China Shanhe Lu
Qingcheng Mountain Travel Guide
Southwest

Qingcheng Mountain Travel Guide

Famous Taoist Mountains · Qianshan Jianfu Palace · Houshan Quiet Valley

Mount Qingcheng is one of the birthplaces of Taoism. The saying 'Qingcheng is the most secluded under heaven' refers to its overall temperament of dense forests, deep valleys, and moisture. The front mountain is concentrated with cultural relics, while the back mountain is dominated by natural streams and valleys, and the styles of the two are completely different.

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Destination Details

Key facts
Best seasonApr–Oct
Suggested stayOne day
Key highlightsJianfu Palace · Tianshi Cave · Shangqing Palace · Back Mountain Five Dragon Ditch
Admission ticketTickets are purchased separately for the front and back mountains
TrafficAbout 1.5 hours from Chengdu, possible to visit on the same day as Dujiangyan

Qingcheng Mountain is located southwest of Dujiangyan City and is one of the important origins of Taoism in China. During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Daoling once preached here. The mountain is composed of sandstone and conglomerate, with extremely dense vegetation and year-round moisture, creating an overall sense of "seclusion."

Main Highlights

Front Mountain

Concentration of cultural relics and temples: Jianfu Palace, Tianshi Cave, Shangqing Palace, and Zushi Hall are arranged along the mountain path in order. Tianshi Cave is said to be where Zhang Daoling delivered his teachings. The halls are built along the mountain with well-defined tiers.

Back Mountain

Mainly focused on natural scenery, areas like Wulong Gorge, Feiquan Gorge, and Baiyun Cave feature deep valleys. Walkways are attached to cliffs, and the area is cool in summer. Physical exertion is higher than in the Front Mountain.

Ways to Climb

On the Front Mountain, you can take a cable car to save energy; the Back Mountain mostly requires walking on plank trails. Stone steps become slippery when it rains, so wear anti-slip shoes.

Recommended Duration

  • Half a day: main route of the Front Mountain.
  • One day: visit Dujiangyan in the morning and Qingcheng Front Mountain in the afternoon, or spend the whole day on the Back Mountain.

Local Tips

  • The mountainous area has frequent rain; rain gear and anti-slip shoes are essential.
  • Cable cars and ferries may be suspended in bad weather.
  • Traveling between the Front and Back Mountains requires a detour; do not assume you can walk straight through.

Routes that include this stop