huangshan travel

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When its granite peaks and twisted pines are wreathed in spectral folds of mist the idyllic views of Huangshan (黄山, Huángshān; literally 'Yellow Mountain') easily nudge it into the select company of China’s top 10, nay, top five, sights. Legions of poets and painters have drawn inspiration from Huangshan’s iconic beauty. Yesterday’s artists seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of the temporal world have been replaced by crowds of tourists, who bring the hustle and bustle with them: the mountain is inundated with tourist traffic at choke points, so the magic can rapidly evaporate, especially during holiday periods and weekends. But Huangshan still rewards visitors with moments of tranquillity, and the unearthly views are simply breathtaking.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Huangshan Summit

The summit's huge network of connecting trails and walks meander up, down and across several different peaks. More than a few visitors spend several…

Refreshing Terrace

The vantage point for watching the Huangshan sunrise, five minutes’ walk from Beihai Hotel. Lucky visitors are rewarded with the luminous spectacle of…

Flying Rock

The Western Steps descent begins at the Flying Rock, a boulder perched on an outcrop half an hour from Beihai Hotel.

Flower Blooming on a Brush Tip

En route to the North Sea, you will pass this granite formation topped splendidly with a pine tree.

Banshan Temple

Located at 800m, this Huangshan temple's name literally means 'Halfway up the Mountain Temple'.

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Huangshan with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• 3 Days Private Tour
• 4 Days Huangshan & Hongcun
• 4 Days In-depth Hiking
• 5 Days Photography Trip
• Yellow Mountain

Tunxi Ancient Street

Hongcun ancient village, xidi ancient village, chengkan village.

• Tangmo Ancient Village
• Zhangjiajie

Top 9 Things to Do in Huangshan

The name of Huangshan City derives from the famous Huangshan Mountain, No. 1 of its must-see places. Besides such natural wonders, a history of more than 2,200 years has left the city with a large number of cultural heritages. Known as Huizhou in ancient time, Huangshan is the birthplace of Hui culture as well as the hometown of Huizhou merchants who ever ruled China’s commerce for over 300 years. Visiting the Huizhou style ancient villages and learning the local carving and painting art are among the top things to do in Huangshan. Let’s see the list below to know the best places to visit.

Huangshan Mountain

Tangyue Memorial Archways

Night Cruise of Xin’an River

Watch the Dance Drama ‘Picturesque Huizhou’ (Hui Yun)

Huizhou Ancient City

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A Visitor's Guide and Itinerary for a Two-Day Trip to Huangshan

Nattapon / Getty Images

Huangshan （黄山）literally means yellow mountain in Mandarin. It is a scenic area that covers over 250 square kilometers (nearly 100 square miles). The mountains are characterized by their "grotesque" granite peaks and pine trees jutting out at odd angles. If you've ever seen a classical Chinese ink painting where the mountains are impossibly angular, then the painting was probably a landscape of the Yellow Mountains. According to the Chinese Tourism authorities, Huangshan is famous for four its "four wonders": the wind-carved pines, spectacular granite peaks, sea of clouds and hot springs.

Huangshan is an easy trip to be taken from Shanghai if that is your base but it can also be reached from any part of China. It is an extremely popular tourist destination for Chinese domestic tourists and in the peak season between April and October, it can be clogged with visitors. I took my trip there in March, right before the beginning of peak season (Huangshan is open year-round) and found it delightfully empty. The downside was that some of the hiking paths were closed for maintenance so we didn't get to go up to the top of Lotus Peak or walk the Carp's Backbone, but having great weather and open hiking spaces was perhaps a worthy trade-off.

The following describes our 36-hour trip. We drove from Shanghai, hiked the mountain, stayed overnight on top, got up for sunrise, took the cable car down and then visited a few of the villages nearby before heading back to Shanghai. It was a quick trip but also very enjoyable.

Packing for an Overnight Trip to Huangshan

As always, packing the right gear, especially for trekking, is important. If you know you're going to be doing this trip and you're coming to China from abroad, then you might want to save yourself trouble and bring it all with you. However, you can also easily buy trekking gear in China (though large shoe sizes will be difficult to find).

As we would be hiking up the mountain and staying overnight, I wanted to be sure that I didn't take too much with me since I'd have to hike with it. However, the mountain is known to get cold (the peak area is about 1800m or around 6,000 feet) and I knew we'd be getting up before sunlight to see the sunrise so I'd need warm clothing. So I put some considerable time into packing to not only pare it down but to make sure I had everything I needed.

Driving - Shanghai to Huangshan

There were thirteen of us who went on the trip so we organized a mini-bus and driver to take us to Huangshan and drop us off. We set a specific time and place for meeting and arranged for the driver to pick us up the following day to continue the tour and drive back to Shanghai.

The drive took about six hours and we left from downtown Shanghai at 6:00 a.m. For a few hours the drive is nondescript but once you get into Anhui Province, you begin to see more villages and in March, the rapeseed were blooming so the fields were golden on either side of the road. It was really spectacular and I'm regretting now that I didn't insist we stop along the roadside for some photos.

Arriving at the South Gate of Huangshan

We arrived at the South Gate of Huangshan at about noon. One doesn't just hop out of the car and on to the trailhead and head up, unfortunately. There's quite a bit of orienting and ticket purchasing before you can actually begin hiking.

If you start at the South (Front) Gate, which most people do, your car or bus won't be allowed beyond a certain point. At the drop-off area you get out, stretch, gather yourself and try to figure out what's next. What is next is that you must take another bus to the trailhead. If you don't know this already before you arrive, you might have trouble figuring it out. (Now you know.) Things are not clearly marked. We first wandered into the supply shop (where there were also toilets), and while we didn't find the bus tickets, we were able to pick up some English maps of the mountain, cheap rain ponchos and other gear (water, snacks). It's definitely worth picking up a map as while the trails are marked in both English and Mandarin (and Korean and Japanese), sometimes it is confusing and we often consulted our maps.​

While a few of us shopped, another few figured out where to buy the bus tickets and so we all finally headed off to the bus terminal that takes you to the various trailheads. I emphasize various because if you do not pay attention, like us, then you might not end up at the right place. There are two ways up from the South Gate: the Eastern Steps that follow the Yungu (云谷)cable car and take about 2-3 hours to hike and the Western Steps that follow the Yuping (玉屏) cable car and take 6-7 hours to hike. We did not pay attention to the bus we got on and went to the Western Steps, thinking they were the Eastern Steps.

The moral of this little vignette is this: buy a map, study it, follow it and ask questions when you're confused. We were the blind leading the blind and while we made it to the top, we did not intend on hiking for so long.

Hiking Up the Western Steps

The trailhead of the Western Steps has many ways to be identified and I will give them all to you here so you can unequivocally know where you are should you find yourself here accidentally:

• the Jade Screen Cableway
• 玉屏索道 (written in Mandarin thus)
• Pronounced "yoo ping suo dao"
• The bus station is called the Mercy Light Temple Station
• 慈兴阁站 (in Mandarin)
• Pronounced "tse shing geh jahn"

Now you know more than we did when we began the hike. That said, we were 13 of us in very good spirits. Two immediately went up the cable car to get to the top quickly so as to spend as much time as possible on the summit. The rest of us 11 began the hike up the steps. But four turned back after about an hour and took the cable car up. The seven of us continued on and eventually split into two groups: one slower, one faster.

