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China🇨🇳 | national parksMount Qingcheng National Parkdense bamboo, Taoist temples, winding trails | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Mount Qingcheng
👀 For curious travelersnational park ranked #19
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 24, 2026

Your boots hit damp stone steps, incense hangs in the air, and somewhere above the trees a temple bell cuts through the cicadas. This is Mount Qingcheng National Park, just outside Dujiangyan in Sichuan, western China. For backpackers, it’s a compact, forested maze of steep stair-hikes, misty ridgelines, and Taoist temples rather than big alpine drama. Trails are well-marked, wildlife is mostly birds and bugs, access from Chengdu is easy, and entrance fees are moderate but padded by cable cars and boat extras. It’s crowded on weekends and Chinese holidays, and wild camping is basically off the table, so you’re looking at cheap guesthouses near the gates instead of tents. Compared with nearby Jiuzhaigou or Siguniang, Qingcheng is lower, greener, more spiritual than scenic, and better for a day or overnight when you want culture and forest without a full-on mountain expedition.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #19 national park in ChinaWhy visitors keep coming back

Mount Qingcheng National Park attracts backpackers for its independent exploration opportunities. The park’s extensive trail network allows you to choose your own adventure, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike. Budget camping and hostels nearby make it easy to keep costs low while enjoying the stunning scenery. This park is particularly suited for self-guided travelers; you can navigate the trails without the constraints of a tour group. Plus, the rich cultural history adds depth to your experience, making every step feel meaningful. Avoid the tourist traps and embrace the freedom of the trails—your energy and budget will thank you.
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💡 HighlightsTop highlights of Mount Qingcheng

  • Front Mountain (Qianshan) — the classic temple walk: Stone paths, easy switchbacks and a string of well-preserved Taoist temples make this the must-do introduction to Qingcheng. It’s lush, shaded and perfect if you want culture + short hikes without sweating too much.
  • Back Mountain (Houshan) — wild trails and waterfalls: Less crowded and more rugged than the front, with longer trails, bamboo groves, and several small waterfalls. Feels like proper mountain hiking and is my personal favorite for quiet mornings and birdwatching.
  • Shangqing Palace (Shangqing Gong): The park’s major Taoist complex, with ornate halls tucked into the forest and a real sense of history. Great photo ops and a good place to see local religious life and stone carvings up close.
  • Jianfu Palace: An older temple compound
… read more 👉
  • Front Mountain (Qianshan) — the classic temple walk: Stone paths, easy switchbacks and a string of well-preserved Taoist temples make this the must-do introduction to Qingcheng. It’s lush, shaded and perfect if you want culture + short hikes without sweating too much.
  • Back Mountain (Houshan) — wild trails and waterfalls: Less crowded and more rugged than the front, with longer trails, bamboo groves, and several small waterfalls. Feels like proper mountain hiking and is my personal favorite for quiet mornings and birdwatching.
  • Shangqing Palace (Shangqing Gong): The park’s major Taoist complex, with ornate halls tucked into the forest and a real sense of history. Great photo ops and a good place to see local religious life and stone carvings up close.
  • Jianfu Palace: An older temple compound often quieter than Shangqing, with interesting architecture and peaceful courtyards. Good stop if you want temple atmosphere without the larger crowds.
  • Laojun Peak (summit viewpoints): The higher viewpoints reward you with panoramic views over Dujiangyan and the surrounding Sichuan basin on clear days. Short steep sections, but the vistas are worth the effort.
  • Ancient forest & bamboo slopes: Dense subtropical mixed forest, mossy rocks and thick bamboo that feel otherworldly after a rain — perfect for a slow ramble, listening for warblers and the occasional squirrel.
  • Taoist stone inscriptions and cliff carvings: Scattered along trails are old stone tablets and inscriptions that trace Qingcheng’s religious history. Not flashy, but they give context to why this place is sacred and UNESCO-listed.
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Things to do near Mount Qingcheng National Park

