Mount Emei Visitor Guide: Natural Beauty & Practical Travel Tips
Mount Emei (Emei Shan), located in Sichuan Province, is one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its mist-shrouded peaks, ancient temples, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, it is a popular pilgrimage site and a destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. This guide will help you explore Mount Emei’s natural beauty while providing practical travel advice for a seamless visit.
Golden Summit (Jinding)
Overview: The Golden Summit is the highest point on Mount Emei, offering spectacular views, including the famous "Sea of Clouds." At an elevation of 3,077 meters, the summit is a spiritual hub for Buddhists, with the massive statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva serving as a highlight for visitors.
Key Highlights:
Golden Buddha Statue: The 48-meter tall statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva with ten faces is a stunning work of art, representing the mount's spiritual significance.
Sea of Clouds: On clear mornings, you can witness the mesmerizing "Sea of Clouds" phenomenon, where the clouds form a dense layer beneath the summit.
Sunrise & Sunset: Watching the sunrise or sunset from the Golden Summit is a breathtaking experience, as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink.
Travel Tip: Be prepared for the altitude by wearing warm clothing, especially in the early morning or evening. It’s recommended to take the cable car from Leidongping to save energy, but hikers can also make the journey on foot.
Baoguo Temple Area
Overview: Baoguo Temple is the starting point for most visitors to Mount Emei. Located at the base of the mountain, this area is home to one of the most important temples and serves as a hub for those preparing to explore the mountain.
Key Highlights:
Baoguo Temple: Built during the Ming Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the worship of various Buddhist deities. It is an excellent place to start learning about the religious history of Mount Emei.
Emei Buddhist Cultural Museum: Located within the temple grounds, this museum provides insight into the history of Buddhism in the region, along with relics and artwork.
Travel Tip: Baoguo Temple is a peaceful place to begin your ascent. The surrounding area has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets, making it a convenient base for longer stays.
Wannian Temple (Ten-Thousand-Year Temple)
Overview: One of the oldest and most significant temples on Mount Emei, Wannian Temple dates back over 1,600 years. The temple is perched on the mountainside and offers great views as well as a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.
Key Highlights:
Bronze Statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva: The temple houses a famous bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant, which is a major draw for pilgrims.
Surrounding Trails: The area around Wannian Temple is filled with scenic trails that offer opportunities to explore the mountain’s flora and fauna.
Travel Tip: Visitors can either hike to Wannian Temple or take the cable car from Wuxiangang Parking Lot. The trails offer stunning views but can be steep, so bring appropriate footwear.
Qingyin Pavilion
Overview: Qingyin Pavilion is a tranquil spot located halfway up Mount Emei, offering a place for rest and meditation. Surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and waterfalls, it is an ideal location to experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of the mountain.
Key Highlights:
Scenic Bridges: The twin bridges crossing the crystal-clear waters are perfect for photos, and the sound of the running stream adds to the pavilion’s peaceful ambiance.
Washing Elephant Pool: Located nearby, this sacred pool is associated with Buddhist mythology and is a quiet spot for reflection.
Travel Tip: This is an ideal resting spot for those hiking up the mountain. There are small tea houses nearby where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Monkeys of Mount Emei
Overview: The Tibetan macaques are a famous and sometimes mischievous presence on Mount Emei. These monkeys roam freely across the mountain and are often found near tourist areas. While they can be entertaining to watch, visitors should take care as the monkeys may attempt to snatch food or belongings.
Key Highlights:
Monkey Eco-Zone: Located along the main hiking trail, this area is where the monkeys are most active. Visitors can observe them up close but should avoid direct interaction.
Travel Tip: Keep your belongings secure and do not feed the monkeys, as they can become aggressive. Stick to designated paths and follow the advice of local guides or staff to stay safe.
Practical Travel Information for Mount Emei
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mount Emei is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the views are clear. Spring (April-May) offers blooming flowers, while autumn (September-October) provides colorful foliage. Winter visits are also possible, especially for those interested in snow-covered landscapes, but be prepared for cold conditions at higher altitudes.