There are many stops and markers along the way so we did eventually figure out that we were hiking the Western Steps. And while we kept a very fast pace, the views were incredible and the hike was really amazing. The path is literally all steps. Some work crew did an incredible job at some point because it is currently very smoothly paved step after step. There are very few flat parts and some parts are very steep and difficult.

We eventually met up with our group at a place called Brightness Top on the summit where the ones who had used the cable car had gathered to watch sunset. The hike took us approximately five hours but it was invigorating. From Brightness Top we had another hour to walk to our hotel, the Xihai Hotel on the summit. We reached the hotel just as it was getting dark.

Staying Overnight at the Top of Huangshan

Having a clean room and hot showers brightened everyone's spirits. Especially because a few in our group had stayed on the summit before in dismal accommodation, we were not expecting much. Happily, the Xihai Hotel has a new wing that we booked into and it was really very comfortable.​

After dumping bags and showering, we met up in the hotel's Chinese cuisine restaurant where we ordered almost everything on the menu and enjoyed every bite. The food was very fresh and I guess it comes from farms at the foot of the mountain so it was simple and delicious.​

After dinner, many of us explored the hotel's entertainment options from foot massage to karaoke but we all turned in relatively early in order to get up for sunrise the next morning.

Photographing Sunrise on Huangshan

The sunrise enthusiasts set the time to meet in the lobby at 5:30 a.m. and the plan was that if you weren't there, then they weren't waiting. I was not totally convinced the night before that I wanted to get up but I happened to wake up before my alarm went off so I threw on some clothes and grabbed my camera and headed down. I was a few minutes late but after hollering in the dark, managed to catch up with the group. Another few stragglers came along and so our group ended up splitting in two, with my half following Chinese tourists who looked like they knew what they were doing. (When in doubt at sunrise, follow the people with the big cameras.)

There are multiple places to catch sunrise and the place we ended up is called "Monkey Watching the Sea", a high point that gives you a view over the northern valleys as well as the western Sea of Clouds.

The space was already quite crowded but we managed to squeeze in and I balanced my camera on the railing underneath someone else's large tripod. The sunrise was beautiful. The weather had been clear so we didn't get the mist hanging over the tops of the mountains that some people get when they go to Huangshan. It was fun to be up there so early with all those people and I did get a few decent shots, though my photographer friends did much better.

After about 45 minutes, we headed back to the hotel for breakfast and to pack up to head down and meet our bus.

Heading Down with the Taiping Cabelcar

While our itinerary didn't require us to use the north side of the mountain to exit, we had heard that the Taiping Cablear ride was spectacular so we decided to leave this way. The walk from the hotel to the Taiping station was only about thirty minutes and we had plenty of time to take more photos on the way.

The cable car ride didn't disappoint but I would recommend those who are afraid of heights not stand near the window. The supports for the ropeway seem impossibly high and the mountain valleys impossibly low. There is one point where you can't see the next support and all you see in the distance are ropeways that seem to suspend the cable car into infinity.

The ride only took about ten minutes leaving me wishing I could have walked the way down the mountain. Unfortunately time didn't permit and it was time for us to pile back into our waiting van to continue on to see typical Huizhou architecture in Hongcun and Xidi, two UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites in Anhui Province.​

Visiting the UNESCO Villages at the Foot of Huangshan

By the time our van rolled up to Hongcun the skies had opened up and it was pouring rain. Our van was met with a shoving group of old ladies trying to see us umbrellas and rain ponchos. Those who still had them, donned their Huangshan-purchased rain gear and we went off exploring.

The villages were fairly empty probably due to a combination of the weather, the fact we were visiting on a weekday and the fact that it wasn't yet high season. We were lucky in this. The villages we visited are very small with tiny, narrow alleyways. I wouldn't want to be crowding around in this with throngs of tourists.

Probably the highlight of our village visits was a comical arrival at The Pig's Inn, a tiny inn and restaurant that at first told us we couldn't visit when we called them on the way, but then proceeded to make us a very delicious homemade meal.

Thoughts on Our 36-Hour Itinerary

We were in a rush to get back to Shanghai so probably didn't spend enough time really wandering through the villages and seeing everything we could. I think 36-hours might be a little too tight to fit all of this in. After two early mornings and one late night, we were all pretty tired by the second afternoon and with poor weather, eager to get back. That eagerness turned into frustration and anger and then resignation as our driver got very lost in the back-country of Anhui Province. Lost and congenial, he stopped every driver or farmer for what seemed like a hundred kilometers until finally we got a police escort back to the main road!

Our eagerness quickly turned into frustration over the hours we spent bouncing along the hilly roads between villages as our driver searched for the right road. Luckily, this kind of thing doesn't happen too often when I travel but these kinds of things do occur and it's best not to dwell on it. We ended up arriving back into Shanghai at about midnight through a terrific lightening and rainstorm, so really, we were just happy to be back safely.

Thoughts on this itinerary for you: One night and two days just wasn't quite enough. To do it again, I would spend two nights. One way is to arrive and sleep a the foot of the mountain, spend one whole day on the mountain going up and down, and then spending another relaxing night somewhere near the villages. Then get up on Day 3 and enjoy the villages with plenty of time to get back to Shanghai or wherever is next.

Another way to do it would be do the same as us, then take your time going down the mountain. Spend the second night at the foot, and then Day 3 exploring the area and villages.The bottom line is that more time is always better. But I enjoyed this trip very much and would really like to go back again some day.

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Huangshan Travel Guide

The city of Huangshan is called Huizhou in the old days, and now it is named after the famous Yellow Mountain and become a fascinating destination for tourists from all over the world.

Top Things to Do in Huangshan

As the hometown of Hui merchants and the birthplace of Hui culture, Huangshan is famous for the Yellow Mountain . Besides its amazing mountain scenery, Huangshan has a rich cultural heritage, which you can explore at sites like Tunxi Ancient Street, Xidi Village, and the Tangyue Memorial Arches.

Hike on the Yellow Mountains

With its beautiful natural landscapes, Huangshan is a paradise for travelers who are fond of hiking. You can admire strangely sculpted pine groves, oddly-shaped rocks, and a sea of clouds on your hike.

Photograph the Hongcun Village

Located in Yixian County, Hongcun Village is renowned in China for its Anhui-style buildings. With the stunning rural countryside laid out before you, this is your chance to enjoy and capture amazing views.

Enjoy the Huangshan Hot Springs

The Huangshan Hot Springs is regarded as one of the Four Wonders of the Yellow Mountains. Soaking in a hot spring spa is a good way to wind down after hiking in the mountains, particularly in winter.

Experience Huizhou Culture

Traditional Hui customs and ancient Hui-style architecture characteristic of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368–1912) are well preserved in Huangshan.

