Qixia Mountain Nanjing
A mountain renowned for its stunning autumn maple leaves, ancient temples, and rich geological history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak autumn maple leaf season
Qixia Mountain Nanjing
Best Time
Peak autumn maple leaf season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mountain renowned for its stunning autumn maple leaves, ancient temples, and rich geological history.
"The red leaves in autumn are a must-see, making Qixia Mountain a truly worthwhile visit."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing to explore the temples and trails.
🍁 Autumn is Maple Season
Visit in fall for the famous red maple leaves; it's a must-see! , ,
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Qixia Temple
Western foot of Qixia Mountain
A thousand-year-old Buddhist temple, ancestral home to the 'Three Treatises School'.
Maple Ridge
West side of the mountain
Famous for its vibrant red maple leaves, especially in autumn, creating a spectacular view.
Dongfeitian Grottos
Mountain
Ancient grottos with significant cultural and historical value, founded around 2000 years ago.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peak Beauty
Embrace the Climb and Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing to explore the temples and trails.
🍁 Autumn is Maple Season
Visit in fall for the famous red maple leaves; it's a must-see!,
,⏰ Go Early to Beat Crowds
Especially during autumn, arriving early helps you enjoy the scenery more peacefully.
🏛️ Explore the Temples
Don't miss the ancient Qixia Temple and its rich Buddhist history.,
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing to explore the temples and trails.
🍁 Autumn is Maple Season
Visit in fall for the famous red maple leaves; it's a must-see!,
,⏰ Go Early to Beat Crowds
Especially during autumn, arriving early helps you enjoy the scenery more peacefully.
🏛️ Explore the Temples
Don't miss the ancient Qixia Temple and its rich Buddhist history.,
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning natural landscapes and historical architecture.,
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Qixia Mountain for its breathtaking autumn foliage, describing it as a must-visit for its vibrant red maple leaves. The historical significance of Qixia Temple and the mountain's rich geological features are also highly appreciated. Some visitors note that it can get very crowded during peak season, especially in autumn.
"I’ve never been here, but it looks beautiful!"
Frank Escobedo
"Have a great climb!"
WS Lim
"(December 7th) Come here to enjoy the red leaves in autumn, it is worth visiting"
YC Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take public transport to Qixia Mountain. Bus routes like 743, 206, and 322 often serve the area. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also readily available for a more direct route.
While there isn't a direct subway line to the mountain's entrance, you can take the subway to a nearby station and then transfer to a bus or taxi. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes.
For photographers, consider a taxi or private car to have more flexibility with stops and timing, especially for capturing sunrise or sunset.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors who choose to drive. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as parking can fill up quickly.
From the airport, you can take the airport shuttle bus to the city center and then transfer to public transport or a taxi heading towards Qixia Mountain. Alternatively, a direct taxi or ride-share is the most convenient but also the most expensive option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, especially during the peak autumn season when the maple leaves are in full bloom. It's recommended to check the official website or local ticketing platforms for the most current pricing.
During the popular autumn season, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues and ensure entry, as visitor numbers can be very high.
Opening hours can vary by season. Generally, the park is open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to verify the exact hours for your planned visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. Inquire at the ticket office or check online for any applicable promotions.
Typically, Qixia Temple is located within the Qixia Mountain scenic area, so an entrance ticket to the mountain is usually required to access the temple.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the ancient Qixia Temple, the stunning Maple Ridge (especially in autumn), and the historical Dongfeitian Grottos. The mountain also offers beautiful natural scenery and panoramic views.,
,Yes, Qixia Mountain has well-maintained trails suitable for hiking. The paths lead to various scenic spots and temples, offering a rewarding experience for nature lovers.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. The golden hour can create magical shots of the landscape.,
Yes, there are facilities available throughout the scenic area, including restrooms and rest stops, to ensure a comfortable visit.
