Mount Qingcheng – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Written by Veronica | Updated January 24,2026

Mount Qingcheng is located in the Sichuan Province of China, nearly 68km away from Chengdu City, so when traveling to Chengdu, Mount Qingcheng is highly recommended. Mount Qingcheng, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has an important religious and historical significance of proving China’s rich culture.

Also, Mount Qingcheng provides a unique and intriguing experience for tourists with its tranquil scenery, old Daoist temple, and picturesque hiking path. So it is a hot place for hikers and Daoism lovers.

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• Mount Qingcheng Facts
• Brief Introduction of Mount Qingcheng
• What to See and Do in Mount Qingcheng​​
• Top Attractions & Temples on Mount Qingcheng
• Brief History of Mount Qingcheng
• Best Time to Visit Mount Qingcheng
• Comparing of Mount Qingcheng and Mount Emei
• How to Get to Mount Qingcheng
• How to Travel Around Mount Qingcheng
• How to Visit Mount Qingcheng
• Nearby Attractions of Mount Qingcheng
• How to Plan a Mount Qingcheng Tour
• FAQs about Qingcheng Mountain
• Travel to Chengdu and Mount Qingcheng with China Xian Tour

Mount Qingcheng Facts

• In Chinese: 青城山
• Location: In Dujiangyan City, 68km away from Chengdu City.
• Opening time: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Ticket price: Front mountain CNY 90/person, Back mountain 20 yuan/person. For cablecar, a one-way ticket is 35 yuan per person, and a round-way ticket is 60 yuan per person.
• Time needed: Front mountain about 4 hours, Back mountain about 6 hours.
• The best time to visit: March to November. In Spring and Autumn, it is especially beautiful.
• Best for: mountain people, nature lovers, Chinese culture buffs, people interested in Daoism

Brief Introduction of Mount Qingcheng

Mount Qingcheng of Chengdu has a special position as the cradle of Daoism and also is one of the most important Daoist religious places. Legend in Daoism says that Huangdi was introduced to learn by Ning Fengzi on this mountain, which adds to its mythological color. Qingchengshan Mountain’s significance is recognized not only by Daoism but also by UNESCO because it is designated as a World Heritage together with the Dujiangyan Irrigation system.

Qingchengshan is divided into Front Mountain and Back Mountain. Each part has its unique scenes. Front Mountain is a treasured place of history and culture, owning rich Daoist relics, such as temples, caves, and pavilions. Tourists can experience the deep spiritual tradition by exploring the relics.

The whole Back Mountain Scenic Spot starts from Tai’an Ancient Town, which provides restaurants and hotels for tourists. Back Mountain attracts tourists by its peaceful and thrilling scene. There people can indulge themselves in the serenity of nature. It is an ideal place away from city life with fresh air and a serene environment.

Mount Qingcheng is also a Wildlife Conservation Area, and home to the deeply loved Panda. Tourists can see these lovely animals at a near distance here. Thus, it is an incredible chance to experience the Daosim culture essence, natural wonders, and the happiness of meeting pandas at one time.

What to See and Do in Mount Qingcheng​​

Start the Spirit Travel of Daoism:

During your Chengdu tours, you can experience the alluring glamour of Front Mountain’s ancient and respected temples in Qingcheng Mountain. When exploring famous scenes, such as Jianfu Palace, Tianshi Cave, Shangqing Palace Laojun Pavilion, etc., you can indulge yourself in the rich Daoist history and culture. Amaze at the complex construction structure, embrace the art expression, and immerse in the serene atmosphere of these sacred places.

Get to the Peak by Hiking or By Cable Car:

Along the rock steps and picturesque path, which leads to the mighty peak of Qingcheng Mountain, go a meaningful hiking and challenge yourself. From the appropriate perspective, you can thoroughly appreciate the splendor of surrounding ranges and valleys. Or if you wish to save time and energy, you can take a cable car to get to the peak quickly and easily. In a place with an elevation of 1,260 meters high, you will feel awe and serenity.