Joining some cultural activities is a great way to experience local life in Huangshan. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in visiting a local farm and learning to make Anhui food from the locals.

Best Time to Visit Huangshan

Huangshan is worth visiting all year round. You can admire different types of beauty in each season.

• Trees turning green and flowers blooming in spring
• Waterfalls and a sea of clouds in summer
• Red maple leaves and pines retaining verdant, green needles in autumn
• Snowflakes and rime on trees in winter

The peak tourist season lasts from April to November, with September and October being the most popular months for travel due to the pleasant weather. However, many travelers regard winter as the perfect season for hiking tours, as hiking paths will be less crowded, and you can enjoy the snow-covered landscape and fresh air along the trail.

• Read more on Huangshan Weather .

How to Get to Huangshan

Located in East China, Huangshan can easily access other popular tourist destinations by high-speed train or flight. It is often combined with Shanghai and Hangzhou. Read the following article for more details.

• Travel to Huangshan from Shanghai
• Travel to Huangshan from Hangzhou

Travel Huangshan with Us

If you are planning on visiting Huangshan and want a hassle-free tour, do not hesitate to contact us and tell us your requirements. Below are the most popular tour packages.

3-Day Yellow Mountain and Hongcun Tour

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Museum of Wander

A Complete Guide to Huangshan – The Yellow Mountains of China

Our complete guide to Huangshan (the Yellow Mountains) shows you how to visit the most beautiful mountains in China

Huangshan (黄山), or the Yellow Mountains, in China’s Anhui province, is a terrific destination for those in search of the natural beauty of China. Huangshan Mountain is well known all over China for its breathtaking scenery, surreal granite formations, seas of clouds, hot springs and some of the most beautiful rural villages in the country.

The Yellow Mountains are magnificent, and one of our  top places to visit in China.

We just visited China’s famous Yellow Mountains this winter. Information on visiting Huangshan independently is a little thin, so we put together this complete guide to visiting Huangshan in winter (or any time really).

Our guide to the Yellow Mountains covers:

• Why is it called the Yellow Mountains
• How to get to Huangshan
• Where to stay in Huangshan
• Taking the Huangshan cable car
• How to visit Huangshan without a tour
• Huangshan hot springs
• Things to do around Huangshan

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Quick Guide to Huangshan

Visited:  December Suggested time:  3-4 days Where to stay: Shunli Chengzhang Famous for:  Sea of Clouds, Huangshan pines, hot springs, rural villages Transportation: Huangshan Tunxi International Airport,   book your high-speed trains to Huangshan in advance. Tip:  Buy some snacks in Tangkou before going up the mountain, as it’s overpriced on the mountain itself. Unique experience : Soak in the Huangshan hot springs

WHY IS IT CALLED THE YELLOW MOUNTAINS?

Don’t be disappointed when you arrive at the foot of Huangshan and not seeing a single shade of yellow. Huangshan (the Yellow Mountain) gets its name from Huang Di, the Yellow Emperor. 

Huang Di was a godlike ancestor of the Han Chinese, and according to legend, he ascended to heaven right here from the Yellow Mountains.

Huangshan has inspired artists and poets for centuries and, being such an essential part of Chinese culture, is very popular with local tourists. Like mountains everywhere else, Huangshan keeps inspiring people to come in search of adventure, solitude and fresh air. If you need more reasons to climb a mountain, here are some inspiring  mountain quotes  to get you excited.

Before Huang Di’s ascend to heaven, Huangshan was pretty much unknown. However, that all changed when the big man himself evaporated from here, and Huangshan has been very popular among Chinese tourists ever since. Today Huangshan is classified as an AAAAA Scenic Area, a title that only the best and most beautiful places in China can get. Huangshan also acquired  UNESCO status  in 1990.

HOW TO GET TO HUANGSHAN

Huangshan is located in Anhui province and can be reached by either high-speed train or flight. Both  Huangshan North station  and  Huangshan Tunxi International Airport  are at least an hour away from Huangshan Mountain scenic area. Remember this when planning your trip to Huangshan.

Huangshan North Railway Station (黄山北) is the train station serving the Yellow Mountains, while the airport is in the city of Tunxi.

Buses run from the train station and airport to Tangkou (where the mountain is). The most convenient way to get to Tangkou is to arrange with your accommodation to send a driver to pick you up or get a DD taxi.

Getting to Huangshan by train:

Shanghai & Hangzhou to Huangshan by train :

• Several direct trains a day run between Shanghai Hongqiao Station and Huangshan North Station.
• The journey from Shanghai to Huangshan takes about 3 hours and costs RMB 191.
• The train stops in Hangzhou on the way, where passengers can also get on.
• Book your train tickets to Huangshan online for convenience.

Beijing to Huangshan by train:

• At least 6 direct, fast trains run between Beijing South and Huangshan North Stations every day.
• It takes about 6 hours between Beijing and Huangshan.
• Tickets cost about RMB 600.
• Book your Beijing-Huangshan train tickets here.

Flights to Huangshan

Huangshan Tunxi International Airport has direct flights to Beijing, Guilin, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xian and Qindao amongst others. In times when there is not a global pandemic, there should also be direct flights to Seoul , Taipei and Bangkok.

WHERE TO STAY IN HUANGSHAN

As we mentioned before, the train station and airport are over an hour away from the Huangshan Scenic Area. You do not want to stay in either Huangshan or Tunxi (unless you want to spend an hour each way to reach the mountain).

Tangkouzhen, or simply Tangkou, is a small city right at the foot of the mountain. It has more than enough options for accommodation. Tangkou is still a damn ugly town, and we don’t recommend staying here longer than necessary.

Instead, do as we did and stay just outside of Tangkou. We stayed at a lovely hotel in the Emerald valley for 3 nights, and we just loved it.

STAYING IN THE EMERALD VALLEY

Shunli Chengzhang is a boutique hotel located in the stunning Emerald valley, just 15 minutes drive from Tangkou. The host offers free drop off and pick up in Tangkou or at the entrance to the Huangshan ticket office. He speaks good English, and the young family goes out of their way to make your stay unforgettable.

The ensuite room is spacious and clean, and the bed is super comfy. A tea set with Huangshan green tea awaits you in the bay window, where you can have yourself a little tea ceremony while looking at the mountains and trees.

Breakfast is included, and we had some delicious dumplings and warm, sweet soy milk for breakfast. You can message your dinner order to the owner, and it will be ready by the time they bring you back home from Tangkou. This beats looking for a place to eat after a day on the mountain or visiting the villages around town. The menu features mostly local dishes from Anhui province.

Arrange pick up at the railway station or airport before arrival. He asked us RMB 180 each way for this, the same price as a DD taxi. This same driver also took us to Hongcun village for a day trip.

The host will help you plan your hiking route on Huangshan, provide you with a map, and you can borrow his walking sticks when heading up the mountain.

