Pangu Reclining Rock sits at the foothills of Pangu King Mountain in Zhenxing Village, Shiling Town, Huadu District, Guangzhou. It’s about a 40-minute drive from downtown Guangzhou, making it a quick escape from the city. To get there, you can take the metro to Huadu Square and hop on a local bus (like Bus 701 or 712) heading to Shiling. If you’re driving, just navigate to “Zhenxing Village”—there’s plenty of parking near the entrance.

Natural Landscape

The highlight here is the Pangu Reclining Rock, a giant rock formation that looks like the mythical god Pangu lying on his back. Legend says it’s where Pangu rested after creating the world! Surrounding it, you’ll find lush trails, a half-mountain pavilion (Half-Mountain Pavilion), and a serene spring called Dragon’s Mouth Spring. The views from the top are worth the hike, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light hits the rocks just right.

Cultural & Historical Sites

At the heart of the area is the Pangu King Temple, a historic site dating back to 1809 (Qing Dynasty). It was rebuilt in 1901 and is now a major cultural landmark in Guangdong. The temple honors Pangu, the Chinese god who separated heaven and earth. Every year on August 20 (lunar calendar) and September 9 (Double Ninth Festival), thousands visit to pray, climb, and celebrate. Even if you’re not into rituals, the temple’s ancient architecture and vibrant festivals make it a must-see.

Trails & Activities

The area offers easy to moderate hiking paths. Start at the Pangu Smoky Cloud viewpoint for panoramic mountain views, then work your way up to Stone Plateau, a flat rock perfect for picnics. Keep an eye out for the Dragon’s Mouth Spring along the trail—locals believe its water has healing powers. If you’re visiting on a holiday, join the locals in climbing the steps to the temple or lighting incense for good luck.

Facilities for Visitors

The site is tourist-friendly. You’ll find snack stalls selling local treats (try the sticky rice cakes!), souvenir shops with Pangu-themed items, and clean restrooms. There’s also a small museum near the temple explaining the myth of Pangu in simple English. If you get tired, rent a bike or take a rickshaw ride around the village.

What to Expect

Visiting Pangu Reclining Rock feels like stepping into a legend. The mix of natural beauty and folklore makes it unique. On busy days, expect crowds—but the lively atmosphere is part of the experience. For a quieter visit, go mid-week. Bring water, comfy shoes, and a camera. And don’t miss the sunset; the rock glows golden against the sky.

Whether you’re into history, hiking, or snapping epic photos, Pangu Reclining Rock offers something for everyone. It’s a glimpse into China’s myths and a chance to escape into nature—all within an hour of Guangzhou.