Jinfo Mountain (金佛山, Golden Buddha Mountain), also known as Jinshan and historically referred to as Jiudi Mountain, features its highest peak, Fengchui Ridge, which stands at an elevation of 2,251 meters, making it the tallest peak in the Dalou Mountain range. During late summer and autumn, when the weather is clear, the sunset casts a warm glow over the cliffs, bathing them in a magnificent golden hue that resembles the radiant figures of golden Buddhas. This stunning visual phenomenon is what inspired the name “Jinfo Mountain.”
The mountain boasts a typical karst landscape characterized by majestic and picturesque formations, with natural caves scattered throughout the area. Among these, Jinfo Cave and Ancient Buddha Cave are particularly famous. These caves feature intricate formations with mountains and rivers inside, creating a fascinating and mysterious environment.
Jinfo Mountain is rich in lush vegetation and diverse rare flora and fauna. Notable protected species include silver fir, ginkgo, large-leaf tea, square bamboo, and Rhododendron kingii, all classified as national first-class protected plants. Collectively, they are celebrated as the “Five Wonders of Jinfo Mountain,” highlighting the area’s ecological significance.
Travel Information about Jinfo Mountain
Ticket and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: The combined ticket for the West Slope, cable car, and bus is 160 yuan.
Opening Hours: The scenic area is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, and from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekends and public holidays.
Best Time to Visit
Jinfo Mountain is a year-round destination, with unique attractions in each season. Spring is ideal for enjoying blooming rhododendrons, summer offers a refreshing retreat from the heat, autumn is perfect for viewing vibrant red leaves, and winter welcomes beautiful ice and snow landscapes.
Access to the Scenic Area
Location: Situated in the Nanchuan District of southern Chongqing.
Transportation: Direct tourist buses to Jinfo Mountain are available from the Caiyuanba Tourist Distribution Center.
Scenic Ratings
- Beauty: ★★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★★
- Romance: ★★★
- Cultural Value: ★★
- Adventure: ★
Highlights of Jinfo Mountain
Ancient Buddha Cave
Jinfo Mountain is home to China’s highest group of karst caves, including the Ancient Buddha Cave, Fairy Cave, Black Wind Cave, and Golden Buddha Cave, all situated at an altitude of around 2,000 meters. In total, there are nearly a thousand named caves, along with many unnamed ones, creating a remarkable underground network.
Unlike other cave systems, most of Jinfo Mountain’s caves are vast and feature multiple chambers, showcasing a fantastical underground world that transcends time and space. This rich historical background has inspired numerous beautiful myths and stories, fueling the imagination of visitors.
The Ancient Buddha Cave is among the most famous. Located at the heart of the mountain’s peak, the entrance is relatively small. However, after navigating 48 turns, visitors are greeted by a massive and spacious cavern. The main chamber measures 1,072 meters in length, over 20 meters in height, and between 40 to 60 meters in width, covering an area of 40,000 square meters – enough to accommodate up to 100,000 people. At the far end of the main chamber, the cliff face rises dramatically, allowing visitors to glimpse the entrance to the nearby Fairy Cave and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Jinfo Mountain.
Natural Paint Wall: The Natural Paint Wall stretches over 300 meters in length and rises nearly 30 meters high, covering an area of approximately 9,000 square meters. This stunning natural artwork features breathtaking landscapes, renowned mountains and rivers, as well as various birds and animals. The images are lifelike and vividly portrayed, creating an enchanting visual experience. The wall is formed from black limestone dating back to the late Paleozoic era, around 250 million years ago. Due to the fragmented nature of the rock, white calcite later filled the gaps, resulting in a striking contrast of black and white, creating a truly unique natural mural.
Golden Swallows: In 2003, a scientific exploration team in Jinfo Mountain discovered over 10,000 golden swallows inside the Ancient Buddha Cave. Locally referred to as “rock swallows,” these birds have a fascinating behavior: when they leave the cave to forage, they emit ultrasonic sounds in the darkness to help navigate their way through the 2,000-meter-long cave. During the spring, summer, and autumn, visitors can witness flocks of golden swallows darting gracefully within the cave. In winter, however, they are only occasionally seen, with just a few making their presence known through their calls.
