Ultimate Guide to Mount Qingcheng: Discover Sites, Tips, and Hotels

Welcome to my travel guide! I’m Michael Zhang, a Chinese travel expert with extensive international travel experience. I have a passion for exploring the history and culture of destinations around the globe, particularly those in my homeland, China. Today, I’ll take you on a journey to Mount Qingcheng, located on the outskirts of Chengdu. This site is not only rich in natural beauty but also steeped in profound cultural heritage.

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Mount Qingcheng Introduction

Mount Qingcheng is one of the birthplaces of Taoism in China and is renowned as a Taoist mountain. Formerly known as “Zhangren Mountain,” it is situated 68 kilometers from Chengdu City. The main peak, Laoxiao Top, rises 1600 meters above sea level. Among Sichuan’s famous mountains, it ranks alongside the perilous Jianmen, the elegant Emei, and the majestic Kuimen, earning its reputation as “the most secluded place under heaven.” Mount Qingcheng is celebrated as a historic mountain in China and a key national scenic area. In 2000, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List alongside the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.

• Address: No. 168 Qingchengshan Road, Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, Sichuan, China (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening Hours: 08:30-17:00
• Recommended Visit Duration: 8 hours for hiking, 4 hours for a round trip by cable car
• Best Seasons to Visit: All year round
• Admission Fee: Front mountain RMB 80, Rear mountain RMB 20

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Map of Mount Qingcheng Front Mountain

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Why You Need to Visit Mount Qingcheng?

Natural Scenery

Mount Qingcheng is celebrated for its serene, elegant, unique, and thrilling natural landscapes. The mountain’s undulating peaks are cloaked in verdant trees, and its babbling streams and fresh air create a tranquil atmosphere. The lush vegetation provides an abundance of plant resources, enhancing the area’s fresh air and peaceful ambiance. Additionally, Mount Qingcheng’s abundant water resources, including streams and waterfalls, offer visitors a rich experience of water landscapes.

Cultural Heritage

Mount Qingcheng has been a sacred site of Taoism since ancient times, featuring numerous ancient Taoist temples and monasteries such as Jianfu Palace, Shangqing Palace, and Yuanming Palace. These structures adhere to the principle of “Tao follows nature,” harmoniously blending with the natural environment. Visitors can not only enjoy the beautiful natural scenery but also immerse themselves in the rich Taoist cultural atmosphere. Furthermore, Mount Qingcheng regularly hosts various traditional cultural events, including Taoist ceremonies and folk performances, showcasing the local traditional culture.

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Things to Do in Mount Qingcheng

Main Attractions in Front Mountain

Jianfu Palace

Jianfu Palace, one of the key Taoist temples on Mount Qingcheng’s front mountain, dates back to the Tang Dynasty. This temple primarily worships Taoist deities, featuring an elegant and rustic architectural style within a tranquil environment, making it an ideal place to explore Taoist culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the profound religious atmosphere and appreciate the exquisite ancient architecture.

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Celestial Master Cave

Located midway up Mount Qingcheng, Celestial Master Cave is steeped in Taoist culture. It is reputed to have been a meditation site for successive Celestial Masters, with stone tablets and ancient portraits inside that deepen the understanding of Taoist history. This site is not only perfect for learning about Taoist history but also offers a great experience of its mystical culture.

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Laojun Pavilion

Laojun Pavilion is a pavilion dedicated to Laozi, a venerated Taoist deity, positioned to overlook the spectacular scenery of Mount Qingcheng. The pavilion blends Taoist elements with traditional Chinese architectural styles. Visitors can admire intricate carvings and the surrounding natural beauty, experiencing the unique charm of Taoist culture.

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Shangqing Palace

Shangqing Palace stands as a core Taoist temple on Mount Qingcheng, with a long history and beautiful scenery that exemplifies ancient Taoist architecture. The temple houses several important Taoist deities, making it a crucial site for studying Taoist culture and history. Visitors can delve deeply into the Taoist belief system and its impact on Chinese culture.

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Main Attractions in Rear Mountain

Wulong Gorge

Located in the rear mountain area of Mount Qingcheng, Wulong Gorge is renowned for its crystal-clear streams and successive waterfalls. The area is rich in natural landscapes, with the sound of water creating a serene environment perfect for hiking and exploring nature. Along the path, visitors can see five uniquely shaped large waterfalls, named for their dragon-like appearance.

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Thousand Buddha Cave

Thousand Buddha Cave, also located in the rear mountain, is a tourist spot that combines natural beauty with cultural history. The cave walls are carved with numerous Buddha statues, finely crafted and expressive, showcasing the ancient artisans’ skill. This site reflects Buddhist culture and is ideal for exploration and contemplation.

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Cuiying Lake

Cuiying Lake, a picturesque lake in the rear mountain of Mount Qingcheng, is surrounded by lush forests and has crystal-clear waters. Often shrouded in a light mist, it resembles a fairyland. This spot is perfect for visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature and is a popular location for photographers to capture stunning scenery.

