Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area

Location & Access

Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area sits in Nanchuan District of Chongqing, just a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Chongqing. This makes it a perfect day trip or weekend escape from the city. To get there, you can take a bus from Chongqing South Station (CCT) or drive yourself—the winding roads through the mountains are part of the adventure! Once inside the scenic area, cable cars on both the west and north slopes whisk you up to the main attractions, saving energy for exploration.

Natural Wonders

Jinfo Mountain comes alive with color during summer and autumn sunsets. In the evening, the cliffs glow golden like giant Buddha statues bathed in fiery light, earning its name. For flower lovers, April to May is magical: 600,000 wild azaleas (rhododendrons) bloom across the mountain, painting the forest in shades of pink, red, and white. Winter transforms Jinfo Mountain into a snowy wonderland, with ski resorts opening for those craving icy fun. Even in summer, the cool, misty air offers a welcome escape from the city’s heat.

Cultural Highlights

Two must-visit spots at Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area are Jinfo Temple and Ancient Buddha Cave. Jinfo Temple, nestled in the woods, feels like a hidden gem with its serene courtyards and mountain views. The cave, carved into a cliff, houses ancient Buddhist relics and offers a peek into local spiritual history. Thrill-seekers should tackle the Cliffside Plank Walk—a narrow path clinging to a sheer rock face. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the views of fog-draped valleys below are worth every heartbeat!

Getting Around

The scenic area is split into two sections: West Slope and North Slope, both accessible by cable car. A popular route is taking the west slope cable car up (quicker) and descending via the north slope (more scenic). Hiking trails connect both slopes if you’re up for a challenge. Soaring above the treetops in the cable car gives a bird’s-eye view of the mountain’s jagged peaks and deep valleys.

What to Expect

In winter, Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area becomes one of Chongqing’s top ski spots, with powdery snow and beginner-friendly slopes. Summer brings cool breezes and lush greenery, ideal for hiking or picnics. The Cliffside Plank Walk is a highlight for adrenaline junkies, while the azaleas in spring make it a photographer’s paradise. Don’t miss the sunset—time your visit to catch the cliffs glowing like molten gold!

Tips & Extras

When to Visit: Spring (azaleas), summer (cool weather), and winter (skiing) are best. Avoid rainy days, as mist may block views.
Stay Overnight: Nearby hotels and guesthouses offer cozy stays, many with mountain views.
Eat Local: Try Chongqing hotpot or spicy mountain trout—perfect after a day in the chilly air.
Photo Ops: The sunset-lit cliffs, azaleas, and plank walk are Instagram-worthy.

Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area packs natural beauty, culture, and adventure into one trip. Whether you’re here to hike, ski, or snap stunning photos, this mountain has something for everyone—just remember your comfiest shoes and a sense of wonder!

Basic Trip Information of Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area

Play Time:

1 Day

Traffic:

From Nanping Bus Station in Chongqing, take a bus to Nanchuan (approximately 1.5-hour journey). Then transfer to a connecting bus for the 20-kilometer route to Tianxing Town (West Slope of Jinfoshan Mountain), with a travel time of about 30 minutes.

Ticket:

West Gate Combined Ticket: 170 CNY (January 1 - December 31, Daily)

Half-Price Tickets

Seniors aged 60-65 (excluding 65) with valid ID card or senior citizen certificate.
Minors aged 6-18 (including 18) and full-time students at undergraduate level or below with valid identification.

Free Admission

Active military personnel, immediate families of martyrs, disabled military veterans, retired military officers, and persons with disabilities with valid credentials.
Children aged 6 or below (including 6 years old) or 1.2 meters or shorter (height) exempt from tickets, bus, and cable car fees.
Seniors aged 65 or above with valid ID card or Chongqing Municipal People’s Government Elderly Priority Card.
Group drivers and tour guides with driver’s license or tour guide certification (manager qualification).
Journalists with Press Card issued by the National Radio and Television Administration.

Tips

Discounted tickets apply to: minors aged 6-18, seniors aged 60-65 (excluding 65), and full-time students (undergraduate or below) with valid ID.
Free admission groups must purchase scenic shuttle bus and round-trip cable car tickets separately.

Note: The above information is for reference only. Final interpretation follows the scenic area’s daily announcements.

Open Time:

Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 17:00 (From January 1 to December 31)
Saturday to Sunday: 08:30 - 17:30 (From January 1 to December 31)

Ticket Sales Close:

Monday to Friday: 15:30
Saturday to Sunday: 16:00

Note: The above schedule applies daily throughout the year.

Nearby Attractions To Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area

Yuanju Old Street Ancient Town

Distance: 11.69 KM

Nestled by a winding river, this ancient town charms with mist-covered stone bridges, lantern-lit nights, and Ming-era wooden houses. Explore traditional craft workshops, savor spicy river fish hotpot, and hike hills for cherry blossom views—all away from tourist crowds.

Kong Xiangxi Mansion

Distance: 12.32 KM

A historic East-West blend mansion near Chongqing, featuring a WWII bunker, lush gardens, and vintage decor. Perfect for cultural and nature exploration.

Nanbin Road

Distance: 12.42 KM

Perched on Chongqing’s southern bank, this riverside promenade blends towering skyscrapers with Yangtze River breezes. Catch fiery hotpot, colonial-chic streets, and sunsets painting the city’s lights—all within a stroll of buzzing local life and boat-dotted waters.

Meiling Valley Hot Spring

Distance: 12.60 KM

Located in Chongqing’s bamboo-lined Huaxi River area, this eco-resort offers mineral-rich hot springs, private tatami baths, and riverside serenity—blending nature, wellness, and cultural charm for a rejuvenating escape.