Qixia Mountain, also known as Sheshan, is located in Qixia Town, about 22 kilometers northeast of the city center of Nanjing and is named after the Qixia Temple built within the mountain. It has three peaks, with the main peak reaching an elevation of 313 meters. The mountain contains numerous historical sites such as Qixia Temple and the Sarira Pagoda, as well as natural wonders like the Qingfeng Sword, Tiankai Rock, and the Skyline.
The Red Maple Festival at Qixia Mountain is famous for its red leaves. It is celebrated annually from October to December, lasting about 50 days. During this period, the mountain is a spectacular sight of red maples. In spring and summer, the main attraction is the tranquil and charming forest scenery. Winter is colder, offering a chance to appreciate the cultural and historical sites.
The first scenic spot upon entering the mountain is the Mirror Lake (also known as the ‘Rainbow Mirror’). It features a lake pavilion connected to the shore by a nine-turn bridge, exquisitely designed. To the east lies the main attraction of Qixia Mountain, Qixia Temple. It offers a unique flavor of vegetarian dishes such as mushroom and vegetarian chicken, though they are somewhat expensive.
Not far east of Qixia Temple stands an approximately 18-meter-tall Sarira Pagoda. Its outer walls are adorned with vivid and lifelike reliefs, making it an elegant and exquisite structure worth visiting. Near the Sarira Pagoda is the Thousand Buddhas Grotto, where the famous ‘Eastern Flying Apsaras’ is located in niche 102.For those intrigued, the study of Qixia Mountain’s rich history and natural beauty is an engaging pursuit.
Qixia Mountain boasts an abundance of scenic spots that beckon visitors. A highlight is the climb to the summit of Hu Mountain on the northwest side, where the Bi Yun Pavilion offers a panoramic view of the majestic Yangtze River. On the southern slope of Ping Mountain Head, a unique gray rock with a wavy surface, dubbed the ‘Wave Rock’, awaits exploration. It is a historical site, as Emperor Qianlong, who visited the south of the Yangtze River six times, stayed at Qixia five times. Alas, his imperial palace now lies in ruins, with only remnants remaining on the central peak.
Visitors can enjoy the entire text throughout the year, as it is open daily from 07:00 to 17:00. The following preferential policies are in place:
– Children under 1.4 meters (inclusive) enter for free, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
– Students under 18: Minors and primary and middle school students aged 6 (inclusive) to 18 (exclusive) can enter at half price with a valid ID.
– Students over 18: High school students and full-time undergraduate college students (excluding postgraduates) over 18 can enter at half price with a valid ‘Student ID’, which can be purchased at the scenic spot’s window.
– Elderly: Those aged 60 (inclusive) to 69 (inclusive) can enter at half price with an ‘Elderly Preferential Certificate’; individuals aged 70 (inclusive) and above enter for free with a valid ID.
– Military personnel: Active military personnel can enter for free with an officer’s or soldier’s ID.
– Disabled people: Individuals with a ‘Disabled Person’s Certificate’ can enter for free.
These优惠政策 ensure that a variety of visitors can enjoy the splendor of Qixia Mountain.**Service Facilities at Qixia Mountain Scenic Area**
**Retired Cadres and Veterans Admission Preferences:**
– Retired cadres holding an ‘Old Cadre Preferential Certificate’ are granted free entry when accompanied by a responsible adult.
– Veterans across the nation with the ‘People’s Republic of China Veterans’ Preferential Certificate’ enjoy free admission.
– Other preferential objects include individuals with the ‘People’s Republic of China Martyrs, Military Personnel Sacrificed on Duty, Deceased Military Personnel’s Dependents’ Preferential Certificate’, who also have free entry.
**Additional Notes:**
– The scenic spot does not accept the Nanjing City Park Annual Pass.
– The information provided is for reference only; actual details may vary and are subject to the scenic spot’s disclosure on the day of visit.
**Parking Lot:**
– **Name:** Qixia Mountain Parking Lot
– **Cost:** 15 yuan per time per vehicle
– **Location:** No. 88 Qixia Street, Qixia District, Nanjing City
– **Capacity:** 500 parking spaces
**Luggage Storage:**
– Storage is free of charge with a valid ticket.
**Transportation within the Park:**
– **Cost:** 10 yuan per section
– **Location:** Available at the entrance
– **Routes:** There are three sections: from the terminus of the tour bus to Biyun Pavilion, from Biyun Pavilion to where the First Emperor overlooked the river, and from where the First Emperor overlooked the river to go down the mountain.
**Stroller Rental:**
– **Cost:** Free
– **Deposit:** 200 yuan required
– **Location:** Tourist center
**Bathrooms:**
– There are multiple bathrooms available throughout the scenic area. Follow the guide signs to locate the nearest one.Next to the ticket office of Nanjing Qixia Mountain Scenic Area, you’ll find a convenience store.
