Qiyun Mountain

Introducing Qiyun Mountain
Qiyun Mountain is a scenic mountain area 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) from Huangshan City. Qiyun Mountain is aptly named “level with the clouds”. Though its summit reaches a modest 585 meters (1,919 ft), the dramatic rise from the surrounding lowlands creates a striking illusion of grandeur. This natural wonder is a vibrant tapestry of lush vegetation, interwoven with a multitude of peaks, unique rock formations, hidden caves, cascading springs, and tranquil pools. 

Revered in Taoist tradition as one of the seventy-two blessed lands, and known as “Fushou Shan,” meaning “Mountain of Fortune and Longevity,” Qiyun Mountain holds deep spiritual significance. This rich heritage is reflected in the hundreds of inscriptions and stone carvings, as well as the numerous temples, shrines, pavilions, and terraces that grace its slopes, each contributing to the mountain’s profound historical and cultural legacy.

Qiyun Mountain Fast Facts
• AKA: Baiyue Mountain, Fushou Mountain
• Chinese Name: Qí Yún Shān 齐云山
• Best Time to Visit: March to November
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 3 to 4 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Nature, Hiking
• Opening Hours: 8:00 – 17:00 (Qiyun Mountain), 8:00 – 16:50 (Cable Cars), 9:00 – 17:30 (Bamboo Raft)
• Entrance Fee: CNY68 (Qiyun Mountain), CNY68 (Bamboo Raft), CNY 120 (Round-trip Cable Cars)
• Address: Approx. 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) northwest of Huangshan, Anhui Province

The History of the Qiyun Mountain
Qiyun Mountain rose to prominence as a Taoist sacred mountain and an imperial mountain of protection during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). This importance continued into the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), culminating in its designation as a national sacrificial site during the Jiajing period (1521-1567), where ceremonies were performed for the well-being of the empire. This practice continued into the Wanli era (1572-1620), further solidifying Qiyun Mountain’s role as a leading national Taoist center, attracting pilgrims and securing its enduring legacy.

What to Expect at the Qiyun Mountain
While Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Qiyun Mountain offers a different kind of tranquility, appealing especially to those interested in Taoism and its history. Instead of dramatic peaks and seas of clouds, Qiyun Mountain provides a deep dive into Taoism, boasting a rich collection of temples, shrines, and historically significant sites.

Immortal’s Paradise Grottoes
The place is home to three remarkable cliff carvings: Qizhen Rock, Zhonglie Rock, and Shouzi Rock. Qizhen Rock is said to be where Qixia Zhenren, a prominent Taoist of Qiyun Mountain during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), engaged in Taoist practices. Zhonglie Rock is dedicated to the veneration of Guan Yu, the God of War. Shouzi Rock features a giant traditional Chinese character for “longevity” (壽), reportedly inscribed by Empress Dowager Cixi of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), measuring an impressive 2.3 meters (7.55 ft) in diameter.

Caves of the True Immortals
Caves of the True Immortals is a series of grottoes housing statues of various deities. These include, in order: Baxian Dong (Grotto of the Eight Taoist Immortals), Yuantong Dong (Grotto of Perfect Enlightenment for the Bodhisattva of Compassion), Luohan Dong (Grotto of 18 enlightened Arhats), Yujun Dong (Grotto of the Rain God), and Wenchang Dong (Grotto of Wenchang Dijun, the God of Culture and Literature).

Taisu Palace
Taisu Palace, the largest temple complex on Qiyun Mountain, serves as the vibrant center of Taoist activities. Within this sacred space, Taoist rituals are adapted to the needs of each sponsor. Common requests often involve rituals for blessings, averting disaster, seeking peace and safety, or guiding the souls of the deceased. During these rituals, Taoist priests, clad in their distinctive ceremonial robes and holding ritual tablets, ascend to the altar. There, they chant scriptures and incantations in a distinctive and melodious manner, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of sound and movement that connects the earthly realm with the divine.

Xianglu Peak
Xianglu (Incense Burner) Peak stands majestically before the Taisu Palace. Its name derives from its striking resemblance to an incense burner: a solitary, upright peak with a thick, sturdy base supporting a broad, flat summit. An iron pavilion, believed to have been commissioned by Ming Dynasty Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang (reigned 1368–1398), crowns this remarkable formation. The peak’s mystique deepens after rainfall, when swirling clouds and mist obscure and reveal it, evoking an ethereal, almost magical scene.

Peaceful Bamboo Raft Drifting
Embark on a mesmerizing journey aboard a bamboo raft, drifting effortlessly along the crystalline waters at the foot of Qiyun Mountain. The four-kilometer (2.5 miles) waterway meanders past ancient bridges and traditional Anhui cottages, each bend revealing a captivating new vista. This immersive and tranquil experience offers a chance to disconnect from the frenetic pace of modern life and reconnect with the gentle rhythms of nature.

How to Get to Qiyun Mountain
• The Qiyun Mountain is located approx. 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) northwest of Huangshan.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free transfer to the Qiyun Mountain.