Qianling

The Green Lung of Guiyang

1.Located in the Yunyan District of: Guiyang, just 1.5 kilometers from the city center, Qianling Mountain Park is the crown jewel of the provincial capital's public spaces. Covering an area of 426 hectares, it is widely recognized as the "back garden of Guiyang" and a "natural oxygen bar". Unlike many remote scenic spots in Guizhou, Qianling Mountain is uniquely accessible, serving as a sanctuary where the hustle of the city dissolves into the tranquility of the plateau. As a National 4A-level Tourist Attraction, it offers a rare combination of dense mountain forests, deep cultural heritage, and vibrant wildlife right in the heart of the metropolis.

The Kingdom of Wild Macaques

2.The most famous residents of Qianling: Mountain are not the monks or the tourists, but the wild macaques. The park is one of the few urban parks in China with a thriving population of free-roaming wild monkeys. These playful creatures are often found jumping between ancient trees or interacting with visitors along the hiking paths. While they add a lively and chaotic charm to the park, they are the true "lords" of the mountain. Observing their social hierarchy and playful antics is a highlight for families and photographers, though visitors are advised to interact with caution and respect their wild nature.

3.Hongfu Temple: A Spiritual Sanctuary

4.Nestled near the peak is Hongfu: Temple, the most significant Buddhist temple in Guizhou. Built during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, its name translates to "Grand Happiness," symbolizing the spreading of Buddhist teachings and blessings to the masses. The temple is a hub of incense and prayer, particularly during the Lunar New Year and the 19th day of the sixth lunar month (Guanyin's Birthday), when pilgrims gather to chant and pray. The architecture is solemn and majestic, with the Mahavira Hall and Guanyin Hall serving as the spiritual core. The "Nine-Bend Path" (Jiuqu Jing), a winding stone staircase leading up to the temple, is lined with ancient inscriptions and towering trees, offering a meditative journey for those who climb it.

Scenic Lakes and City Views

5.At the foot of the mountain lies Qianling: Lake, a man-made reservoir that has become a picturesque mirror reflecting the surrounding peaks and forests. It was established during the Republic of China era and is now a favorite spot for boating and leisurely strolls. For those seeking a panoramic perspective, a cable car ride to the summit provides a breathtaking contrast: on one side, the rolling green hills of the park; on the other, the sprawling concrete skyline of modern Guiyang. This vantage point perfectly encapsulates Guiyang's identity as a city built within the mountains.

A Living Museum of Culture and Ecology

Qianling Mountain is more than just a view; it is a witness to history. From its origins as "Qian Mountain" in the Ming Dynasty to its role as a refuge during the Anti-Japanese War, every stone step holds a story. The park also houses a small zoo protecting rare species like the Qian Golden Snub-nosed Monkey (distinct from the free-roaming macaques) and giant pandas. Whether you are hiking the winding trails to "wash your lungs" with fresh air, feeding the macaques, or lighting incense at the ancient temple, Qianling Mountain offers a comprehensive experience of Guiyang’s "Summer Capital" lifestyle—cool, spiritual, and harmoniously wild.