Hiking Qingcheng Back Mountain is one of the best uncrowded hikes in China, offering scenic trails and tranquil nature away from the crowds (one of the few hikes I was able to do in China that wasn't crowded). Located near Chengdu, Qingcheng Back Mountain is perfect for a day trip and is known for its beautiful Taoist temple at the summit. While the front mountain features more temples and classic views, this guide focuses on Qingcheng Back Mountain—an easily accessible day trip from Chengdu.
If you're looking for more things to do, you can pair this with a Chengdu trip, and hike the famous Mount Emei, also located in Sichuan Province. It's also not far from Spicy Chongqing, another place I highly recommend checking out.
Beautiful bridges over running water at Qingchengshan
How to Get to Qingcheng Back Mountain from Chengdu
To reach Qingcheng Back Mountain from Chengdu by public transportation, take the metro to Xipu Railway Station, then a high-speed train to Qingchengshan, followed by a local bus to the back mountain entrance. The total journey takes less than two hours and costs around 34 RMB each way, making it a convenient and affordable day trip.
Metro -> High-Speed Train -> Bus
To take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Qingchengshan, start at Xipu Railway Station, the last stop on Metro Line 2. Buy a single-use metro ticket to use the metro (English available), and after exiting the metro, follow signs to the Xipu Ticket Office to purchase your train ticket. The metro and train stations are adjacent, making transfers easy; the train to Qingchengshan makes two stops and booking ahead on Trip.com or Wechat is recommended during peak times. The train ride is 30 minutes. Don't do what I did and accidentally buy a ticket to nearby Dujiangyan-make sure the ticket says Qingchengshan.
When you arrive at Qingchengshan, exit the train station and turn left, passing the toilets and following signs to the bus terminal across the street. Ask for the bus to “qingchengshan houmian” (the back mountain); it costs 13 RMB each way and takes about 30 minutes. After getting off, walk to the entrance, purchase your ticket for 25 RMB, and begin your hike on Qingcheng Back Mountain.
Total Cost of Hiking Qingchengshan
• Transportation: 56 RMB + metro (approx. 68 RMB total)
• Entry ticket: 25 RMB
• Boat: 2 RMB (cash only)
• Cable Car (optional): 45 RMB one-way
A boat you have to take to cross Caiyun Lake
When to Leave for Qingcheng
For a smooth hiking day, aim to catch a train from Chengdu before 10:00 a.m. Arriving at Qingchengshan by 11:00 a.m. gives you plenty of time to complete the loop hike, which typically takes about 5 hours without the cable car. Buses back to the train station run until 6:30 p.m., so you don’t need to start before sunrise to enjoy a relaxed day trip. There are high-speed rail trains back to Xipu Station until slightly past 10:00 p.m. at night.
Log bridges over running water is common
Difficulty of Hiking Qingcheng Back Mountain
Qingcheng Back Mountain is a moderately easy hike, with many stairs that get steeper as you approach Baiyun Temple—these can be avoided by taking the cable car. Some sections feature wood bridges over streams and waterfalls, but overall, the trail is suitable for anyone in average physical condition.
Steps getting steeper the farther you go
Fall foliage at the top of Mount Qingcheng
Hiking Qingcheng Back Mountain: Route Options
Qingcheng Back Mountain features a scenic loop trail, which is a rare find compared to typical out-and-back hikes in China. After entering, you’ll receive a map (in Mandarin), then walk through an ancient village and past a temple rebuilt after the 2008 earthquake. At the plaza, you can either take the main entrance most hikers use or explore alternate paths for a unique experience.
Note: On the main path, when you reach Caiyun Lake, it looks like a deadend, but it's not- simply wait for the boat (2 RMB, cash only) to arrive so you can cross, as there is no walking path at that section.
The main entrance to Qingcheng back mountain
A beautiful waterfall on the hike
For a quieter and more scenic route, make a left from the plaza and continue straight for about 10 minutes until you see the sign for Wulong Palace—turn right to start hiking. This path features rope and log bridges over streams, fewer crowds, and beautiful views. The initial section is easy, but after passing the cable car, the trail becomes steeper with switchbacks, caves with Buddhist figures, and ends at Baiyun Temple.
The Peak: Baiyun Temple
Don’t miss Baiyun Temple at the summit—look for unique Buddhist figures carved into the cave walls near the top. You can climb the original stairs or opt for the newer, safer set built outside the cave to reach the temple and enjoy the views. The temple itself is small and somewhat run-down, adding to its authentic and powerful atmosphere. Baiyun Temple is named after the monk Baiyun, who legend says buried himself alive here and became a Buddha.
Related Article: Exploring Huayan Temple in Chongqing, China
Buddhist figures in a cave before going up the stairs
One way to get to Baiyun Temple
Additional Tips for Qingcheng Back Mountain
• Complete the entire loop trail for the best experience; it’s challenging but manageable, and most hikers skip the cable car.
• Always double-check the bus schedule printed on your ticket to avoid missing your ride back.
• Buy train tickets online for weekends or holidays to guarantee a reserved seat—use WeChat for lower fees compared to Trip.com.
If you’re in Chengdu and want a scenic, peaceful day trip away from the city crowds, Qingcheng Back Mountain is an excellent option.
Like hiking in China? Check out these other posts for hiking in different areas of China:
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