A Wonderland on the Cliff — Kongtong Mountain

Kongtong Mountain Introduction
Kongtong Mountain is located 12 kilometers west of Pingliang City in Gansu Province. It sits at a strategic point on the ancient Silk Road’s western exit from Guanzhong, overlooking Xi’an to the east, connecting to Lanzhou in the west, neighboring Baoji to the south, and reaching Yinchuan to the north. The scenic area covers 84 square kilometers, with the main peak rising to 2,123 meters above sea level. This place combines spectacular and enchanting natural landscapes with ancient and exquisite cultural sites. It has long been honored as the "First Mountain from the West," "Western Fortress Wonder," and "The First Mountain of Chinese Taoism." The natural scenery features Danxia landforms, with majestic peaks and vast forests covering over 90% of the area, blending the grandeur of northern mountains with the beauty of southern landscapes. The cultural heritage is profound: the Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan once ascended here to seek wisdom from Guangchengzi; emperors Qin Shi Huang and Han Wu admired and toured the site; literary figures like Sima Qian and Du Fu left many inscriptions and poems. Kongtong martial arts are recognized alongside Shaolin and Wudang as one of the five major Chinese martial arts schools. The scenic area is currently one of the first national 5A-level tourist attractions, a national key scenic spot, a national geopark, and a national nature reserve.

Recommended Attractions
1. Imperial City
Address: Main peak area of Kongtong Mountain
Why Visit: The best-preserved Ming Dynasty architectural complex in Kongtong Mountain, known as the "Palace in the Sky" for its unique layout of "palace within palace, hall within hall." The buildings cascade along the mountain slope, with red walls and gray tiles complementing the Danxia landforms. From the top, visitors can overlook the rolling sea of clouds and magnificent mountains. It is the essence of Taoist culture and architectural art.

2. Thunder Sound Peak
Address: Central Kongtong Mountain, adjacent to the Imperial City
Why Visit: A cliff-hanging architectural complex built on sheer cliffs, shrouded in mist and clouds on rainy days, resembling a fairyland, earning the nickname "Sky Pavilion." Copper bells on the peak sway in the wind, their clear sounds piercing through the mist, perfectly embodying the "Kongtong Wonderland" atmosphere found in martial arts novels.

3. Yellow Emperor’s Inquiry Site
Address: Natural cave on the southern cliff palace of Kongtong Mountain
Why Visit: Legend has it that this is the sacred place where the Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan sought advice on governance and health from Guangchengzi. The cave houses well-preserved Ming Dynasty murals and stone statues. The cliff inscription "Yellow Emperor’s Inquiry Site" bears witness to a millennium of cultural heritage, making it a core spot for exploring Taoist origins.

4. Three Teachings Cave
Address: Mid-level area of Kongtong Mountain
Why Visit: A rare cave honoring Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism together, reflecting the spirit of "harmony without uniformity." Inside are statues of the three religious sages, and the stone inscriptions blend the philosophies of the three schools, serving as important evidence for studying the integration of Chinese religious culture.

5. Falun Temple and Lingkong Tower
Address: Mid-level tower courtyard of Kongtong Mountain
Why Visit: Centered around the Northern Song Dynasty octagonal seven-story brick tower "Lingkong Tower," whose ancient pine trees entwine at the top to form the spectacular "Ancient Tower Supporting Pine," a nationally protected cultural relic. The temple houses a Tang Dynasty stone sutra pillar recording the history of Buddhist spread along the Silk Road. The red walls and ancient pines create a serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for photography and historical exploration.

6. Tanzheng Lake
Address: Jinghe Gorge at the foot of Kongtong Mountain
Why Visit: The Jing River flows through the gorge, its water sounds like a zither being plucked. The lake’s Danxia reflections and green mountains and trees form a picturesque ink painting. Visitors can take boat tours around the lake (50 RMB/person). It’s a perfect summer retreat to enjoy lotus flowers and a poetic autumn scene when the forests turn vibrant colors.

7. Heavenly Ladder
Address: The essential path from the Imperial City to the main peak
Why Visit: A steep stone staircase carved along the cliff with 378 steps. Ancient people described it as "one step only an inch, climbing iron pillars to the Heavenly Gate," highlighting its perilous nature. The climb is both a physical challenge and a cultural experience embodying the Taoist saying "Heaven rewards diligence." Along the way, cliff inscriptions and mist accompany visitors, creating a strong sense of ritual.

8. Rouge River
Address: The heartland of Kongtong Mountain, running north to south through the scenic area
Why Visit: Named for its clear, reddish water resembling rouge, the riverbanks are lush with trees. In autumn, the red maples and green cypresses contrast with the mirror-like blue water and golden mountains, forming an "autumn landscape painting." It is an excellent route for hiking and photography.

Practical Information
Tickets: Peak season (April 1 – October 31) 110 RMB/person; off-season (November 1 – March 31) 60 RMB/person.
Transportation:
By car: From Xi’an/Yinchuan, take the Fuyin Expressway to the "Kongtong Mountain Exit"; from Lanzhou, take the Pingding Expressway. The journey takes about 3-4 hours.
By bus: From Pingliang city, take bus No. 9 (Panxuan Road – Kongtong Ancient Town, 13:20–21:20) or No. 13 (Pingliang Vocational and Technical College – East Gate of Kongtong Mountain, 7:00–18:24) tourist lines. Fare ranges from 1 to 3.5 RMB.
Best Time to Visit: April to October (spring for mountain flowers, summer to escape the heat, autumn for red leaves). Winter offers a snowy northern landscape experience.

Kongtong Mountain is not only a place where nature and culture merge but also an ideal destination for mountain climbing, spiritual seeking, summer retreats, and wellness. Whether tracing historical footprints or immersing in the beauty of the landscape, visitors will gain a unique experience here.