Geographical Location
Fengdu Ghost City - Wangxiang Platform is nestled in the Mingshan Scenic Area of Fengdu County, Chongqing. The address is 145 Mingshan Road, Mingshan Town—a spot that feels tucked between mist-covered mountains and the winding Yangtze River. To reach here, you can take a train or bus to Fengdu County, then hop in a taxi or local shuttle (around 20 minutes) to the scenic area. If you’re driving, just plug “Fengdu Mingshan Scenic Area” into your GPS, and you’ll find it easily.
Transportation Tips
Getting to Fengdu Ghost City is part of the adventure! The closest major city is Chongqing, so most visitors fly into Chongqing Jiangbei Airport first. From there, a 2.5-hour bus or train ride will drop you in Fengdu. Once you’re in the county, the ghost-themed decorations along the roads hint at what’s ahead. Trust me, the journey feels like a prelude to entering another world!
Natural Scenery
Wangxiang Platform isn’t just about spooky stories—it’s also a gorgeous viewpoint! Built in 1985, the platform sits atop a cliff, surrounded by lush forests and swirling fog. On clear days, you can see rolling hills and the distant Yangtze River. The air is crisp, and the sounds of nature (minus city noise) make it feel like a sacred, almost mystical place. Don’t forget your camera—the misty mornings are perfect for photos!
Cultural Legends
Here’s the spooky-cool story behind Wangxiang Platform: In Chinese folklore, it’s the last stop for souls before they enter the “Ghost City” of Fengdu. According to a 16th-century novel The Journey to the West, spirits would pause here to glance back at their homeland one final time. The platform’s name, “Wangxiang,” literally means “overlooking home.” Even though there’s no scientific truth to “souls,” standing here gives you a weird mix of eerie vibes and homesickness—like you’re a ghost looking back at your old life!
Historical Ties
The platform isn’t ancient, but its roots run deep. A Ming Dynasty writer named Luo Maoden mentioned it in his book The Western Ocean Chronicles, describing how souls would cry here before “accepting their fate.” Today, the modern structure still channels that drama: stone railings, towering statues of ghosts, and plaques with haunting quotes. It’s like stepping into a blend of history and horror fiction!
Amenities for Visitors
Don’t worry—Fengdu Ghost City isn’t all about creepy stuff. The Wangxiang Platform area has clean restrooms, snack stands selling spicy Chongqing noodles, and souvenir shops with everything from ghost-themed keychains to Taoist amulets. Tickets cost around ¥100 (less than $15) and include access to other ghost-themed attractions. Just bring cash, as some vendors might not take cards.
What to Expect
Visiting Wangxiang Platform is like entering a live-action ghost story! The paths are lined with statues of grimacing demons, and the sound of wind through the trees adds to the suspense. But here’s the twist: it’s not just scary—it’s strangely emotional. As you stand on the platform, gazing at the fake “hometown” scenery below, you’ll get why souls supposedly cried here. Even if you’re skeptical, the atmosphere makes you reflect on life… and maybe take a funny photo pretending to wail!
Tips for Your Trip
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Dress Comfortably: The platform involves some climbing, and Fengdu can be humid.
- Guided Tours: Consider hiring a guide to explain the folklore—they’ll spice up the experience with tales!
- Food Alert: Try the local “ghost pepper” snacks if you dare—they’re spicy but delicious.
Whether you’re into spooky stories, cultural oddities, or just epic views, Fengdu Ghost City - Wangxiang Platform is a must-see. It’s not every day you get to play “ghost for a day” while learning about Chinese superstitions! Pack your sense of humor and curiosity—this isn’t your average sightseeing trip.