See prices and availability

HUANGSHAN IN WINTER ENTRANCE FEES

The Yellow Mountain is open throughout the year. Entrance fees depend on the season. Here is a breakdown of what we paid, per person, when we visited Huangshan in December. This is the price of fees when visiting Huangshan in winter (Dec-Feb). In summer (Mar-Nov), expect to pay a little more.

HUANGSHAN IN WINTER

Visiting Huangshan in winter has the advantage of avoiding the huge crowds which the Yellow Mountain is notorious for. It is also a bit cheaper.

Like any other time, the weather in winter can be unpredictable (it is the weather, after all). However, you’re not guaranteed to have better views at any time of year. During our 3 days in Huangshan, we had 2 clear and balmy winter days and one miserable, cold and rainy day …GUESS WHICH DAY WE WENT UP THE MOUNTAIN????

While there is nothing we’d like to show you more than the incredible views of Huangshan, we didn’t see much other than fog and pine trees. What we can show you, though, is how to do Huangshan without taking a tour.

What’s the best time to visit Huangshan? There is no right or wrong answer. Having good views on Huangshan is all down to luck. So come when you can, and hope for the best.  Avoid weekends and Chinese holidays if you don’t like the idea of hiking with a billion other people!

Huangshan will award you with good views if you have lived a good life. But that’s not enough. To ensure good views on the Yellow Mountain, three generations before you must have lived good lives. Local saying

Regardless of when you come, prepare yourself for not seeing the most beautiful mountains in China. The mountain is notorious for foggy weather.

On the day we went up Huangshan, the whole mountain was covered in thick fog. We walked for hours in rain and sleet. Instead of seeing the Sea of Clouds that the Yellow Mountain is famous for, we walked IN the cloud, not seeing a thing. It truly was a miserable day.

TAKING THE HUANGSHAN CABLE CAR

Unless you want to take 3 days to hike up the 60 000 steps to the summit of Huangshan, taking the cable car is the best way to go up the Yellow Mountain. Taking the cable car saves time and energy, and don’t see this as cheating, as you’ll still have to hike for hours once you reach the top of the mountain.

There are 3 cable cars and 1 funicular going up and down the mountain. They operate between 07:00-17:00 every day, but two are completely closed in winter.

The most popular route for Huangshan is taking the Yungu cable car up and then walking to the Yuping cable car to go down before stopping at the hot springs for an hour or two.

The  Yungu cable car  ( 云谷索道 ) goes up and down the backside of the mountain to the White Goose Ridge station. You can ride this cable car if you’re starting or ending at the Southern Gate Entrance. The Southern Entrance is in Tangkou town.

The  Yuping cable car  ( 玉屏索道 ) runs up and down the front of Huangshan. It runs between Mercy Light Station at the bottom to Yupin station on top, near the Guest-greeting Pine.

Yungu and Yuping cable cars operate year-round between 07:00 -17:00

The Taiping cable car and Xihai funicular are both closed during the winter , and so they were not operating when we visited in December.

HOW TO VISIT HUANGSHAN WITHOUT A TOUR

We started at the South Entrance, took the Yungu cable car up, walked for hours in the rain, did not see anything, and came down with the Yuping cable car. Here is some practical information for those wishing to do the same (hopefully when the weather is better).

It’s difficult to find some of the ticket offices due to the lack of English and the fact that all the Chinese are part of tour groups with prepaid tickets, so you can’t simply follow the crowd.

Start at the South Entrance to Huangshan, located in Tangkou town. Go through this gate, and on the left is a small mobile office where foreigners have to show their passports and register.

Follow the herd for about 200 meters until you get to this building. You really can’t get lost. Simply follow the groups.

Inside the building, walk straight ahead and go to window 7. This is where you buy a ticket (RMB16) for the shuttle bus that will take you to the Yungu cable car.

Next, line up here to catch the shuttle bus. The bus takes about 15 minutes to reach Yungu cableway station.

Once off the bus, follow everyone else (do you see a pattern developing here?) until you get to this ticket office. All the Chinese will have tickets already, so they do not stop at the ticket office. Pay for your Huangshan entrance fee( RMB 150 in winter) and your cable car ticket ( RMB 65) here. Then proceed to the cable car station.

The cable car takes about 10 minutes to reach the top of Huangshan.

After reaching the top of Huangshan, follow your chosen route. We really hope that you’ll have better weather than we had.

It took us 5 hours before reaching Guest-greeting Pine. From here it’s a short walk to the Yuping cable car that will take you down again.

Look out for this sign showing the way to the Yuping cable car.

At the bottom of the cableway, find this small office to buy your bus ticket. Tell them you’re going to Huangshan hot springs, or else pay the full fare

HUANGSHAN HOT SPRINGS

The Huangshan hot springs are the perfect end to a day of hiking the Yellow Mountain. You’re sure to be exhausted by the time you come down Mount Huangshan, and, especially in winter, the hot springs are just the place to soothe those sore legs and relax after a day of hiking.

The Huangshan hot springs complex includes several mineral-rich, natural hot water pools. Several pools of various sizes, colours and temperatures are scattered around the garden surrounding a yellow pagoda. The temperatures vary between 40-42 degrees Celcius.

While you might be tempted to stay put and soak until you reach Nirvana, make sure to try all the pools. There are hot springs infused with red wine from Bordeaux, Huangshan green tea, vitamin C, coconut milk, jasmine flowers and another one with tiny fish that will come and nibble on your skin.

It was easy for us to forget how miserable it was on the mountain while soaking in these hot springs while the snow kept falling.

Entrance fee: RMB 198

Includes locker, towel and shower. (Robes are RMB 30 extra.)

THINGS TO DO AROUND THE YELLOW MOUNTAINS

You really should spare some time to see the incredible countryside around Huangshan. While the mountain is the main attraction, the ancient villages, bamboo forests and green tea fields surrounding Huangshan are equally impressive and worth visiting.

Our hotel owner arranged with the driver who picked us up at the train station to drive us to Hongcun village and the Mukheng Bamboo Sea for the day. We paid a reasonable RMB 300 for the whole day.

HONGCUN VILLAGE

Hongcun village (宏村) is exceptionally picturesque and well deserved for its claim to be one of the most beautiful villages in China. Hongcun sports UNESCO status for its well-preserved architecture and unique layout.

This beautiful village was established in 1130 and dates back to the Han dynasty. Hongcun has a very unique layout for an ancient Chinese village: in the shape of an ox. A hill nearby is seen as the head, with two tall trees being the horns. Four bridges cross a waterway to get into Hongcun, which are the legs. The houses inside Hongcun village itself are the body of the ox. The streams running throughout the village are the intestines, while the ponds are the organs of the ox.

For us, the incredible reflections of the Hongcun before you walk across the bridge to enter the village were the highlight. It’s stunning, especially early in the morning. The Moon Pond in the centre of the village is also very beautiful with the buildings reflected in the pond.

There are several restaurants where you can get something to eat and drink. Local Anhui food such as duck and preserved vegetables or little baskets filled with purple, glutinous rice are also for sale on the street.

