須彌山遠景
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Qixia Temple Nanjing

4.4
·89 reviews·Nan Jing Shi, China

A renowned scenic area famous for its vibrant autumn maple leaves and ancient Buddhist temple, offering stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late October

Peak autumn foliage

CrowdMedium
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須彌山遠景

Qixia Temple Nanjing

Best Time

Late October

Peak autumn foliage

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A renowned scenic area famous for its vibrant autumn maple leaves and ancient Buddhist temple, offering stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.

4.4
(89 reviews)

"Qixia Mountain's autumn foliage is breathtaking, a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk Downhill

Save money and enjoy the autumn leaves more by walking downhill instead of taking the electric car.

🍁 Peak Fall Colors

Visit in late October for the most vibrant maple foliage; mid-November might be too late.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Qixia Temple

Qixia Temple

Center of the scenic area

An ancient Buddhist temple nestled amidst stunning natural beauty, offering a serene spiritual experience.

Autumn Maple Foliage

Autumn Maple Foliage

Qixia Mountain slopes

Famous for its brilliant red maple trees, making it one of China's 'Four Great Maple Mountains'.

Yangtze River Viewpoint

Yangtze River Viewpoint

Top of Qixia Mountain

Panoramic views of the mighty Yangtze River and the iconic Nanjing Bridge await at the summit.

Spring Flower Garden

Spring Flower Garden

Around Qixia Temple

A beautiful garden that bursts into color during spring, offering a different kind of natural charm.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Autumn Visit

While autumn is stunning, mid-November might mean leaves aren't at peak color. Plan for late October or early November for the most vibrant maple foliage. Avoid weekends if possible to dodge crowds.

Navigating Qixia Mountain

The electric car service can be pricey and confusing. Consider walking downhill to fully enjoy the autumn leaves and save money. The scenic spots at the top offer great views of the Yangtze River.

Best Times

When
Late October
Why
Peak autumn foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming flowers
Crowd
Low
When
Winter with snow
Why
Crisp, serene beauty
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Qixia Mountain, located about 22 kilometers northeast of Nanjing, is famous for its natural beauty and historic sites, particularly during the autumn when its maple trees turn a brilliant red. Known as one of the “Four Great Maple Mountains” in China, Qixia attracts many visitors in fall who come to enjoy the vibrant foliage.
yayamohammad
106 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Walk Downhill

Save money and enjoy the autumn leaves more by walking downhill instead of taking the electric car.

🍁 Peak Fall Colors

Visit in late October for the most vibrant maple foliage; mid-November might be too late.

🌸 Spring Blooms

Enjoy the temple's surrounding flower garden in full bloom during the spring season.

🏞️ Summit Views

Hike to the top for breathtaking views of the Yangtze River and Nanjing Bridge.

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk Downhill

Save money and enjoy the autumn leaves more by walking downhill instead of taking the electric car.

🍁 Peak Fall Colors

Visit in late October for the most vibrant maple foliage; mid-November might be too late.

🌸 Spring Blooms

Enjoy the temple's surrounding flower garden in full bloom during the spring season.

🏞️ Summit Views

Hike to the top for breathtaking views of the Yangtze River and Nanjing Bridge.

🚗 Electric Car Caution

Be wary of electric car pricing; it can be expensive and confusing for multiple rides.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(89 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Qixia Temple and Mountain for its stunning natural beauty, especially the vibrant autumn foliage and serene spring gardens. The ancient temple adds a significant cultural and historical dimension. However, some travelers caution about the expensive and confusing electric car service, recommending walking instead.

"Autumn leaf was not fully expressed yet by mid-November. Be aware of the electric car ripping off, we pay $20 for a 5 minute ride up to 2/3 of the mountain. If you want to go up more. It is consider a return trip to the bottom of the mountain, you have to $10 more to reach the higher point. If you get off, you will have to pay again to ride down. Walking downhill is easy and you can enjoy the autumn leaf better."

