Mount Qingcheng
Qingcheng Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s four sacred Taoist mountains, is a serene blend of mist-shrouded peaks, ancient temples, and lush forests. Revered as the birthplace of Taoism, it has inspired seekers, poets, and adventurers for over 1,800 years. With 72 peaks, 36 valleys, and 108 scenic spots, this "Pure City of Green" offers a tranquil escape from urban life, just 70km from Chengdu.
Historical Overview
Founded in the 2nd century CE during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Qingcheng became Taoism’s spiritual heartland under Zhang Daoling, the religion’s founder. Emperors from the Tang to Qing dynasties sought its blessings, while poets like Du Fu praised its beauty. In 2000, UNESCO recognized its cultural significance, cementing its status as a living museum of Taoist philosophy and Chinese mysticism.
Geographical Layout
The mountain splits into two zones: Front Mountain (Qingcheng Jian): A gentle 8km trail with 21 temples, including the 1,600-year-old Jianfu Palace and Tianshi Cave (birthplace of Taoism).
Back Mountain (Wai Shan): A rugged 15km path through waterfalls, bamboo groves, and the Laojun Pavilion, offering panoramic views from its 1,260m summit.
Key landmarks include the Yule Pavilion (where the sun sets behind peaks) and Shijing Waterfall (a 70m cascade).
Major Attractions
Jianfu Palace: The oldest temple, rebuilt in the Tang Dynasty, houses a 1,000-year-old iron statue of Zhang Daoling.
Tianshi Cave: A sacred grotto where Zhang Daoling allegedly received divine revelations.
Shangqing Palace: Perched at 1,600m, it offers sunrise views over the Chengdu Plain.
Laojun Pavilion: A wooden tower with bronze bells, dedicated to Laozi.
Yule Pavilion: A viewpoint for "cloud seas" engulfing the peaks.
Zitan Museum: Displays rare Zitan (red sandalwood) carvings, including a 3.8m-tall Buddha.
Moon City Lake: A mirror-like lake reflecting the surrounding forests.
Suggested Itineraries
- Half-Day Taoist Pilgrimage:
Jianfu Palace → Tianshi Cave → Yule Pavilion → Shangqing Palace
Highlights: Ancient inscriptions, temple rituals, and sunset views.
- Full-Day Nature & Culture:
Jianfu Palace → Shijing Waterfall → Laojun Pavilion → Moon City Lake → Back Mountain Trail
Highlights: Waterfall hikes, bamboo forests, and panoramic vistas.
- Family-Friendly Route:
Jianfu Palace → Yule Pavilion → Cable Car to Shangqing Palace → Moon City Lake
Highlights: Easy trails, lake picnics, and cultural performances.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via Qingcheng Mountain’s official website or Ctrip (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the South Gate (Qianchengguan) or East Gate (Jianfu Palace).
- Prices:
Peak Season (April–October): ¥90 (adults), ¥45 (students/seniors).
Off-Season (November–March): ¥80 (adults), ¥40 (students/seniors).
Free: Children under 1.3m.
Transportation
From Chengdu:
Bus: Xinnanmen Bus Station → Qingcheng Mountain (1.5 hours, ¥20).
Metro + Train: Chengdu Railway Station → Qingchengshan Station → Shuttle Bus (¥25 total).
Taxi: Direct ride (¥150–200, 1 hour).
Departure: Shuttle buses connect to Dujiangyan (for pandas) or return to Chengdu.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Season: March–June (wildflowers) and September–October (autumn foliage).
Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends attract pilgrims and tourists.
- Essentials:
Wear hiking boots (trails can be slippery).
Carry cash for temple offerings and tea houses.
Try local specialties: Baiguo stewed chicken and Zhang Family’s fermented rice wine.
Prohibited Items: Smoking in forests, drones without permits.
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What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
