Jinfo Mountain showcases rich natural heritage year-round

Jinfo Mountain in Nanchuan, southwest China's Chongqing, is a UNESCO World Heritage site (inscribed in 2014 as part of South China Karst) and a national 5A-rated tourist attraction. Covering 1,300 square kilometers, it rises to 2,238 meters and is known for its distinctive karst tableland landscape.

Jinfo Mountain in Nanchuan, southwest China's Chongqing. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The mountain is home to 8,085 identified plant and animal species, including 4,180 species of medicinal plant species. It also has a long history of Buddhist culture and receives heavy snowfall in winter.

Nanchuan launched the international tourism brand "Jinfo Mountain: A World Heritage Wonder" in 2026 to promote the mountain's natural and cultural heritage.

Yaochiba alpine meadow at Jinfo Mountain, Nanchuan, southwest China's Chongqing. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Jinfo Mountain's landscape changes with the seasons.

In spring, some 500,000 alpine rhododendron trees bloom across the mountain's primeval forests. Their flowers spread across the hillsides in vivid shades of red, pink and purple, turning the landscape into a sea of color.

Ancient Wild Azalea Park at Jinfo Mountain, Nanchuan, southwest China's Chongqing. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

In summer, the mountain is cooler than downtown Chongqing. Much of it lies at about 1,000 meters above sea level, and average temperatures are more than 10 degrees Celsius lower than in the city center. Concentrations of negative air ions can reach 100,000 per cubic centimeter.

From September, the mountain's trees and bamboo groves gradually take on vibrant autumn hues, creating a richly layered landscape. Square bamboo shoots begin to emerge in late August and feature in a range of local dishes.

In winter, snow can remain on Jinfo Mountain for more than three months, creating snowfields, rime ice and frozen waterfalls. Its proximity to downtown Chongqing makes it a convenient destination for snow viewing and skiing. At lower elevations, hot springs offer a contrast to the snow-covered slopes above.