Kim Sing Lo

"Very lovely place to visit in spring and autumn Seasons.
Scenic area is centred with a ancient Buddhist temple.
Arround the temple there is a flower garden. Very nice in spring season.

Top of the mountain there is a scenic spot, there you can see the great river of Yangtze and the Nanjing bridge."

Sandaru “Sachin” Yapa

"Autumn is gorgeous"

P Tan

What People Like

Spectacular autumn leaves
Beautiful spring flowers
Serene temple atmosphere

What People Dislike

Expensive electric cars

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take public transport like buses or metro to reach Qixia Temple. Bus routes like 206 or 207 are common options. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also available, offering a more direct but potentially pricier route.

Yes, Qixia Temple is well-connected by public transport. Several bus lines serve the area, making it a convenient destination for visitors relying on public transit.

For a scenic journey, consider taking a bus. If you prefer convenience, a taxi or ride-sharing app will get you there directly. Some visitors opt for a combination, using public transport to get close and then a short taxi ride.

Yes, parking is generally available at Qixia Temple and the surrounding scenic area, which is helpful if you're driving your own vehicle.

Qixia Temple is located approximately 22 kilometers northeast of Nanjing city center, making it a feasible day trip.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an admission fee for the Qixia Scenic Area, which includes access to Qixia Temple and the mountain.

Opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the scenic area is open from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the latest hours before your visit.

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official website for current discount policies.

While tickets are available at the entrance, purchasing them online in advance might be an option through official ticketing platforms or travel agencies, potentially saving time.

The entrance fee typically covers access to the main scenic spots within Qixia Mountain, including the temple, gardens, and viewpoints.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the ancient Qixia Temple itself, the vibrant maple trees (especially in autumn), the flower gardens in spring, and the panoramic views from the top of Qixia Mountain overlooking the Yangtze River.

Yes, Qixia Mountain offers various trails suitable for hiking. You can choose shorter walks or more challenging routes to explore the natural scenery.

For the most spectacular autumn foliage, aim for late October to early November. Mid-November might still offer beautiful colors, but peak vibrancy can pass quickly.

Yes, there are restrooms and rest areas available throughout the scenic area, especially near major attractions and trailheads.

Many visitors find the electric car service overpriced and confusing. Walking downhill is often recommended to better appreciate the scenery and save money.

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient temple architecture, the vibrant autumn maple leaves, the spring flower gardens, and the panoramic views from the mountain summit are all prime photography locations.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. Golden hour can be particularly magical.

Drone usage is typically restricted in scenic areas and near temples. It's best to check local regulations or inquire on-site before flying a drone.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and temple details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views from the summit, and a telephoto can isolate details.

Photography is usually permitted in most outdoor areas and the temple grounds, but check for any specific 'no photo' signs inside certain halls or religious areas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Qixia Temple and Mountain can be a great outing for families, offering a mix of nature and culture. The walking paths, especially downhill, are manageable for most children. Consider bringing snacks and water, as options within the scenic area might be limited or pricey. The flower gardens in spring are particularly engaging for younger visitors, offering a colorful and sensory experience. Reddit

While the electric car service is available, it's often recommended to walk to better control the pace and enjoy the surroundings. For families, focusing on the accessible parts of the mountain and the temple grounds will provide a fulfilling experience without overexertion. The views from the top can also be a fun reward for older children who complete the climb.

