Qianling Mountain Park
Qianling Mountain Park, a lush urban oasis nestled in the heart of Guiyang, Guizhou Province, is a beloved destination blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. Established in 1957 and spanning 4.26 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its verdant forests, sacred temples, and playful macaque monkeys. With over 5 million annual visitors, it serves as a vital green lung for the city and a gateway to Guizhou’s minority cultures.
Historical Overview
1672: The Hongfu Temple was constructed during the Qing Dynasty, becoming the park’s spiritual core.
1957: Officially designated as Qianling Mountain Park, opening to the public as a recreational area.
1980s–1990s: Expanded with the addition of the Qianling Lake, cable car, and animal enclosures.
2000s: Restoration of historic temples and introduction of eco-tourism initiatives.
2019: Recognized as a "National AAAA-Level Tourist Attraction" for its cultural and natural value.
Structural Layout
The park is divided into five zones: the Religious Cultural Area, the Macaque Sanctuary, the Qianling Lake Recreation Area, the Mountain Hiking Trails, and the Ethnic Culture Display Zone.
Religious Cultural Area: Features the Hongfu Temple, Qixing Tan, and Guanyin Cave, showcasing Ming and Qing architecture.
Macaque Sanctuary: A 20,000-square-meter enclosure where over 1,200 wild macaques roam freely.
Qianling Lake: A 300-acre reservoir surrounded by walking paths and paddleboat rentals.
Mountain Hiking Trails: 12 kilometers of trails with viewpoints like "Pavilion of Nine Bends" and "Tiger Cave."
Ethnic Culture Display Zone: Exhibits traditional Miao and Dong minority dwellings, textiles, and music performances.MajorAttractions
Hongfu Temple: A 17th-century Buddhist complex with a 15-meter-tall gilded Buddha statue and intricate wood carvings.
Macaque Interaction Zone: Feed and observe monkeys in a semi-natural habitat (guided tours recommended).
Qianling Cable Car: A 10-minute ride offering panoramic views of Guiyang’s skyline and the park’s forests.
Daming Cave: A limestone grotto with ancient Buddhist inscriptions and stalactite formations
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route(2–3Hours)
Start at Hongfu Temple to admire the architecture and pray at the main hall.
Take the cable car to the mountain summit for city views.
Stroll around Qianling Lake and rent a paddleboat.
Visit the Macaque Sanctuary (avoid carrying food to prevent aggression).
Cultural Depth Route(4–5Hours)
Begin with a guided tour of Hongfu Temple and Guanyin Cave.
Hike the "Tiger Cave Trail" to explore Daming Cave and minority culture exhibits.
Attend a Miao folk dance performance in the Ethnic Culture Zone.
End with sunset views from the Pavilion of Nine Bends.
All-Day Exploration(FullDay)
Morning: Hongfu Temple → cable car → Qianling Lake → picnic lunch at the lakeside.
Afternoon: Hike the Tiger Cave Trail → Macaque Sanctuary → Ethnic Culture Zone.
Evening: Dine at a local restaurant near the park entrance, trying Guizhou specialties like "sour soup fish."
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the Qianling Mountain Park WeChat mini-program (tickets valid for 24 hours).
On-Site: ¥5 for park entry; cable car (¥30 round-trip), macaque feed (¥10/packet), and temple donations extra.
Guided Tours: ¥100–200 for English-speaking guides (includes temple history and monkey safety tips).
Free Admission: Children under 1.2m, seniors over 70, and disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Bus: Take routes 1, 2, 10, 12, 13, 16, 22, 23, 33, 41, 51, or 67 to the "Qianlingshan Gongyuan" stop.
By Subway: Line 2 to "Qianlingshan Park" Station (Exit B), 5-minute walk.
By Taxi: Direct to "Qiánlíng Shān Gōngyuán" ; fare ¥15–20 from downtown.
Parking: Available at the north and south gates (¥5/hour).
Best Time&Tips
Avoid Crowds: Early mornings (7–9 AM) or weekdays for quieter trails and temple visits.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Essentials:
Wear Sturdy Shoes: Hiking trails can be steep and muddy.
Carry Water: Limited vendors on trails; bring snacks (store securely to avoid monkey theft).
Respect Wildlife: Do not tease or feed monkeys outside designated areas.
Photography: Allowed everywhere except in restricted temple zones; flash prohibited in caves.
ProhibitedItems: Pets, drones, and loudspeakers.
FAQ
Which is the most famous attraction in Qianling Mountain Park?
The Hongfu Temple is very renowned. It has a long history, magnificent architecture, and a solemn religious atmosphere. Many people come here to worship and feel the Buddhist culture.
Are there open areas in Qianling Mountain Park at night?
Some parts of the park are open at night, like the areas around the lakes, where you can take a walk and enjoy the night view. But some mountain areas may be closed for safety reasons.
Are there any traditional folk activities in the park?
During some traditional festivals like the Spring Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival, there will be folk art performances such as lion dances and folk music performances in the park, which are very lively.
Can we take the subway to Qianling Mountain Park?
Yes, you can take the subway to the nearest station and then transfer to a bus or walk a short distance to reach the park entrance.
What safety precautions should be taken in Qianling Mountain Park?
When you are close to the wild animals, don't feed them casually to avoid being scratched or bitten. And when climbing the mountain, pay attention to your steps to prevent falls. Also, follow the park's regulations and signs to ensure your own safety.
