Selected as a national 5A-level tourist attraction in December 2024. Featuring Danxia landforms and box-shaped syncline mountains, it is one of the world's eight major firefly viewing bases (the largest firefly viewing area in Asia). Xiangshuitan Waterfall is the largest waterfall in western Sichuan.
A top Asian destination for firefly watching. On summer nights, the forest glows with countless fireflies — one of the most magical experiences around Chengdu.
Tiantai Mountain is a rare natural hidden gem around Chengdu. The firefly season is especially stunning, making it great for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts. It's well worth a special trip.
Tickets & Transport
Tickets
- Adult ticket
- ¥55
- Child ticket
- ¥25
- Free
- No
- Reservation required
- Yes
- Ticket methods
- Tickets can be purchased on site, or booked in advance via the official WeChat public account or travel platforms.
- Ticket notes
- During peak season and holidays, advance online real-name reservation is required one day ahead via the official WeChat account "Pingle Ancient Town & Tiantai Mountain".
Opening Hours
- Last entry
- 17:00
- Ticket sales end
- 16:30
- Holiday hours
- Open normally on holidays, possibly extended to 19:00.
- Seasonal hours
- In winter (December-February), closing time may be shortened to 17:00.
- Temporary closure
- In case of severe weather or special circumstances, the park may be temporarily closed. Please pay attention to official notices.
- Opening notes
- Winter and spring: 09:00-17:00; summer and autumn (peak season): approximately 08:30-18:00
Best Time to Visit
- Best time of day
- Early morning or evening; in the evening you can see fireflies.
- Best day of week
- Weekdays
- Best season
- April-October (firefly season); summer for escaping the heat.
- Avoid times
- Midday on holidays
- Avoid days
- Public holidays
- Crowd level
- High
- Crowd peak time
- Weekend afternoons during holidays and firefly season
Getting There
- Metro distance
- Not applicable
- Metro walk
- Not applicable
In Detail
The main peak of Tiantai Mountain, Yuxiao Peak, is 1,812 meters above sea level. The Danxia landforms create canyons, waterfalls, and high-mountain terrace landscapes. From April to October each year, fireflies fill the mountainside, making it the largest firefly viewing destination in Asia. In summer, visitors can play in the streams; in winter, the sea of clouds and sunrise offer their own attractions.
What to expect
Visitors can follow trails through canyons, waterfalls, and streams, splash in shallow water in summer, watch fireflies at night, and enjoy sea of clouds and sunrise in winter. The scenic area has sightseeing buses, and some sections require hiking.
How to visit
It is recommended to drive or take a dedicated tourist shuttle. The scenic area is large, so plan a 1–2 day itinerary. Take the sightseeing bus to the core area first, then explore the attractions on foot.
Pros
Beautiful natural scenery, unique firefly displays, cool summers, and great for escaping the heat.
Cons
Far from downtown Chengdu (about 100 km), inconvenient public transport, and crowded on holidays.
Highlights
- Asia's largest firefly viewing base (April–October)
- Xiangshuitan Waterfall — the largest waterfall in western Sichuan
- Danxia landforms and box-shaped syncline mountain scenery
- High-mountain terraces and stream wetland ecology
- National 5A-level tourist attraction (selected in December 2024)
FAQ
What is the best time to see fireflies?
From April to October, especially from 8 PM to 10 PM between June and August, firefly activity peaks.
Can I stay overnight in the scenic area?
Yes. There are many farm stays and hotels inside and around the scenic area, making it convenient to stay overnight for firefly viewing.
Do I need hiking equipment?
Regular sports shoes are fine, but some trails are steep, so non-slip shoes are recommended.
Field Tips
Best photo spot 1. Xiangshuitan Waterfall Viewing Platform: Panoramic waterfall views with misty spray, ideal for wide-angle shots. 2. Firefly viewing area (at night): Use long exposure to capture firefly light trails. 3. Yuxiao Peak summit: Sea of clouds and sunrise with open views. 4. Alpine wetland boardwalk: Streams, reflections, and lush greenery.
Best entrance Main Gate (Visitor Center)
Best exit Main Gate (Visitor Center)
Location & Nearby
Nearby attractions
- Western Sichuan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area (19.3 km)
- Pingle Ancient Town Scenic Area (21.1 km)
- Sichuan Qionglai Chalan Scenic Area (27 km)
- Chengjia Tea Town Scenic Area (27.7 km)
- Shixiang Lake Scenic Area (32.1 km)