青城山
Synopsis
Overview
Mount Qingcheng, located southwest of Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, is one of the Four Sacred Taoist Mountains in China and one of the birthplaces of Taoism. It is named "Qingcheng" (meaning "Green City") because its surrounding peaks are lush with trees, evergreen throughout the four seasons, resembling the shape of a city wall. Since ancient times, it has been praised as "Mount Qingcheng, the most secluded place under heaven," complementing the saying "Jianmen Pass, the most perilous place under heaven..."
Overview
Mount Qingcheng, located southwest of Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, is one of the Four Sacred Taoist Mountains in China and one of the birthplaces of Taoism. Its name, "Qingcheng" (Green City), derives from its appearance: numerous peaks encircling the area, lush forests that remain verdant year-round, resembling the walls of a city. It has long been praised as "the most secluded place under heaven," alongside "the most perilous Jianmen Pass," "the most elegant Mount Emei," and "the most majestic Kuimen." Mount Qingcheng is divided into two main scenic areas: the Front Mountain and the Back Mountain. The Front Mountain is renowned for its cultural landscapes, primarily Taoist temples and palaces, boasting numerous historical sites and profound cultural heritage. The Back Mountain is celebrated for its natural scenery, with babbling streams and cascading waterfalls, making it an excellent destination for hiking and immersing oneself in nature. In 1982, Mount Qingcheng was listed among the first batch of National Key Scenic Spots. In 2000, Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System were jointly inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History
The history of Mount Qingcheng is inextricably linked to the development of Taoism. During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Daoling (Celestial Master Zhang), the founder of Taoism, built a thatched hut here to preach and established the Way of the Celestial Masters (also known as the Way of the Five Pecks of Rice). Consequently, Mount Qingcheng is regarded as the ancestral courtyard of Taoism. Subsequently, eminent Taoist masters throughout history, such as Du Guangting, have lived in seclusion and practiced here, leaving behind a rich legacy of Taoist cultural heritage. Taoism on Mount Qingcheng reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty, with numerous temples and palaces established. During the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, Buddhism once entered Mount Qingcheng. However, during the reign of Emperor Xizong of Tang, at the request of Taoist priests, an imperial edict decreed that "the temples shall be returned to the Taoists, and the Buddhist monasteries shall remain at their old locations outside the mountain," solidifying Mount Qingcheng's status as a Taoist sacred site. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the temple and palace structures on Mount Qingcheng underwent multiple renovations and expansions, forming the layout seen today. This deep historical accumulation means that every plant, tree, palace, and temple on Mount Qingcheng is imbued with a strong Taoist philosophical and cultural atmosphere.
Main Attractions
The main attractions of Mount Qingcheng are concentrated in the Front Mountain, distributed along the mountain paths, forming a classic touring route that blends culture and nature.
- Jianfu Palace: Located at the mountain gate entrance, it was first built in the Tang Dynasty, with the existing structures rebuilt during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty. It enshrines the Immortal Ningfeng and Du Guangting. The halls contain numerous couplets and poems, making it the starting point for tours.
- Natural Picture Pavilion: Situated between Jianfu Palace and Tianshi Cave, this is a ten-cornered pavilion with double eaves. Here, verdant cliffs stand tall amidst lush trees, resembling a natural painting, hence the name.
- Tianshi Cave (Changdao Temple): The seat of the Mount Qingcheng Taoist Association and the most central and grand Taoist temple complex on the mountain. It is traditionally believed to be the place where Celestial Master Zhang practiced and preached. The cave contains statues of "Celestial Master" Zhang Daoling and his 30th-generation descendant, "Celestial Master Xujing." The Sanqing Hall is the main building within the temple, imposing and majestic. The temple also houses precious relics such as Tang Dynasty stone carvings of the Three Sovereigns and ancient ginkgo trees.
- Shangqing Palace: Located on the southern side of the Gaotai Mountain, the highest peak of Mount Qingcheng, it was first built in the Jin Dynasty, with the existing structures rebuilt during the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty. The three characters "Shangqing Palace" on the gate were inscribed by Chiang Kai-shek. The main hall enshrines Laozi. Behind the palace, atop the mountain peak, stands the Laojun Pavilion (rebuilt after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake), offering an excellent vantage point to overlook the secluded panorama of Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
- Back Mountain Scenic Area: Centered around Tai'an Ancient Town, it is connected by the Jinli Cableway and Baiyun Cableway. Main attractions include Wulong Gully, Longyin Gorge Plank Walkway, Feiquan Gully, and Baiyun Ancient Village. It is characterized by beautiful waters, secluded forests, majestic mountains, and peculiar rocks, making it suitable for visitors who love natural scenery and hiking.
Practical Information
The following information is current as of 2023. It is recommended to verify through official channels before traveling.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | Front Mountain: Adult ticket 80 RMB; Back Mountain: Adult ticket 20 RMB. Cable car and sightseeing bus fares are additional. |
| Opening Hours | Front Mountain: Peak season (Mar 2 - Nov 30) 08:00-17:00; Off-season (Dec 1 - Mar 1 of the following year) 08:00-18:00. Back Mountain: Peak season 08:00-17:00; Off-season hours may be slightly adjusted, it is recommended to check in advance. |
| Suggested Visit Duration | 1-2 days. The Front Mountain tour takes about 5-6 hours; the Back Mountain requires a full day. |
| Transportation | 1. From Chengdu: Take the intercity railway from Chengdu Xipu Station to "Qingchengshan" Station (approx. 30 mins). Transfer to the Front/Back Mountain scenic sightseeing bus or public bus after exiting the station. 2. From Dujiangyan: Take bus No. 101 from Dujiangyan city center directly to the Front Mountain of Mount Qingcheng. |
| Best Season to Visit | Suitable year-round. Summer (Jun-Aug) is particularly cool, making it a summer retreat. Autumn offers clear skies and pleasant scenery. |
| Notes | 1. The mountain area is rainy and humid; it is advisable to carry rain gear and non-slip shoes. 2. Maintain quiet within temples, respect religious customs, and do not take photos of statues without permission. 3. Some sections of the Back Mountain are steep; hike with caution and according to your ability. |
References
- Mount Qingcheng-Dujiangyan Scenic Area Administration Official Website: http://www.djy517.com (For the most authoritative scenic area announcements, ticket, and opening hour information)
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1001 (To understand the World Heritage value)
- Sichuan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism Official Website - Introduction to Mount Qingcheng: http://wlt.sc.gov.cn/scwlt/sly/2020/8/26/fe5a1a5b5c5a4c5a9b5c5a5d5c5a5b.shtml (Official background and cultural introduction)
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