Qingcheng Back Mountain (青城后山), nestled in the outskirts of Chengdu, boasts an aura of mystery with its enchanting blend of natural wonders. This scenic marvel encompasses mystical caves, majestic peaks like Poyanghua, and the picturesque Weijiang River. It’s home to rare ancient tombs, the remnants of the Great Shu King’s legacy, and renowned ancient temples.
Spanning over 20 miles, the entire area offers a captivating journey. Visitors can opt for a cable car ride that cuts the journey in half, granting access to most of Qingcheng Back Mountain’s stunning vistas. Recent developments have seen the addition of various accommodations, introducing a plethora of new activities for tourists. Renowned as the origin of Shu tea during the Qing Dynasty, Qingcheng Back Mountain Tea was once esteemed as a tribute.
While lacking the bustling fervor of its front mountain counterpart, Qingcheng Back Mountain’s serene and pristine ambiance surpasses expectations. Traverse the mountain paths adorned with vibrant wildflowers, witness cascading waterfalls and ever-flowing springs,and experience the dramatic cliffs against the canvas of shifting sunlight and drifting clouds. At times, the trails wind through meandering pathways, seemingly endless, while at others, clusters of villages nestle amidst the encircling mountains, blanketed in lush greenery.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Qingcheng Back Mountain
- Vlog about Qingcheng Back Mountain
- Map and Recommended Routes
- Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews
- Attractions Near Qingcheng Back Mountain
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Over 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 20 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 18.00 |
| Cable Car | One Way: 30 RMB Round: 55 RMB |
| Telephone Number | 0086-028-87239460 0086-028-87112055 0086-028-87288186 |
Location and Transportation
Qingcheng Back Mountain is situated in the southwestern part of China, specifically in Dujiangyan City, Sichuan Province. It is approximately 64 kilometers (40 miles) away from Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan. Nestled in the lush and picturesque surroundings of the Qingcheng Mountain range, this pristine mountain is a hidden gem awaiting exploration.
There is no direct way to get to Qingcheng Back Mountain from Chengdu. You have first to take the express railway to reach Qingcheng Mountain Station, and then walk about half an hour in the mountains to arrive at the entrance.
Highlights of Qingcheng Back Mountain
Yuanming Palace
Yuanming Palace, also known as Yuanminggong or Yuanzheng Palace, is a Taoist temple located in the Qingcheng Back Mountain area of Qingcheng Town, Dujiangyan City, Sichuan Province. The Taoist fasting and health cultivation institute is situated within Yuanming Palace, where practitioners engage in fasting and health preservation year-round. Thus, Yuanming Palace is renowned as a holy place for health and wellness.
Tai’an Temple
Tai’an Temple, tracing its roots back to the Tang Dynasty, stands prominently within the serene landscape of Qingcheng Back Mountain. Adjacent to the temple, one discovers a stupa, three ancient steles, and a collection of robust ancient trees, including majestic ginkgo, Chinese parasol, and red bean trees. A historic postal road lies in front of the temple, serving as a vital route from Guan County to Jinchuan. Legends intertwine Tai’an Temple with events from the end of the Ming Dynasty, where monk Liao Kong allegedly colluded with remnants of the Shu Kingdom, opposing the rebel forces led by the peasant uprising leader Zhang Xianzhong. Subordinates of Zhang Xianzhong sought local guidance to surprise Tai’an Temple, achieving a decisive victory. The temple was set ablaze, monks fled, and Liao Kong met his demise by touching a cliff. In 1986, the temple underwent reconstruction, and since then, it has flourished with continuous worship and spiritual activities.
Feiquan Gully
Outside Huanghe Bridge lies Feiquan Gully, which is 10 kilometers long and originates from the South Heavenly Gate of Yinghua Mountain, flowing into Weijiang River. Ascending the gully, one can enjoy captivating scenery, particularly the three highlights: “Yin Valley Flying Spring,” “Hundred-Zhang Long Bridge,” and “Double Spring Water Curtain.” “Yin Valley Flying Spring” consists of Guanyin Rock Waterfall, Biyue Pool, and Luoyan Pool; “Hundred-Zhang Long Bridge” is a plank road on a cliff adorned with ancient trees and vines; and “Double Spring Water Curtain” resembles the Water Curtain Cave of Flower and Fruit Mountain.
