A large boulder at the top of a mountain peak, a popular tourist destination, has been exposed as a fake rock with a man-made inner structure.

Wutong Mountain, overlooking the city of Shenzhen in southern China, is one of the country's most popular hiking spots.

Visitors come to experience its lush nature, stunning views of the city, and numerous scenic spots, including one known locally as the 'First Peak of Pengcheng'.

At the site, a massive stone is perched at the edge of a cliff, which has also become a popular tourist attraction.

But recently, to the shock of many, one visitor discovered that the boulder was artificial.

The Wutong Mountain Scenic Area Management Office issued a notice on October 25, announcing that the area around the rock would be closed for safety renovations from October 28 to November 28.

During that time, two climbers who reached the peak filmed the rock, which has now been fenced off. The footage revealed a large hole on one side of the boulder, exposing an inner brick structure.

The stone also has a 'No Climbing' sign, which many had presumed to be in place because of its historical and cultural significance.

Management office officials confirmed that the rock was constructed in 2004 using reinforced steel and cement to mimic natural stone.

The ongoing repairs are focused on reinforcing the internal structure and are expected to be completed by November 28.