The Four Famous Taoist Mountains in China

Honored as World Cultural Heritage, Mount Qingcheng is one of the famous cradles of Taoism and holy land in China, as well as great sites ranking in Top 10 attractions of Chengdu. It is named Qingchengshan for the location in green and quiet forest throughout the year, which also wins it reputation of Mount Qingcheng - Most Secluded Land (青城天下幽) in the World and Exploration of Taoist in the Shrine - Mount Qingcheng (问道青城山).

The whole scenic area covering area of 200sq km includes the front mountain with lots of cultural relics like Taoist temples and pavilions and back mountain where keeps original nature scenery. If hiking upward from the front, you can take boat to tour Yuecheng Lake (月城湖 - huge mountain lake originated from Summit of Mount Qingcheng), and continue climbing by cableway, or walking through Yuqing Palace (玉清宫) and Yuanming Palace (圆明宫) to Shangqing Palace (上清宫 - ancienty taoist temple where Chinese painting master Chang Dai-Chien chose as seclusion and created thousands of paintings). A second choice to Shangqing Palace is hiking the western route from the entrance to Tianshi Celestial Cave (天师洞 - ashram of founder of Tianshi Taoism preaching) and Zushi Temple. Laojun Pavilion (老君阁) on summit of Mount Qingcheng is another major spot at elevation of 1260 m. Besides Taoist sites on Front Mountain, nature lovers can luxuriate in the pristine beauty on the Qingcheng Back Mountain.

Other Recommended Sichuan Destinations

Besides, Mount Qingcheng is only in 15 minutes' car ride from Dujiangyan Panda Base, which will give Big Panda Fans a precious chance to live with and even feed cuddly pandas up-close! Also, you can explore Confucius Temple and Jiezi Ancient Town to feel the profound Chinese history and culture. What more, we highly recommend you immerse yourself in Chengdu's cultural vibrancy, discover the authentic and active temple Wenshu Monastery and Wuhou Memorial Temple as well as Qingyang Palace - the oldest and largest Taoist Shrine in Chengdu, the bustling Jinli Ancient Street and Kuanzhai Alley as well as great Archaeological Discovery Dujiangyan Panda Base. You can also venture further to explore the majestic Leshan Giant Buddha, a towering symbol of Buddhist reverence, marvel at the unbelievable Jiuzhaigou, seek spiritual solace amidst the serene forests of Mount Emei, where sacred temples beckon.

1. Thanks to the thick forests, you will enjoy pleasant fresh air whenever you visit Mount Qingcheng and lovely natural sceneries. Meanwhile, you should walk cautiously on wet and slippery roads due to the high humidity.

2. One day is only enough for one side trip. If you plan to hike both ranges, you need to get another day for further discovery.

☛ 1 Day Panda Tour with Mount Qingcheng

☛ 3 Days Chengdu & Mt. Qingcheng Taoism Tour with Mount Heming

☛ 4 Days Chengdu & Dujiangyan All Bests with Panda Volunteer Tour

☛ 7 Days Sichuan Discovery Tour

Wudang Mountain is the famous Taoism sanctum where Wudang Martial Arts – Tai Chi originated. It is a World Cultural Heritage and the most beautiful national Geopark for three years in northwest Hubei Province. Ennobled as royal mountain from Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Wudang Mountain is worshipped for the immortal Taoist culture and natural landscape up to now.

Covering about 312sq km, Wudang Mountain owns many attractions surrounding or located in the center Tianzhu Peak (天柱峰 – highest peak of Wudang Mountain with elavation of 1612 m). Ticket package including paid tour bus connects most major sites on Wudang Mountain. Pass through Needle Grinding Well (磨针井: 487.2m), Prince Slope (太子坡, Fuzhen Temple - the most-preserved and biggest temple in Wudang Mountain which was built on abrupt slope in Ming Dynasty) to Rambel Valley (逍遥谷) where holds Macaque Play & Wudang Martial Arts Performance, then tourist will visit Purple Clouds Palace (紫霄宫 - large royal Taoist temple groups) and Nanyan Temple (南岩宫 - sacred site where Zhenwu Tati got enlightenment). The Golden Summit or Golden Palace (金顶 - the highest holy Taoist Hall on Tianzhu Peak) via Chaotian Palace.

More Destinations in Hubei

After witnessing the Wudang Mountains in Hubei, continue your journey with cruise along the legendary Three Gorges, where ancient cliffs and picturesque villages dot the landscape and a visit to the majestic Three Gorges Dam, finally delving into the untouched wilderness of the Shennongjia Nature Reserve. And if time permits, extend your Hubei adventure to include the vibrant cities of Wuhan, Yichang, and Jingzhou, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.

Tips:

1. A friendly advice is that arrange your Wudang Mountain tour more leisurely by taking tour bus in some sections.

2. Accommodation in Wudang Mountain mainly concentrates in Rock in South and Qiongtai, where you can reach Golden Summit through hiking or cableway separately.

