Visitors to Qiqu Mountain can enjoy hiking through its natural landscapes, exploring its temples, and experiencing the peaceful atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for nature walks and photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Qiqu Mountain, located at the southern end of the Jianmen Shu Road, borders the Bayu Three Gorges to the east, the magical Jiuzhaigou Mountains to the west, Mount Emei to the south, and Jianmen to the north. It is 45 kilometers from Mianyang, the "Silicon Valley of the West." The scenic area boasts the Qiqu Mountain Temple, known as a "Museum of Ancient Architecture," and a nationally recognized ancient cypress forest, hailed as a "living fossil forest."
The Damiao ancient architectural complex cleverly utilizes the terrain, built against the mountainside, breaking away from the traditional constraints of a parallel central axis and displaying a flexible and natural style. Combining the majestic palace-style architecture of the north with the delicate garden-style architecture of the south, it fully demonstrates the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Chinese builders.
With over 20,000 ancient cypresses, the area boasts a truly unspoiled ancient cypress forest. Strolling through the forest, one is captivated by its towering, majestic cypresses, each in a unique array of forms. The undulating canopy echoes the sound of waves, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Qiqu Mountain Scenic Area is thus known as a wonder of the Shu Road and a grand garden of ancient cypresses. Forestry scientists call it a "forest fossil," poets praise it as the "Jade of the Shu Road," and medical experts hailed it as a "natural oxygen bar."
Suitable for all seasons, best for escaping the summer heat
Recommended play time: about half a day
40 yuan/person
8:30-17:30 in spring, summer and autumn, 9:00-17:00 in winter
Qiqu Mountain is a historical and cultural site with significant religious importance, especially in Taoism and Buddhism. It has several temples and shrines, making it a popular destination for spiritual and cultural exploration.
Qiqu Mountain is located in Mianyang, Sichuan. Visitors can reach it by taxi from the city center or by bus. Walking is an option for those nearby, but the site is best accessed by vehicle.
The mountain is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the mountain is lush and green.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be bought on-site or online via local ticketing platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends to avoid waiting in line.
It takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore Qiqu Mountain, including hiking, visiting the temples, and enjoying the views.
Must-see highlights include the main temple complex, the scenic hiking trails, and the stunning viewpoints from the mountain summit. The peaceful surroundings make it a great spot for relaxation.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. It’s advisable to check in advance for availability of English-speaking guides or audio guides, particularly during busy seasons.
The best viewpoints are located along the hiking trails, especially near the temples and at the summit, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
The recommended route begins with a visit to the main temple complex, followed by a scenic hike up to the summit for breathtaking views. A leisurely walk back to the entrance completes the experience.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Qiqu Mountain. The attraction is best enjoyed during the day, with its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
The site can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Facilities at Qiqu Mountain include rest areas, toilets, and water stations. There are small shops offering local snacks and souvenirs, but food options are limited.
The main temple and certain areas are accessible, but the hiking trails can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s best to check accessibility options in advance.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops or kiosks.
There are local eateries near the entrance where you can enjoy Sichuan cuisine. However, inside the scenic area, food options are more limited, with small snack shops available.
Vegetarian options are available, especially at local restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be harder to find, so it's advisable to check the menu in advance.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Mianyang city, which is a short drive from Qiqu Mountain. There are also budget accommodations closer to the mountain.
Nearby attractions include the Fule Mountain, and you can also visit the Mianyang Science and Technology Museum or the ancient town of Anju for a full day trip.
Souvenir shops near the mountain offer local handicrafts, tea, incense, and traditional Sichuanese items such as embroidered goods and herbal medicines.
The best transportation options are to take a taxi or private car back to Mianyang city or to your next destination. Public buses are available, but taxis offer greater convenience.