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the key is to leverage public transportation to reach Qixia Temple and to prioritize walking over the internal electric car service. Buses are an economical way to get to the scenic area from Nanjing. Once there, walking downhill is free and allows you to fully appreciate the scenery without incurring additional costs. Reddit

Pack your own food and drinks to avoid higher prices within the tourist area. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the temple's atmosphere, which are the main attractions and don't require extra spending. Visiting during off-peak seasons or weekdays can also sometimes lead to slightly lower entrance fees or fewer crowds, enhancing the value of your visit.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Qixia Temple and Mountain offer a wealth of photographic opportunities. The ancient temple architecture provides a classic subject, especially when framed by the vibrant autumn maple leaves. For landscape photographers, the summit viewpoint overlooking the Yangtze River and Nanjing Bridge is a must-capture scene. TikTok

Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light – early mornings and late afternoons are ideal. During spring, the flower gardens offer a chance for macro photography and vibrant color studies. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial shots, as they are often restricted in such areas.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Autumn at Qixia Mountain

Qixia Mountain is renowned as one of China's 'Four Great Maple Mountains,' and for good reason. During autumn, the slopes transform into a breathtaking spectacle of fiery red, vibrant orange, and golden yellow maple leaves. This natural phenomenon draws countless visitors eager to witness the stunning foliage. While mid-November can still offer beautiful colors, many travelers suggest that late October to early November is the prime time to experience the peak of this autumnal display. The crisp air and sunny days during this period make exploring the mountain a truly delightful experience. TikTok

However, it's important to be prepared for the crowds that flock to witness this natural wonder. Weekends can be particularly busy. If you're seeking a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on a weekday. The sheer beauty of the autumn leaves is a major draw, making it a photographer's paradise and a must-visit for nature lovers. The contrast between the ancient temple structures and the vibrant natural colors creates a unique and memorable visual feast. Reddit

Beyond the leaves, the mountain offers a serene escape. The ancient Qixia Temple, nestled within the scenic area, provides a spiritual and historical dimension to the visit. The combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Qixia Mountain a multifaceted destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors.

Navigating Qixia Mountain: Tips from Travelers

When visiting Qixia Mountain, particularly for its autumn splendor, understanding the local transport options is key. Many visitors have noted that the electric car service, while convenient for ascending parts of the mountain, can be quite expensive and confusing. The pricing structure, where getting off requires paying again for a return trip, has led some to feel 'ripped off.' A common piece of advice from seasoned travelers is to embrace walking, especially downhill. This not only saves money but also allows for a more immersive experience of the autumn leaves and the natural surroundings. Reddit

For those who prefer to walk, the paths are generally well-maintained and offer numerous vantage points to admire the scenery. The journey downhill is often described as easy and rewarding, allowing you to truly soak in the beauty without the pressure of a ticking clock or escalating fares. If you do opt for the electric car, clarify the pricing and return policies beforehand to avoid surprises. Planning your route and understanding these nuances can significantly enhance your visit and ensure a more positive experience. Reddit

Beyond the electric car, public buses and taxis are viable options for reaching the base of Qixia Mountain. Once within the scenic area, the decision between walking and using the internal transport largely depends on your preference for activity, budget, and time. Many find that a combination, perhaps walking up to a certain point and then descending, offers a good balance.

Beyond Autumn: Spring and Winter Charm

While Qixia Mountain is most famous for its autumn foliage, it offers distinct charms throughout the year. During spring, the area around Qixia Temple transforms into a beautiful flower garden. Visitors can enjoy a different kind of natural beauty, with blooming flowers adding vibrant colors and pleasant fragrances to the landscape. This season provides a refreshing contrast to the fiery hues of autumn, making it an excellent time for those who appreciate floral displays and milder weather. Reddit

Winter at Qixia Mountain presents a serene and crisp atmosphere. A light snowfall can turn the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland, offering a peaceful and quiet experience. For those who enjoy cooler temperatures and a less crowded environment, a winter visit can be incredibly rewarding. The stark beauty of snow-covered trees and the quietude of the temple grounds create a unique ambiance that is quite different from the bustling autumn season. Reddit

Each season offers a unique perspective on Qixia Mountain's natural beauty and the spiritual tranquility of Qixia Temple. Whether you're drawn by the fiery autumn leaves, the delicate spring blossoms, or the serene winter landscapes, the destination promises a memorable experience.

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