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Laoye Mountain, a peak within the Ma'anshan Mountains, lies east of Qiaotou Town in Datong County, along the Beichuan River. It is a major peak in central Datong, covering an area of approximately 2.5 square kilometers. Because of the former Taiyuan Palace (also known as the Guandi Temple) on its summit, it is commonly known as "Laoye Mountain," also known as "Yuanshuo Mountain" and "Northern Wudang." It is one of the most majestic and scenic peaks near Xining.
The mountain trends northwest-southeast, with a dramatic elevation difference. The main peak is 2,928 meters above sea level, with a relative height of 486.5 meters. The parent rock of the entire scenic area is Middle Sinian limestone. From bottom to top, the rock layers are divided into massive white or gray siliceous limestone, banded siliceous limestone, and black-gray brecciated limestone. The layers are over 1,000 meters thick and form a fault contact with the Sinian strata.
The soils within the scenic area are classified as mountain brown soil, chernozem, and chestnut soil. Over the course of history, they have undergone tremendous changes, weathering, and water erosion, resulting in a unique, grotesque, and steep, canyon landscape with caves and ravines. The beauty of Laoye Mountain's landscapes stems from the unparalleled power of nature, created by the divine handiwork of nature, and from the mottled growth rings that span space.
Laoye Mountain Scenic Area has become an ideal place for tourism and summer vacation due to its well-preserved natural scenery and unique cultural landscape. It is listed as one of the nine major tourist areas in Qinghai Province.
The scenic area is located in the middle latitudes, at a high altitude, and is slightly affected by the ocean. It has a continental climate with dry and windy springs and cool and not hot summers.
It is recommended to travel in summer, which is from May to October every year.
General Rock
Near the entrance to Qicai Road, just inside the back gate of Laoye Mountain, stands a massive rock. Seen from the side, it resembles a general standing tall and proud. The rugged, rugged rock vividly depicts the general's silhouette. Helmed and armored, he gazes forward, meticulously planning his tactics before a battle. His resolute gaze exudes an irresistible majesty.
Thunder God Temple
On a flat area to the lower left of the Jade Emperor Hall stands a pavilion with red railings and jade doors, painted beams and carved buildings. This is the Thunder God Hall. Although recently completed, the hall boasts "roofs and terraces towering over the peaks, green pines casting rain over the high pavilion. Flowers bloom in the surrounding garden, and three gates open to the light of Savatthi." It embodies the saying, "The mortal world cannot reach the true immortal realm, but the tranquil monks can call upon the Dharma." The hall, facing south and back to the north, is divided into three rooms. The Thunder God is enshrined within, adorned with a crimson gauze robe, a lotus crown, and a purple gold seal, bearing an expression of hatred for evil. An offering table, incense burner, and candlesticks are placed before the deity. Through continuous renovations, the Thunder God Hall has gradually assumed a majestic and imposing aura, becoming a new attraction for mountain hikers.
temple
Yaowang Temple
The Jade Emperor Palace in Yaowang Temple houses a statue of the Jade Emperor. The courtyard is spacious, and two black tigers, each with its fangs bared and claws bared, look incredibly majestic. The Baizi Palace houses a statue of the Goddess of Descendants. Clay figurines are placed along the cliffs, and giant candles, as thick as teacups, burn in front of them. Women who visit vied with each other to burn incense, seek fortune sticks, or tie clay figurines, all with great piety. The Bodhisattva Hall, though small, is situated on an elevated site, making it a popular spot for visitors to rest. The Chai Family Hall, a towering attraction in the northwest of Yuansu Mountain, boasts a magnificent structure. The walls of the inner hall are decorated with lifelike, semi-dimensional images of Buddhas soaring through the clouds. In the inner courtyard, a statue of the black-robed Wuliang, over ten feet tall, stands. Wuliang Hall, once a popular and spacious temple, burned down in the early years of the Republic of China. The ancient pagoda stands three feet tall. In the southern bay of the tower lies a cave overlooking a deep abyss. Two pine logs tower above it, marking the Taiyuan Palace, also known as the Laoye Temple. Inside, a statue of Guan Gong is erected, with Zhou Cang standing to his left, holding a sword. Paintings depicting Guan Gong's life and achievements, such as "Crossing the Five Passes" and "Going to a Meeting with a Single Sword," are found on the walls on both sides.
Sanguan Temple, nestled against a mountain to the north and a cliff to the south, boasts elegant terrain and magnificent architecture, making it the premier scenic spot in the southwest of Yuanshuo Mountain. Tiger Cave, with its jagged cliffs and grotesque rocks above and lush forests and granite below, offers the steepest terrain and the most elegant scenery.
15.00 yuan
07:00~18:30
Laoye Mountain is a well-known natural landmark near Xining, Qinghai. It holds ecological, geological, and recreational significance, offering both scenic beauty and outdoor activities for locals and tourists.
The mountain is located north of Xining city. Visitors can reach it by taxi or ride-hailing service, or by public buses with a short walk from the nearest stop.
Open daily, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times for hiking and photography.
Entrance is generally free, though some areas may have small fees. Tickets can be purchased on-site if required.
Advance booking is not typically required unless visiting during local holidays or peak periods.
2–4 hours, depending on the trails and viewpoints visited.
Guided tours are rare and usually offered in Mandarin; audio guides are generally not available.
Start at the base entrance, hike along marked trails to the summit, visit key viewpoints, and return via scenic downhill paths.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special nature or hiking tours may be arranged locally.
Weekdays are usually quiet; weekends and public holidays see more local visitors.
Limited facilities: a few public toilets, rest areas, and picnic spots. Shops and food vendors are minimal or located at the base.
Some steep trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised on hiking paths.
Cash is useful for transport and small purchases; mobile payments may be accepted at some local vendors near the entrance.
Restaurants and cafes are mainly found near the base or in nearby Xining areas, offering local Qinghai cuisine.
Some local eateries provide vegetarian and halal options.
Several hotels and guesthouses are available in Xining city center, about 15–30 minutes by taxi.
Limited souvenir shops; typical items include local handicrafts and postcards.
Taxi, ride-hailing, or local buses can take visitors back to Xining city center or to other nearby attractions.
