Introduction 

Shibao Mountain is situated in Jianchuan County, north of Dali in Yunnan province. It was recognized as one of the forty-four scenic spots of Dali scenic area. The mountain was formed as a result of landforms, overtime weathering and erosion forming turtleback like formations which are picturesque and very eye-catching. 

The mountain boasts of a long history from the Song, Tang, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties and is, therefore, an important scenic location, a historical relic and sculptural beauty. The statues and temples built into the cliffs are quite unique and form a quaint environment engulfed by smooth sounds of birds chirping, monkeys chanting and waters flowing through a natural waterfall. 

Major attractions and activities to do on a visit 

If you are looking for an ethereal experience in a place with serenity and fresh air, then this location is a match. Under the bright sun and slow breeze, you will be part of beautiful views, temples and caves. The hike to the top is quite a challenge but the trails are completely worth it and they offer one of the most spectacular views of the vicinity of forests and mountains. 

Witness rituals and chanting in the temple with a magnificent giant size golden Buddha statue watching from the highest point of the hill. And if you happen to be visiting during the Shibaoshan Singing Festival which is scheduled every 26th day of the seventh month of the Lunar calendar for three days you will be part of thousands of Bai people who gather to celebrate playing dragon dances, singing folk songs and make bamboo dragon campfires as a means of communication through poetry and expressing feelings.

While visiting you will also see Baoxiangsi Temple also known as the hanging temple built on a towering cliff on the mountain which is home to the legend of the singing festival with statues of ten girls and boys who fought with the dragon and get to learn the story behind them. Another temple knows as Haiyunju temple built during the Qing Dynasty is located on Shibao and was the first Buddhist temple to be set up in Shibao scenic area. 

Shizhong mountain grottoes are also a major spot created by the Bai locals with a total of 16 caves and 139 sculptures set up in the Nanzhao dynasty and the Dali kingdom times communicating through art to represent different aspects of life during the ancient times like political beliefs, religious beliefs and human race diversity in the most vivid artistic means. 

You will also not miss the naughty and aggressive yet photogenic monkeys running in and out of the bushes ready to tease you and snatch anything that looks edible so be safe and hold on tight.