Dujiangyan Foodie Night Tour in Guanxian ancient town

Dujiangyan Foodie Night Tour in Guanxian ancient town

5.0(1)
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From €134
per personViator
a better Panda Volunteer Experience at the Best panda base - WOLONG

a better Panda Volunteer Experience at the Best panda base - WOLONG

5.0(1)
✓ Free cancellation
From €268
per personViator
Qing Cheng mountain Taichi class & Tea-tasting experience

Qing Cheng mountain Taichi class & Tea-tasting experience

5.0(1) 2h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €116
per personViator
Dujiangyan Irrigation system and Sanxingdui Chinese "pyramid" museum Day-Trip

Dujiangyan Irrigation system and Sanxingdui Chinese "pyramid" museum Day-Trip

0.0(0) 8h
✓ Free cancellation
From €268
per personViator
Dujiangyan Panda Base: 2 hours Panda Valley visit

Dujiangyan Panda Base: 2 hours Panda Valley visit

0.0(0) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €71
per personViator
Chengdu Tea Ceremony and Sichuan Opera Permanence Experience

Chengdu Tea Ceremony and Sichuan Opera Permanence Experience

0.0(0) 24h
✓ Free cancellation
From €219
per personViator

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🌤️ When to go?Best time to explore Mount Qingcheng


  • Weather: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer mild, stable weather with less rain. Summers get hot and humid, often above 30°C (86°F), while winters can be chilly, dropping to around 5°C (41°F).

  • Temperature: Daytime temps in spring and autumn hover between 15-25°C (59-77°F), perfect for hiking without overheating or freezing.

  • Daylight Hours: Longer days in spring and early autumn provide 10-12 hours of light, enough for extended treks without rushing.

  • Crowds: Peak tourist season hits in May and October, especially during Chinese holidays, so expect busy trails and higher prices.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn showcases colorful foliage—both worth timing your visit around if nature photography or scenery matters.

  • Price
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer mild, stable weather with less rain. Summers get hot and humid, often above 30°C (86°F), while winters can be chilly, dropping to around 5°C (41°F).

  • Temperature: Daytime temps in spring and autumn hover between 15-25°C (59-77°F), perfect for hiking without overheating or freezing.

  • Daylight Hours: Longer days in spring and early autumn provide 10-12 hours of light, enough for extended treks without rushing.

  • Crowds: Peak tourist season hits in May and October, especially during Chinese holidays, so expect busy trails and higher prices.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn showcases colorful foliage—both worth timing your visit around if nature photography or scenery matters.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs rise during peak months and holidays; off-peak spring and late autumn offer better deals.


Pro-tip: Aim for late April or early October weekdays to dodge crowds and enjoy the best weather without paying a premium.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: fair for travelingFEBFebruary: fair for travelingMARMarch: good for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: good for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: fair for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: good for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: fair for traveling
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🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

Mount Qingcheng National Park offers a few options for backpackers, but staying inside the park itself is limited. The park has basic guesthouses, often run by local families, providing a cozy atmosphere. Expect simple amenities and a chance to connect with locals.

For more choices, head to nearby Dujiangyan. This city has a range of hostels and budget hotels, making it a solid base for exploring the park. Look for places near the train station for easy access.

Keep an eye on transportation costs; local buses can add up. Staying in Dujiangyan allows you to save energy and funds for the park’s … read more 👉
Mount Qingcheng National Park offers a few options for backpackers, but staying inside the park itself is limited. The park has basic guesthouses, often run by local families, providing a cozy atmosphere. Expect simple amenities and a chance to connect with locals.

For more choices, head to nearby Dujiangyan. This city has a range of hostels and budget hotels, making it a solid base for exploring the park. Look for places near the train station for easy access.

Keep an eye on transportation costs; local buses can add up. Staying in Dujiangyan allows you to save energy and funds for the park’s trails and temples, where the real magic happens.
Best hostels in China


Best quality hotels in China

👛 Costs (as of 8 January 2025)Money, prices, and spending tips

Visiting Mount Qingcheng National Park in China can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

Entrance fees typically range from €10 to €15 (about $11 to $16). This fee grants you access to the park and its main attractions. However, if you’re planning to explore specific areas or take guided tours, additional costs may apply. Guided tours can vary significantly, often falling between €30 and €100 ($33 to $110), depending on the length and inclusivity of the experience.

