Baota Mountain

Address Baotashan Subdistrict, Baota District, Yan'an, Shaanxi
Hours 07:30–19:00 (summer) 08:00–18:00 (winter)
Phone +86 911 211 3735
Announcement: Revolutionary history, Iconic landmark
Entrance Entry ticket...
Hours 07:30–19:00 (summe...
Best Season April–May and September–October for mild weather. Evening light makes the pagoda glow over Yan’an.
Time needed 1.5-2h
Last visit: May 22, 2026
Author: Jian Zhao
Reviewer: Lijuan Zhao

Baota Mountain Travel Guide

Baota Mountain Overview

A landmark of Yan'an and a symbol of the revolutionary sacred site. Climb the pagoda for a panoramic view of Yan'an.

Baota Mountain Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 07:30–19:00 (summer) 08:00–18:00 (winter)
  • Best season: April–May and September–October for mild weather. Evening light makes the pagoda glow over Yan’an.
  • Ticket note: Entry ticket required; climb to the pagoda interior requires a separate ticket....

Essential Baota Mountain Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 911 211 3735
  • Parking lot
  • restrooms
  • visitor center
  • shuttle cart service
  • tea houses
  • souvenir shops

How to Get to Baota Mountain

- In Yan’an city, take bus K13, K7, or tourist Line 1 to Baota Mountain stop. - Taxi from Yan’an railway station: ~15 min, about ¥15.

Baota Mountain Travel Safety & Advice

Police 110, Ambulance 120. Staff and security on the hill; first-aid kit at the visitor center.

Practical Info

  • Baotashan Subdistrict, Baota District, Yan'an, Shaanxi
  • 07:30–19:00 (summer) 08:00–18:00 (winter)
  • +86 911 211 3735
Jian Zhao
Jian Zhao
Certified Master Tour Guide
Jian Zhao, a Xi’an-based Certified Master Tour Guide, specializes in Northwest China itineraries covering the Terracotta Warriors, Hexi Corridor, and Mogao Caves.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

☆☆☆☆☆ (0 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • Entry ticket required; climb to the pagoda interior requires a separate ticket....

Online booking may be required

Tips

A trip here pairs well with the revolutionary memorial sites across the river. Avoid peak Chinese holidays for a quieter climb.

Reality Check

  • - The pagoda is the top attraction in Yan’an and can get very busy by late morning.
  • - Access up the hill involves many steps; there is a paid shuttle cart for a less strenuous visit.
  • - Climbing the pagoda interior costs extra and space is tight – not for those with claustrophobia.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Baota Mountain

Find Your Perfect Stay Near Baota Mountain

Hong Ma 2026-05-25

Worried about finding a comfortable, authentic place to stay near Baota Mountain? This guide cuts through the noise with specific hotel names, honest reviews on Wi-Fi and breakfast, and clear advice on choosing the right area for your trip.

Top Attractions Near Baota Mountain

Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River Wonder of the Yellow River

Hukou Waterfall of the Yellow River

The world's largest yellow waterfall. The Yellow River rushes here, the mouth na...

Yan'an 2026-05-22
Wave Valley (Longzhou Danxia) Danxia Geological Park

Wave Valley (Longzhou Danxia)

A geological wonder in Jingbian County featuring swirling red sandstone formatio...

Yulin 2026-05-22
Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor No. 1 Mausoleum under Heaven

Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor

The tomb of Xuanyuan, the Yellow Emperor, the ancestor of the Chinese nation. An...

Yan'an 2026-05-22
Dangjia Village Architectural Museum

Dangjia Village

Described as a 'Living Fossil of Ancient Dwellings,' this village showcases incr...

Weinan 2026-05-22
Yuhua Palace Ruins Historical, Cultural, Summer retreat

Yuhua Palace Ruins

A summer palace for Tang Dynasty emperors, and the place where the monk Xuanzang...

Tongchuan 2026-05-22
Chenlu Ancient Town Pottery Capital of the East

Chenlu Ancient Town

A legendary 'living fossil' of ceramic history, this hillside town is renowned f...

