Qingtian

Introducing Qingtian

Qingtian County, located in southeastern Zhejiang Province, on the middle and lower reaches of the Oujiang River, is known as "China's Stone Capital and the World's Qingtian." Qingtian boasts crisscrossing valleys, picturesque misty rivers, rolling mountains, and towering peaks. It boasts abundant natural resources and a vibrant array of cultural attractions, each complementing the other.

Qingtian is also a famous hometown of overseas Chinese. Qingtian people have lived abroad for more than 300 years. Overseas Chinese have made indelible contributions to the economic and social development of Qingtian.

Climate and best time to travel

Qingtian County has a subtropical monsoon climate zone with distinct four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Shimendong Forest Park

Surrounded by mountains and lush forests, the caves are tranquil and secluded. The majestic waterfall within is a renowned wonder of southern Zhejiang. Li Qian, a Ming Dynasty poet, praised the scenery of Shimen as "high enough to gaze upon, clear enough to wash in, deep enough to hide, quiet enough to relax, fragrant enough to be collected, and wonderful enough to be chanted."

Qianxia Lake

The completion of the Qianxia Lake Ecotourism Resort will add a new category of fjord and mountain towns to China's tourism destinations, joining other tourism categories such as theme parks, ancient towns, and famous mountains and rivers, providing consumers with a richer vacation experience. The fjord and mountain town holiday tradition originated in Europe, with Switzerland's Lake Geneva, Austria's Hallstatt, and the Salzburg Lake District all being renowned fjord and mountain town destinations.

Taihe Mountain

"Why seek the immortal realm? This mountain was originally the home of cranes." During the Tang Dynasty, the Qingxi Taoist priest Ye Fashan once lived in seclusion here, raising cranes, practicing divination, refining elixirs, and practicing swordsmanship, ultimately achieving enlightenment and becoming an immortal. Emperor Xuanzong of Tang praised him as "a celestial crane ascending to heaven." Since then, Taihe Mountain has been known as "a paradise on earth." The most striking feature is the "One River, Two Stones" motif. The "One River" refers to the Oujiang River, which runs through Qingtian; the "Two Stones" refer to the Shimen Cave, a renowned provincial scenic spot, and the world-renowned Qingtian stone carvings, a site steeped in history.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Qingtian

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

Qingtian is renowned for its stone carving art and historical villages. It has a rich cultural heritage, combining traditional crafts, rural architecture, and natural scenery, making it an important site for both culture and tourism in Lishui, Zhejiang.

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

• Located in Lishui, Zhejiang Province.
• Accessible via Qingtian Bus Station from nearby cities.
• Local taxis and ride-hailing services provide convenient transport.
• Walking is ideal for exploring villages, temples, and cultural streets.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most cultural sites and museums open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Best visiting seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather and scenic landscapes.

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

Entrance fees range from free to 50 RMB for certain museums or scenic spots. Tickets can usually be purchased onsite; some sites may allow online reservations through tourism websites.

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

Booking is optional, but recommended during holidays or for guided cultural tours. A few days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• Half a day to visit main cultural sites and museums.
• One full day if including hiking, village exploration, and scenic photography.

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

• Qingtian Stone Carving Museum and artisan workshops.
• Traditional villages with historical architecture.
• Local temples and cultural sites.
• Natural scenic areas and hills surrounding the town.

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

Guided tours are mainly in Chinese; English-language guides can be arranged privately or through travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Stone carvings in museums and workshops.
• Traditional village streets and temples.
• Hilltops and scenic viewpoints overlooking rural landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at Qingtian Stone Carving Museum.
• Explore nearby traditional villages and temples.
• Hike scenic trails for panoramic views.
• Conclude with local craft shops and photography spots.

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

Night visits are limited; some cultural festivals may feature evening events or local performances.

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

Weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded; avoid national holidays for a quieter experience.

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

• Public toilets and resting areas at main cultural sites.
• Small cafes and local restaurants nearby.
• Shops selling stone carvings, souvenirs, and local crafts.

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

Main museum areas are accessible; steep village streets and hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; cash may be needed in rural areas or small shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants offering Zhejiang cuisine.
• Small tea houses and cafes near museums and villages.
• Street food vendors in town center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants; vegan or halal options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local inns and guesthouses in Qingtian town.
• Mid-range hotels near transport hubs.
• Resorts or boutique hotels in scenic areas.

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

• Nearby villages and traditional architecture.
• Lishui scenic hills and rivers.
• Local temples and cultural sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Stone carvings and handmade crafts.
• Local tea, snacks, and small handicrafts.
• Temple-related items like prayer beads and incense.

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

• Bus or taxi to Lishui city or other nearby towns.
• Train connections from Qingtian to major cities in Zhejiang.
• Private car or ride-hailing for flexible travel to rural areas.