Huashan, also known as Mount Hua, is one of China’s most sacred Taoist mountains. One of China’s Five Great Mountains, it is a breathtaking destination that combines natural beauty, cultural significance, and thrilling adventure. Located near Huayin in Shaanxi Province, Huashan is renowned for its cliffs, narrow pathways, and stunning views.
What you need before travel to Huashan
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Hotels & Flight Tickets
Hotels on Huashan:
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Discounted Air Tickets:
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Transportation to Huashan
From Xi’an to Huashan
High-Speed Train: Take a high-speed train from Xi’an North Railway Station to Huashan North Railway Station (about 30-40 minutes). From there, take a taxi or shuttle bus to the mountain entrance (about 15 minutes).
Regular Train: Regular trains from Xi’an Railway Station to Huashan Railway Station take about 1.5-2 hours.
By Bus: Buses depart from Xi’an Bus Station to Huashan Scenic Area (about 2 hours).
By Private Car or Taxi: A private car or taxi from Xi’an takes about 1.5-2 hours.
From Huashan North Railway Station to the Mountain
Shuttle Bus: Shuttle buses run from the train station to the mountain entrance (about 15 minutes).
Taxi: Taxis are readily available and cost around 20-30 RMB (about $3-5 USD).
From Huashan Railway Station to the Mountain
Taxi: Taxis are the most convenient option and cost around 10-20 RMB (about $2-3 USD).
Famous Spots on Huashan
It has been a place of pilgrimage and worship for over 2,000 years. The mountain is famous for its five peaks, each offering unique views and experiences. From the infamous Plank Walk to the challenging Thousand-Foot Precipice, Huashan offers thrilling experiences for adventurous travelers. At the same time, its temples, pagodas, and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and cultural immersion.
East Peak (Facing Sun Peak) 朝阳峰
The East Peak is the best spot to watch the sunrise on Huashan. The view of the sun rising over the horizon, illuminating the mountain peaks, is truly magical.
How to Get There: You can hike from the North Peak or take the cable car to the East Peak.
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot and bring warm clothing, as it can be chilly at dawn.
West Peak (Lotus Peak) 莲花峰
The West Peak is known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views. It’s also the starting point for the Plank Walk. The peak is shaped like a lotus flower, giving it its name.
How to Get There: Take the West Peak cable car or hike from North Peak.
Tips: The cable car ride offers spectacular views of the mountain.
South Peak (Landing Wild Geese Peak) 登雁峰
The South Peak is the highest peak on Huashan and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s also home to several Taoist temples and shrines.
How to Get There: Hike from the North Peak or take the cable car to the West Peak and hike from there.
Tips: The hike to South Peak is challenging but rewarding.
North Peak (Cloud Terrace Peak) 云台峰
The North Peak is the most accessible and is often the starting point for hikers. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
How to Get There: Take the North Peak cable car or hike from the mountain entrance.
Tips: The North Peak is a great spot for those who want to experience Huashan without a strenuous hike.
Central Peak (Jade Maiden Peak) 玉女峰
The Central Peak is known for its spiritual significance and tranquil atmosphere. It’s home to the Jade Maiden Temple, a Taoist temple dedicated to the Jade Maiden, a legendary figure in Chinese mythology.
How to Get There: You can hike from the North Peak or take the cable car to the West Peak and hike from there.
Tips: The Central Peak is a great spot for meditation and reflection.
The Plank Walk (Changkong Zhandao) 长空栈道
The Plank Walk is one of Huashan’s most thrilling attractions, it is one of the most terrifying cliffside walkways in the world. This narrow wooden pathway is bolted to the side of a vertical cliff, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline-pumping experience. The walk is not for the fainthearted, but it’s a must-do for adventure seekers.
The Plank Walk was constructed during the Yuan Dynasty by He Zhizhen and his disciples. During the Yuan Dynasty, Taoism flourished, and many Taoist practitioners sought secluded places for spiritual cultivation. Huashan, with its cliffs, breathtaking scenery, and lack of human habitation, was an ideal location for such practices. He Zhizhen and his disciples spent over 40 years carving caves and embedding stone nails into the sheer cliffs, building with wooden planks. Located beneath the cliffs of Luoyan Peak, the pathway was once the only route to Chaoyuan Cave. According to Li Panlong’s records from the Ming Dynasty, the pathway is only about 0.3 meters wide, forcing travelers to press closely against the cliff wall.
Location: Near the South Peak
How to Get There: You can hike from the South Peak or take the cable car to the West Peak and hike from there.
Tips: Self-assess your physical condition to ensure that you do not have any heart disease, high blood pressure, acrophobia, or other conditions that may make you unsuitable for high-intensity outdoor activities.
During the tour, be sure to abide by the regulations of the scenic area, do not leave the designated route without permission, and do not perform dangerous actions such as climbing and jumping. When using safety ropes, wear them correctly according to the instructions of the staff.
Wear sturdy shoes and use the safety harness provided.
*Seasonal adjustment: The opening hours of the Skywalk are not fixed but are adjusted according to the season and weather conditions. Generally speaking, the plank road is open from March to November each year, and the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit because of the pleasant climate. In summer (June to August), due to heavy rain, it is sometimes temporarily closed for safety reasons; in winter (December to February of the following year), due to the low temperature and icy mountain roads, the plank road is usually closed for the safety of tourists.
Thousand-Foot Precipice (Qianchi Zhuang) 千尺庄
The Thousand-Foot Precipice is a steep, narrow staircase carved into the mountain. It’s one of the most challenging sections of the hike, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Location: Near the North Peak
How to Get There: Start your hike from the North Peak entrance.
Tips for Traveling to Huashan
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April – May) and autumn (September – October) offer the best weather and views.
What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, warm clothing, water, snacks, and a camera.
Safety: Huashan’s trails can be challenging, so take your time and use the safety equipment provided.
Huashan is a destination that offers something for everyone, from thrilling adventures to serene landscapes. Whether you’re hiking to the peaks, walking the Plank Walk, or watching the sunrise, Huashan promises an unforgettable experience!
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