Qingcheng Shan - Sichuan Travel Guide
An Ancient Village at the Foot of the Sacred Taoist Mountains
Qingcheng Shan Village is a prime base to explore the UNESCO heritage site of Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
This charming little town is a must-visit to all who are interested in Taoism, the main native religion in China, and its connection to the exuberance of the lush Sichuan mountains, the last habitat of the famous Chinese mascot - the panda.
But that is not all, from witnessing the ingenuity of Chinese ancient engineering at the Dujiangyan Irrigation System to soaking in magnificent outdoor thermal pools, Qingcheng Shan has something to wow every traveler avid for nature, culture, or relaxation.
Table of Contents
What to see in Qingcheng Shan
1. Taoist Temples at the Front Mountain
Mount Qingcheng stands as one of the most sacred Taoist mountains in China. The mountain is not only a testament to ancient Chinese philosophy but has also captured the imaginations of modern audiences as it inspired the mythical Panda Village in the beloved Pixar movie, Kung Fu Panda.
Despite the allure of encountering wild pandas in their natural habitat, the dense trails and the popularity of the mountain can make such sightings challenging. Nevertheless, the cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and subtle charm of Mount Qingcheng make it an enchanting destination. Its serene trails wind through ancient temples, hidden caves, and dense forests, providing a surreal backdrop that seemingly transports visitors into the animated world of Po.
2. Hiking the Back Mountain
Qingcheng Shan's Back Mountain offers a serene and less trodden path for explorers. Known for its lush landscapes and ancient Taoist heritage, this part of the mountain contrasts with its more frequented counterpart, presenting hikers with tranquil forests, mystical cave temples dating back to the Jin Dynasty, and a rich biodiversity.
It is also a vital habitat for the giant panda, nestled within dense bamboo forests that are crucial for their survival. This secluded area not only provides a peaceful hiking experience but also a chance to witness China's efforts in conservation and the preservation of its cultural and natural heritage.
3. The Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System stands as a marvel of ancient engineering amidst the Sichuan province in China. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a glimpse into China's rich history and innovative spirit.
Built over 2,000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty, the system continues to control water flow from the Min River to the Chengdu Plain, ensuring irrigation for agriculture and flood control for the region.
As explorers walk along the intricate network of canals and levees, they are transported back in time to admire the ingenuity of Li Bing, the system's chief engineer. This engineering wonder not only sustains the fertile lands of the Chengdu Plain but also showcases how ancient Chinese civilizations harmonized with their natural surroundings for sustainable development.
What to eat in Qingcheng Shan
Located in the Sichuan province, Qingcheng Shan is a destination that beautifully captures the essence of the renowned Sichuan cuisine. While known for its fiery flavors, this location offers a delightful variety of options that cater to all tastes.
Moreover, the restaurants’ beautifully decorated outdoor seating areas create a welcoming ambiance among nature for guests to unwind and enjoy a memorable culinary experience.
One of the highlights of Qingcheng Shan is its emphasis on using incredibly fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farms, some of which are grown right on the restaurant premises.
Chickens and freshwater fish are also locally produced and popular choices in Qingcheng Shan. For those who prefer milder flavors, a must-try dish is the famous soup where a whole chicken is slow-cooked until the meat becomes incredibly tender, effortlessly falling off the bones.
Where to stay in Qingcheng Shan
Qingcheng Shan offers a range of accommodations catering to diverse traveler preferences and budgets. Most rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cozy spaces blending modern amenities and traditional charm.
Many options feature thermal pools to relax and rejuvenate after mountain exploration. If you can spend a bit more we highly recommend choosing an option with outdoor thermal pools that provide a unique and relaxing experience under the stars.
How to get to Qingcheng Shan
Qingcheng Shan lies at the heart of the Sichuan province in China. This picturesque Unesco Heritage location is conveniently located near the capital of the province, Chengdu, making it a convenient base for your exploration. The easiest way to get there is through one of the many organized trips to this site (see suggestions below) that regularly depart from Chengdu.
However, if you wanna have more time and flexibility to explore the marvels of Qingcheng Shan, the simplest alternative is to go by train. To do so, Sure, adhere to the following details and use the provided links to book your convenient book your train tickets.
How to Get to Chengdu
To get to Chengdu travelers can take a flight to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, the nearest major airport.
Additionally, high-speed trains to Chengdu are available from all major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chongqing. Those are affordable and very frequent and can be conveniently booked in advance on Trip.com. Booking in advance is advisable, especially on holidays, when tickets sell out quickly.
Since the city is located in the mountains, traveling by bus or slower trains is not advisable, as the journeys would be a lot longer, when compared with the option provided.
How to Get to Qingsheng Shan from Chengdu
The best way to get to Qingcheng Shan is to get a speed train from Xipu Station in Chengdu. It will take you to Qingcheng Shan in approximately 30 minutes and cost 10RMB. Those are not so frequent so booking in advance is highly recommended as they usually sell out, especially on holidays and weekends.
Best time to visit Qingcheng Shan
Spring (March to May): During spring, the mountain comes alive with vibrant colors as flowers bloom, creating a picturesque landscape. The weather is generally mild, making it comfortable for hiking and exploring the scenic trails.
Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn offers mild temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The fall foliage paints the mountain in hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Compared to the peak summer months, autumn tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more tranquil experience.
Summer (June to August): The summer months can be hot and humid, which may make hiking less comfortable. However, it offers the mildest Summer temperatures in the Sichuan province which makes it quite popular during the summer vacation period, leading to larger crowds and longer wait times at popular attractions.
Winter (December to February): Winter brings colder temperatures, and some areas of the mountain may experience snowfall. If you don't mind the cold, winter can be a quieter time to visit with fewer tourists.
Current Weather nearby Qingcheng Shan (Tiangpeng)
Travel Tips of Qingcheng Shan
To book hotels and even trains in China from a foreign country, Trip.com is your best bet. It has a wide range of options and is much more affordable than a traditional travel agency.
When traveling to a completely different country like China, we recommend you to get a Travel Insurance like Insubuy or VisitorsCoverage to get you covered.
Providing data during a trip is always crucial, but it can sometimes be a real headache. That's why we're offering two options: airalo is a eSIM (card-free) option that's incredibly convenient, allowing you to top up if you need more (a recommended and proven option in China, capable of bypassing the Chinese firewall), and DrimSim for universal physical SIM cards.
Nearby attractions
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