Mount Qingcheng Travel Guide: A Serene Escape in Sichuan

Located just 15 kilometers southwest of Dujiangyan City in Sichuan Province, Mount Qingcheng is one of China’s Four Sacred Taoist Mountains. Known for its tranquility, cool climate, and stunning natural beauty, it’s often referred to as the “Most Secluded Mountain Under Heaven.” With its lush forests, ancient temples, and refreshing air, Mount Qingcheng is a perfect destination for hiking, cultural exploration, and escaping the summer heat. This Sichuan travel guide will help you plan your visit to one of the most enchanting Sichuan attractions.

Getting to Mount Qingcheng

Mount Qingcheng is about 70 kilometers from Chengdu, making it easily accessible for travelers. Here are the best ways to get there:

By High-Speed Train
Take a high-speed train from Chengdu Railway Station or Chengdu East Station to Dujiangyan Station (approx. 30-40 minutes, CNY 15-25). From there, transfer to bus 101 or 102 (20 minutes, CNY 2) or take a taxi (15 minutes, CNY 20-30) to the scenic area.

By Bus
Direct buses are available from Chengdu’s Chadianzi or Xinnanmen Bus Stations to Dujiangyan (approx. 1-1.5 hours, CNY 20-30). From Dujiangyan, take local transport to Mount Qingcheng.

By Car
Drive from Chengdu via the Chengdu-Guanxian Expressway (approx. 1 hour). Parking is available at the scenic area (CNY 10-20/day).

Within the Scenic Area

• Front Mountain: Mostly徒步, with cable cars available for certain sections (round-trip CNY 60).
• Back Mountain: Take a cable car to Baiyun Temple (round-trip CNY 50) to save energy.

Top Attractions and Activities

Mount Qingcheng is divided into the Front Mountain (cultural sites) and the Back Mountain (natural scenery). Here are the highlights:

Front Mountain (Cultural Exploration)

• Tianshi Cave (Celestial Master Cave): The heart of Mount Qingcheng, this ancient Taoist temple is said to be where Zhang Daoling, the founder of Taoism, once meditated. The temple’s incense-filled halls and serene atmosphere are deeply spiritual.
• Shangqing Palace: Located at a higher altitude (1,260 meters), this temple offers panoramic views of the mountain and houses a statue of Laozi, the founder of Taoism.
• Jianfu Palace: A peaceful temple near the mountain entrance, ideal for learning about Taoist history.
• Yuecheng Lake: A small, picturesque lake accessible by boat (CNY 5). It’s a great spot for photos and a relaxing break.

Back Mountain (Natural Beauty)

• Wulong Valley: A scenic area with streams, waterfalls, and bamboo forests. The fresh air and tranquil environment make it perfect for nature lovers.
• Baiyun Temple (White Cloud Temple): The highest point on the Back Mountain (1,700 meters), this temple is often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere.
• Cuiying Lake: A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for photography and relaxation.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Trip (Front Mountain): Mountain Gate → Jianfu Palace → Yuecheng Lake → Tianshi Cave → Shangqing Palace → Return.

One-Day Trip (Front + Back Mountain Highlights): Morning: Explore Front Mountain (Tianshi Cave, Shangqing Palace). Afternoon: Visit Back Mountain (Wulong Valley, Baiyun Temple).

Two-Day Trip: Day 1: Explore Front Mountain and stay overnight at the base. Day 2: Deep dive into Back Mountain.

Food Recommendations

Mount Qingcheng offers a mix of Sichuan flavors and local specialties:

Qingcheng La Rou (Cured Pork): A local delicacy, best enjoyed at farmhouse restaurants near the mountain base (CNY 30-50/person).

Taoist Vegetarian Meals: Light and healthy dishes made with tofu, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables, available at temples like Tianshi Cave or Shangqing Palace (CNY 20-40/person).

Barbecue and Farmhouse Dishes: Try roasted lamb or chicken at Back Mountain farmhouses (CNY 50-80/person).

Snacks: Don’t miss local street food like liangfen (jelly noodles), douhua (tofu pudding), and skewers at the mountain base (CNY 5-15).

Accommodation Options

At the Base: Hotels and guesthouses in Dujiangyan or Qingcheng Town (CNY 100-300/night).
Near the Scenic Area: Budget-friendly lodges at the Front Mountain base (CNY 50-150/night).
Luxury Options: Qingcheng HaoSheng Hotel or Six Senses Qingcheng Mountain (CNY 500-2000/night), offering hot springs and stunning views.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
• Summer (June-August): Cool retreat from the heat.
• Autumn (September-November): Vibrant fall foliage.
• Winter (December-February): Frost-covered landscapes.

What to Pack

• Sturdy hiking shoes (especially for the Back Mountain).
• Sunscreen and a hat for summer; warm clothing for winter.
• Rain gear (mountain weather can be unpredictable).

Costs

• Entrance fee: Front Mountain (CNY 90); Back Mountain (CNY 20). Student discounts available.
• Total budget (including transport and meals): CNY 150-300/person.

Safety Tips

• Trails can be slippery, especially in wet weather.
• Respect Taoist culture and maintain a quiet demeanor at temples.
• Be mindful of altitude changes on the Back Mountain.

Sample One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Depart Chengdu → High-speed train to Dujiangyan → Arrive at Front Mountain → Visit Jianfu Palace and Tianshi Cave.
Midday: Lunch at a farmhouse or with packed snacks.
Afternoon: Take the cable car to Shangqing Palace → Descend and explore Wulong Valley on the Back Mountain → Visit Cuiying Lake.
Evening: Return to Dujiangyan for dinner (try cured pork or barbecue) → Head back to Chengdu or stay overnight.

Mount Qingcheng is a treasure trove of natural beauty and spiritual heritage, making it a highlight of any Sichuan travel adventure. Whether you’re hiking through its lush valleys, exploring ancient temples, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, this Sichuan travel guide ensures your journey to Mount Qingcheng will be both memorable and enriching.