Nanning

Qingxiu Mountain

Qingxiu Mountain is Nanning's emerald lung, a 5A scenic area of subtropical forest, ancient temples and sweeping views over the Yong River. It's where locals go to breathe, and where visitors discover a greener, slower side of Guangxi's capital. With our private guide, you'll skip the confusion of its sprawling trails and cable cars, and see the best lookouts, gardens and ASEAN Friendship Park in one effortless half-day.

Nine-story Longxiang Pagoda on Qingxiu Mountain surrounded by lush subtropical forest
Nine-story Longxiang Pagoda on Qingxiu Mountain surrounded by lush subtropical forest

What it is

Rising just southeast of downtown Nanning, Qingxiu Mountain (Qingxiu Shan) has been a scenic retreat for over a thousand years. Its name means 'Green and Elegant Mountain', and the slopes are indeed cloaked in dense subtropical forest. Historically, it was home to Buddhist and Taoist temples; the Longxiang Pagoda, a nine-story brick tower first built in the Ming Dynasty, still crowns the ridge and offers panoramic views. In modern times, the area was developed into a large urban park, and in 2014 it was upgraded to China's highest 5A rating for its landscaping, cultural sites and ecological importance.

The mountain is also a symbol of Nanning's role as a gateway to ASEAN. The ASEAN Friendship Park, opened in 2006, features gardens designed by each of the ten ASEAN countries, making it a pleasant, shaded walk through diverse tropical styles. Elsewhere, you'll find orchid gardens, bonsai collections, a palm garden and the Suzhou-style Zhuangyuan Spring. The Yong River curls around the western base, and from several overlooks you can see the city skyline blending with the green. For a Guangxi Museum visit, Qingxiu Mountain pairs perfectly as a half-day nature escape.

Highlights

  • Longxiang Pagoda — Climb the nine-story Ming-style tower for the best 360° view of Nanning's skyline and the Yong River bend.
  • ASEAN Friendship Park — Stroll through ten national gardens, from a Thai pavilion to a Cambodian-style gate, all in one shaded loop.
  • SuTropical Orchid Garden — Thousands of orchids bloom in a misted greenhouse, especially vibrant from spring to early summer.
  • Cable Car & Slide — Ride the cable car up for aerial views, then descend on the toboggan slide for a fun, family-friendly thrill.
  • Zhuangyuan Spring — A tranquil Suzhou-style garden with pavilions, koi ponds and tea houses, perfect for a mid-walk rest.
Cable car ascending over forested Qingxiu Mountain with visitors and entrance below
Cable car ascending over forested Qingxiu Mountain with visitors and entrance below

How to get there

Qingxiu Mountain is about 5 km southeast of Nanning's city centre. The easiest way is by metro: take Line 3 to Qingxiu Mountain Station (Exit A), then walk 10 minutes to the north gate. Alternatively, a taxi or DiDi from downtown costs around ¥20–30 and takes 15–20 minutes. Many visitors combine it with a morning at the Guangxi Museum (10 minutes away by taxi) and an afternoon here. Our guide can arrange a private transfer and tailor the route to avoid uphill walking.

Tickets & practical info

Admission is ¥20 per person (peak season may be ¥20–30). Opening hours are roughly 6:00–24:00, but attractions inside like the pagoda and gardens close around 17:30–18:00. Cable car and slide are extra (cable car one-way ¥30, slide ¥30). Book via WeChat mini-programs or at the gate; foreign cards are not accepted at ticket counters, so use WeChat Pay or Alipay linked to an international card, or bring cash.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is October to April, when Nanning's heat and humidity are milder. Mornings (before 10 am) are coolest and quietest, with soft light for photography. Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays if you prefer solitude. Spring brings blooming orchids and lush greenery, while autumn offers clear skies for views from the pagoda.

Tips from our guides

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes — the park is huge and trails are hilly; you can cover more ground with the internal shuttle bus (¥5 per ride).
  • Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen; the subtropical forest means both sun and insects are real, even on cloudy days.
  • For the best photos, head to Longxiang Pagoda around 4–5 pm when the light is golden and the crowds thin out.
  • If you want to see the ASEAN gardens, enter from the north gate and take the shuttle to the Friendship Park first, then work your way downhill.
  • Download a translation app or have your guide help with signage; English is limited, but maps are available at the visitor centre.
Weathered stone carving with dragon motif on a temple wall at Qingxiu Mountain
Weathered stone carving with dragon motif on a temple wall at Qingxiu Mountain

FAQ

How long does it take to visit Qingxiu Mountain?

Most visitors spend 3–4 hours, including the pagoda, ASEAN gardens and a cable car ride. If you want to explore every garden and temple, allow a full half-day.

Is Qingxiu Mountain suitable for children or elderly visitors?

Yes, but be prepared for hills. The shuttle bus and cable car reduce walking. Our guides can plan a gentle route with plenty of rest stops and shade.

Can I pay with a foreign credit card at Qingxiu Mountain?

No, ticket counters and vendors generally do not accept foreign cards. Use WeChat Pay or Alipay linked to your international card, or carry enough cash in CNY.

What is the best way to get to Qingxiu Mountain from downtown Nanning?

Take Metro Line 3 to Qingxiu Mountain Station, then walk to the north gate. A taxi or DiDi is also convenient and costs around ¥20–30 from the city centre.

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