Lingtong Mountain, Fujian - Hanging Temple - Qingtian Peak
⛰️Lingtong Mountain: (Lingtongyan Temple), Qingtian Peak.
National Scenic Area.
Scenic Area: Seven major peaks and thirty-six clusters of peaks, formed by a volcanic eruption 120 million years ago, showcasing typical Danxia landforms.
Mainly composed of Early Cretaceous to Late Jurassic volcanic rocks, including chondrite, silicified rhyolite, and tuff strata, forming a rare volcanic peak cluster landform system in China.
History: The Hanging Temple was built during the Tang Dynasty (over 1300 years ago). Constructed from weathered volcanic rock caves, its suspended structure is supported by only a dozen or so wooden pillars, showcasing geometric aesthetics. During the rainy season, the natural spectacle of flowing springs and waterfalls, resembling "beaded curtains turning into rain," can be seen.
⚠️Climbing the mountain involves risks; caution is advised throughout the journey; weather is unpredictable.
💼Equipment: 2-3 bottles of water, energy snacks, hiking boots, outdoor clothing, power bank, gloves, high-powered flashlight (for night climbing), extra clothes, raincoat, thermal blanket (for emergencies), trekking poles (for self-defense), insurance (purchase in advance), drone (comply with local regulations).
🗑️Please take all your trash with you; green mountains and clear waters are invaluable assets.
📍Location: Qingtian Peak (main peak), 1288m above sea level, Daxi Town, Pinghe County, Zhangzhou City. The scenic area has over 1300 steps.
🅿️Navigate to: Qingyun Parking Lot, Lingtong Scenic Area.
🗺️Distance: Approximately 168km from Xiamen city center, approximately 100km from Zhangzhou city center.
⚠️It is recommended to allow 1 day. Start climbing before 2 PM, focusing on visiting the Hanging Temple; after 4 PM, it is not recommended to climb to the summit of Qingtian Peak. Good physical fitness is required; allow at least 2 hours for the round trip to the summit. Check the weather; safety is paramount after dark.
This route (for reference only):
1⃣️ Navigation destination: Qingyun Parking Lot, Lingtong Scenic Area.
2⃣️ First arrive at Ciyun Temple, purchase tickets (20 RMB/person), and continue driving to Qingyun Parking Lot.
3⃣️ Parking Lot → Qingyun Temple → Hanging Temple → Qingtian Peak → Descend the mountain.
4⃣️ The distance is approximately 11km, altitude 1288m, elevation gain approximately 1080m, and distance climbed approximately 3970m. The ascent is approximately 6.5km, and the descent is approximately 4.5km. Upon arrival at the Hanging Temple, conduct a physical assessment; if still able, continue to the summit. It is not recommended to bring children to climb Qingtian Peak, as it is very difficult and dangerous!
5⃣️ Qingtian Peak has a rapid ascent, involving three consecutive and spaced sections of iron frames. The vertical ascent is difficult, and the descent requires even more caution and will test your physical fitness. 6⃣️ The last section has no guardrails and is a sheer cliff. Be careful of your own safety and the surrounding environment when taking photos at the summit. ⚠️
7⃣️ The three sections of the metal frame will be frosty on the way down; gloves will come in handy.
8️⃣ Dinner in town: local Pinghe cuisine: noodles, five-spice rolls, and duck.
This is just one route. The scenic area has many other attractions, each with different scenery and wonders. See the comments section for more.
Friendly advice: Night climbing is not recommended. Climbing in the early morning to see the sea of clouds and sunset is also possible. Do not climb alone to the summit; all mountains have dangers, and there is wildlife. Let's live in harmony with nature.