Getting to Mount Emei
By Air: The closest airport is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, located about 150 kilometers away. From Chengdu, visitors can take a train or bus to Emeishan City.
By Train: The high-speed train from Chengdu to Emeishan Station takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to the Baoguo Temple area, the starting point for exploring Mount Emei.
By Bus: Regular buses run from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen Bus Station to Emeishan City, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours.
Accommodation
Visitors can stay in Emeishan City or in the Baoguo Temple area, which has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. For those wishing to stay on the mountain itself, there are guesthouses and monasteries offering simple lodging for a more immersive experience. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
Cultural Sensitivity
As Mount Emei is a sacred Buddhist site, visitors should show respect when visiting temples and monasteries. Modest clothing is recommended, and it’s important to be mindful of local customs, especially when interacting with monks or pilgrims. Refrain from taking photos in sacred spaces unless permission is explicitly granted.
Food and Dining
Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold, spicy flavors. In Emeishan, you can find local dishes such as hotpot, mapo tofu, and various noodle dishes. For a unique experience, try the vegetarian meals offered at the mountain's temples, which are simple yet flavorful and often include locally sourced ingredients.
Important Note: Always carry your passport and tickets when visiting the mountain, especially for entrance to the different scenic areas and cable cars.
Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Mount Emei
Day 1: Arrive in Emeishan City, visit Baoguo Temple, and relax in the hot springs nearby.
Day 2: Hike or take the cable car to the Golden Summit for sunrise. Explore the summit area before descending to Wannian Temple.
Day 3: Spend the day exploring Qingyin Pavilion and the Monkey Eco-Zone. Enjoy a tea break at a mountain tea house before returning to Emeishan City.
Mount GongGa, also known as Minya Konka, is the highest peak in SiChuan province, China, standing at 7,556 meters (24,790 feet). The Gongga Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience, featuring stunning landscapes, glaciers, and traditional Tibetan villages. It is a popular destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the remote and pristine beauty of the region.
Hiking Trails
Hailuogou Glacier Park Trail
The Hailuogou Glacier Park Trail is one of the most accessible routes on Mount Gongga. It features stunning views of glaciers, hot springs, and lush forests. This trail is suitable for trekkers of all levels and can be completed in 2-3 days.
Yulongxi Trail
The Yulongxi Trail offers a more challenging trek with breathtaking scenery, including high-altitude lakes, meadows, and snow-capped peaks. This trail takes about 4-5 days to complete and requires a good level of fitness.
Kangding to Gongga Monastery Trail
This trail starts in Kangding and leads to the Gongga Monastery, providing trekkers with an opportunity to experience local Tibetan culture and stunning natural beauty. The trek takes approximately 5-6 days.
Old Chengdu-Kangding Tea-Horse Road
This historic trail follows the ancient trade route, offering a blend of cultural and natural attractions. Trekkers can enjoy scenic vistas, traditional villages, and historical sites along the way. The trek can take 7-10 days depending on the chosen route.
Famous Guesthouses
Hailuogou Grand Hotel
Located at the entrance of Hailuogou Glacier Park, Hailuogou Grand Hotel offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to the glacier. It is a great base for starting the trek.
Gongga Shan Hotel
Situated in Kangding, Gongga Shan Hotel provides modern amenities and a convenient location for trekkers heading towards Mount Gongga. The hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Konka International Youth Hostel
Located in the town of Luding, Konka International Youth Hostel is popular among backpackers and budget travelers. It offers basic accommodation and a friendly atmosphere.
Minya Konka Guesthouse
Near the Gongga Monastery, Minya Konka Guesthouse provides an authentic Tibetan experience with traditional architecture and hospitality. It is a perfect stop for trekkers on the Kangding to Gongga Monastery Trail.
