad Peak between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m. The golden light before sunset wraps West Lake in romance.
Finally, take care of this mountain. Carry your trash back down. Leave only footprints and keep Baoshi Mountain just as beautiful for the next traveler.
Hiking Baoshi Mountain, or Precious Stone Hill, was far more than exercise. It felt like a conversation with history and a gentle embrace from nature. Standing on Toad Peak, I watched West Lake flow quietly through centuries. At that moment, I understood why Ge Hong once sought immortality here.
Finally, as the sun dipped low, the rocks glowed red—Precious Stone Hill Floating in the Rosy Cloud. That sight was pure magic, a timeless gift from Hangzhou. So, pack your shoes, climb, and claim your own moment of wonder.
Further Reading
🌟Further Reading
Hangzhou Travel Guide: Map, Highlights, Food, Transport & Tips
How to Book Hangzhou Attraction Tickets: All You Need to Know
West Lake, Hangzhou: Walking Route, Map & Must-See Highlights
Feilai Feng Grottoes: Map, Walking Route & Highlights
Baoshi Mountain: Hiking Route, Map & Must-See Highlights
Xiling Seal Art Society: Map, Walking Route & Highlights
Hupao Spring: Walking Route, Map & Must-See Highlights
Liuhe Pagoda: Map, Walking Route and Highlights
How to Visit Hangzhou – Your Complete Guide
The Best Hangzhou Tour Itinerary
Best Places to See Fall Colors in Hangzhou
