Gujian Mountain Scenic Area

Gujian Mountain Scenic Area

Gujian Mountain Scenic Area is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.

Towering and steep, Gujian Mountain stands like a sword pointing to the clouds. It is a national AAAA-level scenic spot, one of the first municipal-level tourism resorts, and is known as the “Little Emei of Eastern Sichuan.” The sea of clouds on Gujian Mountain has been selected as one of the “New Twelve Scenic Spots of Bayu.”

The Gujian Mountain range extends from the Dalou Mountains in Guizhou, with an elevation ranging from 700 to 1150 meters, and lies within a subtropical humid climate zone characterized by East Asian monsoon influences. The area is rich in natural resources. With over 100,000 mu of forest, the coverage rate exceeds 85%, and more than 110 species of trees including pine, cypress, fir, and willow provide dense shade, earning it the reputation of Qijiang’s “primeval forest.” Dozens of water systems such as Sanjing Lake and Xianjian Lake are scattered throughout, creating picturesque landscapes where mountains and water complement each other. The average annual temperature of Gujian Mountain is 18.7°C, offering a mild and pleasant climate. The area also boasts profound cultural heritage. It features geological wonders dating back 400 million years, as well as dozens of cultural sites such as Juehai Cloud Ladder, Tongxin Platform, and Monks’ Tombs. Among them is the Jingyin Ancient Temple, established in 960 AD (during the Former Song Dynasty), hailed as the “Foremost Temple in Southern Chongqing and Northern Guizhou.” It is a renowned Buddhist sacred site in the Bashu region, rich in Buddhist cultural ambiance.

The planned total area of the Gujian Mountain Tourism Resort is 100 square kilometers, with the first phase covering 30 square kilometers. Aiming to create a “Chinese Forest Health City and Chongqing’s Premier Buddhist Mountain,” it features five major theme parks: an Eco-Sports Theme Park, a Buddhist Culture Theme Park, a Chinese Primal Art Theme Park, a Life Culture Theme Park, and an Automobile Theme Park. It also includes three main districts: Gujian Commune, Gujian New World, and Gujian Farmstead. It is a rare resource complex around the metropolis that integrates high mountain forests, lake bodies (334 structure), marine geological formations, Buddhist culture, and agricultural sightseeing.

The sea of clouds on Gujian Mountain is ever-changing and spectacular. When you stand within the mist, you may feel as if you are a celestial being riding the clouds, filled with a sense of euphoria.

Chongqing is a must-visit destination, and all the fun lies in Qijiang. And when in Qijiang, you simply cannot miss Gujian Mountain!

Attractions Introduction

1. Jingyin Temple

Jingyin Temple is located at the highest point of Zuigongzui Peak, and from a distance, it appears to be built right on the “rooster’s head.”

Jingyin Temple has a long history. As early as the Former Song Dynasty (960 AD), the temple was already taking shape. It started as the Dongyue Temple and later expanded to include halls such as the “Mahavira Hall,” “Three Saints Hall,” “Guanyin Hall,” “Manjushri Hall,” “Samantabhadra Hall,” “Fushou Hall,” and “Sutra Depository.” When there was no more land on the mountain to build temples, people constructed additional temples at the foot of the mountain. At its peak, temples were densely clustered both on the mountain and below, with monks and worshippers coming and going.

The Qijiang County Annals from the fifth year of the Daoguang reign in the Qing Dynasty recorded that the Dongyue Temple was “established in the Former Song Dynasty” (960–1129 AD), meaning that the temple on the Rooster’s Beak has a history of 1000 years.

During the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, Jingyin Temple was renovated but retained its distinctive architectural style. Built against the mountain and blending seamlessly with the surroundings, it harmonizes with every plant and tree on Gujian Mountain. Watching the sunrise and sunset here feels like witnessing timelessness and eternal beauty.

In 1999 and 2007, Venerable Wei Xian, Vice Chairman of the Advisory Committee of the Buddhist Association of China and President of the Buddhist Association of Chongqing, visited Gujian Mountain twice, leading a group of eminent monks in consecrating the statues at Jingyin Temple. The event drew immense admiration, with unprecedented grandeur, and the incense offerings flourished even more. The thousand-year-old saying, “The Bodhisattva of the Rooster’s Beak — answers those far away but not those nearby!” has now transformed into “The Bodhisattva of the Rooster’s Beak — answers both far and near!”