Transportation to the park is another factor. If you’re coming from Chengdu, expect to pay around €5 to €10 ($6 to $11) for a bus ticket. Taxis or rideshares will cost more, generally starting at €20 ($22) for a one-way trip.

Food and drink inside the park can also … read more 👉
Visiting Mount Qingcheng National Park in China can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

Entrance fees typically range from €10 to €15 (about $11 to $16). This fee grants you access to the park and its main attractions. However, if you’re planning to explore specific areas or take guided tours, additional costs may apply. Guided tours can vary significantly, often falling between €30 and €100 ($33 to $110), depending on the length and inclusivity of the experience.

Transportation to the park is another factor. If you’re coming from Chengdu, expect to pay around €5 to €10 ($6 to $11) for a bus ticket. Taxis or rideshares will cost more, generally starting at €20 ($22) for a one-way trip.

Food and drink inside the park can also add up. Budget around €5 to €15 ($6 to $16) for a meal, depending on whether you opt for local street food or a sit-down restaurant.

Plan for extra costs like souvenirs or snacks, which can easily add another €5 to €20 ($6 to $22) to your budget.

Overall, a day at Mount Qingcheng can range from €30 to €100 ($33 to $110) depending on your choices. Being aware of these costs will help you manage your budget and energy for the experiences that truly matter.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsBest hikes in Mount Qingcheng national park

Mount Qingcheng National Park is a gem for hikers, blending serene landscapes with rich cultural history. The lush greenery, ancient temples, and winding paths make it a fantastic escape. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering trees and the occasional glimpse of wildlife, like monkeys and colorful birds. The terrain varies quite a bit, so you’ll experience everything from gentle slopes to more challenging ascents.

One of the standout trails is Green Cloud Trail. Here are some details:
  • Length: 6 km
  • Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Scenic views, ancient temples,
… read more 👉
Mount Qingcheng National Park is a gem for hikers, blending serene landscapes with rich cultural history. The lush greenery, ancient temples, and winding paths make it a fantastic escape. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering trees and the occasional glimpse of wildlife, like monkeys and colorful birds. The terrain varies quite a bit, so you’ll experience everything from gentle slopes to more challenging ascents.

One of the standout trails is Green Cloud Trail. Here are some details:
  • Length: 6 km
  • Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Scenic views, ancient temples, and peaceful streams
  • Terrain: Mix of paved paths and natural trails with some steep sections

Another great option is Yin Yang Valley Trail:
  • Length: 4 km
  • Estimated Duration: 1.5-2 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Key Features: Beautiful valley views, diverse flora, and fauna
  • Terrain: Mostly flat with a few gentle inclines

Getting to Mount Qingcheng is pretty straightforward. Public transport options like buses from Chengdu are frequent and budget-friendly, making it easy to hop over for a day hike. Just keep in mind that weekends can get busy, especially with locals, so if you want a quieter experience, aim for a weekday visit. As for the entrance fee, it’s quite reasonable, usually around 90 RMB, giving you access to all the trails and natural beauty.
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Mount Qingcheng National Park is generally well-managed, making it accessible for most hikers. However, be mindful of sudden weather changes, especially during the rainy season. The trails can be steep and rocky, so good footwear is essential. Navigation is straightforward, but keep an eye on trail markers to avoid getting sidetracked.

Wildlife encounters are rare, but if you spot a snake or other animals, observe from a distance and don’t feed them. Prepare for varying temperatures by layering your clothing. Hydration is key, especially on warmer days, so carry enough water. Respect the trails and fellow hikers to enhance everyone’s experience.
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Other Chinese national parks near Mount Qingcheng

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We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways before you go

Mount Qingcheng National Park is a treasure for those seeking tranquility and a deep dive into Taoist culture. The lush trails and ancient temples are worth every step. Just be ready for the crowds, especially on weekends. Arriving early can save you from the hustle and let you soak in the serenity.

✈️ When did I visit China?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited China in August 2015, coming from Mongolia by the TransMongolia Express.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in China, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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