General Information

• Location: Qionglong Mountain is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. It is in the western part of the city and is part of the Taihu Lake scenic area.
• Geographical Features: With an elevation of 341.7 meters, it is the highest mountain in the Suzhou region. The mountain is rich in natural resources and has a beautiful environment.
• History and Culture: It has a long history associated with ancient Chinese culture. It has been a place with many historical and cultural heritages, such as ancient temples and historical sites related to famous figures.

Highlights and Attractions

• Natural Landscapes:
  • Lush Vegetation: The mountain is covered with dense forests. There are various types of trees, including ancient pines, cypresses, and bamboos. In spring, the mountain is filled with colorful wildflowers; in autumn, the leaves turn into beautiful shades of red and yellow, creating a picturesque scene.
  • Scenic Vistas: From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the beautiful Taihu Lake in the distance. The clear air and open space make it an ideal place for nature lovers.
• Cultural and Historical Sites:
  • Sun Wu Cultural Park: This park is dedicated to Sun Wu, the famous ancient Chinese military strategist who authored "The Art of War". Here, you can learn about Sun Wu's life and his military thoughts. There are statues, pavilions, and exhibition halls related to him.
  • Temple of the Upper Heavens: It is one of the most important religious sites on the mountain. The temple has a long history and magnificent architecture. Inside, there are various religious statues and cultural relics, attracting many pilgrims and tourists interested in Chinese religious culture.
  • Zhu Yuanzhang's Memorial Hall: According to legend, Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, once hid in this mountain. The memorial hall showcases the history and related stories during that period, providing a unique perspective on ancient Chinese history.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March - May): The weather is warm, and the flowers are in bloom, making the mountain a colorful and vibrant place. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.
• Autumn (September - November): The cool climate and the changing colors of the leaves make for a beautiful and comfortable hiking season. You can enjoy the autumn scenery of the mountain.

How to Get There

• By Public Transportation: You can take a bus from Suzhou city center to the mountain area. Check the local bus schedules for the specific routes and stops.
• By Taxi or Ride - hailing Service: You can take a taxi or use a ride - hailing app to get to Qionglong Mountain. Inform the driver of your destination.
• By Car: If you are driving, you can use a navigation app to reach the mountain. There are usually parking lots available at the entrance of the scenic area.

Tips

• Hiking Equipment: Wear comfortable hiking shoes as there are mountain paths to explore. Bring water bottles to stay hydrated during your hike, especially in warmer weather.
• Respect the Culture: When visiting cultural and religious sites, respect the local customs and traditions. Follow the instructions and regulations in the temples and memorial halls.
• Weather Forecast: Check the weather forecast before your visit. Avoid going during bad weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong winds as the mountain paths may be slippery or dangerous.
• Time Management: Plan your time well, especially if you want to visit multiple attractions on the mountain. Allocate enough time for each site and for your hike.