6 Stunning Hiking Routes on Nanshan Mountain in Chongqing

Route: Chongqing Technology and Business University (重庆工商大学) → Nanshan Academy (南山书院) → Longji Mountain (龙脊山) → Xianlongjing (鲜龙井) → Shenjiapo (申家坡) → Liangting (凉亭) → Liangshuijing (凉水井) → Liangfengya (凉风垭) → Chuntiangling (春天岭) → Moon Lake (月亮湖) → Kuzhulin (苦竹林) → Huangjuewan (黄桷湾) → Xiaoe Mountain (小峨眉) → Yihuali Observation Deck (壹华里观景台) → Taishan Stone Classroom (泰山石教室) → Nanshan Academy (南山书院) → Chongqing Technology and Business University (重庆工商大学)

Distance: 25.19 km

Details: This challenging trail is perfect for experienced hikers seeking a full-day adventure. It covers a variety of landscapes, from forested trails to cultural landmarks, and offers panoramic views at Yihuali Observation Deck. Be sure to bring proper hiking gear and sufficient supplies, as this route requires stamina and preparation.

Route: Tushan Station (涂山站) → Nanshan Base Entrance (南山基地入口) → Jiaojiao Cliff (姣姣崖) → Zhong Simei Farmhouse (钟四妹农家乐) → Tiaodeng Stone (跳灯石) → Qingshui Creek Trail (清水溪步道) → Qingshui Creek Cooling Spot (清水溪凉水) → Tiezhi Pole (铁栀杆) → Nanshan Yike Tree (南山一棵树) → Lower Section of Huangge Ancient Path (黄葛古道下半段) → Shangxin Street (上新街)

Distance: 11.22 km

Details: This moderate loop takes 6–8 hours to complete and is best started early in the morning. At midday, enjoy a delicious local meal, such as spring water chicken (泉水鸡) or barbecue from the famous Nanshan Barbecue (南山有烧烤). After refueling, continue through shaded trails and explore the serene Qingshui Creek, ideal for cooling off on warm days.

Route: Huangge Ancient Path (黄葛古道) → Huangjueya Old Street (黄桷垭老街) → Chongqing Second Foreign Language School (二外) → Tushan Temple (涂山寺) → Nanshan Barbecue (南山有烧烤) → Caribbean Water World (加勒比水世界) → Ancient Bridge (古桥) → Qingshui Creek Trail (清水溪步道) → Shangxin Street Metro Station (上新街地铁站)

Distance: 14.46 km

Details: This picturesque trail is a favorite for families and photography enthusiasts. The uphill path offers stunning viewpoints, while the downhill section by Qingshui Creek lets you interact with nature, catching fish or shrimp along the way. With easy terrain and diverse scenery, it’s a great option for a relaxed hike.

Route: Shangxin Street Metro Station (上新街地铁站) → Tushan Park (涂山公园) → Tushan Temple (涂山寺) → Nanshan Barbecue (南山有烧烤) → Xiangsi Tower (相思塔) → Zhong Simei Farmhouse (钟四妹农家乐) → San Kuai Shi (三块石) → Zhiyuefeng Trail (指月峰步道) → Tushan Metro Station (涂山地铁站)

Distance: 7.72 km

Details: This trail is rich in forested paths and untouched natural beauty. Stop at Tushan Temple (涂山寺) to pray for blessings, then continue to Nanshan Barbecue’s (南山有烧烤) observation deck for breathtaking views of Chongqing. The downhill section is gentle, making this hike both relaxing and rewarding.

Route: Shangxin Street Metro Station (上新街地铁站) [Exit 2, navigate to Great White Shark Internet Café (大白鲨鱼网吧)] → Huangge Ancient Path (黄葛古道) → Laojun Cave (老君洞)

Distance: 1 km

Details: Perfect for beginners or those short on time, this trail is the easiest way to reach the historic Laojun Cave (老君洞). From Huangge Ancient Path, take a small detour to the cave entrance. After your visit, relax at nearby attractions such as Sanmao Coffee (三毛咖啡店), Tushan Temple (涂山寺), or the “Nanshan Barbecue” (南山有烧烤) observation deck.

Route: Tushan Metro Station (涂山地铁站) → Shaniuping (杀牛坪) → San Kuai Shi (三块石) → Huangshan Anti-Japanese War Sites (黄山抗战旧址群) → Wintersweet Garden (腊梅观光园) → Golden Eagle (大金鹰) → Former Diplomatic Embassy Complex (外交大使馆旧址群) → Rose Garden (月季园) → Southern Bus Driver Dispatch Room for Bus 384 (南部公交司机384线调度室)

Distance: 7.87 km

Details: History enthusiasts will love this route, which features numerous wartime relics and cultural landmarks, including the Huangshan Anti-Japanese War Sites (黄山抗战旧址群) and the Former Diplomatic Embassy Complex (外交大使馆旧址群). Despite some sections being narrow paths, the route is well-marked and popular, making it easy to navigate.