Wolong Pool
Wolong Pool is a hidden gem nestled between mountains and waters, featuring a breathtaking gorge landscape characterized by deep ravines and stunning natural beauty. This area is renowned for its pristine original canyon scenery, cascading waterfalls, and lush primeval forests. The magnificent rock formations create a dramatic backdrop, while the mysterious Hidden Immortal Cave adds an element of intrigue.
Visitors to Wolong Pool can also enjoy the enchanting weather phenomena that occur in the area, making it feel almost dreamlike. The historic Huilong Temple adds cultural depth, along with the beautiful melodies of the Jinfo Mountain folk songs that echo throughout the landscape. The rich local folklore and distinctive customs further showcase the primitive and mystical essence of Jinfo Mountain’s natural splendor.
Shiban Gou (Stone Slab Gorge)
Shiban Gou is located in the northeastern part of Jinfo Mountain, at an altitude of approximately 800 meters. This scenic area features a small limestone gorge characterized by steep rock walls and a meandering stream that flows through, creating a dynamic and picturesque landscape.
Visitors to Shiban Gou can marvel at the unique rock formations known as Qifeng, which add a dramatic flair to the surroundings. A stone pathway built along the cliffs offers stunning views and a sense of adventure, while cascading waterfalls and deep pools provide serene spots for relaxation.
One notable feature is Yixiantian, a narrow passage between towering cliffs that creates a breathtaking view of the sky above. The area is also home to fascinating rock formations resembling fish, known as Fish Phosphorite, which add a whimsical touch to the landscape.
Ecological Stone Forest
The Ecological Stone Forest, also known as the Little Stone Forest, is a magnificent and primitive karst peak forest that showcases a stunning array of uniquely shaped stone pinnacles, pillars, and screens. This natural wonder is blanketed with a diverse collection of rare and ancient trees, vines, and ferns, creating an enchanting atmosphere that feels like walking through a vibrant art gallery.
As you stroll along the winding paths, you may encounter lively squirrels and colorful birds, adding to the charm of the landscape. Among the remarkable flora, the ancient yew trees, some over a thousand years old, stand proudly, while tree roots and ancient vines intertwine with the rocks. This striking combination results in the distinctive formations of “trees embracing stones” and “stones embracing trees,” showcasing the unique beauty of the Jinfo Mountain Stone Forest.
Candle Peak
Candle Peak is located at the intersection of Jinfo Mountain and Baizhi Mountain, rising over a hundred meters high. Its distinctive shape resembles a giant candlestick, which is how it got its name. The geological composition of Candle Peak and the surrounding rock formations belongs to Quaternary sedimentary rock, characterized by a layered structure. Above the peak, you find the mountains, while steep cliffs descend below, showcasing the typical geological features found in the Jinfo Mountain region.
A path currently runs beneath the peak, allowing visitors to walk through the area and enjoy its striking geological formations. However, the rest of the site remains undeveloped, preserving its natural beauty and providing an untouched environment for those who seek to experience the grandeur of Candle Peak and its surroundings.
Museum of Animal and Plant Specimens
The Museum of Animal and Plant Specimens is located on the west slope of Jinfo Mountain. It features two exhibition halls dedicated to animals and plants, along with three specialized areas showcasing silver fir, rhododendrons, and rare plants. Known as the “Kingdom of Plants,” Jinfo Mountain boasts a remarkable diversity of flora, with records indicating the presence of 333 families and 5,880 species. Among these, over 250 species are ancient plants, 136 are unique to the area, 82 are rare or endangered, and 52 are classified as precious plants.
Additionally, the ancient forests of Jinfo Mountain are home to 523 species of wild animals from 150 families, including 37 species that are nationally protected. The museum displays more than 6,000 specimens of the local fauna and flora, providing a fascinating glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region.
