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Jinping Mountain in Lianyungang, located 3 kilometers southwest of the city, was named Jinping Mountain by Emperor Kangxi for its picturesque scenery, resembling a painted screen. Numerous historical sites abound, marking the birthplace of ancient Haizhou civilization. The scenic area boasts the Kongwangshan Cliff Carvings, the Peach Blossom Stream Paleolithic ruins, and the Neolithic General Cliff rock paintings.
Kongwang Mountain, named after Confucius, who once ascended the mountain to gaze at the sea, is rich in historical and cultural heritage and has been admired by visitors for generations. Over 2,500 years ago, the famous story of "Confucius Asking Officials" (in which Confucius consulted Tan Zi on the official system from this mountaintop) took place here. A statue of Confucius overlooking the sea has been erected on the mountaintop in his memory. Kongwang Mountain boasts numerous scenic spots, including the Piaoran Pavilion, a stone cup and inkstone, stone elephants, a stone toad, and the ancient Longdong Temple. The most renowned are the Buddhist statues at the southern foot of the mountain, 200 years older than the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang. A nationally protected cultural relic, they are known by historians as the "First Cliff Buddha in Kyushu."
The Kongwang Mountain cliff carvings feature over 100 stone carvings of varying sizes, ranging from the largest at 1.55 meters to the smallest at just over 10 centimeters. These carvings are rich in Buddhist content, including the "Nirvana" depiction, depicting the painful moments of Sakyamuni's disciples, "some grieving, some wailing..." as he departs from this earthly realm for the Pure Land. Cliff carvings such as the "Sacrificing Oneself to Feed a Tiger," "Han Dynasty Banquet," and "Arhat Stacking" are of high archaeological value. Their presence demonstrates that Lianyungang was one of the starting points of the "Maritime Silk Road" during the Han Dynasty. In recent years, modern attractions such as cable cars and amusement parks have been developed on Kongwang Mountain, providing new destinations for visitors.
The temperate monsoon climate offers four distinct seasons. Climbing high in the spring brings a delightful view of the vibrant spring scenery, while summer offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Spring and summer are the best times for travel.
The scenic area includes the Kongwangshan Cliff Carvings, the Taohuajian Paleolithic Site and the Neolithic General Cliff Rock Paintings.
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Jinping Mountain holds cultural and religious significance in Lianyungang. It has been a destination for spiritual pilgrims and nature enthusiasts for centuries. The mountain is known for its serene environment, ancient temples, and rich biodiversity.
Jinping Mountain is located in Lianyungang, Jiangsu. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking up the mountain is an option for experienced hikers, though it can be steep in some areas.
Jinping Mountain is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the mountain's natural beauty is most vibrant. Early mornings are the best time to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee for Jinping Mountain is minimal, typically covering access to the mountain trails and temples. Tickets can be purchased onsite, but it is advisable to check online for any special events or guided tours that may require advance booking.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for general admission. However, if you plan to join a guided tour or attend a special event, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
It typically takes 2-3 hours to hike to the summit and explore the key attractions along the way. If you're planning to visit temples or stay longer to enjoy the views, allocate 4-5 hours for a more leisurely experience.
Guided tours are available, mainly in Mandarin. Some basic audio guides in English may also be offered for the temples and historical sites along the mountain.
Start by hiking to the summit for the best views. Then, explore the ancient temples on the way down, stopping for photos and to admire the natural surroundings. You can also visit the nearby cultural sites for a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
There are no night visits or light shows available on Jinping Mountain. However, during specific festivals or holidays, there may be special events or night-time activities at the base of the mountain.
The mountain is generally not crowded, except during national holidays or weekends. Weekdays, especially in the early morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
The hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, as they can be steep and uneven. However, there are rest areas and temples that can be visited with less physical exertion. It’s advisable to check for accessibility information before visiting.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at the entrance and for smaller purchases, though it’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.
There are several local eateries around the base of Jinping Mountain serving traditional Jiangsu dishes. Simple cafés and snack bars are available for quick refreshments during the hike.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at the restaurants around the mountain base, offering local vegetable-based dishes. Halal options may be limited but are available at certain spots.
Souvenir shops are available near the base of the mountain, selling items such as local handicrafts, traditional art, and natural products like herbal teas.