Transport
Mount Gongga and the Gongga Trail are accessible from major cities in Sichuan province. Here are some ways to get there:
From Chengdu: Buses and private transfers are available from Chengdu to Kangding, taking approximately 6-7 hours. From Kangding, you can hire a local guide or take a bus to the trailhead.
From Kangding: Local buses and taxis can take you to various trailheads, including Hailuogou Glacier Park and Yulongxi. The journey time varies depending on the destination.
By Car: Renting a car is a flexible option for those who prefer driving. The roads to Kangding and surrounding areas are well-maintained, offering scenic views along the way.
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. ... more ...
Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountains, is a renowned mountain range in southern Anhui Province. Famous for its stunning granite peaks, ancient pine trees, hot springs, and the mystical sea of clouds, Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for tourists and photographers. ... more ...
Huangshan 黄山 (Huángshān): Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Yellow Mountain, known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and mystical beauty. Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has inspired countless poets and artists with its ethereal landscapes. ... more ...
FanJingShan is the highest peak of the WuLing Mountains in southwestern China, at an elevation of 2,570 meters (8,430 feet). The FanJingShan National Nature Reserve was established in 1978 and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1986. FanJingShan is a sacred mountain in Chinese Buddhism. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018.
HuaShan is located near the city of HuaYin in ShaanXi province, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) east of Xi'An. It is the western mountain of the Five Great Mountains of China, and has a long history of religious significance.
HuaShan has five main peaks, the highest of which is the South Peak at 2,155 meters (7,070 feet).
A beautiful film ...
The LongSheng (Dragon's Backbone) rice terraces 龙胜梯田 cover an area of around 65 square kilometers (about 16,000 acres) in GuangXi province.
Construction of the terraces began during the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368), most extensively around 500 years ago during the Ming dynasty, and continues today. The rice terraces stand as testament to the wisdom and strength of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities who form the majority of the locals here.
LongJi (the Dragon's Backbone) Mountain is located in LongSheng County, about 100 km (2 hours drive) from GuiLin. The most famous of the rice terrace areas here are the Ping'An and JinKeng rice terraces. The terraced fields are constructed from riversides up to the mountain tops, at elevations of 300 meters (1,000 feet) to 1,100 meters (3,600 feet). A typical incline is 30 to 35 degrees.
This area is also noted for its LongJi tea and wine.
Best time to visit : May to mid-October (ideally, June to September).
Mount Hua mountain is located near the city of HuaYin in ShaanXi province, about 120 kilometers east of Xi'A, and one of the Five Great Mountains of China.
DānXiá Shān is a world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site Geo-Park.
The area comprises a reddish sandstone which has been eroded over the years into a series of outcrops with spectacular cliffs and unusual rock formations.
There are a number of temples in the mountains and many scenic paths. FuYiJiang River winds through the mountains and boat trips are possible.
HuaShan, in ShaanXi province, is one of China's Five Sacred Mountains.
Our second film shows the 'Plank Walk'. This was constructed in the 13th century by Taoist monks.
HuàShān is located near the city of HuaYin in ShaanXi province, about 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of Xi'An. It is one of the Five Great Mountains of China, and has a long history of religious significance. The highest peak is 2,155 metres (7,070 feet).
HuangShan is well known for its beautiful scenery, sunsets and sunrises, unusually shaped granite peaks, ancient pine trees, hot springs, winter snow, and views of the clouds from above. Some of the peaks rise more than 1,800 meters (6,000 feet). HuangShan is a frequent subject in traditional Chinese paintings and literature.
HuangShan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of China's most popular tourist destinations. The HuangShan area is also noted for Chinese teas of high quality.
In the first film, a group of photographers spend a week on the Yellow Mountain and show that patience and dedication pays off ...
Near LuoYang, provincial capital of HeNan, central China.
There is a LaoZi Cultural Park near the foot of the mountain and a cable car is available to reach the top.
The ancient sage LaoZi (in modern PinYin though one will still also see Lao-Tse or Lao-Tzu) who started Daoism (Taoism) and authored the Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching), is said to have gained inspiration here around 550 BC.