Rhododendrons of Jinfo Mountain
Jinfo Mountain is renowned as one of the richest habitats for rhododendrons in China, hosting a wide variety of species and a large population. The mountain is particularly famous for its rare and precious tree rhododendrons, which are known for their large, vibrant blossoms that offer greater ornamental value compared to shrub varieties. Notable species unique to Jinfo Mountain include Wanjian, Maliya, Jingshan, Kuo Ping, Huanghua, and Laba. Among these, the “King of Rhododendrons,” which has thrived on the mountain for over a thousand years, stands out as a remarkable specimen. During the rhododendron blooming season, visitors can witness an impressive display of 44 species and more than 300,000 precious tree rhododendrons in full bloom, transforming Jinfo Mountain into a stunning floral paradise.
Shenlong Gorge
Shenlong Gorge is one of the closest and most pristine ecological canyons to downtown Chongqing, renowned for its rich and lush vegetation. The main scenic area features a typical “V”-shaped deep-cut gorge, characterized by towering peaks that rise steeply on either side, creating a breathtaking and grand atmosphere.
Within the gorge, a winding stream flows crystal clear, offering a serene environment where fish can be seen swimming in the shallow waters below and birds soaring gracefully overhead. This tranquil setting provides a perfect escape for nature lovers, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of this untouched landscape. Shenlong Gorge is not just a visual feast but also a haven for those seeking solace and connection with nature.
Shenlong Drift: One of the highlights of Shenlong Gorge is the Shenlong Drift, a thrilling rafting experience that stretches approximately 4.2 kilometers with a total drop of over 100 meters. The rafting journey begins on a steep slope, where inflatable rafts quickly plunge into the rushing waters. Adventurers gripping the safety ropes find themselves soaked in seconds, often accompanied by delighted screams as they navigate the thrilling rapids.
Hiking in Shenlong Gorge: For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, hiking trails are available throughout Shenlong Gorge. Visitors can enter through the main gate and follow the health trail that winds through the gorge to the drifting starting point at Yin Lake. This scenic pathway is adorned with small bridges and flowing streams, surrounded by lush shrubbery and bamboo forests. According to tour guides, the gorge’s air is rich in negative oxygen ions, making it a natural oxygen bar ideal for hiking and a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Visitor Guide for Jinfo Mountain
Accommodation Options
Jinfo Mountain offers well-developed tourism facilities, particularly in the area of accommodations, providing visitors with various options to choose from.
Hotels in Nanchuan City: Most of the well-known hotels in Nanchuan are concentrated in the city center. Visitors can find a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly family-run inns to luxurious star-rated hotels. This diversity ensures that tourists of all preferences and budgets can find suitable lodging to meet their needs.
Farmstay Experiences at Jinfo Mountain: Another highlight of the Jinfo Mountain area is the farmstay experience, which is particularly popular. These farmhouses are mainly located in the northern entrance of Jinfo Mountain, in Sanquan Town, at the base of the North Slope cableway, at Wolong Pond, and along the road leading to the Yaochi Dam reception center at the upper cableway station. Each farmstay has its own unique features, offering visitors a charming rural experience that immerses them in the natural beauty of the mountain village setting.
Activities at Jinfo Mountain
At Jinfo Mountain, visitors can enjoy a variety of exciting activities throughout the year, catering to both winter and summer enthusiasts.
Qian Niu Ping Ski Resort: Situated at an altitude of 2,080 meters, Qian Niu Ping Ski Resort boasts an impressive snow season lasting up to four months in winter. The resort features two beginner ski slopes and a snow tubing area, along with a designated play area for visitors to enjoy the snow. The ski equipment hall includes a cash register, a rental area for ski gear, and offers additional services like ski lessons, a VIP lounge, and a specialty restaurant, ensuring a comprehensive skiing experience.
Mountain Joy Park: Grass Sliding and Camping: Located along the Jinguizhao Yanghuan walking trail, the Mountain Joy Park offers around ten recreational activities throughout winter and summer. In winter, guests can indulge in skiing and snow play, while summer brings activities like grass sliding, space ball games, and camping in high-altitude tents, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and adventure of Jinfo Mountain.