Jingting Mountain

Jingting Mountain is located 5 km north of downtown Xuancheng, with its main peak standing at 317m above sea level. Renowned poets like Xie Tiao and Li Bai composed numerous verses about it, with Li Bai's famous line "We gaze at each other, never tiring—only Jingting Mountain" being particularly celebrated. Visitors come here to trace Li Bai's footsteps, while locals enjoy hiking through its vast tea plantations and bamboo groves that provide fresh air. The panoramic views from the mountaintop overlooking the landscape below are spectacular.

Buses stop near the Jingting Mountain East Gate Square (parking lot) on Zhaoting North Road close to Shuiyangjiang Avenue. The square features two memorial archways and a statue of Li Bai. It's still 2 km from here to the official mountain climbing steps, but the scenic views along the way are worth stopping for. Passing by Jingting Lake next to the East Gate Square and heading 200 meters north along the smooth road, you'll see the Twin Pagodas of Guangjiao Temple. The ancient temple no longer exists, leaving only a pair of slightly tilted brick pagodas—landmarks of Jingting Mountain built in the 3rd year of Shaosheng during the Northern Song Dynasty (1096 AD).

Continuing northward, the roadside is lined with tea plantations and chestnut trees. Upon reaching Jingting Square, you've arrived at the official starting point for the mountain hike. There are many forks in the trails on Jingting Mountain, each marked with signposts. The section from Jingting Square to Taibai Duzuo Tower features concentrated scenic spots, taking approximately 30–50 minutes to climb. Ascending the stone steps, you'll first encounter the ancient Zhaoting Archway. This stone gateway was originally built during the Ming Dynasty and rebuilt in the second year of the Xianfeng era (1852 AD) of the Qing Dynasty. Its name may have some connection to Jingting Mountain's original name, Zhaoting Mountain. Further up, lush and charming bamboo groves stand alongside the mountain path. Along the way, you'll see Huanggu Spring (also called Lovesickness Spring), the statue of Princess Yuzhen, and her epitaph. If interested, you can research online beforehand about the romantic legend between Princess Yuzhen and the poet Li Bai.

After passing the Green Snow Teahouse, you'll reach a fork in the path. Turn left for Cuiyun Nunnery or right for Taibai Duzuo Pavilion. Both routes converge shortly ahead, with most visitors turning back at Taibai Duzuo Pavilion to descend. For those continuing northwest for about an hour, you'll reach the main peak, Yifeng Peak. Alternatively, heading northeast from Taibai Duzuo Pavilion for an hour leads to Jing Peak, the second-highest summit featuring Wangjiang Pavilion. Nearby, the wooden plank Cloud Bridge offers panoramic views of Xuancheng, farmland, and the Shuiyang River below. No matter which route you take, always descend toward Jingting Mountain's East Gate to exit the attraction.

Jingting Mountain usually has few visitors on weekdays but gets crowded during holidays. For those looking to avoid crowds and explore off the beaten path, visiting after a winter snowfall is highly recommended. The entire mountain is enveloped in serene silence—shout into the empty hills, and snow will cascade down from the bamboo leaves, creating a uniquely delightful experience.

Below the Ancient Zhaoting Archway, the Ancient Zhaoting Teahouse offers paid dining services. After your meal, enjoy a pot of Jingting Green Snow tea at the open-air tea seats surrounded by bamboo groves for a truly delightful experience.