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Qingliang Mountain, located across the Yan River northeast of Yan'an City, stands in a three-way competition with Phoenix Mountain and Pagoda Mountain across the river. With its towering peaks and magnificent temples, it has been a Buddhist sanctuary since ancient times, earning the reputation of " Golden Immortal Realm . "
Many famous people throughout history have written poems and lyrics praising the cool and beautiful scenery. Fan Zhongyan, a politician and writer from the Northern Song Dynasty, once climbed this mountain and wrote a poem: " Jinming blocks the western ridge, Qingliang Temple lies to the east, and the Yan River flows out in the middle. One county and two cities are majestic. "
The overall landscape of Qingliang Mountain is divided into three parts: the first is the Buddhist historical relics and monuments, mainly the grottoes such as the Ten Thousand Buddha Cave; the second is the revolutionary relics and sites, mainly the former sites of the news and publishing units of the CPC Central Committee during the Yan'an period; and the third is the Taoist temples of Taihe Mountain.
Qingliang Mountain boasts 18 caves, 24 scenic spots, and over 40 rock carvings, poems, and inscriptions. Atop the mountain stands the Hall of Supreme Harmony. At the foot of the mountain lies the famous Ten Thousand Buddha Caves. Other scenic spots and historical sites surrounding the Ten Thousand Buddha Caves include Shiwan, Shuizhao Yan'an, Yueerjing, Pipa Bridge, Sazapo, Junfeng Spring, Chajin Rock, Luoxing Rock, and Dingchi Spring.
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
Recommended play time: 2-4 hours
40 yuan / person
Peak season: (April 1st - October 31st ) : 7:30-18:30
Off - season: (November 1st - March 31st ) : 8 :00-17: 30
Qingliang Mountain holds historical significance, as it was an important site during the Chinese revolution. It is also home to Qingliang Temple, which has been a place of worship and spiritual reflection for centuries. The mountain is a key part of the region's cultural and natural heritage.
Qingliang Mountain is located in Yan'an, Shaanxi Province. You can reach the mountain by taking a taxi or bus from the city center of Yan'an. The site is accessible by a short walk from the nearest bus stop, but it's recommended to take a taxi for convenience.
The site is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and the scenery is most vibrant. Weekdays are less crowded, so visiting on a weekday is recommended for a quieter experience.
The entrance fee is relatively affordable, usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but it is recommended to check online platforms for ticketing during busy seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary unless you plan to visit during peak travel periods, such as holidays. A couple of days in advance is generally sufficient if you prefer to secure tickets early.
It will take approximately 2-3 hours to explore Qingliang Mountain, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each spot. If you plan to hike the trails and visit the temple, allow for more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, providing in-depth knowledge of the history and cultural significance of the site. Audio guides in English may also be available, depending on the season and demand.
Start by visiting the Qingliang Temple, then hike up the trails to the summit for the best views. Be sure to explore the surrounding forest areas for a full experience. A visit to the temple and a short hike should take around 2 hours.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Qingliang Mountain. Special tours are sometimes offered during festivals or holidays, so it’s advisable to check the schedule before your visit.
Qingliang Mountain can get crowded during public holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are during weekdays, particularly in the mornings. Visiting in the off-peak season will also help avoid crowds.
There are basic facilities available, such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas. Small shops may be available for snacks, but food options inside the mountain are limited. It is recommended to bring water and snacks with you for the hike.
The site is generally accessible, though some of the hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. The temple area is accessible, but for those with mobility concerns, it's best to check the specific routes before visiting.
Mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted throughout the area. Cash is also accepted, but using mobile payments is more convenient for most transactions.
There are a few local restaurants in Yan'an city, offering Shaanxi cuisine. Near the mountain, you may find some smaller eateries catering to tourists, but it’s better to head into the city for a wider selection of food options.
Vegetarian options are available in the nearby restaurants. However, vegan and halal options may be limited, so it’s advisable to check with local eateries for specific dietary requirements.
Hotels in Yan'an city center, such as Yan'an International Hotel and other mid-range hotels, are the closest accommodations to Qingliang Mountain. Budget options are also available near the city center.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance, selling items like local handicrafts, cultural books, and memorabilia related to the mountain's history and the Chinese revolution.
After visiting Qingliang Mountain, taxis or local buses are the most convenient options. For further exploration, renting a car or using a private tour guide is recommended, especially for those wanting to visit nearby attractions.