☛ 3 Days Wudang Mountain Highlights Tour

☛ 4 Days Wudang Mountain Taoism Tour with Cultural Experience

☛ 5 Days Wuhan & Wudangshan Tour by High Speed Train

With an elevation of 1300 m, Longhu Mountain is a World Geopark and Natural Heritage in southwest Yingtan City of Jiangxi. This unique Danxia Landform scenic area is still a birthplace of Chinese Taoism as the ashram for Taoist masters and successors. Even the name comes from folk story which tells dragon and tiger appear when the initiator of Zhengyi Sect of Taoism successfully in making alchemy.

Most scenic spots spreading by westshore of Luxi River are easy to reach by tour bus. The essential Longhu Mountain tour departs from tourist center and gets to Trunk Mountain (象鼻山 - a typical Danxia Landform spot of Longhu Mountain Geopark - like a giant stone elephant is wicking) firstly, then following sightseeing goes to the activities you may get interested in, like the Hanging Coffins Performance (悬棺表演) in Peach Sandbank near South Gate of Trunk Mountain. Later you can take the Bamboo Rafting to enjoy natural scenery on the river banks, including No Mosquito Village (ideal summer resort), Mushroom Rock, Lotus Stone, Old Man Peak and etc. Sihan Taoist Master Mansion (嗣汉天师府 - sacred Taoist site to honor the god and served as residence of Taoist Masters, about 1 km to Great Shangqing Palace), Shangqing Ancient Town (old town with over 1000 years history) and Great Shangqing Palace (大上清宫) are the highlights in the peak of Longhu Mountain tour.

Highly Praised Destinations in Jiangxi

Then, plan your journey with a visit to the historic city of Jingdezhen, known as the 'Porcelain Capital' for its centuries-old tradition of ceramic craftsmanship. Immerse yourself in the rich history and artistic heritage of this cultural gem as you wander through its ancient kilns and vibrant markets. Then, ascend to the majestic peaks of Mount Lu, where emerald forests and cascading waterfalls create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Tips:

1. Transportation: Tourists can get to Longhu Mountain from Yingtan Railway Station by taxi or local bus. And there are two sightseeing vehicles: tour bus and special mini-train which departs less than every 15 mins.

2. Ticket of "Dream of Tao" 《寻梦龙虎山》 is 268 RMB separately.

3. Hanging Coffins Performances are scheduled four times a day at 10:00, 12:00,14:00 and 16:00 and lasts about 30 mins.

☛ 3 Days Jingdezhen Ceramic & Porcelain Culture Tour

☛ 4 Days Jingdezhen Porcelain Tour with Mount Lu

☛ 5 Days Best Jingdezhen with Huangshan Essence Tour

Qiyun Mountain is the lowest one with hundreds’ elevation among the China’s four famous Taoist mountains, and previously praised by Emperor Qianlong from Qing Dynasty (1616-1912 AD) as the only beauty in China and the top famous mountain in Jiangnan. Originally known as of Baiyue, Qiyun Mountain is named for its summit on the same level with clouds. In the 110sq km area of Qiyun Mountain, attractions include 36 exotic peaks, 72 odd cliffs and many peaceful caves, lakes and springs, making up a dreamlike elfland when Clouds Sea emerges around.

Climbing up to the Highest Peak and Yuehua Heaven Street - terminal of Qiyun Mountain tour needs departure from Tourist Center. For the beginning roads, you can hike from Dengfeng Bridge (登封桥), pass through 13 pavilions in 9 kms to the end Wangxian Tower (望仙亭 - good viewpoint between Wangxian Peak and Zhonghe Peak), or take the direct cableway to Feiyun Pavilion ahead of Wangxian Tower, then to Xianglu Peak (香炉峰 - shaped like censer at 945m above sea level), Yuehua Street (月华街) (small Taoist village half hanging on the cliff), later to Taisu Palace (太素宫 - holy ancient Taoist temple constructed in Ming Dynasty), Yuxu Palace (玉虚宫 - major Taoist temple built in Ming Dynasty) and Inscription Stele of Purple Cloud Palace & Xuan Emperor(紫霄宫玄帝碑铭 - the only reserved ancient inscription of Tang Bohu), pass through Hanging Walkway to the Highest Peak (585 m - highest point of Qiyun Mountain once visited by Tang Bohu and Danxia Landform site) where you will get breathtaking mountain views. For return trip, tourists can take the bamboo boating near the Five Old Peak to Dengfeng Bridge at foothill.

Other Attractions Awaiting you in Anhui

Go on your adventure with a visit to the legendary Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, mystical peaks, and ancient pine trees that have inspired poets and artists for centuries. Next, step back in time as you wander through the quaint streets of Xidi Ancient Village and Hongcun Ancient Villages, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where traditional Huizhou architecture and charming countryside views await. Continue your exploration with a visit to the historic towns of Tunxi Ancient Street and Huizhou Ancient City, where centuries-old streets, ancient temples, and traditional tea houses offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.

☛ 3 Days Huangshan Highlights Leisure Tour

☛ 4 Days Best Huangshan Tour with Hongcun & Xidi Ancient Villages

☛ 5 Days Shanghai Huangshan Tour by High Speed Train

Tips:

1. The viewing platform down Moon Pavilion on the Highest Peak is the best viewing point of Qiyun Mountain for the sightseeing from the pavilion will be blocked from surrounding trees.