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Mount Qingcheng Ticket Guide

Tickets must be purchased separately for the front and rear mountains. Cable car tickets can be bought on-site as needed. For the front mountain, a one-way cable car ride costs 35 RMB, and a round trip is 60 RMB. In the rear mountain, the Jinli cable car costs 30 RMB one-way and 55 RMB round-trip; the Baiyun cable car costs 45 RMB one-way and 80 RMB round-trip.

Mount Qingcheng Ticket Prices

• Front Mountain
  • Adults: 80 RMB
  • Children: 40 RMB (ages 7-18)
  • Free admission: Children under 6 years and seniors over 60 years old. Note: During Chinese public holidays, the age for free senior admission is 65 and older, while those aged 60-64 can purchase half-price tickets.
• Rear Mountain
  • Adults: 20 RMB
  • Children: 10 RMB (ages 7-18)
  • Free admission: Children under 6 years and seniors over 60 years old. Note: During Chinese public holidays, the age for free senior admission is 65 and older, while those aged 60-64 can purchase half-price tickets.
• Opening Hours: 08:30-17:00

Ticket Purchase Channels

• Online: Through the WeChat public account or online booking platforms.
• Offline: At the scenic area entrance

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Recommended Mount Qingcheng Tour Routes

• Front Mountain (Recommended to hike up and take the cable car down): Mountain Gate → Natural Picture → Quanzhen Temple → Celestial Master Cave → Chaoyang Cave → Laojun Pavilion at the summit → Shangqing Palace → Cable Car Station → Yuecheng Lake → Natural Pavilion
• Rear Mountain Hiking Route (Total 5-6 hours): Taian Ancient Town → Wulong Gorge → Youyi Village → Reclining Buddha Cave → Baiyun Group Caves → Thousand Buddha Cave → Baiyun Temple → South Heaven Gate → Cuiying Lake → Taian Ancient Town
  • Cable Car Options: After ascending Wulong Gorge, walk to Youyi Village and take the Baiyun cable car up, descend from Cuiying Lake using the Jinli cable car.

Travel Tips

• If you buy a bamboo stick for assistance in climbing, you cannot use the cable car.
• Mosquitoes are common in the mountainous areas; consider buying mosquito repellent or cooling oil locally. Refer to the Essential China Travel Medication Guide.
• Wear light and comfortable anti-slip boots due to frequent streams along the paths.
• Consider bringing your own snacks as restaurants on the mountain can be expensive.
• The road to the rear mountain has many bends, and bus drivers tend to drive fast; if prone to motion sickness, prepare anti-nausea medication.
• Restrooms are scarce throughout the journey, so moderate your water intake.
  • If you cannot find a restroom, try asking nearby guesthouses if you can use their facilities for a fee.

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Recommended Local Cuisine Near Mount Qingcheng

• Qiudouhua
  • Reason for Recommendation: Located on a small street near the archway to the front mountain of Qingcheng, their tofu pudding is a must-try delicacy.
  • Address: No. 172-176 Yaowang Road, Dujiangyan, Chengdu, Sichuan, China (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Average Cost: 53 RMB per person

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Recommended Hotels Near Mount Qingcheng

Qingcheng Mountain Yue Shang Qing Enjoy Hot Spring Hotel

• Reason for Recommendation: The hotel is located within Qingcheng Le Dao Pedestrian Street, just a short walk from Qingcheng Mountain Station. The hotel offers convenient access to Mount Qingcheng and boasts a pleasant environment.
• Approximate Price per Night: 350 RMB
• Check Room Rates: View and Book

Chengdu Qingcheng Mountain Huajiantang·Shancheng Qing

• Reason for Recommendation: A high-end hotel brand located near Mount Qingcheng, offering an excellent environment.
• Approximate Price per Night: 650 RMB
• Check Room Rates: View and Book

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How to Get to Mount Qingcheng from Chengdu City Center

It is recommended to take a train to Qingcheng Mountain Railway Station and then a taxi or a scenic bus to Mount Qingcheng.

• Train from Chengdu City Center to Qingcheng Mountain Railway Station:
  • Route: Chengdu Xipu Railway Station to Qingcheng Mountain Railway Station
  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Note: Make sure to purchase round-trip high-speed train tickets in advance. For return trips to Chengdu, try to book tickets for after 5:00 PM to avoid missing your train.
  • Train Ticket Purchase: Click to Buy
• Bus from Qingcheng Mountain Railway Station to Mount Qingcheng:
  • Boarding Location: Follow the signs at the high-speed train station; the direct bus is on the right side.
  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Cost: 30 RMB round-trip

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FAQ

Is Mount Qingcheng suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

It is not recommended as the paths are mountainous. It is advised to use a baby carrier. Seniors might consider using a sedan chair service, though it is quite expensive.

How can seniors climb Mount Qingcheng?

Seniors can use the sedan chair service (Bamboo Sedan Chair), which involves being carried up the mountain by attendants. However, it is costly and charged per journey, with a full tour costing 1680 RMB per person.

Where can I store luggage?

Luggage lockers are available near Qingcheng Mountain Railway Station, and nearby shops also offer luggage storage. Approximate costs are 30 RMB per day for lockers, 15 RMB per suitcase, and 10 RMB per backpack at convenience stores.