Tongchuan 2026-05-22
Qiachuan Scenic Area Popular / Wetland / Hot Spring

Qiachuan Scenic Area

The largest hot spring lake wetland in the Yellow River basin, known as the 'Bir...

Weinan 2026-05-22
Zhaojin-Xiangshan Scenic Area Red Landmark & Danxia Peaks

Zhaojin-Xiangshan Scenic Area

A destination combining the 'Red Tourism' history of the Zhaojin Revolution with...

Tongchuan 2026-05-22

Recent Reviews

☆☆☆☆☆ (0)
No reviews yet. Be the first to share.

Leave a Review

Baota Mountain Travel FAQ

Is street food safe around Baota Mountain, especially for foreigners with sensitive stomachs?
Generally, yes, if you pick busy stalls. The key is heat—food cooked fresh and served hot is low-risk. I've eaten at dozens of stalls and only had one minor issue from a questionable meat skewer. Stick to noodles, dumplings, and items you see being prepared on the spot. Avoid pre-cut fruit salads. Carry hand sanitizer.
How do I handle the spice if I'm not used to it?
Start with Yan'an Liangpi—it's more sour than spicy. When ordering, say qing wei (light flavor) or bu fang lajiao (no chili). Most places have vinegar on the table; adding it can balance heat. If you get overwhelmed, a bottle of local yogurt drink (suannai) helps cool the mouth.
Can I use credit cards or mobile pay at local eateries?
Mobile pay (WeChat/Alipay) is common in sit-down restaurants, but street stalls and small shops often only take cash. I recommend withdrawing some CNY from an ATM in Yan'an city center. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside hotels and upscale restaurants.
What if I'm vegetarian or have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options exist but are limited. Yan'an Liangpi can be made without meat sauce—ask for su shi (vegetarian version). Some dumpling places have veggie fillings. Be clear: wo chi su (I eat vegetarian). For gluten-free, it's tough; noodles and bread are staples. Rice dishes are rare here.
How do I find these hidden spots without getting lost?
Use a map app like Baidu Maps (works better in China) and drop a pin on Baota Mountain. Wander within a 500-meter radius, especially west and south of the mountain. Look for clusters of locals, not tourists. If you're unsure, ask a hotel concierge for directions to "dangdi ren chi de difang" (places where locals eat). They might point you to a general area.
How much should I expect to pay for a decent souvenir?
You can get a meaningful souvenir for under 50 RMB. A good quality red star cap is 30-40 RMB. A bag of premium jujubes is 25 RMB. A small handmade paper-cutting is 40 RMB. Setting a budget of 100-150 RMB total lets you pick a few different items without overthinking each purchase.
What's the one thing I should avoid buying?
The mass-produced, painted plaster figurines of soldiers or leaders you might see. They are incredibly fragile, the paint jobs are poor, and they have no connection to local craftsmanship. They're pure tourist filler. Spend that money on an extra bag of local apples or dates instead.
Can I ship my purchases home from Yan'an?
It's possible but not straightforward for a short-term visitor. There are China Post branches in the city, but the process requires forms and packaging you likely won't have. For food items, also check your home country's customs regulations on importing agricultural products. My advice is to buy within your luggage limits. Pack sturdy items like bags of dates inside shoes or between clothes.
When is the best time of day for shopping?
Plan your shopping for after your Baota Mountain visit, in the late afternoon. The shops are all open, and the light is still good for examining crafts. The local market is more active in the morning, but visiting after your main sightseeing is more logistically smooth.
Is Baota Mountain suitable for visitors with mobility issues or young children?
The climb involves a consistent incline and numerous stairs. There is no cable car or elevator. For visitors with significant mobility challenges, the experience will be limited to viewing the pagoda from the city below (which is still worthwhile). For young children, it's manageable if they can walk uphill, but be prepared to carry them or take many breaks. Strollers are not practical on the stairs and paths.
2026 on-site verified