First trip to Mount Qingcheng? Just follow this guide!
I recently visited Mount Qingcheng and discovered it's quite humid! Especially in April, the mountains are shrouded in mist, the air is thick with moisture, and the steps are slippery. You need to be careful not to slip, and if you're not wearing non-slip shoes, your hike could be quite "adventurous." Fortunately, I did my research beforehand. For those who haven't been to Mount Qingcheng, this guide will definitely help you. It covers popular attractions and practical information.
🗼Getting to Mount Qingcheng
①Fly directly to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport ✈️. The waiting hall is spacious and bright with complete facilities. While waiting, you can browse the specialty shops and try Chengdu rabbit head for a taste of local flavor. From the airport, transfer to a bus or high-speed train to Mount Qingcheng. The journey is convenient, but remember to book your tickets in advance for a smooth trip. If there are no direct flights, transferring from nearby Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is also convenient, with easy access to public transport to Mount Qingcheng.
②Train/High-Speed Rail: Qingchengshan Station has frequent trains to and from all over the country. The station is spacious and bright, with convenient transfers. After exiting the station, buses, taxis, and other means of transport are readily available. You can reach popular destinations like the Mount Qingcheng Scenic Area entrance and Tai'an Ancient Town in no time. Remember to book tickets in advance during peak season.
🗼Accommodation
🧸[Within Mount Qingcheng Scenic Area]
There are various accommodation options, from star-rated hotels to budget-friendly inns. The air within the scenic area is fresh, and at night, you can fall asleep to the sound of gurgling streams and the tranquility of the mountains. Wake up to the chirping of birds in the morning and open your window to a view of lush greenery. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Mount Qingcheng, this is the perfect choice. Taoist temple inns near Tianshi Cave offer a unique cultural experience.
🧸[Qingchengshan Town]
If you want to balance convenience with comfort, this is the right place. There are many guesthouses and hotels nearby with relatively affordable prices, and most offer shuttle services to and from the scenic area, making travel easy. At night, you can stroll through the lively local night market and enjoy local snacks. However, you need to book in advance during peak season, and prices may fluctuate.
🧸[Dujiangyan City]
If you want to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and find cost-effective accommodation, this is the place to be. The surrounding accommodations are mainly budget hotels and guesthouses, conveniently located near various dining options. After a day of exploring, return to your accommodation and fall asleep amidst the city lights. While the accommodation may be relatively basic, it's a great option for travelers who prioritize sightseeing over luxury.
🗼Popular Attractions
🗳Mount Qingcheng: In April, Mount Qingcheng is full of spring. The mountains are covered in lush vegetation and blooming flowers. Hike along the winding stone paths, admiring towering ancient trees and wildflowers. Laojunge Pavilion stands atop the mountain, offering panoramic views of Mount Qingcheng's beauty. Tianshi Cave, steeped in history, houses numerous ancient relics, allowing you to experience the profound Taoist culture. Yuecheng Lake's clear waters invite you to take a boat ride, surrounded by picturesque scenery. However, be mindful of the slippery paths.
🗳Tai'an Ancient Town: This ancient town is nestled between mountains and water. In April, the streams flow gently, and willow branches sway in the breeze. Stroll through the ancient streets, savor local delicacies like white fruit stewed chicken and Qingcheng cured bacon, and shop for unique handicrafts. At night, the town is illuminated with lanterns, creating a charming atmosphere accompanied by gentle breezes and the sound of flowing water.
🗳Back Mountain Scenic Area: Compared to the front mountain, the back mountain is more secluded, offering stunning scenery with fewer crowds. In April, the waterfalls are full and majestic. Hike along the plank roads, through the forests, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the natural beauty. It's a paradise for hikers, but be extra careful on the rugged mountain paths.
🗳Popular Food
🔖White Fruit Stewed Chicken: This is a signature dish of Mount Qingcheng, made with local chicken and white fruit, simmered slowly until the chicken is tender and the white fruit is soft and glutinous. The soup is rich and flavorful, and the dish is packed with nutrients. Every bite is a taste of Mount Qingcheng😍. You can find authentic versions in the restaurants of Tai'an Ancient Town.
🔖Qingcheng Cured Bacon: The bacon has a bright red color and a balance of fat and lean meat. After cooking, it's sliced and served, exuding a rich aroma. It has a mellow taste and is delicious with rice or as a side dish with drinks. You can buy it at local specialty stores or restaurants.
🔖Dongtian Milk Wine: A specialty of Mount Qingcheng, this wine is brewed from fruits like kiwi. It has a milky color, a rich aroma, and a sweet and sour taste. You can find it in specialty stores within the scenic area.
🔖Qingcheng Pickles: Made from locally pickled fresh vegetables, these pickles are sour, spicy, and crispy. They are a common appetizer in restaurants and snack stalls.
In short, before visiting Mount Qingcheng, plan carefully, considering the humidity, slippery paths, transportation, and accommodation. This will help you avoid any "pitfalls" and fully enjoy the unique charm of Mount Qingcheng, creating wonderful travel memories.