Indulge in the Natural Splendor:

In the Back Mountain, there is a waterfall, winding stream, sparking lake, an alluring cave, and a green forest. You can feel the splendor of natural scenery. Besides, the fresh air and twittering of birds can relax you. Back Mountain provides a serene heaven because you can get away from the crowds and feel the spiritual comfort there.

Meet with panda:

Explore the Front Mountain to reveal the mystery of Kungfu Panda Village, and enter into the scene corresponding with the deeply loved animation film Kungfu Panda 3 to feel its fascinating atmosphere. There, you can witness the glamour and elegance of pandas. If you like, you can participate in voluntary activities to take care of the wildlife.

See how does this sacred mountain inspire the famous film Kung Fu Panda.

Top Attractions & Temples around Mount Qingcheng

Jianfu Palace

Jianfu Palace is on the left side of the mountain gate, so it is always the first stop of the Mount Qincheng tour. This palace was originally built in Tang Dynasty with a history of nearly 1,300 years. While the existing three buildings were rebuilt in Qing Dynasty. With streams and towering trees surrounding it, the palace offers the feeling of a “cool fairyland” even in summer.

Tianshi Celestial Cave

As the core and birthplace of Taoist culture in Mount Qingcheng, Tianshi Celestial Cave has been the most famous Taoist palace of the mountain. It is said that the Taoist Celestial Master, Zhang Daoling, used to build a thatched cottage and found the Way of the Celestial Masters here. The architectural complex inside the palace is constructed against the mountain terrain and integrates into the natural environment perfectly. In front of the palace is a 1,800-year-old ancient gingko tree, which is renowned as the “King of Trees in Sichuan”. The palace is in the middle part of the Front Mountain.

Shangqing Palace

Shangqing Palace is the highest Taoist palace, which is near the mountain top of Front Mountain. The palace hosts many precious cultural relics, including Yuanyang Well, Magu Pool and the paintings of the Chinese painting master, Zhang Daqian. Thanks to its high altitude, it also offers the best view of sunrise and sea of clouds.

Brief History of Mount Qingcheng

• It is one of the birthplaces of Daoism (Taoism).
• It is believed that the philosopher Zhang Ling founded the doctrine of Chinese Daoism here around 142 CE.
• Over the centuries, more and moreDaoist temples were built  Jin and Tang dynasties saw the most.
• Qingcheng Mountainre-became an intellectual and spiritual center for Daoism in the 17th century.
• The site is also connected with the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and together, the mountain and the irrigation system were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

Best Time to Visit Mount Qingcheng

The best time to visit Qingchengshan Mountain is from March to November. At that time, the weather is fine, the scenery is beautiful and the leaves are green.

In Spring and Autumn, blossoming flowers and vibrant leaves form a fantastic visual experience. In Summer, the cool and moist environment can make tourists enjoy the nice atmosphere created by green leaves, gurgling streams, picturesque waterfalls, and serene lakes.

However, it is recommended to avoid the peak period in July and August due to large crowds and high prices. Also in Winter, it is cold and foggy, so it isn’t recommended to visit Qingchengshan Mountain in Winter.

Comparing of Mount Qingcheng and Mount Emei

Mount Qingcheng and Mount Emei are both famous scenic spots in Sichuan and beautiful mountains in China. They have unique natural scenes and cultural meanings separately. Mount Qingcheng attracts tourists because of its serene landscape and Daoist culture.

Mount Emei attracts tourists because of its steep mountain and Buddhist culture. No matter which one, you can have a special climbing experience and feel the rich historical culture.

How to Get to Mount Qingcheng

By private car: It is convenient and flexible. If you plan to visit nearby attractions, such as Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Emei, etc., this traffic way is especially favorable.

By high-speed train: It is fast and efficient. Departure from Chengdu Railway Station or Xipu Railway Station, nearly 30 minutes to 1 hour later reach Mount Qingcheng Railway Station. Then you can take the No. 101 Bus to the Front Mountain of Mount Qingcheng, or take the No. 102 Bus to Back Mountain. From early morning to late night, there are frequent train services to satisfy your trip needs.

