Across the river from the old town, the epic vertical warren of temples, grottoes, corridors and caves of Qīnglóng Dòng rises up against Zhōnghé Mountain (Zhōnghéshān; 中和山). Flooded with lights at night, it forms a sublime backdrop to the town. Put aside a good hour for exploration: it’s a labyrinth and there’s a lot to see, including some choice panoramas.
The intriguing complex was commenced in the Ming dynasty, its temples dedicated to the three faiths of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. At the far entrance to Zhōngyuán Cave (Zhōngyuán Dòng; 中元洞) is a stone table allegedly used by the eccentric founder of taichi, Zhang Sanfeng. The exterior of the splendid Wànshòu Gōng (万寿宫) – once the Jiāngxī Guildhall – is still bedecked with slogans, its interior a prime example of jiāngnán-style architecture with delightful woodcarvings. The unruffled Jade Emperor presides over everything – and some fine views – from the Yùhuáng Gé (玉皇阁; Jade Emperor Pavilion), his namesake pavilion at the top. Watch out when walking, as some of the stone steps are super slippery.