Entrance fee: RMB 104

MUKHENG BAMBOO SEA

The enormous Mukheng bamboo forest, halfway between Hongcun and Tangkou, is worth a stop for a stroll amongst these giant bamboos. This bamboo forest is gigantic, so much so that it is known locally as the Mukheng Bamboo Sea.

We walked up the path for about 40 minutes and, without end in sight, decided to turn around. Along the way, we saw, well, a metric fuckton of bamboo! The path also passes some green tea fields, and it really is a nice, relaxing stroll surrounded by 50 shades of green. The most epic scene in the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon – the dance/sword fight among the bamboos- was shot here.

Entrance fee: RMB 40

THAT’S HOW YOU DO THE YELLOW MOUNTAINS!

We hope you’ll have a great time in the Yellow Mountains (including good weather, breathtaking views, no crowds and strong legs). If you have any questions, please let us know in the comments below, and we’ll try our best to help.

18 Comments

Very nice and helpful guide. Thank you

We’re glad you found it helpful, Astrid. Hope you have better weather when you go 👍

Hi, may I know whether there is a shorter route to hike, maybe an hour, if I would like to take both the Yungu and Yuping cable car? For an easier hike, which cable car should I take to go up the mountain? Thank you very much!

Hi Jane, I don’t think it’s possible to hike between the two cable car stations in an hour or so. If you’re looking for a shortere hike, choose one cable car, ride it to the top, take a hike in that area and then return. I’m sure the scenery will be fantastic at either cable car. If you want to visit the hot springs after, take the Yuping cable car.

Hello, I loved the information. If I visit the park two days, do I need to buy the ticket twice?

Hi Marcilene, I think the entrance ticket is valid for two days. Ask when you buy or exit the park for a re-entry ticket.

You’ll have to pay again for the cable cars if you’re not hiking up.

we loved your review! very helpful information, thank you 🙂

Hi, Thanks for the information, it is very helpful. I will be traveling with my 80 year-old father. What is the best way to tour Huangshan (with minimal hiking if possible). Plan to go during mid November. Thanks in advanced!

Hi Elsie, We suggest you take the Yungu cable car up and down. We found this part of the mountain (what we could see) the most scenic and dramatic. You’ll get some great views within moments after arriving on top. There could be a fast track queue and ticket counter for the elderly, so look out for that or ask at the ticket office for assistance. China really values the seniors so take advantage of it. We wish you a great trip and good weather:)

Informative, helpful and comprehensive guide. Thank you!

I’m planning my Huangshan trip now. May I check with you regarding the day-trips for the surrounding ancient villages and attraction points, the tour itinerary and transportation fees were discussed and firmed up with the hotel owner after checking in? Or all these have to be done upon the hotel booking?

Hi Fong, You can arrange your day trip when you arrive at the hotel in Huangshan. We arranged the pick up from train station in advance with our guesthouse owner. We sent him a message on Trip(dot)com after booking. The price was the same as a DiDi taxi, so we accepted that.

When we got to the guesthouse, we asked about a driver for a day tour to the villages. The owner suggested we use the same driver who picked us op from the station. We decided on a price and itinerary. You’re renting the car and driver by the hour/day, so you can choose where to go and how long to stay. Have a great trip 🙂

Thanks for sharing this! Especially appreciate the in-depth tips on visiting without a tour and advice on planning an itinerary for a short trip. Is there a way to reserve tickets in advance? I saw a mention somewhere about having pre-booked tickets to guarantee entry, but can’t seem to find a way to do it anywhere online!

Hi Amy, sorry, I don’t know about prebooking tickets. Thiose prebooking tickets are probably booking guided tours

Very useful informatio… Thank you so much. Have a question… if i arrive at huangshan after noon.. is it possible to hike half the route ( like the back mtn) and do the front mtn the next day? or can i just do HongCun 1/2 day ? Just tryjng to optimize the time else what can i do? 😁

Hi Doreen, I won’t plan on doing too much if arriving midday. Take into consideration it takes an hour from the airport or train station. If you can get a driver right away (or arrange one before arrival),then Hongcun is a good idea. You could also take a hike in the Emerald Valley area at the foot of the mountain. I’d put aside a full day for the mountain itself. Enjoy your trip

Hi thanks for sharing your tour to Huangsan! It’s very informative and I enjoy reading it. I am planning to go in early June 2024. Can I know the reason you did not choose an overnight stay at the mountains as I understand most people will go for the sunset and sunrise? Can I also know how many days should I spent at huangsan if I would like to the villages as well? Thanks in advance!

Hi Jennifer, The hotels on the summit were just too expensive for us, and that’s why we didn’t stay there. But I think sunrise from the top must be incredible. You can see the villages on a day trip, so allow an extra day for that.

We stayed in Huangshan for 3 nights which was just right. We could easily have stayed another day.

Enjoy your trip to Huangshan and let us know if you have any other questions.

Thank you so much!

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• 1.1 Landscape
• 1.2 Flora and fauna
• 1.3 Climate
• 2.1 By train
• 2.2 By plane
• 3 Fees and permits
• 4.1 Trail closures
• 10.1 On the Mountain
• 10.2 Tangkou and Tunxi
• 11 Stay safe

Huangshan (黄山; Huángshān ; lit.: Yellow Mountain) is in Anhui Province in China , toward the southern end near the border with Zhejiang . It is on the UNESCO World Heritage List . There is also a Huangshan city to the south and a Huangshan district to the north.

Understand [ edit ]

Huangshan is a granite massif consisting of 36 peaks, rising above 1,800 m. Famous throughout Chinese artistic history, Huangshan represents the typical mountain in Chinese paintings, and has also served as the inspiration for the design of many traditional Chinese gardens . Frequently shrouded in mist, the many peaks appear to float on clouds and have very fanciful names such as 18 Arhats Worshipping the South Sea, Lotus Flower Peak, Celestial Capital, and Paint Brush.

Landscape [ edit ]

Jagged granite peaks clothed in uniquely shaped pine trees create a spectacular landscape of great interest to artists and photographers. The development of walking tracks and cable cars makes this landscape accessible to most active travelers.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

Over 1,450 kinds of plant are found within the park. The most spectacular tree is the unique Pinus huangshanensis which grows precariously clinging to rock faces. Many of the trees have names such as the Welcoming Guest and the Seeing-off Guest Pines. Carpinus, Cornus, Enkianthus, Fraxinus, Rhododendron and Weigelia are some of the species of flowering tree to be seen. 470 species of animals have been recorded. The most frequently seen ground animals are squirrels, macaques, and small skinks.

Climate [ edit ]

Huangshan can be cold at night (it's 1,800 m above sea level). The upper parts of the mountain freeze periodically in winter, which can make some paths slippery with ice, especially in the morning. The more dangerous paths are generally closed in these conditions, and vendors on the mountain sell cheap snow spikes that attach to your shoes.

For over 200 days per year, the top of the mountain is in clouds and all that spectacular scenery is hidden. If there is only partial cloud cover, however, the mountain is utterly spectacular. If you have the flexibility, plan to stay for several days, or adjust the dates of your visit according to the weather forecast.

