Mount Qiyun

Historical Overview

Daoist traditions on Qiyun Mountain date to the Tang Dynasty (759 CE), when hermit Gong Xixia practiced in seclusion. The site gained prominence under Emperor Jiajing of the Ming Dynasty (1556 CE), who renamed it “Qiyun” (equal to the clouds) after prayers for an heir were answered. Over 100 temples, including the grand Violet Sky Palace (Taisu Gong), were constructed with imperial patronage, transforming the mountain into a Jiangnan Taoist Hub. Though Daoist influence waned post-Qing Dynasty, 462 Ming-Qing stone inscriptions and structures like the Zhenjun Cave and Hongji Bridge endure. Modern developments include the 2023 “Toward the Clouds” Micro-Park, a repurposed highway turned cultural hub.

Structural Layout

The mountain is divided into three zones:

1. Moonlight Street (Yuehua Jie): The core Daoist quarter, featuring 8 ancient taoist residences intermingled with Hui-style folk houses. The Violet Sky Palace dominates this area with its 17-meter red sandstone archway and Tang Bohu-inscribed stele.
2. Cloud Rock Lake (Yunyan Hu): A serene reservoir flanked by danxia cliffs, offering boat tours past the Incense Burner Peak and Xiaohutian Valley.
3. Upper Floor (Loushang Lou): A secluded region housing the Jade Virtue Temple (Yuxu Gong), founded in 1505 CE, and the Three Nuns Peak, shaped like three bun-haired maidens.

Major Attractions

1. True Immortal Cave Complex: A network of 8 caves dedicated to Eight Immortals, featuring a Ming-era “Heaven Opens Its Splendor” carving.
2. Ming-Qing Stone Inscriptions: Over 460 carvings, including a 6-meter longevity character by Empress Dowager Cixi.
3. Incense Burner Peak: A 10-meter phallic-shaped rock revered as a fertility symbol.
4. Toward the Clouds Micro-Park: A retro-futuristic train-themed park with replica blue train, South Africa cabins, coffee shops, and art galleries.
5. Hongji Bridge: A 14th-century stone arch bridge linking Daoist and Buddhist zones.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Entrance → Hongji Bridge → True Immortal Caves → Moonlight Street → Violet Sky Palace → Incense Burner Peak → Toward the Clouds Micro-Park.
Highlights: Core Daoist architecture and Ming-era carvings.

Cultural Deep Dive (4–5 hours):
Entrance → Jade Virtue Temple → Cloud Rock Lake Boat Tour → Xiaohutian Valley → Three Nuns Peak → Stone Inscription Trail → Evening Taoist Ceremony.
Highlights: Scenic lake views and lesser-known caves.

Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Entrance → All sites above + Guanrui Mountain Villa (calligraphy workshop) → Sunset at Incense Burner Peak → Night Market at Moonlight Street.
Highlights: Cultural workshops and nocturnal mountain vistas.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip or “Qiyun Mountain Official” WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).
• Prices (2025):
  • Standard Ticket: ¥98 (adults), ¥49 (students/seniors).
  • Combined Ticket (includes micro-park): ¥128 (adults), ¥64 (concessions).
• Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

From Huangshan City:

• Bus: Take Huangshan North Station → Xiuning County Bus (¥15, 1 hour), then taxi (¥20) to entrance.
• Tour Bus: Daily tours from Tunxi Old Street (¥80/person, includes ticket).
  Self-Drive:
• G205 National Highway → Xiuning County Exit → 15km mountain road (well-marked).

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Seasons: Spring (April–May) for azaleas; autumn (October) for clear skies and maple foliage.
• Avoid Crowds: Arrive early (8:30 AM) or visit weekdays; weekends attract 5,000+ visitors.
• Essentials:
  • Wear sturdy shoes (10,000+ steps on uneven danxia trails).
  • Bring water and snacks (limited dining inside).
  • Photography allowed except in temple interiors.
  • Prohibited: Drones, large bags, and smoking outside designated areas.