Shangqing Palace on Mount Qingcheng is the highest (approximately 1180 m) ancient Taoist temple on the mountain, and the epitome of Qingcheng's serene beauty. It offers multiple experiences, including watching the sunrise, viewing the sea of clouds, and filming scenes similar to those in the TV series *Journey to the West*, earning it the reputation of "the Taoist temple closest to heaven."
Located on the eastern slope of Pengzu Peak on the front of the mountain, it is about 500 m from the summit, Laoxiao Peak, and can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot or by cable car from the upper station.
Must-see Highlights:
1. Magu Pool: Legend has it that the fairy Magu bathed in this pool, which never dries up even in droughts. The ancient trees reflected in the pool create a truly ethereal scene for photos.
2. Mandarin Duck Wells: Two wells, one square and one round, are connected by a hidden spring. Legend says they were dug by the Queen Consort of Shu. The water is sweet and refreshing.
3. Stone Carvings of Zhang Daqian's Dunhuang Murals: The palace houses stone carvings of portraits of Zhang Daqian, including "Queen Mother of the West," "Magu," and "Lady Huarui," painted during his four years of residence in Qingcheng. These paintings are of extremely high artistic value. 4. "First Peak of Qingcheng" Cliff Inscription: The stone walls on both sides of the mountain gate are inscribed with "Fifth Famous Mountain Under Heaven" and "First Peak of Qingcheng" by Huang Yunhu of the Qing Dynasty. A must-see for photos.
5. Laojun Pavilion (Laoxiao Peak behind the palace): Climb the stone steps for another 10 minutes to reach the summit, Laojun Pavilion. Enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the Chengdu Plain and the Minjiang River, best viewed at sunrise and amidst the sea of clouds.
6. Journey to the West Photo Spot: The scene in the 1986 TV series *Journey to the West* where Sun Wukong learns martial arts after becoming an apprentice was filmed on the platform in front of Shangqing Palace. You can take photos there yourself.
Shangqing Palace is the top cultural and scenic spot at the "Peak of Qingcheng." Allow an hour to leisurely explore Magu Pond and Yuanyang Well, then climb Laojun Pavilion to see the sea of clouds. Arriving early or late allows you to enjoy a truly divine perspective!