The valleys around the mountain tend to collect clouds overnight, especially after rain or snow, leading to a "cloud sea", one of the mountain's famous scenic highlights.

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ], by plane [ edit ], by bus [ edit ].

Frequent direct buses run from Shanghai and Hangzhou. The buses from Hangzhou run either to Huangshan City (nearly two hours away) or direct to Tangkou at the mountain's tourist distribution center. The buses to Tangkou are less regular, but easy to catch if you phone up the bus station and get a timetable. Buses back from Tangkou leave mid-afternoon, but are closely spaced such that the second bus is usually empty. In these circumstances, the first bus may "break down" in Tunxi until the second bus catches up.

Fees and permits [ edit ]

An entry fee of ¥230 applies (off-season entry fee is ¥120, e.g. early December), and a 50% discount is available for students with IDs and seniors. If you take the tram to the top, it costs ¥80 each way, and you'll need ¥19 each way for the shuttle bus to reach the lifts or trailheads on the south side of the mountain. Prices for food are about twice as high on the top as they are at the bottom.

Get around [ edit ]

Huangshan City (Tunxi) is not too close to the mountain itself. A taxi from the airport to Tangkou is ¥100-200 depending on your negotiating skills.

Upon arrival at the train station, airport, or long-distance bus station, a convenient method of transportation is by bus to the 30.0935 118.1825 4 tourist distribution center at Tangkou. The bus ride to Tangkou takes about an hour, and offers great views of rural Anhui Province. There lots of small buses outside Huangshan station, which should cost ¥15-20 for a one-way ticket and leave frequently. From Huangshan North station, walk to the bus terminal to your right when entering the station, where larger, less-frequent tourist buses take you to the mountain. As of 2018 these can fill up hours in advance, the ticket desk may have lineups of 20-30 minutes, and nearly all booking is actually done through a clunky, Chinese-only WeChat plugin.

From the town of Tangkou (汤口镇, Tangkouzhen), at the foot of the mountain, a shuttle service operates every 20 minutes to the Hot Springs Area; 30.104 118.1654 5 Yuping Cable Car and 30.1237 118.1889 6 Xinyungu (New Cloud Valley) Cable Car . Tangkou is quite walkable but taxis are available to scenic spots around the foot of the mountain. You cannot go direct to the mountain entrance by taxi: only the National Express buses are allowed into the scenic area. There are trails up the mountain that start near each of the two southern cable cars, but leaving from different bus stops.

A third cableway, the 30.1749 118.1559 7 Taiping cableway , ascends the north side of the mountain from Huangshan District. This is readily accessible from Huangshan North station, but more difficult to reach from Tangkou, Tunxi and the other stations

Trail closures [ edit ]

• Lotus peak and Celestial Capital peak are each typically open for five years at a time while the other closes. In 2019, Celestial Capital Peak reopened.
• Less-popular and more-dangerous trails, including Celestial Capital Peak and the trails up from the north and northwest, are normally closed in winter.

See [ edit ]

• Huangshan . The main tourist destination is Huangshan (Yellow Mountain). From the Yuping Cable Car/Mercy Light Temple entrance, the "Western Steps" lead up for about 14 km over spectacular terrain. Allow 6-7 hours for the ascent. If you are fit and have a good head for heights, the steep ascent to Celestial Capital Peak is rewarding. From the Yungu Cable Car parking lot, the ascent by the "Eastern Steps" is easier, taking as little as 2-3 hours. If you choose to descend by the Eastern Steps you can extend the hike by including the Nine Dragon Waterfall area (Jiulongpu) for an additional charge. The paths are all stone steps that can make your legs rubbery after a while. Remember: a long descent is not that much easier than an ascent. Huangshan is most famous for its sun rise and sea of cloud at dawn. However, all these wonders are subject to weather conditions. In the off-season, Mount Huangshan can be extremely foggy in the morning. Approach your hotel or hostel counters for some travel tips in this area; they are typically very experienced locals. ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Zhuhai ( Buses do not run at night though, so if you want to go after 5PM, get a cab for ¥100-200. ). Do not miss this nearby gorgeous valley covered with a bamboo forest. Some very nice restaurants and rustic inns you can stay in (preferable to Tunxi). ¥30 .  

Do [ edit ]

Hiking. There are four trails up the mountain: two from the south, one from the north, and one from the northwest. From the south, the more scenic "western steps" start from 30.108092 118.167772 1 Ciguang Pavilion (慈光阁, Mercy Light Temple) , past the Yuping cablecar, while the 30.122 118.1878 2 "eastern steps" start just below the Yungu cablecar. In the north, a trail starts from the base of the Taiping cableway, at the Songgu Forest (松谷禅林) entrance. The far more obscure but very scenic route from the 30.1348 118.1246 3 northwest entrance via the Fairy Bridge starts at the end of a small local road. The northwest entrance has no bus service and no taxis, is not near any village, and its parking lot is usually completely empty, so ascending via this route requires a taxi and descending requires planning your transportation in advance. It is also sometimes closed in winter.

Once on the top of the mountain it is possible to do a few walks. Highly recommend is the walk through the West Sea, for its stunning scenery. This area is also accessible by a funicular railway from the top (¥100). The connection between the Fairy Bridge and West Sea is closed (2018).

Note that the trails on the mountain are generally industrial-scale stone or concrete walkways, wide and flat, with railings, often lighting, and a crew of workers to clear off snow, garbage, and leaves. This is not a trek through the wilderness.

One of the famous attractions at Huangshan is its hot springs, located above Tangkou.

Buy [ edit ]

An English-language map is available in Tangkou. Many local couples buy padlocks and inscribe their names on them, then lock them to various places on top of the mountain. Others buy medals commemorating their successful summit of the peak.

In Tunxi, the most cited tourist destination is Laojie (old street with lots of souvenir shopping). This street is over-commercialized and has little to offer over the more authentic ancient towns nearby (Hongcun, Xidi, both on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and others). But it is near the airport and train station, and can be entertaining if you need to kill time before leaving town. The Laojie is a great place for buying high quality red, black and green tea at reasonable prices. Also worth a try is the tea tofu.

Eat [ edit ]

Food options are limited on the mountain. There are (expensive) restaurants in all the hotels but it is hard for a solo traveller to find cheap food. There are several small grocery stores selling snacks & drinks. Stinky tofu of a particularly stinky variety seems to be popular as well. On top of the mountain in peak season, water was ¥6-10, beer ¥10, meat sticks 3 for ¥10, instant noodles ¥10, cucumbers 2 for ¥6.

• Laojie Diyilou ( 老街第一楼 ), 249 Laojie (老街249号) . Bright, tastefully decorated restaurant with examples of the food so you know what you are ordering. Not high cuisine, but not bad and predictable! ¥50-70 per person .  

Drink [ edit ]

Take plenty of water as the price rises steeply on the mountain (up to ¥10 per 600 ml bottle). Local beer, such as Huangshan Beer (黄山啤酒), costs ¥10-20.

