Phoenix Tianchi (Heavenly Lake)

Phoenix Tianchi

Phoenix Tianchi is located at the summit of Wushan Peak in the Phoenix Mountain Range, with an elevation of approximately 1,325 meters. Its main peak stands at 1,391 meters above sea level, second only to Fenghuang Wuji, the highest peak in eastern Guangdong. The Tianchi tourist area attracts countless visitors with its unique geographical location and stunning natural scenery.

The lake covers an area of 76 acres and is a natural lake formed in an ancient volcanic crater. The special climate causes the water surface to sometimes churn wildly and other times remain perfectly still. Legend has it that this was where the Queen Mother of the West bathed, adding an air of mystery. Coupled with legendary sites within the scenic area such as Prince Cave and Immortal Well, Taiping Temple, Wen Tianxiang’s “Hall of Righteous Qi,” the “Song Tea Village” with its king tea trees, oddly shaped rocks, the beautiful Azalea Pit, and breathtaking sunrise views, it offers an unforgettable experience.

There is a peculiar fish in the lake, with a frog-like head, a crocodile-like body, a tadpole-like tail, a dark brown back, and a belly covered in vermilion speckles.

Tip: The mountain road to Tianchi is extremely steep and dangerous, requiring advanced driving skills. The temperature at the top of Tianchi is much lower than at the foot of the mountain, so it's advisable to bring extra layers. Drive with extra caution when ascending, and if you have enough time, consider staying overnight on the mountain to catch the sunrise.

The Legend of the “Four-Legged Fish”

Legend has it that when Emperor Duanzong of the Song Dynasty was fleeing and passed through this area, he was too hungry to move. While the fish in Tianchi were swimming in the water, he had no tools to catch them. He could only sigh, “If only the fish could come ashore by themselves.” Miraculously, the fish in the lake suddenly grew four limbs and obediently crawled onto the shore to offer themselves as food for the emperor. Overjoyed, Emperor Duanzong named the fish “Four-Legged Fish” and decreed that they would never become extinct. To this day, the people of Fenghuang regard them as sacred fish.

Address: Summit of Phoenix Mountain, Fenghuang Town, Chao’an District, Chaozhou.

Transportation: It takes about 50 minutes to drive from Chaozhou to Fenghuang Town. Buses depart from Ximen Ancient Bus Station in Chaozhou to Fenghuang Town, or you can hire a taxi, which typically costs around 90 RMB (price negotiable).

From Fenghuang Town to Phoenix Tianchi, you need to transfer to a local tourist minibus to go up the mountain. Due to the steep and winding mountain road, for safety reasons, non-local drivers unfamiliar with the route are generally not allowed to drive up. The tourist minibuses operate until 5:00 PM, with a half-hour ride and a round-trip fare of 15 RMB.

Address: Summit of Wushan Peak, Phoenix Mountain Range, Fenghuang Town, Chao’an District, Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province

Type: Lake & Mountain

Recommended Visit Duration: 3–5 hours