Historical Background
Qixia Mountain, also known as Sheshan, lies approximately 22 kilometers northeast of downtown Nanjing in Jiangsu Province. Its name derives from the renowned Qixia Temple nestled within its slopes—a site that has shaped the mountain’s spiritual and cultural identity for over 1,500 years. Founded during the Southern Qi Dynasty (479–502 AD), Qixia Temple is one of China’s oldest and most significant Buddhist monasteries, historically serving as a center for Buddhist learning and pilgrimage. The mountain itself has long been celebrated in Chinese poetry and imperial records, with Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty reportedly visiting five times during his six southern tours—though today only remnants of his temporary palace remain on the central peak.
Natural Beauty and Seasonal Highlights
Qixia Mountain spans three main peaks, with the highest rising to 313 meters. While it offers serene woodland walks year-round, it truly comes alive in autumn. From late October through early December, the mountain transforms into a fiery canvas of red maples—a phenomenon so iconic that it anchors the annual Qixia Red Maple Festival, typically lasting around 50 days. During this period, the entire landscape glows with crimson hues, drawing photographers, hikers, and leaf-peepers from across Asia. Spring and summer showcase lush greenery and tranquil forest paths, ideal for quiet contemplation, while winter reveals the mountain’s architectural and historical treasures without summer crowds.
Key Attractions
Visitors enter through Mingjing Lake (also poetically called “Rainbow Mirror”), an elegant man-made pond featuring a delicate lakeside pavilion connected to the shore by a winding nine-turn bridge—a classic example of Jiangnan garden aesthetics. Just east of the lake stands Qixia Temple, home to the Thousand-Buddha Hall and a celebrated vegetarian restaurant offering specialties like mushroom stew and mock chicken; though praised for authenticity, meals here are notably pricier than average.
Adjacent to the temple rises the 18-meter-tall Qixia Pagoda (or Relic Pagoda), a masterpiece of Five Dynasties architecture adorned with exquisitely carved stone reliefs depicting Buddhist parables. Nearby, the Thousand Buddha Cliff houses over 700 niches carved into the rock face, including the famous “Flying Apsara” in niche #102—an ethereal figure often compared to Dunhuang murals.
For panoramic views, hike or take the shuttle to Bihong Pavilion atop Tiger Hill (Hushan) on the northwest ridge, where you can gaze upon the Yangtze River winding through the distance. Don’t miss the rare “Dielang Rock” (Stacked Wave Rock) on Ping Shan’s southern slope—a naturally undulating gray stone surface resembling ocean waves, considered a geological curiosity.
Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Qixia Mountain is well-equipped for international tourists. The scenic area offers a convenient shuttle service with three segments (entrance to Bihong Pavilion, Bihong Pavilion to Shihuang Linjiang viewing point, then downhill), each costing ¥10. Free stroller rentals (with ¥200 deposit) are available at the visitor center, and luggage storage is complimentary with a valid ticket. Clean restrooms are scattered throughout, and a small convenience store operates near the ticket office. Note that Nanjing municipal park annual passes are not accepted here.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its visual splendor, Qixia Mountain represents a confluence of nature, religion, and imperial history. It has inspired countless poets, scholars, and emperors, and remains a living site of Buddhist practice. The mountain’s integration of sacred architecture with dramatic natural formations exemplifies traditional Chinese landscape philosophy—where mountains are not just scenery but vessels of spiritual energy.