Something different – minimalism (less is more)

Grab your walking boots and climb up over night (there are lights) to be ready for sunrise. Also featured is the famous 'Plank Walk'. HuaShan is one of China's Five Sacred Mountains; it lies in ShaanXi province, about two hours from the city of Xi'An, in central China. Hike above the clouds (at over 2,000 meters). Sometimes people talk about 'things to do before you die' - a trip to HuaShan (or HuangShan, EmeiShan, CangShan, WuDang or TaiShan) should be one of those ...

Mount Hua, or HuaShan, is one of China's Five Great Mountains, renowned for its steep trails, breathtaking views, and significant Taoist history. Located in Shaanxi Province, near the city of Huayin, Huashan attracts adventurers and pilgrims alike. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huashan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huashan Mount Hua consists of five main peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: East Peak (Zhaoyang Peak): Known as the "Sunrise Peak," it is the best spot to watch the sunrise. West Peak (Lianhua Peak): Also called the "Lotus Peak," it is famous for its striking rock formations that resemble a lotus flower. South Peak (Luoyan Peak): The highest of the five peaks at 2,154 meters, offering panoramic views. North Peak (Yuntai Peak): Known as the "Cloud Terrace Peak," it serves as the starting point for many hikes. Central Peak (Yunv Peak): Also known as the "Jade Maiden Peak," it is named after a Taoist legend. Huashan Plank Walk The Huashan Plank Walk is one of the most thrilling attractions on the mountain. The narrow wooden walkway is attached to the sheer cliff face of the South Peak, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience and stunning views. Chess Pavilion Perched on a precarious rock, the Chess Pavilion is a small structure with legendary associations. According to legend, it is where a deity played chess with a mortal. Taoist Temples Mount Hua is home to several ancient Taoist temples, including the Jade Spring Temple at the base of the mountain and the Yuquan Temple. These temples are important pilgrimage sites and offer a glimpse into the mountain's spiritual significance. Geology of Huashan Mount Hua is part of the Qinling Mountain range and is primarily composed of granite. The mountain's distinctive steep slopes and sharp peaks are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion over millions of years. The granite rock faces provide both a dramatic landscape and a challenging environment for climbers. Touring Huashan Planning Your Visit Visiting Huashan requires careful planning due to its challenging terrain and the variety of routes available. A typical visit can take one to two days, depending on the routes and peaks you choose to explore. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: North Peak and the Plank Walk Morning: Take the cable car from the East Gate to the North Peak. Spend the morning exploring the North Peak and its surrounding trails. Afternoon: Head towards the South Peak for the Huashan Plank Walk. Ensure you have the proper safety gear and follow all safety instructions. Evening: Consider spending the night on the mountain at one of the guesthouses or temples to experience the sunrise from one of the peaks. Day 2: The Five Peaks Early Morning: Watch the sunrise from the East Peak. Mid-Morning: Hike to the Central Peak, then continue to the West Peak to see the Lotus Flower Rock. Afternoon: Ascend to the South Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Descend back to the North Peak and take the cable car down. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huashan offers challenging hikes with rewarding views. Trails are steep and can be narrow, requiring a good level of fitness and caution. Popular routes include the ascent from the East Gate to the North Peak and the circular route covering the five peaks. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huashan provide excellent opportunities for photography. Key spots include the sunrise from the East Peak, the Plank Walk on the South Peak, and the panoramic views from the highest point. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, try local Shaanxi cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Specialties include biangbiang noodles, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and various dumplings. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the East Gate. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huashan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy, making some trails hazardous. Getting There Huashan is accessible by train, bus, and car. The nearest major city is Xi'an, from where you can take a high-speed train to Huashan North Railway Station. From there, shuttle buses or taxis can take you to the mountain's entrances. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huayin City. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or temple. This allows you to catch the sunrise from one of the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and the Plank Walk. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all five peaks. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the mountain's history, culture, and geology. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.

‘Your Collar’, a haunting, romantic song from the imperial music of the Han Dynasty ... Plus, bonus music films ... 'I'm right here, where are you', sung by Alu Azhou and the Mountain Wind Group 阿鲁阿卓, 山风组合 生如夏花. Inspired by Stray Birds by famous Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, 1916 (生如夏花之绚烂，死如秋叶之静美 --飞鸟集, 泰戈尔, 1916). Lyrics and Music by PU Shu (朴树). "In this life, we can not stay so long ..." Plus Song of the Surging Water - title song of the 2015 movie Wolf Totem 汪峰 沧浪之歌（《狼图腾》主题曲）. Sung by Wang Feng. Lyrics by WANG Feng (汪峰); music by Adam HUANG (HUANG Yong, 黄勇); with Alianuul (Morin Khuur solo) and NING FangLiang (violin solo). "I am broken, but I love flying ..." 鄧紫棋 G.E.M. - 存在_我是歌手第二季 (2014年1月10日) (Life is like a) Na Ying, Warm Spring with Blooming Flowers 春暖花开 (when I am with you) ... Wang Feng song, 'I love you, China' 我爱你 中国 (Wo Ai Ni, Zhong Guo) from the CCTV New Year Gala ... If you can, please support this site with a donation; it really does help us keep going ... Thank you from the BeijingBuzzz team !

The DaMing Palace (DaMing Gong, Palace of Great Brilliance) was the imperial palace complex of the Tang Dynasty, located in its capital Chang'An. It served as the royal residence of the Tang emperors for more than 220 years. Today, the DaMing Palace site is designated a National Heritage Site of China, located a little north east of present-day Xi'An city center, ShaanXi province, central China. One can take subway line 2 to DaMingGongXi (DaMing Palace West) station. The palace complex was destroyed at the end of the Tang dynasty. The ruins were only discovered in the 1950s and some parts have now been reconstructed following careful archaeological analysis of the site. The reconstructions, museum and grounds opened to visitors in 2010. A beautiful film ...

With Nation Nibbles ... With BRIGHT SIDE ...

吉岛少儿合唱团翻唱周深《亲爱的旅人啊》 阿卡贝拉版《好想爱这个世界啊》By 醒耳人声乐团（华晨宇 Cover） Tears in the sand 哭砂 吉他弹唱 - MiuMiu, aged 4 you are my bitterest waiting, making me long for and fear the future you used to say you are a dust, that would sometimes get into my eyes playfully. rather leaving me cry, than letting me love you, you disappeared in the wind just like a dust. you are my most painful choice, why won't you stop wandering alone the sea to you are inseparable, you always brought a pocketful of sand to me. at last coming to see me, but then leaving me again the sand dripping out of my hands like flowing tears the sand brought by the wind, settles in my sorrowful eyes, anyone could tell i'm waiting for you. the sand brought by the wind, piles in my mind, is an impression no one could erase the sand brought by the wind, passes thru all memories, everyone knows i miss you. the sand brought by the wind, weeps in gloom, was our separation destined?

With Michael Hudson and Danny HaiPhong ...