By bus: It is the cheapest way to travel to Qingchengshan Mountain. You can take a Bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station or Dongcheng Bus Station to Mount Qingcheng Bus Station. Nearly 2 hours later, after arriving at Mount Qingcheng Bus Station, you can take a taxi or bus to the scenic spot. The bus departs every 20 minutes from 7:00 to 19:00.

Related reading: How to Get to Qingcheng Mountain from Chengdu

How to Travel Around Mount Qingcheng

Cable Car

Mount Qingcheng has cable cars in both the Front and Back Mountain areas, making it easier to save time and energy.

• Front Mountain:The cable car runs from Yuecheng Lake to Shangqing Palace, offering visitors a quick way to reach the main peak while also have the chance to enjoy panoramic views.
• Back Mountain: There are two main cableways — Jinli Cableway (near Tai’an Ancient Town) and Baiyun Cableway (connecting Youyicun to Baiyun Temple). These routes greatly help shorten steep climbs, and it is an idealplan for travelers with limited time.

Battery Car

Battery cars are available at the entrance areas and certain flat sections of the scenic spot, particularly near the Front Mountain gate. It is a convenient choice for visitors with limited mobility or those traveling with kids and elderly family members. The ride will be pleasantly smooth and help shorten the walking distance between major attractions.

Hiking

Hiking is the most immersive and most widely chosen way to experience Mount Qingcheng’s charm. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced hiker, the mountain offers trails suitable for all fitness levels.

Recommended Hiking Routes:

Wulong Valley Scenic Route (Front Mountain): Wulong Valley → Tai’an Ancient Town → Wulong Bridge → Main Gate. This route takes about 2.5 hrs up and 2 hrs down. You’ll get to enjoy perfect scenic charm along less commercialized path.

Cable Car Up & Walk Down (Front Mountain): Main Gate → Yuecheng Lake → Cable Car → Shangqing Palace → Laojun Pavilion → Tianshi Cave → Main Gate. This one will take round 4.5 hrs total, a pretty easy choice for families.

Back Mountain Grand Loop: Tai’an Temple → Feiquan Valley → Cuiying Lake → Baiyun Cableway → Baiyun Temple → Wulong Valley → Tai’an Temple. The whole journey will be around 15 km, which is a 6-hour-walking journey, just designed for experienced hikers.

How to Visit Mount Qingcheng

Front Mountain vs Back Mountain

How to Visit the Front Mountain

• Highlights

1. Visit Jianfu Palace, Tianshi Cave, Shangqing Palace, Laojun Pavilion, and Ciyun Pavilion. Theyreflect the deep Daoist heritage and you can sense peaceful, spiritual atmospheres here.
2. Walk the well-paved steps and paths that connect the temples.

• Recommended Routes

1. Hike only(5-6 hours): From the base (Jianfu Palace) → Nature’s Painting → Tianshi Cave → Quanzhen Temple (detour) → Nine Turnings → Laojun Pavilion → descend via Shangqing Palace → Yuecheng Lake → exit.
2. Cable-car up + walk down: Take the Buyun Cableway from Yuecheng Lake up to the viewing temple Then walk down through attractions like Shangqing Palace, Laojun Pavilion and more sites.
3. Half-day tour combining temples + Dujiangyan Irrigation System.

How to Visit the Back Mountain

• Highlights

1. Natural landscapes: forested valleys, streams, waterfalls, caves.
2. Less crowded than the Front Mountain, more tranquiland closer to nature

• Recommended Routes

1. Popular Nature Loop: 1) Start from Tai’an Ancient Town 2) Take the Jinli Cableway (or hike) to a mid-mountain station 3) Follow trails through Youyicun Village 4) Wulong Valley 5)Back to Tai’an Town.
2. Cableway + Hiking Mix: Use Jinli or Baiyun cableway to go up. Hike some trails, then walk back down.