Jingyin Temple currently has six halls: the God of Wealth Hall, Vajra Hall, Skanda Hall, Guanyin Hall, Medicine Buddha Hall, and Brightness Hall.

2. Moon Lake

Long ago, beside Moon Lake, there was a thatched cottage where a monk practiced meditation year-round. One evening, as the monk returned from his walk, he noticed that his cottage had been visited by a thief. Not wanting to startle the thief, the monk waited quietly at the door and had even taken off his outer robe, holding it in his hands. He said, “You’ve come all this way up the mountain to see me — I can’t let you leave empty-handed. It’s late, take this garment with you.” Then he draped the robe over the thief. The startled thief left without a word. Watching the thief disappear into the woods, the monk sighed and said, “Poor man. I only wish I could give him a moon to light his way down the mountain.” The next morning, as the monk awoke in the warmth of the sunlight, he saw his robe neatly folded and placed at the door. Delighted, he said, “I finally gave him a moon!” Hence, the name Moon Lake.

3. Stone Path to Heaven

Towering and steep, Gujian Mountain is often veiled in clouds. In ancient times, the only path to the mountain peak was a narrow, rugged trail of grass, treacherous and prone to accidents where climbers often fell off cliffs. According to the Daoguang-era Qijiang County Annals, this path was funded and built by women from Qijiang. The stone path winds along the mountain, resembling a stairway to the heavens, hence the name “Stone Path to Heaven.” To honor the virtuous contribution of these women, it is also called “Baoji Road.”

4. Gujian Pavilion and Gujing Pavilion

In the early Song Dynasty, during the reconstruction of the Dongyue Temple, an ancient sword and mirror were unearthed while digging the foundation. In their memory, later generations built Gujian Pavilion and Gujing Pavilion, which also serve as resting spots for hikers. Gujian Pavilion was originally built in the early Ming Dynasty as a wooden corridor-style structure but was later damaged. The current Gujian Pavilion is a reconstruction on the original site.

5. Ancient Fortress Gate

Qijiang is located at the junction of Chongqing and Guizhou, with its border shared by both provinces. In ancient times, warfare was frequent. Due to its strategic, steep, and easily defensible terrain, Gujian Mountain became a contested stronghold for military forces across dynasties. The Ancient Fortress Gate is a product of war, and today it serves as a historical relic where visitors can reflect on ancient times while hiking.

6. A Bowl of Water

Hidden beneath the bracken by the roadside is what locals call “A Bowl of Water” — an earthen bowl made from local clay-fired pottery. Above it, a concealed stream trickles down the mountain. Though the flow is so slight it's barely visible to the naked eye, the water never stops, not even in the driest seasons. Year-round, the bowl remains full, seemingly inexhaustible. No one knows exactly where the water source originates atop the mountain. Passersby often pause here to scoop up a drink of the cool, refreshing spring water. After drinking, many feel invigorated and refreshed.

7. Waist-Supporting Rock

Legend says Waist-Supporting Rock has the power to relieve back pain. It is said that a high monk from Jingyin Temple once injured his waist. Each time he climbed the mountain, he would rest at this spot. By coincidence, the cool air seeping from a crevice in the rock provided immense relief to his injury. Within days, his back pain was cured, and his waist became unusually strong. When others learned of this, worshippers visiting the temple began placing incense sticks under Waist-Supporting Rock, hoping it would remain open as a remedy for this healing gift.

8. Touch-the-Baby Cave

Along the path to the Chicken Beak Peak of Ancient Sword Mountain, a natural crevice forms in the mountainside where two massive rocks resemble a "couple kissing." By crouching through this "Lovers' Stone," you’ll find sheer cliffs to the right and a small triangular cave on the left. This tiny cave, just big enough for one hand, is called the "Baby-Touching Cave." Legend has it that this cave is highly effective for those praying for a child. With eyes closed and mind clear, reach into the cave—if you feel sand, a girl is predicted; if you touch a pebble, a boy is sure to come.

9. Three Buddhas Rock

Carved into the stone cliff are three Buddha statues in different poses—this is the renowned "Three Buddhas Rock" of Ancient Sword Mountain. The Buddhas wear serene smiles, their eyes full of life, as if welcoming all visitors.

Above the Three Buddhas Rock are the four large characters "Ancient Sword Famous Mountain," personally inscribed by Emperor Taizu of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Yuanzhang, and later carved by artisans. A sword unearthed during the reconstruction of Jingyin Temple was also hung beside the inscription as a sacred temple sword. However, it went missing during the Yongzheng era of the Qing Dynasty and its whereabouts remain unknown.