The Dao (道) which roughly translates as 'the way', in the sense of how things are, is a concept that existed in Chinese thought many centuries before LaoZi, but it was LaoZi who developed the concept considerably.
Wu Wei (無爲), literally "non-action" or "not acting", is a central concept of the DaoDeJing. The concept of wu wei is multi-faceted, and reflected in the words' multiple meanings, even in English translation; it can mean "not doing anything", "not forcing", "not acting" in the theatrical sense, "creating nothingness", "acting spontaneously", and "flowing with the moment / 'here and now'". It is a concept used to explain ZiRan (自然), or harmony with the Dao. LaoZi used the term broadly with simplicity and humility as key virtues, often in contrast to selfish action. On a political level, it means avoiding such circumstances as war, harsh laws and heavy taxes. The 'ruler' can also refer to the 'self'. There is an overlap here with the Buddha's teachings that suffering stems from attachments and desires, ultimately to the notion of a separate self.
In Chinese philosophy, Yin and Yang (陰陽 YīnYáng, "dark—light") describes how opposite or contrary forces are actually complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in the natural world, and how they give rise to each other as they interrelate to one another. While duality is found in many belief systems, Yin and Yang are parts of a Oneness that is also equated with the Dao. Yin and yang can be thought of as complementary (rather than opposing) forces that interact to form a dynamic system in which the whole is greater than the assembled parts; it is a holistic view. Everything has both yin and yang aspects, though either of the two major aspects may manifest more strongly in a particular object, depending on the criterion of the observation. Yin and Yang is a balance between two seeming opposites with a portion of the opposite element in each.
Some of LaoZi's famous sayings include:
"When goodness is lost, it is replaced by morality."
"Without Darkness, there can be no Light."
"The usefulness of a pot comes from its emptiness."
"The best people are like water, which benefits all things and does not compete with them. It stays in lowly places that others reject. This is why it is so similar to the Way."
"When people see some things as beautiful, other things become ugly. When people see some things as good, other things become bad."
"Try to change it and you will ruin it. Try to hold it and you will lose it."
"Those who know do not say. Those who say do not know."
"When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you."
"Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished."
"A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving."
"Music in the soul can be heard by the universe."
"A journey of a thousand miles starts under one's feet."
"The more that laws and regulations are given prominence, the more thieves there will be."
Alan Watts - 'The Daoist Way' ...
The first Buddhist temple in China was constructed here in SiChuan province in the 1st century A.D. The addition of other temples has turned Éméi Shān into one of Buddhism's holiest sites and is one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains of China.
All in all, there are now seventy six Buddhist temples and monasteries, most of them located near the mountain top.
The first two films focus on the most well-known - the Golden Summit and the 48 meters tall statue of Samantabhadra, known in Mandarin as PǔXián PúSà 普賢菩薩.
Emei Shan (Emei Mountain, 3,099 m / 10,167 ft) is one of the four Chinese Buddhist sacred mountains.
Emei Shan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (together with the nearby LeShan Giant Buddha) as "an area of exceptional cultural significance as it is the place where Buddhism first became established on Chinese territory ... The first Buddhist temple in China was built on the summit of Mount Emei in the 1st century CE ... Mount Emei is also notable for its exceptionally diverse vegetation, ranging from subtropical to sub-alpine pine forests. Some of the trees there are more than 1,000 years old."
Included in this beautiful film : the summit of Mount Emei, WanNian Si Temple, QingYin Ge and BaoGuo Si Temple.
YanDangShan, in a micro movie.
YanDang Mountain is known for its natural beauty, arising from its many vertical rock faces and pinnacles, lush forests and bamboo groves, streams with clear water, waterfalls and caves. The area also hosts numerous temples and shrines, many built inside caves. A good place for hiking.
YanDangShan lis near the east coast of China. The rail station here lies between WenZhou and NingBo; the journey from ShangHai is about 4 hours.
