Qixia Mountain Scenic Area
Discover Qixia Mountain Scenic Area, a UNESCO-listed gem in Nanjing renowned for its vibrant autumn maple forests, ancient Buddhist temples like Qixia Temple, and breathtaking Yangtze River views. Hike the glass Skywalk, explore Tang Dynasty relics, or meditate amid cherry blossoms in spring. Plan your visit with seasonal highlights, eco-friendly travel tips, and insider insights on tickets, trails, and hidden gems.
Historical Overview
6th Century CE: Qixia Temple founded by monk Faxian, becoming a key Buddhist center.
13th Century: Renowned poet Du Mu immortalized Qixia’s autumn maples in his verse.
1983: Designated a national scenic area, preserving Tang Dynasty pagodas and Ming-era ruins.
2010s–Present: Expansion of trails, museums, and eco-friendly infrastructure for sustainable tourism.
Structural Layout
The area is divided into three zones:
Buddhist Heritage Zone: Qixia Temple, with its 7th-century Sheli Pagoda and 1,500+ Buddhist carvings.
Nature & Foliage Zone: Maple Valley, Red Leaves Canyon, and the 1,000-meter-long Skywalk.
Cultural Exploration Zone: The Qixia Mountain Museum, showcasing Tang Dynasty artifacts and poetry scrolls.
Major Attractions
Qixia Temple: A 7th-century Buddhist complex with a 21-meter-tall stone pagoda and the "Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas."
Maple Valley: Famous for its autumn foliage, drawing 1 million+ visitors annually.
Sheli Pagoda: A Tang Dynasty relic with a 1,400-year-old relic of the Buddha’s ashes.
Skywalk: A glass bridge offering Yangtze River views and seasonal cherry blossoms in spring.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (2–3 Hours)
Start at Qixia Temple (45 mins) → Maple Valley (60 mins) → Sheli Pagoda (30 mins).
Highlights: Buddhist carvings, autumn foliage, and historic pagodas.
Cultural Depth Route (4–5 Hours)
Qixia Temple → Maple Valley → Qixia Mountain Museum (60 mins) → Skywalk (45 mins).
Highlights: Tang Dynasty artifacts, poetry exhibitions, and Yangtze River vistas.
All-Day Exploration (Full Day)
Morning: Qixia Temple → Maple Valley → Museum.
Afternoon: Skywalk → Hiking trails (e.g., Tiger Ridge) → Tea ceremonies at Buddhist halls.
Evening: Attend a Buddhist chanting session (if scheduled).
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the Qixia Mountain official website or WeChat mini-program (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: ¥35 (peak season), ¥20 (off-season).
Prices:Standard Entry: ¥35 (¥20 off-season).
Combined Ticket (Temple + Museum): ¥50.
Guided Tours: ¥100 (1.5-hour Chinese/English tours).
Free Admission: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and seniors over 70.
Transportation
By Subway: Line 2 to Xinglong Avenue Station, then transfer to Bus 138.
By Bus: Route 206 or 207 to Qixia Mountain Stop.
By Taxi: Direct to "Qíxiá Shān"
Parking: ¥15/day at the main entrance; electric vehicle charging stations available.
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Peak Hours: 9 AM–1 PM (weekends/holidays).
Best Times: 6:30 AM opening or after 4 PM (weekdays).
Quietest Days: Tuesdays–Thursdays (Mondays open).
Weather: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (maple foliage) are ideal.
Essentials:Download the App: For AR guides and trail maps.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: 10,000+ steps possible.
Stay Hydrated: Vending machines available; no food allowed in temples.
Photography: Allowed (no flash); drones prohibited.
Prohibited Items: Selfie sticks, large bags, and open fires.
FAQ
When is the best time to see the red leaves in Qixia Mountain?
Late November to early December, when maple, sweetgum, and smoke tree leaves turn vibrant red, creating a stunning landscape.
What items should visitors prepare for a trip to Qixia Mountain?
Comfortable hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, and a camera (especially in autumn for red leaf photos).
What is a classic tour route for Qixia Mountain?
Start at the West Gate, visit Qixia Temple, Qianfoyan Rock Carvings, and the Qixia Temple Pagoda, then hike to the Emperor Viewing the River Site and Hongye Valley. The full loop takes 3–4 hours.
What parking facilities are near Qixia Mountain?
The West Gate Parking Lot (free) and East Gate Parking Lot (¥10/hour) are available. Electric vehicle charging stations are located at both locations.
What special foods or souvenirs are available at Qixia Mountain?
Try "Qixia Vegetarian Noodles" at the temple cafeteria. Souvenirs include miniature pagoda replicas and embroidered fans featuring maple leaf motifs.
