Mount Tiantai (Chengdu)

Introducing Tiantai Mountain (Chengdu)

Tiantai Mountain in Chengdu, Sichuan, is located in Qionglai City, one of the four ancient cities of Bashu and the hometown of Wenjun. Tiantai Mountain boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Anciently known as Dongmeng Mountain, Tiantai Mountain was the home of the ancient Qiong people in ancient times. In ancient times, during the prehistoric era, when Dayu was passing through Shu while taming floods, he chose this mountain as a platform for offering sacrifices to the heavens, hence the name "Tiantai."

Tiantai Mountain is renowned for its unique mountains, peculiar rocks, beautiful waters, and tranquil forests. As the saying goes, "As high as the mountain, so high is the water." Water is the essence of Tiantai Mountain. The Jinlong River winds down from the summit, creating long beaches, cascading streams, waterfalls, and lakes. These diverse landscapes are transformed by water, presenting a long scroll of Chinese landscape painting depicting "a ninety-mile river, eight hundred streams, nine thousand grotesque rocks, and two thousand peaks." "High Mountain Water Play" is a unique tourism brand of Tiantai Mountain. Over ten water activities at scenic spots such as Shibali Xiangcaogou, Xiaojiuzhai, and Huashihai allow you to experience the refreshing coolness of nature amidst the unbearable summer heat while immersing yourself in the clear waters and springs of Tiantai Mountain.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for visiting in spring, summer and autumn

Tickets

Peak season (April 1st to October 31st): 50 yuan; off-season (November 1st to March 31st of the following year): 20 yuan

Discounted tickets:

Free of charge conditions: Children under 1.2 meters, tour guide certificates, travel agency manager certificates, soldiers' certificates, and people with disabilities can get free of charge by presenting their certificates;

Teachers and students can purchase 20% off tickets to the scenic spot with their certificates (children over 1.2 meters can purchase student tickets);

Senior citizens aged 60-70 years old with senior citizen cards can enjoy free admission within Chengdu with their senior citizen cards; those outside Chengdu can purchase tickets at a 50% discount with their senior citizen cards; those aged 70 and above can enjoy free admission with their ID cards; during major and minor holidays, senior citizens aged 60 and above can enjoy a 50% discount (according to Document No. 79 of the Chengdu Price Bureau (2008)).

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Mount Tiantai (Chengdu)

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

Mount Tiantai in Chengdu is known for its historical and cultural significance, including ancient Buddhist temples and scenic beauty. It has long been a place for spiritual retreat, local pilgrimage, and cultural appreciation.

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

• Located in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
• Accessible via taxi or ride-hailing apps from central Chengdu.
• Public buses connect from Chengdu city to nearby stops; walking required from bus stops to trailheads.
• Private car or tour shuttle is convenient for flexible timing.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Generally open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Best times: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.
• Avoid heavy rainfall season in summer and cold snowy winter days for safety.

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

• Entrance fee: around 30–50 CNY per person.
• Tickets can be bought at the entrance or via online booking platforms for convenience.
• Some tour packages include transportation and guided services.

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

Booking is optional; recommended during weekends, public holidays, or peak seasons, ideally a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 2–3 hours for a quick visit to main viewpoints and temples.
• Half to full day for hiking multiple trails, visiting temples, and enjoying scenic spots.

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

• Tiantai Temple, an ancient Buddhist site.
• Main scenic viewpoints overlooking Chengdu.
• Forest trails with unique flora and panoramic nature spots.
• Smaller pavilions and resting areas along the mountain paths.

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

Guided tours are available through local travel agencies, mainly in Chinese. Audio guides are limited or not commonly offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Main temple area for panoramic views.
• Summit viewpoints along the hiking trail.
• Forest clearings and pavilions for natural scenery photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start from the main entrance, visit Tiantai Temple, follow the scenic trails to summit viewpoints.
• Rest at pavilions, enjoy photography, then descend via alternate trails if available.
• Optionally combine with nearby cultural or natural attractions in Chengdu.

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

Night visits are not generally available; special tours may occur during festivals but are not regular offerings.

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

• Weekends and public holidays tend to be crowded.
• Weekdays, especially mornings in spring or autumn, are the least crowded times.

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

• Public toilets near the entrance and along main trails.
• Tea houses and small restaurants near key scenic points.
• Benches and rest areas along trails for hikers.

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

• Paths near the temple and main entrance are accessible for elderly and children.
• Steep hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
• Careful planning required for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash accepted for tickets and small shops.
• Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) widely accepted at restaurants and entrance.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Sichuan restaurants near the mountain entrance.
• Tea houses and snack stalls along the trails.
• Nearby Chengdu city offers extensive dining options within a short drive.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants and temple areas; vegan and halal options are limited and may require advance inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and mid-range hotels in the nearby Chengdu suburbs.
• Resorts offering easy access to the mountain trails and scenic areas.
• City hotels in Chengdu provide convenient access via short drive.

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

• Qingyang Palace and Wuhou Shrine in Chengdu city.
• Nearby parks and cultural villages in the Chengdu region.
• Dujiangyan irrigation system and Mount Qingcheng for natural and historical exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Small souvenir shops near entrance and temple areas.
• Typical souvenirs: Buddhist artifacts, local handicrafts, and postcards.

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

• Taxi or ride-hailing services for flexible travel to Chengdu city or nearby attractions.
• Private car or tour bus for day trips to surrounding scenic or cultural sites.
• Public bus connections available but may require multiple transfers.