A very beautiful film ...
ChangBai Mountain, ChangBaiShan ('Ever White Mountain'), is located in the south east of JiLin province, on the border between China and North Korea.
The mountain is actually a volcano, with a height of 2,744 meters (9,000 feet), the highest mountain in north east China. ChangBai Mountain TianChi is the deepest lake in China, which was formed after a massive eruption in the year 946 and is about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) wide; technically, this is called a caldera. The origin of the name comes from the altitude - 'The Lake of Heaven'. TianChi is surrounded by 16 mountains, which makes the lake just like a gorgeous emerald among them.
The average temperature here is about −24 °C (−11 °F) in January, and 10 °C (50 °F) in July, remaining below freezing for eight months of the year.
Great films by Sticker Travel ...
JǐuHuá Shān, 'Nine Glorious Mountains', is one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism. Located in AnHui province, it is famous for its rich landscape and ancient temples.
A beautiful film ...
With rugged peaks soaring to over 1,800 meters, ancient pines and a myriad of breath-taking walkways, it is easy to see why HuangShan is perhaps the best known mountain area in China and famous in Chinese art and poetry.
Filmed in July 2011, AnHui province.
The Giant Buddha, which is around 70 meters in height, was carved out from the hill during the Tang dynasty (618–907). It took 90 years to complete.
The LeShan Giant Buddha is part of the Mount Emei Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area has exceptionally diverse vegetation, ranging from subtropical to sub-alpine pine forests. Over time, additional temples established nearby making this an important place in Buddhism. There is a lot to see and explore.
Slideshow (with some great photos) :
Mount HuangShan was added to the World Heritage list for its magnificent landscape and significant contribution to Chinese art and culture.
"Mount Huangshan, or Yellow Mountain, is named after a legendary Chinese sovereign Huang Di, also known as the Yellow Emperor. It is said that the he became a hermit on this mountain and searched for enlightenment and immortality.
The rugged landscape combined with light and cloud creates an enchanting atmosphere. A mysterious world where hermits could live in seclusion. This is a living example of a Shanshui mountain water painting.
These stone steps took over 1500 years to construct and are said to number over 60,000 in total. They continue their way up into the clouds and are thus named the Hundred steps into the clouds.
Mount Huangshan is the name for the 72 peak mountain range. Its splendid grandeur and uniquely shaped rocks became the source of many legends. Lianhua Peak is the highest in the Mount Huangshan region. It is shaped like a lotus flower in blossom.
This small rock formation on top of the peak is known as Monkey Rock, owing to the legend of a monkey who fell in love with a human girl from a village located at the foot of the mountain. Day after day the monkey gazed upon her from the mountain top and eventually turned into a rock.
Pine trees protruding from the rock crevices are the Huangshan pine, an endemic species of Mt. Huangshan. It is an important symbol of the Shanshui landscape. Trees are rooted deep into rock crevices to resist against the strong winds of this harsh environment.
Mt. Huangshan has fascinated many intellectuals, writers and painters through the ages. Li Po, a famous poet of the Tang Dynasty wrote:
Once I was on its lofty summit,Admiring Tianmu Pine below.The place is still traceable where the immortalBefore ascending to heaven made elixir out of jade.
At the foot of Mt. Huangshan, there are several villages retaining the old-time atmosphere from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Hungcun is one of those villages where traditional old buildings are perfectly preserved. This village is also inscribed as World Heritage. Walls jutting from the roofs are shaped like Huangshan mountains. A miniature Shanshui mountain-water landscape is placed in their garden. It is a Bonsai garden portraying the Huangshan mountains. The mountains are the basis and focus of everyday life for these people.
