Introducing Jinjialing
Jinjialing, located in the Qingtianhe Scenic Area of Jiaozuo, Henan Province, is home to the largest artificial pine forest in northern Henan Province, and the king of cotinus, which is 2,500 years old. What makes Jinjialing unique is that the red leaves all over the mountains and the silver springs and waterfalls, high gorges and flat lakes of Qingtianhe complement each other, forming a natural and charming Chinese painting.
Jinjialing boasts tens of thousands of acres of artificial pine forest, making it the perfect spot in Jiaozuo to admire the crimson leaves of the Taihang Mountains in autumn. The vibrant colors of Jinjialing's crimson foliage range from vibrant crimson to deep crimson, and from vibrant purple to vibrant red.
Climate and best time to travel
The best time to enjoy the red leaves is in autumn. The red leaves in Jinjialing cover a large area, with nearly 100,000 mu of red leaves covering the peaks, ridges, gullies and cliffs in the area. The red leaves in Jinjialing are bright in color, gorgeous and gorgeous like sunset clouds.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Tickets
Included in the Qingtian River Scenic Area ticket
Attraction opening hours
7:30-17:00
Most Popular FAQs for Jinjialing
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Jinjialing is a historically and culturally significant area in Jiaozuo, Henan, known for its natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and streams, as well as historical sites and temples that reflect local heritage.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Location: Jinjialing, Jiaozuo, Henan Province, China.
- By bus: Local buses from Jiaozuo city center reach nearby stops.
- By taxi: Around 30–45 minutes from Jiaozuo city center.
- By private car: Parking available near main entrances.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: Typically 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM, may vary by season.
- Best times: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic views.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fee: Approximately 80–100 RMB for adults. Discounts available for children, students, and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via official online platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended during weekends, public holidays, and peak tourist seasons. A few days ahead is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
3–5 hours depending on hiking routes and the number of attractions visited.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Mountain peaks with panoramic views.
- Forests, streams, and waterfalls along hiking trails.
- Historic temples and cultural relics.
- Scenic viewpoints suitable for photography.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English guides can be arranged upon request. Audio guides are generally not provided.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Mountain peaks at sunrise or sunset.
- Streams, waterfalls, and natural rock formations.
- Historic temples and cultural structures.
- Panoramic overlooks along hiking trails.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main entrance → hike to central viewpoints → visit temples and cultural sites → explore forested trails → return via scenic loop paths.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are not commonly offered. Special tours or events may occur during festivals or local celebrations.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Most crowded: Weekends, public holidays, and peak tourist seasons.
- Least crowded: Weekdays and off-season months (winter or early spring).
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public restrooms at key locations.
- Rest areas and benches along trails.
- Food stalls or kiosks offering snacks and drinks.
- Souvenir shops near the entrance.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Some trails are steep or uneven, making them challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised on hiking paths. Limited wheelchair access exists in flatter areas.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Having some cash for small vendors is recommended.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local eateries near the entrance serving Henan cuisine.
- Snack stalls along trails within the scenic area.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are generally available at local eateries. Vegan and halal options may be limited in the area, mostly found in Jiaozuo city.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels and guesthouses in Jiaozuo city, 20–40 minutes away by taxi.
- Nearby resorts or lodges for overnight stays within or near the scenic area.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Yuntaishan Scenic Area – famous for mountains and waterfalls.
- Guoliang Village and Tunnel – historic cliffside village.
- Other local temples and cultural sites in Jiaozuo.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops offer local handicrafts, postcards, and mementos related to Jinjialing.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or private car back to Jiaozuo city center.
- Tour buses to nearby attractions such as Yuntaishan or Guoliang Village.
