Huangshan Mountain

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Scenic Spot Introduction

Huangshan Mountain, located in Huangshan City, Anhui Province, stands as the foremost among China’s top ten famous mountains and is recognized as a dual World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site. Renowned for its “Four Wonders” - unique pines, grotesque rocks, sea of clouds, and hot springs - the mountain boasts 72 peaks, with Lianhua, Guangming, and Tiandu being the highest. It mainly comprises four scenic areas: Beihai, Xihai, Yungu, and Yuping.

The uniqueness of Huangshan lies in its blend of northern and southern landscapes, featuring both the grandeur of northern mountains and the elegance of southern scenery. The area is often shrouded in clouds and fog, creating a distinctive “Huangshan climate” where the sea of clouds can be witnessed for over 200 days a year. The mountain is home to numerous rare plants, most notably the Huangshan pine, which grows precariously on cliffs and has become a symbol of the mountain’s spirit.

Notable attractions include the Greeting Pine and the sea of clouds at Shixin Peak in Beihai Scenic Area, the Flying Stone and sunset at Guangming Peak in Xihai Scenic Area, the Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder and Narrow Sky in Yungu Scenic Area, and the sunrise at Guanri Platform in Yuping Scenic Area. Additionally, Tiandu Peak, the highest point at 1810 meters, offers a breathtaking view despite the steep climb, while Lianhua Peak is famous for its distinctive shape and the “Lotus Buddha Light” phenomenon. The beauty of Huangshan not only lies in its natural wonders but also in its deep integration with Chinese traditional culture, making it a famous mountain rich in cultural significance.

Must-Visit Attractions

  1. Beihai Scenic Area
    • Marked by the Greeting Pine, it is the most representative area of Huangshan
    • Shixin Peak offers stunning views of the sea of clouds, making it an ideal spot for photography
    • Lion Peak is known for its rugged and unusual rock formations.

Scenic Spot Introduction

Various Forms

  • The Cool Terrace is one of the best locations to view the sunrise.
  • Suggested visiting time: 180 minutes. It is recommended to go early in the morning to watch the sunrise.
  1. Xihai Scenic Area
  • Famous for its unique peaks and rocks, with the Flying Rock as its representative.
  • Guangming Peak is the second highest peak in Huangshan, providing an excellent view.
  • Scenic spots such as Mengbishenghua and Paiyun Pavilion each have their own characteristics.
  • You can enjoy the spectacular scenery of “Xihai Grand Canyon”.
  • Suggested visiting time: 240 minutes. It is recommended to visit in the afternoon to watch the sunset.
  1. Yungu Scenic Area
  • Known for its steepness, the Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder provides a thrilling experience.
  • Yitianshan is the narrowest mountain path in Huangshan.
  • Yungu Temple was once a place where ancient scholars and poets would stop.
  • The scenery of Songgu Spring is beautiful, flowing all year round.
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes. Pay attention to physical strength distribution.
  1. Yuping Scenic Area
  • Yuping Tower is a landmark building of Huangshan.
  • Guanritai is an excellent location to view the sunrise.
  • It offers a panoramic view of Huangshan with a wide field of vision.
  • There is a hot spring area nearby where you can soak and rest.
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes. You can choose to stay.
  1. Tiandu Peak
  • The highest peak in Huangshan, with an elevation of 1810 meters.
  • The summit route is steep and requires good physical strength.
  • The top of the mountain offers a panoramic view of the peaks, with spectacular scenery.
  • Suggested visiting time: 150 minutes.
  1. Lianhua Peak
  • One of the three main peaks of Huangshan.
  • The mountain resembles a lotus in full bloom, with beautiful scenery.
  • There is a wonderful sight called “Lotus Buddha Light”.
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes.

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route
  • Day 1: Take the Yungu cable car up the mountain → Yungu Scenic Area → Beihai Scenic Area → Stay at Beihai Hotel.
  • Day 2: Watch the sunrise at Qingliang Terrace → Xihai Grand Canyon → Guangming Peak → Paiyun Pavilion.
  • Day 3: Yuping Scenic Area → Hot Spring Bath → Go down the mountain.
  • It is recommended to stay on the mountain for at least one night to experience the sunrise and sea of clouds in Huangshan.
  1. Visiting Schedule Arrangement
  • Wake up at 4:30 in the morning to watch the sunrise.
  • Visit the main attractions in the morning.
  • Avoid large groups after 3pm.
  • Enjoy the evening glow in the evening.
  • Adjust the itinerary based on the weather.
  1. Practical Tips
  • Physical strength distribution: Arrange the itinerary reasonably and don’t be greedy for more.
  • Equipment suggestions: hiking shoes, hiking poles, and warm clothing.
  • Photography suggestions: The light is best in the morning and evening, so keep equipment dry.
  • Accommodation suggestions: Book hotels on the mountain ahead of time.

Transportation Guide

  1. External Transportation
  • Airplane: Huangshan Tunxi Airport → Tangkou Town (about 1 hour).
  • High-speed rail: Huangshan North Station → Tangkou Town (about 40 minutes).
  • Car: Huangshan City → Tangkou Town (about 1 hour).
  • It is recommended to book tickets ahead of time as transportation can be tense during peak seasons.
  1. Scenic Area Transportation
  • Cable cars: Yungu, Yuping, and Taiping are the three main routes.

Features

  • Scenic Area: Fully walkable, with electric cars available on certain sections.
  • It is recommended to choose different uphill and downhill cable cars to experience diverse scenery.
  • The operating hours of the cable cars vary with the seasons, so please inquire ahead of time.

  1. Hairy Tofu

    • A unique snack from Huizhou, with a distinct texture.
    • Recommended at established shops in the old town.
    • Average consumption per person: 20-30 yuan.

  2. Huizhou Chou Gui Fish

    • A famous Huangshan dish with a unique flavor.
    • Recommended at established restaurants in Tangkou Town.
    • Average consumption per person: 100-150 yuan.

  3. Shi Er Stewed Chicken

    • A famous nourishing dish.
    • Recommended at hotel restaurants on the mountain.
    • Average consumption per person: 80-120 yuan.

  4. Wild Mountain Vegetables

    • Local seasonal specialties.
    • Recommended at farmhouses offering rural tourism.
    • Average consumption per person: 30-50 yuan.

Special Reminders

  1. Safety Precautions

    • The mountain paths are steep; beware of slips.
    • Steps can be slippery in the rain; walk carefully.
    • Take safety precautions when photographing at heights.
    • Follow the instructions of the staff.

  2. Weather Preparedness

    • Temperature differences are large on the mountain; bring both thick and thin clothing.
    • It rains often, so bring waterproof gear.
    • Be cautious in foggy weather.
    • Check the weather forecast regularly.

  3. Managing Your Stamina

    • Plan your itinerary reasonably.
    • Rest and replenish energy when needed.
    • Bring sufficient drinking water and dry food.
    • Avoid attempting extremely challenging routes.

  4. Photography Tips

    • Arrive at viewpoints 2 hours before sunrise.
    • The sea of clouds often appears in the early morning.
    • It is recommended to bring a tripod.
    • Keep your equipment dry.

  5. Additional Tips

    • Scenic area tickets are expensive; keep them safe.
    • Prices are higher on the mountain; bring a moderate amount of food.
    • It is recommended to purchase travel insurance.
    • Respect nature and protect the environment.