In short: Qixia Mountain is a must-see in Nanjing, famous for its vibrant crimson leaves. However, it offers something to see in all seasons and is well worth a visit.
Key Highlights
- 🍁 Autumn Red Foliage (late October to early December)
- This is Qixia Mountain's trump card. Trees like sweetgum, red maple, and Japanese maple paint the entire mountain a vibrant crimson, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
- Tip: The best viewing period is usually mid-to-late November, so it's recommended to check the scenic area's red foliage forecast in advance.
- 🏯 Thousand-Year-Old Temple - Qixia Temple
- One of China's Four Great Temples, it boasts a long history and a vibrant pilgrimage. The temple boasts ancient and majestic architecture, making it a great place to experience Buddhist culture and history.
- 🪨 Stone Carvings - Thousand Buddha Rocks
- Located behind Qixia Temple, this is a collection of Buddhist stone carvings from the Southern Dynasties period. Despite its age, the exquisite craftsmanship of its time is still evident, making it of great historical value.
Visit Suggestions
- Best Times: Autumn to see the crimson leaves, spring to see the peach blossoms, summer to escape the heat, and winter to enjoy the snowy scenery.
- Recommended Routes:
- Classic Route: Scenic Area Main Gate → Qixia Temple → Thousand Buddha Rock → Stupa → Climb to see the crimson leaves → Descend.
- Easy Route: For those with moderate stamina, you can just visit the Qixia Temple and Thousand Buddha Rock area at the foot of the mountain, which is equally enjoyable.
- Admission: 25 yuan in the off-season (December-February), 40 yuan in the peak season (March-November).
In short, Qixia Mountain is a wonderful destination that combines natural scenery, historical culture, and Buddhist art.
You mentioned that the crimson leaves in autumn are Qixia Mountain's trump card. Would you like me to help you plan a complete itinerary for a day trip in autumn? I can arrange transportation, the best hiking trails, photo spots, and nearby food to make your trip more worry-free.