Baohua Mountain National Forest Park (宝华山国家森林公园), located in Jurong City, stands at an elevation of 437.2 meters with a sprawling total area of 1700 hectares, boasting an impressive forest coverage of 92%. The mountain is adorned with the presence of numerous ancient trees, some of which have thrived for a millennium. Steeped in historical significance, Baohua Mountain gained particular renown during the Qing Dynasty when Emperor Qianlong visited the region six times, planting six majestic “Imperial Pine Trees”.
Originally named for the abundance of yellow flowers that blanket the landscape in spring, the park’s nomenclature underwent a change during the Southern and Northern Dynasties when the venerable monk Baozhi (folklore suggests he was the prototype for the legendary Ji Gong) established a hermitage on the mountain to expound Buddhist teachings. Consequently, the park was renamed Baohua Mountain in honor of this revered monk.
Baohua Mountain National Forest Park is celebrated for its four enchanting landscapes: the beauty of the forest foothills, the elegance of the peaks, the depth of its caves and gorges, and the ethereal charm of mist and clouds. The park features two main entrances, the North Gate and the South Gate, with the former being the more commonly used entry point due to the accessibility of public transportation and the presence of the 312 National Road to the north.
Visitors often opt for self-driving, given the convenience of the mountainous roads. However, it’s essential to purchase both entrance tickets and parking permits upon arrival. The parking fees vary, with small vehicles (15 seats or fewer) incurring a charge of 10 yuan per vehicle and larger vehicles requiring a fee of 15 yuan. For non-drivers, there is the option to take the park’s shuttle service at a cost of 10 yuan for a one-way trip. Alternatively, one can traverse the area on foot, taking approximately 30-40 minutes to reach Longchang Temple from the foot of the mountain.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Baohua Mountain National Forest Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Natural Scenery in Zhenjiang
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | 50 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 21.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0511-87898499 |
Location and Transportation
Baohua Mountain National Forest Park is located to the north of Jurong City in Jiangsu Province, China. Positioned south of the 312 National Road and north of the Huning Expressway (Shanghai-Nanjing), the park is conveniently situated approximately 30 kilometers away from the cities of Nanjing, Zhenjiang, and Jurong.
Here’s a brief guide on reaching Baohua Mountain National Forest Park from different starting points:
- From Nanjing: Travelers departing from Nanjing can take Metro Line 2 to Jiangtianlu Station and board Bus 191, which runs every 30 minutes, to reach the park.
- From Jurong: Passengers originating from Jurong can head to Jurong Bus Station and catch a tourist special line that runs to Baohua Mountain National Forest Park. Buses depart approximately every 20-30 minutes.
- From Zhenjiang: For visitors starting from Zhenjiang, they can go to Zhenjiang Nanmen Bus Passenger Station and take Bus 606, which operates at intervals of 30-40 minutes, to reach the park.
Highlights of Baohua Mountain National Forest Park
Longchang Temple
Originally established in 502 AD, Longchang Temple, also known as Baohua Temple, holds a profound history spanning over 1400 years. Initially founded by the revered monk Baozhi (believed to be the prototype of the folk legend Ji Gong), it was named Baizhi Gong An, denoting the hermitage where Baozhi resided to impart Buddhist teachings. Ming Emperor Shenzong bestowed upon it the title “Longchang Temple for Protecting the Country and Promoting Buddhism,” leading to its current name. Its prestige further elevated during the Qing Dynasty as Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong made multiple visits, underscoring its significance in the Buddhist realm.
Baohua Temple showcases captivating highlights:
- Han White Jade Ordination Platform (Qing Kangxi Era): A sacred platform crafted from White Marble. Since the Qing Dynasty, tens of thousands of monks have undergone ordination ceremonies here.
- Five-Mouth Thousand-Person Cauldron (Qing Guangxu Era): An enormous cauldron from the Qing Dynasty that once served meals for a thousand people, reflecting the temple’s historical communal practices.
- Copper Hall and Beamless Hall (Ming Wanli Era, 1605): Architectural marvels dating back to 1605 from the Ming Dynasty. The Copper Hall showcases exquisite craftsmanship, while the Beamless Hall demonstrates innovative construction techniques.
Source of the Qinhuai River
Baohua Mountain holds the distinction of being one of the sources of the Qinhuai River, a significant tributary of the Yangtze River. Referred to as “Longcangpu” in ancient times, the river originates from the eastern Lushan in Lishui and Baohua Mountain in Jurong. Flowing westward through the southern part of Nanjing and eventually merging with the Yangtze River in the northwest of Shicheng, the Qinhuai River has played a pivotal role in the historical and cultural development of the region.
Tianlong Fudi Square
Perched atop the Tianlong Peak among the 36 peaks of Baohua Mountain, Tianlong Fudi Square holds historical importance. Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty made six pilgrimages to Baohua Mountain and Longchang Temple, choosing this site to pray for the prosperity and wellbeing of the nation. This square spans 5000 square meters and comprises sections dedicated to the Bai Fu Tu (Hundred Blessings Painting), longevity statues, the Twelve Chinese Zodiac Pillars, and a Folk Culture Wall. It reenacts the scenes of ancient prayers, focusing on propagating the millennia-old culture centered around blessings encapsulating fortune, longevity, and prosperity for the Chinese people.
Qianhua Ancient Village
Qianhua Ancient Village, located at the foot of Baohua Mountain, is a meticulously recreated Ming and Qing-style village. It offers visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of common people during the prosperous Kangxi and Qianlong eras three centuries ago. The village showcases a variety of historical elements, including courier stations, handloom weaving, money exchange houses, puppet shows, and traditional performances, transporting visitors back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Alongside a picturesque water street, the village features a bustling bar area with dozens of bars and teahouses, affectionately named the “Drunken Alley.” Here, you can enjoy the charming night views of the ancient village while indulging in drinks and casual conversations, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Reasonable Prices at Qianhua Ancient Village: Qianhua Ancient Village offers reasonably priced goods and food, with prices generally comparable to those outside the village.
Unique Architecture and Lantern-Lit Atmosphere: Qianhua Ancient Village features distinctive architecture adorned with lanterns. The village comes alive in the evening, with lanterns lighting up at 6:30 PM, creating a magical atmosphere reminiscent of scenes from “Spirited Away.”
Scheduled Performances in the Village: Qianhua Ancient Village hosts performances in the central area starting from 10 AM onwards, with intervals ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Convenient Transportation to Longchang Temple: To visit Longchang Temple, it’s recommended to take the park’s transportation vehicle uphill (one way: 10 yuan per person). For the descent, you can enjoy a 40-minute walk back to Qianhua Ancient Village.
