Best of Qingcheng Shan: Back Mountain Travel Guide
The ultimate guide to hiking Mount Qingcheng
Enclosed in the Sichuan Province, Qingcheng Shan Back Mountain (Qingcheng back entrance), 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.
Table of Contents
What to see in Qingcheng Shan Back Mountain
1. Taian Ancient Village
Venture through the ornate arch marking the threshold of Taian village (see map below), where a vibrant tapestry of bustling streets adorned with ancient Chinese wooden structures begins to unfurl before your eyes.
Traverse this charming enclave and discover a plethora of traditional eateries exuding a quaint charm, alongside a myriad of shops showcasing an eclectic array of goods, from handcrafted souvenirs to fresh produce and stylish apparel.
Follow the meandering path along the riverbank, where the enchanting melody of flowing waters guides your footsteps toward the bustling heart of the village—a lively traditional market teeming with the hustle and bustle of local life, signaling the commencement of your ascent to new heights.
2. Up the River
The river's initial stretch features cozy coffee spots and charming restaurants perched above the water, offering a serene spot for snacks before tackling the trail's more challenging segments.
As you delve deeper into the forest, these quaint establishments give way to the tranquil beauty of nature, with wooden bridges providing picturesque views of cascading waterfalls. Alternatively, a cable car option is available, bypassing the trail's toughest section for those seeking convenience.
3. Across the Lake
When reaching the upper part of the mountain (or the cable car stop) you will find the Long Bridge. This curvy wooden bridge meanders through the shallow and serene waters of the river, which contrasts with the previous rapids.
At the exit, you will find a mesmerizing turquoise lake which can only be crossed in the traditional Chinese boat for 10RMB. In front, Bailyung Cable Car offers you the option to easily travel to the other side of the mountain. A variety of food stalls offers delicious snacks and places to sit and enjoy the spectacular mountain views.
4. Temples and Caves
At the mountain's summit lies a collection of unique cave temples, among which the Tongtian Cave is a must-see. This cave is renowned for its harmonious atmosphere, where thousands of divine figures emerge from walls adorned with deep green moss, creating a mystical ambiance.
While the journey to the peak offers splendid views, the temple there is largely in ruins and may not justify the climb. It's more rewarding to explore the lower caves, where vibrant statues fill the remaining temples, offering a visually rich experience.
5. The Panda Habitat
The final stretch of the trail is breathtaking and offers a rare but possible opportunity to spot elusive pandas roaming freely in their natural habitat. Traverse through a mesmerizing canyon adorned with crystal-clear turquoise waters cascading into dramatic waterfalls, painting a picturesque scene straight out of a dream.
As you continue your expedition, immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of a lush bamboo forest, where the gentle rustle of bamboo leaves whispers tales of ancient serenity. Here, awaiting your arrival, are bamboo rafts, poised gracefully amidst the tranquil waters, inviting you to capture timeless moments of your adventure amidst nature's breathtaking splendor.
Where to stay near Qingcheng Shan
If like us, you wanna stay in a calm idyllic location near the Mountain we recommend staying at the Qingcheng Shan village. Staying at Qingsheng Shan allows you to enjoy this incredible location for longer without the worries of catching the next train and visiting other nearby attractions such as the Qingsheng Shan Front Mountain or the Dujiangyan irrigation system.
The village offers many delicious traditional restaurants with super fresh locally grown foods that guarantee a great culinary experience when visiting Qingsheng Shan. Moreover, there are super high-quality hotels for every budget, many of them offering relaxing thermal pools for you to recover after a long day of hiking. Some suggestions for hotels in the Qingcheng Shan area are highlighted below and can be easily booked in advance through our partner Trip.com.
How to get to Qingcheng Shan
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 min and cost 10RMB. This proximity makes Chengdu a convenient base to explore Mt. Qingcheng if you prefer a city stay. You can find more details on how to get here from Chengu in our Qingsheng Shan post.
Once in Qingcheng Shan, you can conveniently book a taxi with the Didi app, which can be found on WeChat. You will reach Taian Ancient Village in about 30 minutes through beautiful mountain roads which cost about 40RMB.
Alternatively, if you would like to get a worry-free journey you can book one of the many organized tours offered by our partners:
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
Qingchengshan Map
The hike of the Back Mountain trail takes an entire day.
Keep the map with you at all times so as not to overlook any of the scenic areas.
The entry ticket to the scenic area is 20 RMB.
The cable cars cost 35RMB one-way or 60RMB round-trip.
The traditional boat costs 10RMB.
There are many restaurants and convenience stores in Taian Ancient Village.
Many food stalls are available along the trail, especially in the most accessible locations near the cable cars. They offer flavourful and inexpensive snacks that are definitely worth trying.
When traveling to a completely different country like China, I would recommend you to get a Travel Insurance like Insubuy or VisitorsCoverage to get you covered.
Having internet during a trip to a foreign country is always crucial, but it can sometimes be a real headache. Airalo is an incredibly convenient eSIM (card-free), allowing you to top up if you need more (a recommended and proven option in China, capable of bypassing the Chinese firewall). Alternatively, DrimSim can be good option if you rather go a universal physical SIM card
Is it worth visiting Qingcheng Shan
The Back Mountain is revered for its pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal destination for spiritual seekers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers alike. Whether you're embarking on a scenic hike through verdant landscapes, discovering hidden cave temples amidst the foliage, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Qingcheng Shan Back Mountain promises an unforgettable experience.
Moreover, the region's significance in Taoist culture adds an extra layer of intrigue to the journey, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into ancient wisdom and spirituality. Visiting Qingcheng Shan Back Mountain is undoubtedly worth it for those seeking an immersive journey into the heart of nature and spirituality.
Nearby attractions
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