Sleep [ edit ]

On Huangshan, most tourists choose to stay overnight at one of several hotels in the Beihai region of the mountain to watch the sunset and sunrise. All hotels on the mountain are extremely expensive (a bed in a shared dorm is likely to cost more than ¥300/night), and note that several close in winter. In Tangkou there are a lot of cheap hotels available for around ¥80. There are also some options in Tunxi.

On the Mountain [ edit ]

Note that there is a well-staffed police station on the mountain, and if you try to check into a hotel there without all your identity documents perfectly in order, you should expect to spend several hours enjoying that police station's hospitality while you explain yourself.

• 30.144 118.1655 1 Beihai Hotel ( 北海宾馆 ). Expensive hotel on top of the mountain, central to many of the sights and convenient for sunrise. Doubles ¥700-9700, dorms may exist at the ~¥300 level. . ( updated Nov 2019 )
• 30.1454 118.1651 2 Shilin Hotel ( 狮林大酒店 ). Popular with photographers, and practically covered in spectacular photos of the mountain. ¥900-3,000 for doubles, ¥200-300 for dorms . ( updated Nov 2019 )
• 30.1253 118.1701 3 Yupinglou Hotel ( 玉屏楼宾馆 ). Near the top of the Yuping cableway and the western steps. No view of sunrise. Doubles ¥600-2500 . ( updated Dec 2018 )
• 30.1395 118.1649 4 White Goose Hotel ( 白鹅山庄 ). Between the Yungu cableway and Guangding summit (Bright Top), this is usually the cheapest (and lowest-rated) hotel on the mountain, and may offer deals if you travel at an unpopular time. As of March 2021, they were not accepting foreigners. Doubles ¥600-2500, dorms ¥100-250 . ( updated Mar 2021 )

Tangkou and Tunxi [ edit ]

• Huangshan International Youth Hostel , Tangkou . Their food is not very good, but the rooms are cheap and clean with warm water and western toilets. They arrange various tours which are generally good. From ¥100 to ¥300 for a private room in peak season .  
• Huangshan Old Street International Youth Hostel , 266 Laojie . Based in Tunxi. Decent looking hostel. Great at helping organise transport to Huangshan area and accommodation on the mountain  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Watch out for ice in winter, and do not make eye contact with the monkeys.

Go next [ edit ]

• Chengkan Ancient Village ( 呈坎村 ) ( An ancient village showing the Yin-yang theory of traditional Chinese Philosophy ). Chengkan Village is the top attractions of Huangshan famous for its splendid architectural complex in the Huizhou style. The former residents of Chengkan Village are quite special. The memorial of Chengkan Village is also towering and full of traditional culture. ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Hongcun ( 宏村 ) ( Buses do not run at night, so if you want to go after 5PM, get a cab for ¥100-200. ). Water village. Hongcun is slightly prettier than Xidi, but much more crowded; if pressed for time, you do not need to see both villages. Some very nice restaurants and rustic inns you can stay in (preferable to Tunxi). ¥80 . ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Xidi ( 西递 ) ( Buses do not run at night, so if you want to go after 5PM, get a cab for ¥100-200. ). Water village. Some very nice restaurants and rustic inns you can stay in (preferable to Tunxi). ¥80 . ( updated Nov 2019 )

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How to Visit Huangshan & Recommended Huangshan Trips 2024

Huangshan is a prefecture-level city in Anhui Province, southeast China with splendid culture, time-honored history, and beautiful natural scenery. Here you can find the masterpiece of nature, the world-famous Huangshan Mountain; spend some leisure days at the thousand-year countryside, Hongcun, Xidi, Chengkan, etc.; take part in cultural activities such as DIY batik and ink-stick making in Nanping and Tunxi. But how to get to these places? Here is the map helping you get around Huangshan city and fully enjoy your Huangshan tour.

Main Attractions in Huangshan City

Most tourists to Huangshan will arrive at Tunxi district first, because Huangshan Railway station (10 minutes’ drive from downtown), Huangshan North Railway Station (30 minutes’ drive from downtown), and Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (20 minutes’ drive from downtown) are all here. When you arrive at Tunxi, you can take a walk at the 832m Tunxi Ancient Street . It is the best-preserved old street in China in the style of the Southern Song Dynasty (A.D. 1127-1279), Ming (A.D. 1368-1644) and Qing (A.D. 1644-1911) Dynasties.

As shown in the map, Huangshan Mountain is about 1.5 hours’ drive to the north of Tunxi . The driving time can be cut to 1 hour if you take the highway. You can drive directly to the mountain, or stop by at the several attractions in between. On the western route, Xidi Ancient Village , 52km to the northwest of Tunxi , together with Hongcun (30 minutes’ drive to the north of Xidi) is listed as a World Heritage Site. The picturesque idyllic scenery is really a delight to eye and it has always been the paradise for photographers. Nanping Village lies 20 minutes’ drive away from Xidi . The 8 old greatly-maintained ancestral halls will provide you with a better understanding of the clan culture in feudal society. What’s more, you can try DIY batik here to make a kerchief or a scarf. It would be a meaningful souvenir. After that, you can either bike 80 minutes (including the time you may need to take some pictures on the road) or drive 10 minutes to Guanlu village.

Bishan is about 30 minutes’ drive from Hongcun . Though it has kept a low profile, Bishan Village is the perfect place to fulfill your pastoral dream. Reading a book at China's Most Beautiful Countryside Bookstore, spending several comfortable days at Pig’s Inn, or cycling along the countryside road, what a cozy life to live here! If you take your trip in October or November, there is another place you can not miss, Tachuan ancient village , only 5 minutes’ drive from Hongcun . In autumn, the crimson, yellow leaves are interspersed between the looming white wall and grey tiles of Huizhou-style residences. The oil-painting-like scenery makes the quiet village so poetic and dreamy. It is a highly recommended place in autumn.

On the eastern route, most scenic spots are in Shexian County and Huizhou District, to the northeast of Tunxi, about 30km away. There are two recommended villages in Huizhou district . Tangmo , a tranquil ancient village where you can find the best Shuikou garden in China, is also a 5A Tourist Scenic Area. Then drive north for 20 minutes , here is where Chengkan lies. Have you ever heard about Feng Shui (Chinese geomancy)? That’s how Chengkan was built 1800 years ago. And fortunately, the special layout remains together with hundreds of old buildings, so it is also called “The Museum of Chinese Ancient Architectural Art".

In Shexian , people always take a package tour to Tangyue Memorial Archways and Bao Family’s Garden, because they are just 10 minutes’ walk away. The previous one consists of 7 grand delicately carved archways (built from 1420 - 1820) telling the good deeds about loyalty, filial piety, moral integrity and righteousness of Tangyue people. Therefore, some knowledge about these stories will greatly help you understand the meaning of these archways. After hearing those stories, Bao Family's Garden is really a good place to relax. As the best and largest bonsai appreciation place in China, the numerous vigorous bonsai will refresh both your mind and body. Then drive east for 15 minutes , there is Huizhou Ancient City . Wandering on the winding cobbled lanes, looking at the ancient theatrical stages, stone archways and teahouses. It feels like you were back to the Huizhou 1000 years ago. Xin’an River Landscape Gallery is a little far, about 40 minutes’ drive to the east of Huizhou Ancient City. But it’s a wonderful destination if you are interested in cruising or hiking in the countryside.

