Zhao Gong Shan sits west of Dujiangyan, about 100 km from central Chengdu, and is often described as the main peak of the Qingcheng Mountain group. It is a forest hike rather than a formal scenic area: two trailheads, a temple near the top, and a summit view over the city below. Chengdu outdoor groups climb it at weekends, and the route works for a night ascent if you settle transport and food before dark.
Getting to the Trailheads
The access roads climb through villages and include bends. Arriving after dark, a driver who knows mountain roads is worth arranging. Village restaurants near the trailheads serve local food, but late arrivals should not count on a kitchen being open. Confirm meals and transport before you leave.
East Route: Longfeng Village
Start at Longfeng Village. Without a heavy pack, allow about four and a half hours: roughly two hours to Qingyun Temple and another two and a half to Zhao Gong Temple. The surface changes as you climb: stone slabs at the start, a muddy stretch that turns slick after rain, then wooden steps and branches higher up. Trekking poles help in wet conditions. In winter, snow and ice call for traction devices.
West Route: Qunyi Village
The west approach begins at Qunyi Village and is the gentler option, with a formed wooden path and an average walking time of about two hours. Access is less straightforward. Buses toward Shuimo from Chadianzi pass near Zengjiagou Bridge, where you can arrange local transport; drivers can also be hired from Dujiangyan rail station. Services and drivers change, so confirm current options before setting out. Winter conditions may still require traction devices.
Pick One Side for the Descent
Descend the same side you climbed. That is the key logistics decision. The two trailheads are far apart, and leaving a car at the east trailhead while descending the west route means arranging a local transfer back to the car. Late at night that can be difficult and costly. If you want a through-hike, book a pickup in advance. Night hikers should be especially conservative here.
After Dark
After dark, the mountain becomes a narrower place. Attention moves from the wider view to the pool of light from a headlamp and the rhythm of the climb. On clear nights the summit looks over Dujiangyan and the spread of city lights. On warm summer nights, fireflies sometimes appear near the lower rest stops. There are rest points on the trail, but not all are sheltered, and the summit is noticeably cooler than the base.
Sleeping at Zhao Gong Temple
Zhao Gong Temple has basic communal bunks and can arrange a simple dinner and breakfast. Some hikers bring sleeping bags or tents; others carry food to cook. Availability varies with weather and demand, so confirm before you rely on it. Add a warm layer for the summit and keep essentials within reach rather than at the bottom of a pack.
What to Carry
Bring a headlamp with spare batteries. Wear hiking shoes with reliable grip, and carry trekking poles, a rain shell, a warm layer, water, snacks, a basic first aid kit and a power bank. Check the forecast before leaving and allow enough time to reach the summit without rushing. In good weather the route is straightforward, but it is not a casual stroll.
Coming Down
The descent is where fatigue shows. The upper path is steep, and fixed wooden pegs can catch a boot toe. Morning dew makes wooden planks slick. Keep steps short, use the ropes and poles where provided, and do not hurry. Proper hiking shoes make a difference; soft soles and smooth trainers are a poor match for wet wood and mud.
Before Setting Out
Confirm the route, transport at both ends, the weather and temple availability with local sources. The appeal is simple: a quiet forest climb, a temple near the top, and a wide view over the plain when the lights come on.
How this guide was made
This guide combines structured research and automation with source and duplication review. Dates change; verify time-sensitive details before travelling.