Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area is located in Fengze District, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and national scenic area, it covers 62 square kilometers with its main peak at 498 meters elevation. Known as "the First Penglai Mountain of Minhai," it combines natural landscapes with cultural heritage, featuring the Song Dynasty Laozi Rock Statue, Yuan Dynasty Amitabha Rock, Ming Dynasty Thousand-Hand Rock, and other relics. The Laozi Rock Statue is the largest existing Taoist stone carving from the Song Dynasty in China.
History and Culture
With a long history dating back to alchemist activities in the Qin Dynasty, Qingyuan Mountain became a renowned Taoist sanctuary in southern Fujian during the Tang Dynasty. Its golden age came in the Song Dynasty, exemplified by the magnificent Laozi Rock Statue. During the Yuan Dynasty, with Quanzhou Port's prosperity, the mountain became an important cultural node on the Maritime Silk Road, attracting monks and merchants worldwide.
The Ming-Qing period saw Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism coexisting here, leaving numerous cliff inscriptions and poems. Designated a national scenic area in 1988, it evolved into a tourism destination blending religious culture and natural beauty. As part of "Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China," Qingyuan Mountain was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2021, showcasing Quanzhou's multiculturalism.
Main Attractions
Laozi Rock
The iconic Laozi Rock Statue, carved in the Song Dynasty, stands 5.63m tall, 6.85m thick, and 8.01m wide - China's largest existing Taoist stone carving. Depicting Laozi with kind eyes, flowing beard, and relaxed posture, it vividly embodies Taoist philosophy of "following nature's way." Remarkably preserved after centuries, it's a gem of Song stone carving art.
Amitabha Rock
An important Buddhist site established in the Yuan Dynasty, the rock temple houses a 3m-tall Amitabha statue. Its front platform offers panoramic Quanzhou views, perfect for sunsets. Cliff inscriptions by historical literati add artistic value.
Thousand-Hand Rock
Also called Guanyin Rock, this Ming Dynasty site enshrines a magnificent Thousand-Hand Guanyin statue. The temple ingeniously integrates with mountain rocks. Its cave maintains pleasant temperatures year-round with constant spring water, making it a famous summer retreat.
Qingyuan Heavenly Lake
This mountaintop lake covers 20,000m² with mirror-like water surrounded by lush forests. Lakeside platforms and trails provide resting spots for hikers. On clear days, the lake reflects sky and mountains like a natural painting.
Cuisine
Quanzhou Meat Zongzi
Traditional snack of glutinous rice wrapped with pork belly, mushrooms, and dried shrimp in bamboo leaves. Fragrant and savory, it's a popular portable food for visitors.
Sea Worm Jelly
Southern Fujian delicacy made from boiled beach worms that congeal when cooled. Smooth-textured with unique flavor when served with garlic and soy sauce. Despite unusual appearance, it's nutritious and refreshing in summer.
Thread Noodle Paste
Classic Quanzhou breakfast of thin noodles cooked into paste with seafood and pork blood. Silky and flavorful, often paired with fried dough sticks, ideal for pre-hike energy.
Seaweed Jelly
Traditional dessert made from seaweed extract, jelly-like with springy texture. Served chilled with honey or syrup, it helps reduce body heat and is visitor favorite.
Ticket Information
Admission: ¥70/person (includes Laozi Rock area), some sites charge separately. 50% off for seniors over 60/students, free under 1.2m. Open 8:00-17:30 (extended to 18:00 in summer).
Suggested Itinerary
Recommended one-day tour: Enter through main gate to visit Laozi Rock → Hike trails passing Amitabha Rock and Thousand-Hand Rock → Lunch at mountaintop restaurant with Heavenly Lake visit → Descend via alternative trail for different perspectives. Allow 5-6 hours; wear comfortable hiking shoes.
Transportation
- Self-drive: Multiple routes from Quanzhou city center (~20 minutes)
- Public transport: Take bus routes 15, 30, or 601 from downtown
- Within area: Shuttles connect major sites
Must-See Attractions
- Laozi Rock - China's largest Song Dynasty Taoist stone statue
- Amitabha Rock - Yuan Buddhist site with city views
- Thousand-Hand Rock - Ming Guanyin worship site, summer retreat
- Heavenly Lake - Mountaintop gem for relaxation
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for steep sections
- Bring sufficient water and sun protection
- Allocate time to appreciate stone carvings
- Observe etiquette at religious sites
Important Notes
- Protect cultural relics - don't touch carvings
- Watch for slippery mountain paths when wet
- No smoking or open flames in scenic area
- Don't pick plants or disturb wildlife
- Stay within permitted areas