Maoshan

Introducing Maoshan

Maoshan, located at the junction of Jurong and Jintan cities in Jiangsu Province, was formerly known as Juqu Mountain and is a famous Taoist mountain in China. Taoists call it "the eighth cave heaven, the first blessed land," and "the residence of immortals in the Qin and Han dynasties and the home of prime ministers in the Liang and Tang dynasties."

Maoshan is the birthplace of the Shangqing School of Taoism. Ge Hong of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Tao Hongjing of the Qi and Liang Dynasties, Wang Yuanzhi and Wu Yun of the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and Wang Qixia and Zhu Huaide of the Five Dynasties were all high-ranking Taoists of Maoshan and masters of the history of Chinese Taoism.

Maoshan is comprised of Damao Peak, Zhongmao Peak, and Xiaomao Peak. Damao Peak, the main peak, resembles the head of a green dragon and is also the highest point in the mountain, at 372.5 meters. Maoshan boasts magnificent natural scenery, renowned for its unique peaks, caves, gushing springs, grotesque rocks, and ancient trees. It is known for its Nine Peaks, Twenty-Six Caves (represented by Huayang Cave and Xianren Cave), Nineteen Springs, and Twenty-Eight Pools.

Climate and best time to travel

The busiest time of the year in Maoshan is the three-month-long "incense season", from the 24th day of the 12th lunar month to the 18th day of the third lunar month of the following year. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and tourists from home and abroad come to worship and sightsee, like a grand festival.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: half a day

Tickets

Peak season: 120 yuan/person

Off-season: 90 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

January 1st - September 30th: 7:00-17:30 (Spring, Summer and Autumn)

October 1st - December 31st: 8:00-17:00 (winter season)

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Most Popular FAQs for Maoshan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Maoshan, in Jiangsu Province, is one of the most important Taoist mountains in China. It has been a spiritual center for Taoism for over a thousand years, featuring ancient temples, Taoist cultural relics, and inscriptions. It is renowned for both its natural beauty and religious significance.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Maoshan is located in Jiangsu Province near Zhenjiang city. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from Zhenjiang to the mountain entrance. Walking and hiking are the primary ways to explore the mountain trails and temples.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Maoshan scenic area is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and vibrant natural scenery.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance tickets are required and can be purchased at the ticket counter. Some online travel platforms also provide advance ticket booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended during national holidays or weekends to avoid long lines, typically a few days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half a day to a full day is recommended, depending on whether you plan to hike multiple trails and visit several temples.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Maoshan Temple, the central Taoist temple.
• Qingyun Temple and other historic Taoist sites.
• Scenic spots along the trails, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.
• Ancient Taoist inscriptions and cultural relics.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Chinese are common. English guides or tour arrangements are possible via travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mountain peaks for panoramic views of valleys and temples.
• Waterfalls and natural streams along the hiking paths.
• Historic temples and traditional Taoist architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main entrance, visit the primary temples, follow the marked hiking trails to scenic spots, and return via a loop trail to the entrance.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not available. Special tours or cultural events may occur during Taoist festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays and off-season months are less crowded. National holidays attract many visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms at key points and near temples.
• Small restaurants or snack vendors near the entrance and main temples.
• Rest areas with benches along hiking paths.
• Shops selling local souvenirs and Taoist items.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Children and elderly can enjoy some areas, but steep trails and stairs may be challenging. Accessibility for wheelchair users is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cards are widely used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants serving Jiangsu cuisine near the entrance.
• Snack stalls offering traditional local foods.
• Tea houses near the temples and scenic viewpoints.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some temple or local restaurants. Halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels and guesthouses in Zhenjiang city within 30–40 minutes by car.
• Small lodges near the mountain entrance for overnight stays.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Zhenjiang Vinegar Culture Museum.
• Jinshan Temple on the Yangtze River.
• Nearby scenic areas along the Yangtze for cultural and nature tours.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Taoist religious items, charms, and incense.
• Local handicrafts and calligraphy.
• Specialty teas and snacks from Jiangsu Province.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or ride-hailing services back to Zhenjiang city center.
• Bus connections to other nearby scenic spots or cities.
• Private car or tour services for day trips to surrounding attractions.