Wulong Gully
Wulong Gully, located in the back mountain of Qingcheng, was historically known as Manhe. It stretches 8 kilometers and gets its name from the legend of five divine dragons hidden within the gully. Ascending the gully, one is surrounded by towering peaks and deep valleys. Within the emerald peaks, there lies the mysterious Jinwawa Tuo, the breathtaking Longyin Gorge plank road, the charming Shifeng Rock, the Echo Wall, and spectacular sights such as Wulong Qiangbao, Bailong Tushui, and the Rainbow Reflection in the water. Additionally, there are ancient spots like Taoyuan Biedong and Youyi Village, as well as Taohua Creek Park. The gully is adorned with rhododendrons, camellias, mountain osmanthus, and wild daisies, creating a fantastical and magnificent fairyland.
Double Spring Water Curtain
The “Double Spring Water Curtain,” located in Feiquan Gully in the back mountain of Qingcheng, is a stunning natural landscape composed of small scenic spots such as a sky bridge, a dressing pool, waterfalls, and Water Curtain Cave. The double spring consists of two waterfalls merging at a confluence, creating a front and back cascade. The front waterfall originates from the dressing pool, spreading at the cave’s top like a silver curtain strung with pearls, hanging in front of the rock and blocking the cave entrance. The back waterfall flows from the main stream of Feiquan Gully, resembling a silver dragon soaring through the air as it plunges down several dozen meters into the cave below. Inside the cave, the waves of snow swirl, and the stalactites are everywhere, creating a stunning and extraordinary scene. The cave features ancient corridor bridges and wooden arch bridges, collectively referred to as the sky bridge, which overlook the gully bottom, where misty rain creates an ethereal atmosphere. The sound of crashing waves echoes in the secluded valley, making it feel as if one is immersed in the clouds, reminiscent of the Water Curtain Cave from “Journey to the West.”
Vlog about Qingcheng Back Mountain
Map and Recommended Routes
The Qingcheng Back Mountain offers a scenic hiking experience along a circular trail. The entire route spans 14 kilometers with a vertical ascent of 1,035 meters, typically taking 5 to 7 hours to complete. Hikers can choose to follow either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Here’s a breakdown of both routes:
Clockwise Direction: Wulonggou (五龙沟) – Youyi Village (又一村) – Baiyun Temple (白云寺) – Cuiying Lake (翠映湖) – Feiquan Gully (飞泉沟)- Zhengshan Gate (正山门) (Exit of Taian Ancient Town)
Counterclockwise Direction: Zhengshan Gate (正山门) (Entrance of Taian Ancient Town) – Feiquan Gully (飞泉沟) – Cuiying Lake (翠映湖) – Baiyun Temple (白云寺) – Youyi Village (又一村) – Wulonggou (五龙沟)
Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews
Hiking the Back Mountain Loop: The recommended activity is a full loop hike on the back mountain, covering approximately 13 kilometers and taking around 5 hours. After descending, there’s an option to visit the Taian Ancient Town, offering various dining and accommodation choices.
Driving and Parking Tips: For those driving, it’s suggested to park at the Taian Ancient Town parking lot. Arriving early is crucial to secure a parking spot, as it tends to fill up quickly. Alternatively, parking at the ticket inspection area is also an option but involves a bit of walking.
Half-Day Option with Cable Car: If time is limited, consider reaching the “Baiyun Ancient Village” and taking the cable car down. The descent trail is challenging and may strain the knees. Note that the cable car stops running at 5:30 PM.
Weather and Attire Recommendations: The weather on the mountain can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to carry an umbrella and wear comfortable, slip-resistant shoes. Be mindful of temperature changes and bring a jacket for warmth.
Limited and Unsanitary Restrooms: Along the route, restroom facilities are scarce and may not be well-maintained. Visitors are advised to be prepared for this inconvenience.
Light Packing and Refreshments: It’s recommended not to carry heavy items up the mountain. A backpack is sufficient for essentials, and bringing some snacks is advisable. However, it’s suggested not to overpack, as there are opportunities to purchase food along the route. Water is essential, and it’s recommended to bring a bottle of mineral water, which may cost around 6 yuan on the mountain.