These cliffs still preserve numerous inscriptions from literati and scholars, but due to age, most have faded. One can still faintly make out the words "December, Gengxu Year, Yongzheng Eighth Year."

10. Yin-Yang Tomb

The "Yin-Yang Tomb" is hidden in the overgrown weeds behind Chicken Beak Peak. Though weathered beyond recognition over the years, the magical legends surrounding the tomb remain enduring.

11. Yang Bridge & Self-Sacrifice Cliff

Yang Bridge is located at the chicken head of Chicken Beak Peak, also locally called Self-Sacrifice Cliff. Resembling the shape of a boat, this cliff sits between two isolated peaks with a deep valley in between. From afar, it looks like a miraculous natural bridge, hence later named "Yang Bridge."

12. Lovers’ Lock

Rows upon rows of tightly locked "Lovers’ Locks" have become a dazzling sight on Yang Bridge. It’s said that couples who lock a Lovers’ Lock here will enjoy everlasting love, while families who do so will stay bonded and happy forever.

Many locks hang here, with the oldest dating back over 100 years. Though they may look like ordinary locks, each carries a little-known story.

13. Chessboard Stone

Chessboard Stone is situated atop Three Buddhas Rock on Chicken Beak Peak, surrounded by cliffs on three sides. Its flat surface bears faint traces resembling a chessboard, with some claiming the lines depict the territories of the Red and Black sides in Chinese chess.

14. Buddhist Pagoda

A Buddhist pagoda, also known as a stupa or dagoba, is a symbol of Buddhism. Originally used to enshrine relics, scriptures, and sacred objects, early pagodas were built by eight kings who each received a portion of the Buddha’s ashes after his cremation. Scattered across China, these towering structures represent ancient high-rise architecture, surpassing literary descriptions in their exquisite materials, ingenious structures, masterful craftsmanship, and diverse styles.

The pagoda here was discovered by an elderly herb gatherer. Initially fragmented, it was restored to its current form. Hexagonal in shape, it stands about 3 meters tall with a base diameter of around 4 meters. The top is adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing fine craftsmanship. Though the inscriptions have blurred, they still hint at the passage of time.

15. Bodhi Garden

The original name of the "Bodhi Tree" is "Ficus religiosa," native to southwestern China and Indochina. As India’s national tree and Hualien County’s tree in Taiwan, "Bodhi" means "enlightenment"—named after Siddhartha Gautama’s awakening under this tree. The Bodhi trees in this garden were planted by eminent monks from across China, making the garden a spiritual retreat for practitioners on Ancient Sword Mountain.

16. Monks’ Tomb

This site serves as the burial ground for deceased monks, hence the name "Monks’ Tomb." Legend says the abbot of Jingyin Temple was once a Ming general who became a monk here to escape Qing pursuers after the dynasty’s fall. Later betrayed, the temple was besieged, resulting in many casualties. Local residents and devotees buried the fallen monks here.

17. Meditation Cave

A meditation cave is where lamas practice quiet contemplation—a Buddhist method of focused meditation. Such practice requires a secluded, undisturbed space.

On Ancient Sword Mountain, the cave was carved from a natural crevice between a boulder and the ground, enclosed with stone slabs to form a roughly 5-meter-wide, 1.5-meter-high chamber. The right wall bears faint, weathered inscriptions, while the left features a clearer carving of the meditating Maitreya Buddha, though its origin remains unknown. A lotus-shaped stone plate on the right shows detailed petal engravings, its base resembling a modern wine glass. The plate’s dented surface was shaped by monks’ prolonged sitting. Door sockets on either side suggest the cave once had stone doors. One can only imagine the meditative state of a monk inside this pitch-dark chamber with the door shut.

18. Guanzizai (Observing Self-Nature)

The Guanzizai Service Area is a key junction where three walking trails meet. "Guanzizai" refers to the Bodhisattva of Observing Self-Nature, also known as Guanyin or Avalokiteshvara. Translated by Xuanzang as "Guanzizai," it means "observing independently existing phenomena" and is one of the Four Great Bodhisattvas. Endowed with boundless wisdom and compassion, the bodhisattva alleviates human suffering—simply calling her name is believed to summon her aid. In Buddhism, she is part of the "Three Saints of the West" alongside Amitabha Buddha and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva.

