Location & How to Get There

Qixia Mountain Scenic Area, home to the iconic Thousand Buddha Rock, sits in the Qixia District of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. The entrance is at 97 Qixia Street (near Qixia Avenue), inside the ancient Qixia Temple. To reach here, take the metro to Qixia Shan Station (Line 15) or hop on a local bus—routes 206, 207, or 138 will drop you near the mountain. If driving, park at the main gate and walk up the scenic path.

Natural Beauty: Autumn’s Red Ocean

Qixia Mountain bursts into fame every autumn when its maple trees turn fiery red, drawing crowds for the “Red Maple Festival.” Walk along the winding trails, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a painting. The mountain’s peaks, like Shamao Peak and Zipeng Peak, offer stunning views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Don’t miss the cherry blossoms in spring too—they’re just as magical!

Cultural Treasures: Thousand Buddha Rock

The heart of Qixia Mountain Scenic Area is Thousand Buddha Rock, a cliff carved with over a thousand Buddhist statues. Legend says a monk named Shao dreamed of golden light on the rock and vowed to carve Buddhas here. After he passed away, his son and others started the project in 484 AD, creating the towering “Three Holy Figures” (Infinite Life Buddha, Morenity Buddha, and Amitabha Buddha). The biggest Buddha, Infinite Life, stands 11 meters tall—a must-see! Later, nobles and believers added more statues, earning the name “Thousand Buddhas.”

Hidden Gems: The Flying Apsaras

One of the coolest spots is Grotto 102, home to the famous “Eastern Flying Apsaras”. These tiny orange-painted angels (apsaras) dance on the ceiling, their lines still crisp after centuries. It’s China’s easternmost example of Dunhuang-style art, making it a rare find. Bring a flashlight to see the details—the flames above the central Buddha’s head are faint but amazing!

History Lessons: From Dynasties to Inscriptions

Thousand Buddha Rock wasn’t just carved once. Over the years, people kept adding statues. In 504 AD, rumors of glowing lights on the rock sparked a rush of donations. Kings and commoners alike chipped in, turning the cliff into a giant gallery. Later, during the Song and Ming dynasties, artists retouched old carvings and added new ones. Look closely, and you’ll spot a huge inscription by a Song scholar: “Ancient Thousand Buddha Rock of Qixia Temple” in bold calligraphy.

Practical Tips: Visiting Smart

  • Opening hours: Qixia Mountain is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM (times may vary seasonally).
  • Tickets: Adult tickets cost around ¥25 (discounts for students/seniors).
  • Guided Tours: Join a free tour at the visitor center to hear stories behind the carvings.
  • Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples—it’s a sign of respect.

Explore Beyond: Temples & Trails

After seeing Thousand Buddha Rock, wander up to Qixia Temple, one of China’s oldest Buddhist temples. The pagoda offers panoramic views, and the temple’s gardens are perfect for quiet reflection. Hikers can tackle the Qixia Trail, which loops around the mountain and takes about 2 hours. Bring water and snacks—there are few cafes along the way!

Why You’ll Love It

Qixia Mountain Scenic Area isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s a journey through time. Whether you’re marveling at 1,500-year-old carvings, snapping photos of red leaves, or listening to temple bells, there’s something for everyone. Come early or late to avoid crowds, and don’t rush—this place rewards slow travelers.

(Keywords: Qixia Mountain Scenic Area, Thousand Buddha Rock, Qixia Temple, Shamao Peak, Zipeng Peak, Eastern Flying Apsaras, Red Maple Festival, Infinite Life Buddha)