The Longquan Mountain Shijing Temple Trail extends the ridge network of Longquanyi District further than the Peach Blossom Ridge route, running about 7 km one-way from the Xiangzhang Xiaoyuan trailhead to the back gate of Shijing Temple, on the eastern edge of Chengdu. Access is by Metro Line 2 to Longquanyi station followed by a taxi to the trailhead, with free entry to the trail itself. The path follows mostly flat dirt road and rolling ridge line with under 150 m of total climbing, making it approachable at a family pace over 3-4 hours, though the added distance compared to the Peach Blossom Ridge route calls for a bit more stamina. The trail alternates between open ridge stretches with orchard and farmland views and short forested sections offering shade and a breeze. Shijing Temple itself, a small working Buddhist temple, marks the turnaround point for most hikers, with some continuing a short distance further into the surrounding hills. There are no dedicated refuge huts, but rest pavilions and occasional snack vendors appear along the route, particularly near the temple; water should still be carried since coverage is inconsistent outside of festival periods. The trail has no technical sections and no significant exposure, suiting walkers seeking a longer but still easy-paced ridge outing.
| Distance | About 7 km one-way to the back gate of Shijing Temple |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-4 hours at a family pace |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Metro Line 2 to Longquanyi station, then taxi to Xiangzhang Xiaoyuan trailhead; free entry |
| Best season | Year-round; spring for blossom, autumn for clear ridge views |
| Address | Under the Clouds Xiangzhang Courtyard trailhead, Longquanyi District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Longquanyi District, about 27 km east of central Chengdu
What to bring
- Trail shoes - mostly flat dirt road and ridge line, no technical sections
- Water and a picnic lunch
- Sun protection
- Light jacket for the breezy ridge stretches
Weather through the year in Sichuan
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Sichuan.
Location
Under the Clouds Xiangzhang Courtyard trailhead, Longquanyi District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
30.6650, 104.3150 View on map
Highlights
- Shijing Temple, a small working Buddhist temple at the trail's turnaround point
- Rolling ridge views over Longquanyi's orchards and farmland
- Longer, quieter alternative to the busier Peach Blossom Ridge route
- Mix of open ridge and shaded forest sections
- Family-friendly pace over gentle terrain
Tips for visiting
- Allow 3-4 hours for the full one-way distance plus return, or arrange a pickup at the temple end
- Visit in spring for blossom views or autumn for clear ridge visibility
- Bring a picnic lunch, as food options thin out beyond the main trailhead area
- Wear trail shoes rather than sandals, as sections of dirt track can be uneven after rain
- Carry a light jacket for the breezy, exposed ridge stretches
When to visit
Accessible year-round; spring brings orchard blossoms and autumn offers the clearest ridge views with cooler walking temperatures.
Accessibility
Much of the route follows flat dirt road suitable for moderately fit walkers, but the unpaved surface and lack of curb cuts make it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers over its full length.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Shijing Temple trail busy like the Peach Blossom Ridge?
No, this route sees noticeably fewer visitors than the popular blossom-season ridge trail, making it a quieter option for most of the year.
Can the trail be done as a there-and-back walk?
Yes, most hikers walk to Shijing Temple and return the same way, making a round trip of about 14 km.
Is the temple open to visitors?
Yes, Shijing Temple is an active Buddhist temple that welcomes respectful visitors at its back gate near the trail's end.
Is there an entry fee for this trail?
No, the trail itself is free to access, though the temple may request a small optional donation.