Mount Qingcheng
Located in Dujiangyan, Sichuan, just a one-hour drive from Chengdu, Mount Qingcheng (Qingchengshan) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the cradles of Taoism (Daoism) . Renowned for its deep tranquility, it is often described as “the quietest mountain under heaven.” This guide covers everything from sacred temples to wild hiking trails.
Taoism at Mount Qingcheng
Mount Qingcheng has been a Taoist center for over 1,800 years. It is where the Celestial Master Zhang Daoling founded the Way of the Five Pecks of Rice, a major Taoist movement. Throughout the mountain, you will find ancient temples, pavilions, and stone carvings integrated harmoniously into the natural landscape. Key Taoist sites include the Jianfu Palace (建福宫), Tianshi Cave (天师洞, Celestial Master’s Grotto), and Shangqing Palace (上清宫, Supreme Clarity Palace).
Front Mountain (前山) – Temples & Culture
The Front Mountain is the cultural core of Qingcheng Mountain. It is more accessible, well-paved, and dotted with historic Taoist temples. A typical route takes 4–5 hours on foot or can be shortened using cable cars.
Suggested route:
* Start at the gate → Jianfu Palace → Cable car up to Zushi Hall → Shangqing Palace → climb up to Laojun Pavilion (highest point of Front Mountain, with panoramic views) → descend via Tianshi Cave → walk out.
The Front Mountain entrance fee is approx. 80 RMB (subject to change). It suits those interested in history, architecture, and Taoist culture.
Back Mountain (后山) – Hiking & Nature
The Back Mountain is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. It is wilder, greener, and much less crowded. Streams, waterfalls, deep gorges, and bamboo forests dominate the landscape. There are two main hiking loops, both taking 5–7 hours.
Classic Back Mountain hiking circuit:
* One-way route: Parking lot → Feiquan Valley → Cuiping Lake (翠映湖, a small ferry crossing) → Baiyun Ancient Town → Baiyun Temple → descend via Wulong Valley (五龙沟) → return.
* Alternatively, take the Baiyun Cable Car up and hike down through Wulong Valley.
Back Mountain tips:
* Entrance fee: approx. 20 RMB.
* Wear proper hiking shoes; trails can be slippery after rain.
* Bring snacks and water – vendors are limited on upper trails.
* The Wulong Valley section is particularly scenic with many small waterfalls.
Combined Itinerary & Travel Tips
Classic 2-day itinerary:
* Day 1: Front Mountain – focus on Taoist temples and cultural sites. Stay overnight at a guesthouse at the mountain base (e.g., near the Front Mountain gate).
* Day 2: Back Mountain – full day hiking. Return to Chengdu in the evening.
Getting there:
* From Chengdu Xipu Station, take the intercity train to Qingchengshan Station (approx. 30 minutes). From the station, take bus 101 or a taxi to the scenic area.
*By private car – available if you choose our tour package that includes Mount Qingcheng.
Best season:
* Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November): mild weather, clear views.
* Summer is lush but humid; winter is cold but less crowded.
What to bring:
* Comfortable hiking shoes, raincoat (unpredictable mountain weather), cash (some vendors don’t accept cards), and a power bank.
Local food:
* Try Qingcheng tea, roasted tofu, and Sichuan pepper-infused local dishes near the mountain gates.