Xinjin Laojun Mountain

Introducing Xinjin Laojun Mountain

Xinjin Laojun Mountain, located in Xinjin County, Chengdu, is a renowned Taoist mountain and a sacred site for the Quanzhen Longmen sect, a mainstream Taoist sect. It is renowned throughout China for its Taoist architecture and the grand Laojun Temple Fair.

Laojun Mountain, 617 meters high, was once known as Tianshe Mountain because it was the site of ancient worship for mountain gods and the altar of grain. Legend has it that a magical herb called Choujing grows on the mountain, which, when consumed, grants immortality, leading to its name Choujing Mountain. Later, legend has it that Laojun once practiced alchemy and cultivated Taoism here, leading to the name Laojun Mountain. Surrounded by numerous peaks, the solitary peak towers, shrouded in clouds and mist, appearing and disappearing from view, creating a picturesque scene. It is known as "Choujing Emerging from the Clouds" and is one of Xinjin's twelve scenic spots.

There are a group of Taoist buildings on Laojun Mountain, commonly known as Laozi Temple. The construction date is unknown. The entire building was destroyed by fire in the 17th year of Chongzhen in the Ming Dynasty. In the 55th year of Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty (1790), the county magistrate Yang Gong proposed to repair it. After continuous renovations during the Jiaqing and Daoguang years, it gradually became a famous Taoist temple in western Sichuan.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Spring and autumn are the best time to go, as the weather is suitable

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianci Temple

At the center of Tianci Temple stands the Tianci Hall, known as the "First Hall of Laozi" on Laojun Mountain. It houses a statue of the God Pillar Laojun, which is said to be over a thousand years old. Climbing the stairs to the right of Tianci Temple, you'll see a Han Dynasty-style building with the three large characters "Chou Jing Zhi" (chou jing zhi) inscribed on it.

Lingzu Building

Climbing a steep flight of stairs leads to the Lingzu Building, a building with a hip roof. Below the building are the Lingzu Hall and the God of Wealth Hall. The Lingzu Hall enshrines the "Xiantian Imperial Lingzu Master," also known as Wang Lingguan. He oversees the heavens and the human world, eliminates evil, upholds justice, and is a Taoist guardian deity.

The Hunyuan Hall leads past the Lingzu Building and up another 64 steep stone steps. At the top, you'll find the Hunyuan Hall. In the center of the hall, the Hunyuan Emperor, Daode Tianzun, is enshrined, while on either side are the Sun Emperor, the Son of Heaven in the Sun Palace, and the Moon Emperor, Huanghua Taiyin Yuanjun. Behind the Hunyuan Hall, 36 steps lead to the Bagua Pavilion and the Sanqing Hall.

Recommended play time: 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xinjin Laojun Mountain

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

Xinjing Laojun Mountain is known for its Taoist significance. It is considered a sacred mountain, with historical temples dedicated to Taoist deities. The mountain's natural beauty, along with its spiritual importance, makes it a popular destination for both religious pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.

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

Xinjin Laojun Mountain is located in Chengdu, Sichuan. You can take a bus or taxi from the Chengdu city center to reach the mountain. There are no metro stations nearby, so private transport or local buses are the best options. Once you arrive, walking is the main way to explore the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The mountain is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but it can be crowded. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for avoiding peak crowds.

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

The entrance fee to Laojun Mountain varies depending on the specific areas you visit. Typically, it ranges from 30 to 60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, or through local travel agencies. Online booking options may also be available through tourism websites.

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

Advance booking is not strictly necessary for general entry, but it’s recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long queues. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient if you plan to take part in any special tours or activities.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes around 3-4 hours to fully explore the mountain, including visiting the main temples and hiking to the summit. If you wish to take longer hikes or visit all the temples, you may need an entire day.

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

Key highlights include the Laojun Mountain Taoist temples, the scenic hiking trails, and the summit, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Don't miss the ancient stone carvings and the peaceful forest paths.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they are recommended for those interested in the cultural and spiritual significance of the mountain. Audio guides may be available in Chinese, but it’s best to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the summit, where you can capture panoramic views of the mountain and its surrounding landscapes. The temples also offer unique photo opportunities, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the light is soft.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the base temple, then hike along the scenic paths towards the summit, stopping at the various Taoist shrines and stone carvings along the way. End your visit with a peaceful stroll around the temple complex near the top for a panoramic view.

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

Night visits are not common, and there are no light shows at Laojun Mountain. However, the mountain offers a tranquil evening experience, and it’s possible to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after the day tourists have left.

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

The mountain can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings, especially in the off-season (late autumn or winter). Early mornings are the best time to avoid crowds.

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

There are rest areas and public toilets around the mountain. Small shops selling snacks, water, and souvenirs are available at the base and near the summit. There are also several local restaurants around the entrance area where you can have a meal.

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

The mountain is not fully wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the terrain. However, elderly visitors and children can enjoy the lower areas and visit the temples closer to the base. For those with mobility issues, it's best to take a shorter route around the temples near the entrance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are more widely used in China. It’s advisable to carry both options, as some small vendors may not accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small restaurants and local eateries around the base of the mountain offering Sichuanese food, including noodles and hot pot. For more variety, Chengdu city is only a short drive away, where you can find international dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants around the base of the mountain, but vegan and halal options are limited. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to carry your own food or request at restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and hotels in the area around Xinjin Laojun Mountain. For more luxurious accommodations, Chengdu city offers a wide range of hotels that are easily accessible by taxi or bus.

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

Nearby attractions include Qingcheng Mountain (another Taoist sacred site), Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. These can all be combined into a scenic day trip from Laojun Mountain.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are located near the entrance of the mountain and around the temples. Typical souvenirs include Taoist artifacts, local handicrafts, tea, and incense. You can also find small figurines and postcards of Laojun Mountain.

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

The best transportation options are to take a taxi or bus back to Chengdu city. From there, you can take a high-speed train or bus to other destinations in Sichuan, such as Jiuzhaigou or Mount Emei.