Nearby Attractions of Mount Qingcheng

• Dujiangyan Irrigation System: Explore the ancient irrigation project dated back to 2,000 years ago, it is recognized as a World Heritage together with Mount Qingcheng.
• Emei Mountain: It is one of the Chinese four Buddhist mountains, and is recognized as World Heritage. About 150 km away from Mount Qingcheng, you can get there by bus or train.
• Bipeng Valley: In this picturesque scenic spot, you can indulge in the glamorous scenery of an alpine meadow, forest, waterfall, lake, and snow mountain. It is an ideal place for hiking, camping, photography, and skiing. About 76 km away from Mount Qingcheng, you can get there by car or by bus.
• Jianmen Pass: An important military pass, famous for its strategic significance. Now it is cherished by its natural scenes and historical relics, including the Road to Shu, Thousand Buddha Cliff, and Jianmen Pass Museum. About 150 km away from Mount Qingcheng, you can get there by car or by bus.

How to Plan a Mount Qingcheng Tour

If you want to explore Mount Qingcheng’s tranquil scenery and the long-lasted Daoist heritage, a 1-2 day trip will be suitable. However, if you focus only on the Front Mountain, half a day to a full day is enough, and you schedule can include temple visits and scenic hiking or a cable car ride. For a slower pace or to explore both Front and Back Mountain, add one more day to explore the site

If time allows, pair your visit with nearby Dujiangyan Irrigation System, located just 15 km away. Many travelers spend the morning at Dujiangyan’s ancient waterworks and the afternoon at Mount Qingcheng. Another option is go to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding before heading to the mountain, so that you can get a mixed experience of seeing both wildlife and culture.

If you’re originally on a Chengdu tour, Mount Qingcheng then works perfectly as a day trip destination — start early, take a high-speed train or private car, explore the Front Mountain, and return to the city by evening for a hotpot dinner. For a 3–4 day Chengdu itinerary, you could arrange as follow:

• Day 1: Chengdu city highlights (Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli Ancient Street, Wuhou Shrine)
• Day 2: Panda Base + Dujiangyan Irrigation System
• Day 3: Mount Qingcheng (Front & Back Mountain)
• Day 4: Mount Emei or Leshan Giant Buddha

FAQs about Qingcheng Mountain

How do I get from Chengdu to Qingcheng Mountain?

High-speed train: Xipu (can be reached by metro in Chengdu) to Qingchengshan Station (~25–35 min). Then taxi to the Front Mountain.

Bus / Coach: From Chadianzi or Xinnanmen Bus Station (both in Chengdu, ~1.5–2 hours).

Private car / taxi: Flexible, ~1–1.5 hours depending on traffic.

What is the difference between Mount Emei and Mount Qingcheng?

Qingcheng: Daoist, tranquil, forested, gentle hiking, spiritual temples.

Emei: Buddhist, steep climbs, dramatic cliffs, pilgrimage monasteries.

How long does it take to climb Mount Qingcheng?

Front Mountain: 2–3 hours via temple trails.

Back Mountain: 4–6 hours for a full loop

Are there cable cars or boat rides, and how much?

Cable cars: Front Mountain ¥35–60, Back Mountain ¥30–70 (Jinli & Baiyun lines).

Boat: Yuecheng Lake ~¥5.

Shuttle / battery cars: Some flat sections ~¥5.

Is the hike to Laojun Pavilion difficult?

Moderate difficulty: many stone steps, some steep sections.

Easier option: take Buyun Cableway up, hike down. Suitable for most fit visitors with proper shoes.

Travel to Chengdu and Mount Qingcheng with China Xian Tour

Mount Qingcheng is a good place for people interested in either Daoism or nature beauty. And it’s always a popular choice to visit Qingcheng during a trip to Chengdu. However, both destinations are full of rewarding highlights, planning can thus be a little overwhelming. As a result, consider joining a guided tour with China Xian Tour. Our travel experts can customize itineraries to include all your preferred highlights. And they’ll also be there 24/7 for you to manage all the details along the way. So contact us now and get ready for your most unforgettable Chengdu tour.