Qixia Mountain is renowned as a 'Natural Geological Museum' due to its rich paleontological fossils and unique geological formations. It's a fascinating site for those interested in earth sciences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can find various food options within the scenic area, ranging from local snacks to more substantial meals. These are convenient for refueling during your visit.
Near Qixia Mountain, you can try Nanjing's famous dishes like salted duck, duck blood soup, and various street food snacks. Exploring local eateries outside the mountain entrance can offer authentic flavors.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, which can be a budget-friendly option. However, be sure to dispose of your trash responsibly.
While not always explicitly advertised, many Chinese restaurants can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request. It's advisable to ask or look for dishes that are naturally vegetarian.
During peak season, food stalls and restaurants can be very busy. Be prepared for potential waits, or consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Maple Ridge during autumn is iconic. Also, the views from the mountain peaks, the ancient Qixia Temple, and the Dongfeitian Grottos offer excellent photographic opportunities.,
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. For autumn colors, a telephoto lens can help isolate details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Drone usage is typically restricted in scenic areas and national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The absolute best time is during the peak autumn foliage, usually from late October to mid-November, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange.,
Include elements like people, trees, or buildings in your shots to provide a sense of scale. Using a wide-angle lens from a vantage point can also emphasize the mountain's grandeur.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on shorter trails and key attractions like the temple and the main viewing areas for the maple leaves (if visiting in autumn). The geological features might also spark curiosity in younger minds. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes and are supervised, especially near steeper paths or historical sites.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there's an entrance fee, it's generally reasonable for the experience offered. Visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays can also help avoid higher ticket prices that might apply during peak autumn foliage. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and historical sites, which are the main attractions and don't incur extra costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens to capture both wide vistas and detailed shots of the foliage. A tripod can be invaluable for low-light conditions or capturing the serene atmosphere of the temples. Don't overlook the historical architecture of Qixia Temple and the unique Dongfeitian Grottos as subjects for your photography.,
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Autumn: Qixia's Famous Maple Leaves
This stunning display has earned Qixia Mountain a place among the 'Four Great Maple Viewing Spots in China'. The experience is so renowned that it's said, 'Spring is Niu Shou, and Autumn is Qixia.' The sheer beauty of the landscape during this season is a major draw, and many visitors plan their trips specifically to witness this natural wonder. Capturing these colors requires good timing and often a keen eye for composition to do justice to the vibrant hues.
While autumn is the peak season, it also means higher visitor numbers. To truly appreciate the beauty without the overwhelming crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving very early in the morning. The crisp autumn air combined with the visual feast of colors makes for an unforgettable experience.
A Journey Through History: Temples and Dynasties
The mountain has been a site of imperial visits for centuries, with five kings and fourteen emperors having climbed its peaks. Emperor Qianlong, during his six tours of the Jiangnan region, stayed at Qixia Mountain five times, highlighting its esteemed status. The Ming Dynasty even listed it among the 'Forty-eight Scenic Spots of Jinling,' underscoring its enduring appeal. The saying, 'One Qixia Mountain, half of the history of Jinling,' speaks volumes about its historical depth.
Beyond the temple, visitors can explore numerous historical sites that reflect a rich tapestry of religious, imperial, and folk cultures. The Dongfeitian Grottos, founded around 2000 years ago, are another significant historical and cultural landmark, adding to the mountain's allure as a place where history and nature intertwine.
Geological Marvels: A Natural Textbook
The mountain's topography is characterized by three main peaks: Sanmao Palace (also known as Fengxiang Peak) at 286 meters, Dragon Mountain in the northeast, and Tiger Mountain in the northwest. These peaks, along with the surrounding mountain ranges, create a dramatic landscape that has been shaped by millions of years of geological activity. The presence of fossils provides tangible evidence of ancient life forms that once inhabited the region.
Exploring Qixia Mountain offers a unique opportunity to connect with both natural beauty and the deep geological past. It's a place where one can appreciate the grandeur of nature while also learning about the planet's history through its rocks and fossils.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit