Lion Head
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Lion's Head Kennon Road

4.4
·5k reviews·Baguio, Philippines

A colossal 40-foot lion's head statue on Kennon Road, a symbolic gateway to Baguio City and a vibrant tourist stop.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, early morning

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Lion Head

Lion's Head Kennon Road

Best Time

Weekdays, early morning

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A colossal 40-foot lion's head statue on Kennon Road, a symbolic gateway to Baguio City and a vibrant tourist stop.

4.4
(5k reviews)

"Worth seeing & grabbing some photos but its 30 min stop at most."

Vertical photo
TIP

No Entrance Fee! :money_with_wings:

Enjoy the statue and views for free! Pay only if you use props for photos.

Rent Traditional Attire :kimono:

Dress up in local outfits for fun photos; rentals are surprisingly affordable.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Lion's Head Statue

The Iconic Lion's Head Statue

Kennon Road

A massive 40-foot stone lion's head, a symbolic landmark welcoming visitors to Baguio City.

TikTokInstagram
Panoramic Views of Tuba, Benguet

Panoramic Views of Tuba, Benguet

Cliffside railing near the statue

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys from designated viewpoints.

Reddit
Souvenir Shopping and Photo Props

Souvenir Shopping and Photo Props

Stalls surrounding the statue

Browse local crafts, grab an ice cream, or rent traditional attire for memorable photos.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

The Lion's Head is a popular stop, especially when Kennon Road reopens to motorists. To enjoy a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities, consider visiting during off-peak hours or when the road was previously closed to vehicles, as suggested by some travelers. Reddit

Navigating Kennon Road

Kennon Road can be a steep and winding drive, with sections sometimes under construction or affected by landslides. While it offers a scenic route to Baguio, be prepared for a potentially intense journey. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
When Kennon Road is closed to motorists
Why
More peaceful cycling experience
Crowd
Low
When
After New Year holiday
Why
Tourists start to thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#baguio #baguiocity #baguiofeels #rideinparadise #nature #ridesinbaguio #tarasabaguio #baguio2025 #lionshead #touristattraction #grabekabaguio #anggandamonaguio #naturevibes
@msheday
131.6K likes • 763.8K views

No Entrance Fee! :money_with_wings:

Enjoy the statue and views for free! Pay only if you use props for photos. Reddit

Rent Traditional Attire :kimono:

Dress up in local outfits for fun photos; rentals are surprisingly affordable. Reddit

Why does this Lion Head Exist? #baguio #baguiocity #interesting #facts #philippines #vacation #statue #PlacesToVisit #trivia #triviaph #travel #jonastayaban #fyp
@jonastayaban_vo
83.4K likes • 1.2M views
Lion's Head at Kennon Road 🛵🛵 Franz #fypシ゚ #fypreels
johnpaulcomprado
1 likes • 48 views

Cyclist's Paradise :motorcycle:

A popular spot for cyclists, especially when the road is less congested. Reddit

Be Prepared for the Climb :hiking_boot:

The last stretch to the statue can be steep; consider the climb or get assistance. Reddit

Lion’s head statue along kennon road🦁 #baguiocity #LionsHead #Benguet
ladytauriel
7 likes • 934 views

Tips

from all over the internet

No Entrance Fee! :money_with_wings:

Enjoy the statue and views for free! Pay only if you use props for photos. Reddit

Rent Traditional Attire :kimono:

Dress up in local outfits for fun photos; rentals are surprisingly affordable. Reddit

Cyclist's Paradise :motorcycle:

A popular spot for cyclists, especially when the road is less congested. Reddit

Be Prepared for the Climb :hiking_boot:

The last stretch to the statue can be steep; consider the climb or get assistance. Reddit

Vendors Galore :shopping_bags:

Expect many stalls selling souvenirs, food, and ice cream. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Lion's Head is a symbolic and visually striking landmark on Kennon Road, offering free photo opportunities and a glimpse of local commerce with souvenir stalls and snack vendors. While the drive on Kennon Road can be intense, the stop itself is brief but memorable, especially for those renting traditional attire for photos. Some visitors note the area can get crowded, particularly when the road is open to motorists.

"September 13, 2025 around 12:30 pm
A steep climb for a cyclist.

I admit I hiked the last 300 meters to climb this area. Without Eddie Oribello's help, I won't reach this place.

I prefer the time when they closed Kennon road to motorists. It has just reopened so tourists flock this monument. I should've biked here when the road was closed.

What I love about this is there's no entrance fee, and you can take pictures of the statue free of charge. However, there are sections of the area when use with their props, you gotta pay them.

There are a lot of stores and stalls: ice cream vendors, souvenirs, food, and props for rent for picture taking. There's also a restroom nearby.

There's a railing by the cliff where you can view the panoramic view of Tuba, Benguet. This place is a go to of cyclists."

Vergel Sevilla

"The Lion’s Head in Baguio City, located along Kennon Road, is a symbolic landmark that has welcomed travelers for decades. Standing tall and carved out of stone, it represents strength and pride, while also serving as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors often stop to take photographs and purchase local souvenirs from nearby stalls, making it both a cultural and commercial point of interest."

Anthony Santos

"It's something worth seeing & grabbing some photos but its 30 min stop at most
Lovely scenery & opportunity to have pics taken wearing rented traditional egrot ethic dress wear. (Rent cheap) loads of souvenir stands also"

Nikki MILLAR

What People Like

Iconic statue
Free photo ops
Scenic views

What People Dislike

Crowded at times
Steep climb

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lion's Head is located along Kennon Road, a scenic route leading to Baguio City. You can reach it by private car, taxi, or bus heading towards Baguio. Some travelers mention it's a popular route for cyclists. TikTokInstagramReddit

Kennon Road can sometimes be affected by landslides or undergo repairs, leading to temporary closures. It's advisable to check current road conditions before your trip. Reddit

The drive on Kennon Road is described as scenic but can be intense due to its steep and winding nature. Some sections might be under construction. Instagram+1

While private vehicles and taxis are common, you might find local jeepneys or buses that pass by Kennon Road on their way to Baguio. It's best to inquire locally for specific routes. TikTok

Kennon Road is often considered more scenic but can be more challenging to navigate. Marcos Highway is generally wider and more straightforward. The choice depends on your preference for scenery versus ease of travel. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to see and take pictures of the Lion's Head statue itself. You only pay if you choose to rent props for photos or purchase items from vendors. Reddit

The Lion's Head is an outdoor landmark and is generally accessible at any time. However, the surrounding stalls and vendors typically operate during daylight hours. TikTok

While the statue is visible, visiting at night might be less ideal as the surrounding stalls would be closed, and visibility for photos might be limited. Instagram

No booking is required to visit the Lion's Head. It's a roadside attraction that you can stop at as part of your journey. TikTok

Yes, it's a designated tourist stop with vendors and other visitors. However, always be aware of your surroundings, especially when taking photos near the road. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Capture the iconic lion statue from various angles. You can also rent traditional attire for themed photos or enjoy the panoramic views of the Benguet mountains. InstagramReddit

Yes, numerous stalls offer props for rent, including traditional indigenous clothing, which can make for unique and memorable pictures. Reddit

The Lion's Head was initially planned by the Lions Club of Baguio in the 1960s as a symbol of the city. TikTok

You'll find souvenir shops, ice cream vendors, food stalls, and restrooms available for visitors. Reddit

Reports suggest the Lion's Head is frequently repainted and sometimes undergoes repairs. It's a well-maintained landmark. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Lion's Head is a fun and accessible stop for families. Kids will be fascinated by the giant lion statue, and the surrounding stalls offer ice cream and small souvenirs that are always a hit. The panoramic views can also be a gentle introduction to the natural beauty of the region for younger travelers. Remember that the climb to the statue can be steep, so keep a close eye on little ones, or consider staying closer to the roadside stalls if they have trouble with inclines. Reddit

🚴 Cyclists and Adventure Seekers

For cyclists, Kennon Road and the Lion's Head offer a thrilling experience. The steep climb and winding roads are a good challenge, and stopping at the Lion's Head provides a rewarding break with great photo opportunities. Some cyclists prefer visiting when the road is less crowded with cars, allowing for a more focused ride. The panoramic views from the cliffside railing are also a great reward after a strenuous ride. TikTokReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Lion's Head is a prime spot for photographers, offering iconic shots of the statue itself. For more creative captures, consider renting traditional attire from the nearby vendors to create unique cultural portraits. The panoramic mountain vistas also provide stunning backdrops, especially during sunrise or sunset, though access to specific viewpoints might vary. Be mindful of the crowds, as they can impact your ability to get unobstructed shots. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Symbolism and History of the Lion's Head

The imposing Lion's Head statue along Kennon Road is more than just a roadside attraction; it's a significant symbol for Baguio City. Its origins trace back to the 1960s when the Lions Club of Baguio, an organization dedicated to community service, conceptualized its creation. The statue, standing at an impressive 40 feet, was intended to represent strength, pride, and the welcoming spirit of the city. It has since become an iconic landmark, instantly recognizable and a must-stop for many travelers entering the summer capital of the Philippines. TikTokInstagram

Over the years, the Lion's Head has undergone various maintenance and repainting efforts to preserve its grandeur. While it's a permanent fixture, its upkeep is an ongoing process, ensuring it remains a vibrant symbol for generations to come. The statue's presence has also contributed to the area becoming a bustling hub for local vendors and souvenir shops, adding a commercial dimension to its cultural significance. Reddit

Navigating Kennon Road: A Scenic but Challenging Route

Kennon Road, the historic route to Baguio City, offers a more direct and scenic path compared to other access roads. However, it's known for its steep inclines, sharp curves, and narrow passages, making the drive an adventure in itself. Travelers often describe the journey as 'intense' due to these challenging road conditions. Instagram+1

Due to its location in a mountainous region, Kennon Road is also susceptible to landslides and occasional road closures for repairs. This means that road conditions can change, and it's always wise to check for updates before embarking on your trip. Despite these challenges, many still prefer Kennon Road for its picturesque views and the iconic stop at the Lion's Head. Cyclists, in particular, find it a rewarding route, especially during times when it's less congested with vehicular traffic. InstagramReddit

The Vibrant Vending Scene at the Lion's Head

The area surrounding the Lion's Head is a lively marketplace, teeming with vendors offering a variety of goods and services. Visitors can find an array of souvenirs, from keychains and t-shirts to local handicrafts, perfect for taking a piece of Baguio home. For those looking to cool down, ice cream vendors are a popular sight, offering a refreshing treat amidst the mountain air. Reddit

Beyond typical souvenirs, the stalls also provide unique opportunities for memorable photos. You can rent traditional indigenous attire at affordable prices, allowing you to strike a pose with the majestic Lion's Head in the background. This blend of cultural symbolism and commercial activity makes the Lion's Head stop a dynamic experience for many tourists. InstagramReddit

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