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Hike the scenic trails of Qingyao Mountain, visit the ancient temples along the way, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for a day of relaxation or a nature walk.
The Qingyao Mountain Scenic Area is located in Qingyaoshan Town (formerly Caocun Township) in the northwest of Xin'an County, Luoyang City, Henan Province. It is 40 kilometers from Xin'an County, 70 kilometers from Luoyang City, 180 kilometers from Zhengzhou City, and 320 kilometers from Xi'an City. The Longhai Railway, Lianhuo Expressway, and National Highway 310 run through the area from east to west, and Provincial Highway 314 provides direct access to the scenic area. Qingyao Mountain is a World Geopark, a Provincial Nature Reserve, and a Provincial Scenic Area, covering an area of 76 square kilometers. It is located within the cultural tourism and leisure tourism cluster of western Henan Province. The Classic of Mountains and Seas states that "Qingyao Mountain is the secret capital of the Emperor." This ancient text connects Qingyao Mountain with the Yellow Emperor, the ancestor of the Chinese nation, and has enabled it to serve as a carrier of ancient culture through the passage of time.
The altitude in the area is 1,385 meters. The entire scenic area integrates mountains, rocks, water, caves, forests, grass, flowers, birds and animals. The majestic, dangerous, strange, secluded, beautiful and wonderful complement each other, forming five distinctive tourist areas: Lianzhu Gorge, Shuanglong Gorge, Qingnv Peak, Xiahe and primeval forest. It has become a tourist area in the Central Plains that integrates sightseeing, summer vacation, scientific research internship, and ancient exploration.
Warm temperate continental monsoon climate (semi-humid); Qingyao Mountain is known for its steep terrain, lush forests and abundant flowers, quiet ravines, and clear streams and pools. Since ancient times, it has been famous for its mysterious and beautiful mountains and rivers, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Jin Lake, Wuluo Three Ponds, Zijing Pond, Gallery Lake, Moon Lake, Shuanglong Temple, Yixiantian, Xianrenju, Xianzuqingtian, Heheyuan Stone Formation, Qingnv Peak, Shuanglong Canyon and other scenic spots;
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Qingyao Mountain is historically significant for its Buddhist temples and long history as a center of meditation. It has been a retreat for monks and scholars for centuries, and its natural beauty has made it a place of pilgrimage and inspiration.
Qingyao Mountain is located in the outskirts of Luoyang, Henan Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center, approximately a 30-minute drive. There are also public buses available from the city to the foot of the mountain.
The mountain is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is most beautiful, particularly the colorful foliage in autumn.
The entrance fee is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there may be options to buy them online via local platforms such as WeChat or Alipay.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is advisable to do so during peak seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long queues. A few days in advance is sufficient.
It typically takes around 2 to 4 hours to fully explore the mountain, depending on the hiking route you choose and how long you wish to spend at each temple or scenic spot.
The must-see highlights include the ancient Buddhist temples, serene lakes, and the panoramic viewpoints from the summit. The view of the surrounding hills and valleys is especially breathtaking during sunrise or sunset.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin and English, particularly for international tourists.
The best photography spots are near the top of the mountain, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and the ancient temples nestled in the hills. The morning mist and evening sunsets create particularly dramatic backdrops for photos.
Start your hike from the base and follow the main trail to reach the first temple. Continue through the mountain paths to the summit, stopping at various temples and scenic spots along the way. Plan to spend some time at the summit to take in the views before descending.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Qingyao Mountain. The site is primarily visited during daylight hours for its natural beauty and temples.
The site can become crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas along the hiking trails. A small shop selling drinks and snacks can be found at the base and near popular spots. It’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks for the hike.
Some parts of Qingyao Mountain may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues due to the steep hiking paths. However, the main areas near the base and lower temples are more accessible. It’s best to check with the staff if any assistance is needed.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, and cash is also accepted. However, credit cards are not typically accepted in the area.
There are a few small local restaurants near the base of the mountain offering traditional Chinese meals. For more dining options, you can head to the city center of Luoyang, which offers a wider variety of cuisine.
Some local restaurants near the mountain offer vegetarian dishes, but vegan and halal food options may be more limited. It’s best to check with the restaurant in advance.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels near the base of the mountain, offering convenient access to the site. For more upscale accommodations, you can stay in the city center of Luoyang, about a 30-minute drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, and the Luoyang Museum. These can all be easily combined into a day trip from Qingyao Mountain.
There are small souvenir shops near the base of the mountain selling items such as local handicrafts, Buddhist statues, and traditional Chinese teas.
After visiting Qingyao Mountain, taxis, private cars, and buses are available to continue your trip. For longer journeys, you can take a taxi or bus to the Luoyang Railway Station.