A local painter Zhu Feng has been drawing Huangshan mountains for 30 years. He believes that the ever-changing Huangshan mountains represent all elements of the universe. The mountains reveal their most mystical side in winter. A sea of cloud hangs over the Huangshan peaks. Lao Tzu, the father of Taoism said that the ideal way of human existence is to Be still like a mountain and flow like a great river. For people throughout the ages Mt. Huangshan is a tremendous source of inspiration and a place where people give thoughts about how the universe exists in this world." - UNESCO
AnHui, 安徽, lies in East China, just to the west of JiangSu province and ShangHai, and noted for its cuisine and materials related to calligraphy (paper and inkstone).
Tourist destinations include HuangShan mountain, HongCun and XiDi ancient villages, Chao Lake, TaiJi Cave, ZhenFeng Pagoda and ZuiWeng Pavilion.
HuangShan (Yellow Mountain) is a group of mountains in AnHui province, east China.
Famous for its rugged peaks, unusual rocks and tenacious pine trees, this beautiful landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mount HuaShan, 华山, lies about 75 miles east of Xi'An, 西安, in ShaanXi province, central China.
The esteem of harmony between Man and Nature is a key part of Chinese philosophy and no trip to China is quite complete without a mountain climb ...
Yellow Mountain, 黄山, in AnHui province, between ShangHai and WuHan, is one of China's most popular travel destinations. An area of outstanding natural beauty, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
SanQing Shan, 三清山, is a renowned Taoist sacred site located 25 miles (40 km) north of YuShan County in JiangXi Province.
With outstanding natural scenery, plants and wildlife, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that in all covers 230 square kilometers.
SanQing means the "Three Pure Ones" in Chinese as Mount SanQing is composed of three main summits: YuJing, YuShui, and YuHua, representing the Taoist trinity. YuJing (rising 1820 meters above sea level) is the highest.
三峰峻拔、如三清列坐其巅
A fascinating, hour plus documentary by CCTV's Travelogue (from the English language CCTV9 channel).
Dali is a four and a half hours drive from KunMing, the provincial capital of YunNan in south China, or forty minutes by air. By rail it is also connected to nearby LiJiang.
We haven't posted a Travelogue for a couple of years, but are very happy to say that it is back to its best - intelligent presenter and beautiful cinematography. Highly recommended.
Inhabited predominantly by the Bai and Yi ethnic groups.
1 : Dali Old Town
1/1 In this segment, presenter Katrina Yu tours the artistic cobblestone streets of the Old Town, meeting adventurous travelers along the way -- and shows where you can party with musical locals at night.
1/2 Katrina sails across the serenely beautiful ErHai Lake, enjoying a taste of ethnic Bai culture along the way. She also gets a lesson in an ancient handcraft and peeks inside a luxurious lakeside guesthouse.
1/3 Katrina strolls through the surrounding grounds of Dali's iconic Three Pagodas, and shows audiences the breath-taking view from the top of the soaring CangShan Mountains.
2 : The outskirts of Dali
2/1 Katrina hikes the holy paths of JiZu Mountain, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in China, and discovers the historic temples which have given the area the nickname of "scented wonderland"
2/2 Katrina visits the traditional ethnic Bai village of XinHua. Join her as she is treated to a colorful 'Eight bowl' Bai banquet and gets a lesson in an age-old handicraft from a master silver maker.
2/3 Katrina wanders through the ancient town of ShaXi. Join her as she savors the sights and tastes of the bustling weekly market, and finds out how this age-old center has succeeded in becoming a modern tourist destination while maintaining its old-world charm.
3 : The 'thousand year old' village of NuoDeng, deep in rural Dali
3/1 Katrina and the crew arrive at the hillside village. They get a taste of Nuodeng's famous salted ham and meet a local man whose character is just as interesting as the temple he guards.
3/2 Katrina visits a unique family museum, and has her pulse checked at a guesthouse where the owners offer holistic health treatments as well as accommodation.
3/3 Katrina plays teacher and student for a day, getting a lesson in local culture at Nuodeng's lively primary school.
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 ...
HuangShan (Yellow Mountain) lies in AnHui province.Highly worn granite summits peak out from a sea of clouds, dotted with ancient pines, have been an inspiration to artists and philosophers for many centuries ...
