Location & How to Get There

Qixia Mountain Scenic Area - Shama Peak is nestled in the northern suburbs of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, about 20 kilometers from downtown. The address is No. 88, Xixia Street, Qixia District, near Xixia Avenue. To reach here, you can take Metro Line 4 to “Xixia Zhanmen” station, then transfer to a local bus (like Bus 207) or grab a taxi for a 10-minute ride. If you’re driving, parking is available near the entrance, and the scenic area is well-signposted. For adventurers, renting a bike and cycling along Xixia Avenue offers a scenic prelude to your visit!

Natural Wonders: Shama Peak’s Charm

Shama Peak, named for its hat-like shape resembling an ancient official’s headgear, is one of Qixia Mountain’s most iconic spots. Standing at 286 meters, it’s not too steep, making it perfect for casual hikers. The real magic happens in autumn, when maple leaves turn the slopes into a fiery red canvas—locals call this the “Red Leaf Festival.” Spring brings cherry blossoms, while summer offers cool green trails shaded by centuries-old trees. For photographers, sunrise at Shama Peak is a must: soft morning light filters through the leaves, creating a dreamy contrast with the rugged rocks.

Cultural Treasures: History Meets Nature

Beyond its natural beauty, Qixia Mountain is steeped in history. The area has been a Buddhist hub since the Tang Dynasty, and the nearby Qixia Temple (founded in 489 AD) houses thousands of Buddhist texts. Shama Peak itself is dotted with stone carvings and pavilions where emperors once rested. Legend says Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty visited and praised the view, earning the peak a nickname: “the place where dragons pause.” Even if you’re not into history, wandering past ancient pagodas and listening to temple bells adds a peaceful rhythm to your hike.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

The scenic area is well-maintained with clear signage in English, making it easy to explore solo. Trails are mostly paved, but bring sturdy shoes for uneven sections. Rest spots with benches appear regularly, and there are a few teahouses serving green tea and snacks. For meals, the visitor center has a restaurant with affordable local dishes like duck blood soup and veggie dumplings. Don’t forget to charge your camera—you’ll want to capture Shama Peak’s ever-changing light, whether it’s the golden hour at sunset or fog swirling around the peaks on misty days.

Why Visit? A Perfect Day Trip

Shama Peak isn’t as crowded as Nanjing’s other landmarks, so you can enjoy serene views without feeling rushed. Whether you’re here for fall foliage, spring blooms, or a quiet escape from the city, the blend of nature and culture makes it worth detouring. Plan for 3–4 hours to hike up, explore the temple, and snap photos. Pro tip: Avoid weekends if you prefer solitude, and check the weather—rain transforms the mountain into a dripping watercolor painting!

Keywords: Qixia Mountain, Shama Peak, autumn maples, Buddhist temples, hiking trails, photography spots, Nanjing day trip, cultural heritage, cherry blossoms, family-friendly.