19. - Stone

Legend says this rock is the manifestation of Guanyin’s divine presence, silently watching over all beings, saving the distressed, and punishing evil.

20. Reclining Buddha

The massive stone before you resembles a serene, side-lying Buddha, bringing peace and auspiciousness to Ancient Sword Mountain. Legend claims that Master Cangtong Haihua of the Ming Dynasty, drawn by the mountain’s spiritual energy, meditated here for years. Later enlightened by an immortal, he transformed into this reclining Buddha, continuing to protect the mountain.

21. Tongxin Platform

In ancient China, there was a legend that “a phoenix will not roost unless on a parasol tree,” which is why the parasol tree has a deep connection with the phoenix. As we all know, the so-called phoenix refers to the male as “feng” and the female as “huang.” The two trees at Tongxin Platform happen to grow from a single base, and legend has it that they were transformed from a phoenix perching on a parasol tree. Couples from all over can come here to pray for eternal togetherness and everlasting true love.

22. Eight Virtuous Waters

Also known as Eight-Branched Virtuous Water, Eight-Tasting Water, or Eight-Stilled Water, it encompasses eight exceptional qualities: clarity, coolness, sweetness, softness, moistness, tranquility, quenching of hunger and thirst, and nourishment of all faculties. It also possesses eight characteristics: sweetness, coolness, softness, lightness, purity, absence of odor, non-irritation to the throat, and non-disturbance to the stomach. Ancient Sword Mountain has long been a sacred Buddhist land, where the Eight Virtuous Waters flow slowly year-round along the mountain cliffs, helping to dispel worries from people’s hearts.

23. Juehai Cloud Ladder

During the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, when General Shi Dakai of the King of Qi led his troops on a western campaign and repeatedly invaded Qixian County, the local people built a plank road here leading to the mountaintop to escape the chaos of war. The plank road winds around the sheer cliffs and spirals upward, resembling a cloud ladder hanging from the peak of Ancient Sword Mountain—hence the name “Juehai Cloud Ladder.”

24. Flat Peach Stone

Legend has it that when Sun Wukong stole flat peaches from the Queen Mother’s garden, one peach fell from the heavens to the mortal world and turned into the “Flat Peach Stone,” blessing the local people with longevity and prosperity.

25. Danxia Landform Landscape

The Danxia landform landscape of Ancient Sword Mountain is an important part of the Chongqing Qijiang Petrified Wood–Dinosaur Footprint National Geopark, mainly distributed in areas above 800 meters in elevation within the Ancient Sword Mountain scenic area, including Chicken Cock Beak, West Mountain, and Changtian Mountain, covering an area of approximately 65 square kilometers.

Danxia landform features horizontal red-bed geological structures. These landscapes—such as peculiar peaks, cliffs, stone stalagmites, and conglomerate rocks—were formed through long-term weathering, exfoliation, and water erosion of Jurassic to Tertiary red sandstone, offering high scientific and aesthetic value.

26. Ruyi Platform

"Ruyi," originating from Sanskrit, is a Buddhist ritual object. The "Ruyi Hand" symbolizes the great compassionate aspiration of Guanyin Bodhisattva to deliver and aid all beings, wishing that everything in the world goes as desired.

27. Cycle of Water

As the Buddhist saying goes, compassionate water washes away gentleness and kindness, meditative water washes away wisdom, pure water washes away joy, and cool water washes away eternity. Rainwater collected in the forests of Ancient Sword Mountain seeps down to the foothills of Chicken Cock Beak, forming a spring with an unseen source. The stream flows gently along the creek, uninterrupted all year round. The Cycle of Water represents the eternal presence of the soul.

Gunan Subdistrict: Established in December 2007, Gunan Subdistrict covers an area of 94.43 square kilometers, governs 11 villages and 12 communities, has a registered population of 84,000, and a resident population of 109,000. The subdistrict houses 12 internal departments, centers, and offices, with 104 government officials and staff. Located in the seat of the Qijiang District Government, Gunan Subdistrict is the political, economic, and cultural center of Qijiang District. It boasts a profound historical heritage, with historical landmarks such as the Provisional Government of Korea, the First Branch of Qijiang, and the Martyrs' Cemetery. It also features unique cultural charm, including farmer paintings, Sichuan opera theaters, and cultural sites like Ancient Sword Mountain... More details about Gunan Subdistrict++