How to Plan a Huangshan Tour

With so many attractions around Huangshan, how can we make our Huangshan tour to the fullest? First, you need to decide which attractions you want to visit. Is it just Huangshan Mountain, or together with the villages nearby? Second, what kind of tour do you want? Do you want a leisure tour or it is ok to have a tight schedule? Are you more interested in the nature beauty, long history, exquisite architecture, or the rural daily life? Here we have listed some routes for your reference.

Travel to Huangshan Mountain Only

There are several ways to explore Huangshan, usually taking 2-3 days. If you are travelling with kids, the senior, or want a leisure trip. The 3 Days Huangshan Highlights Tour may fit your requires. You won’t be too tired while being able to see the main highlights.

Day 1 : Huangshan arrival – check in hotel

Day 2 : Huangshan Mountain (hiking 5-6 hours)

Route: Yungu Cable Way - Begin-to-believe Peak - Dispelling Cloud Pavilion - Bright Summit - Flying-over Rock

Day 3 : Huangshan Mountain - Departure (hiking about 2 hours)

Route: Lion Peak - Yungu Cable Way

More Huangshan mountain tours :

>>3 Days Huangshan Classic Hiking Tour

>>4 Days Huangshan In-depth Hiking Tour

Travel to both Huangshan Mountain and Nearby Villages

If you are not just interested in Huangshan Mountain, but also a culture lover, the nearby villages are totally worth a visit. All the villages have their own highlights, among which Hongcun and Xidi are the most chosen ones. The following 4 Days Huangshan Tour with Hongcun & Xidi has perfectly integrate those attractions.

Day 3 : Huangshan Mountain (hiking about 2 hours) – Tunxi

Route: Lion Peak - Yungu Cable Way - Tunxi Ancient Street - Hu Kaiwen Ink-stick Factory

Day 4 : Hongcun – Xidi – Departure

Route: Tunxi - Hongcun - Xidi - Airport or Train Station

More tours to explore Huangshan :

>>4 Days Huangshan with Pig's Inn Carefree Countryside Idyll Tour

>>4 Days Huangshan Tour to Huizhou Culture Exploration

>>4 Days Huangshan Mountain Tour with Ancient Villages Living Experience

Customize Your Trip with China Discovery

Except for the recommended travelling routes, we are also specialized in tailor-made trips according to your own interests, budget, traveling time, and physical condition. The itinerary is adjustable. If you have any questions or requirements about arranging your trip, please feel free to contact us and our professional travel consultant will reply to your within 24 hours.

How to Plan a Huangshan Yellow Mountain Tour

You can easily plan your Yellow Mountain trip to 1 day, 1.5 days, 2 days, 3 days or more according to your days, energy condition and interest. If you just want to explore Huangshan in an easier way, 3 Days Huangshan Highlights Tour will be the best choince. 3 Days Huangshan Classic Hiking Tour is a little more physical demanding than the previous one, but you will be rewarded with the stunning scenery of both back and front mountain. If you are also interested in the local lives and cultures, then you can check this 4 Days Best Huangshan Tour with Hongcun & Xidi Ancient Villages . Hongcun and Xidi Ancient Village are together listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Huangshan can be traveled with other popular China destinations easily especially those in the nearby regions, such as Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Jingdezhen, Wangxian Valley, etc. You can even connect Huangshan with Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Chengdu, etc.

We have helped many global travelers enjoy their memorable trips to Huangshan for the past few years. Among them, a couple from Canada enjoyed their romantic covering Huangshan highlights" href="travel-stories/14-days-beautiful-china-exploring-tour.html" target="_blank">14-day Nature & Culture China trip covering Huangshan highlights with our cutomized tour package. Besides, Mr. Ban's group from USA who have been traveling with us for more than 3 years also savored the sightseeing and culture of Huangshan.

All of our Huangshan tours can be tailor-made to fit your needs and likes. You will also be well taken care of by our local knowledgeable and helpful tour guide and experienced private drivers, and enjoy well-selected quality accommodation and food. Please feel free to contact us with your requirements or questions and our professional travel consultant will reply to you as soon as possible.

Other Recommended Tours:

8 Days Treasures of Jiangnan China Odyssey Tour

5 Days Shanghai Huangshan Tour by High Speed Train

6 Days Best Mountains Tour with Huangshan & Zhangjiajie

Essential Travel Guide

• All Huangshan Travel Guide
• Attractions in Huangshan
• Activities in Huangshan
• Get to/around Huangshan
• Yellow Mountain Hotels
• Huangshan City Hotels
• Tangkou Hotels
• Huangshan Maps
• Best Time to Visit Huangshan

Extension Readings of Huangshan Travel

• How to Plan Mount Huangshan Tour
• Top Villages in Huangshan
• Top Pines on Huangshan
• Huangshan Mountain Facts
• Huangshan Family Travel
• What to Pack
• Huizhou Culture
• Huangshan Cuisine
• Why Huangshan Travel Expensive
• Luggage Storage for Huangshan Hiking
• Huangshan Travel FAQs & Tips
• Huangshan Photo Gallery

Recommended Huangshan Tours

Top 3 Huangshan tours chosen by most customers to explore Huangshan in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary,or tailor your own trip now with us.

Tunxi - Huangshan - Tunxi

Tunxi - Huangshan Mountain - Hongcun - Xidi

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Huangshan Itinerary - How Long to Spend in Huangshan

Huangshan is famous for its breathtaking Yellow Mountains landscape of granite peaks, charismatic pine trees, and cloud-sea vistas. Huangshan is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Discover the best duration for your Huangshan adventure from these itineraries, ranging from a quick 2-day trip to a deeper 5-day exploration — allowing you to make the most of your time and have the best experiences in this majestic region.

How Long to Spend in Huangshan

Generally speaking, a typical Huangshan trip takes about 3–4 days. Within 3–4 days, you can cover the main highlights of Huangshan and the surrounding ancient village at a comfortable pace.

If you only have 2 days, you can still visit Huangshan and explore the major Yellow Mountains highlights such as Beginning-to-Believe Peak and West Sea Grand Canyon, as long as you plan your itinerary well. If you would like some help with the planning, you could have an experienced local travel expert, like us, maximize your travel experience.

If you want to have a deep exploration of the mountains and the idyllic and culture-filled surrounding areas, we recommend that you spend about 5 days enjoying your Huangshan adventure. An extended stay would give you the opportunity to hike all the major trails, witness sunrises, and sunsets from a number of awesome viewpoints, explore the ancient villages at a leisurely pace, and possibly visit the attractive neighboring areas of Tunxi and Wuyuan.  

Huangshan in 3 Days — Essence of Huangshan

A 3-day Huangshan itinerary would allow you to enjoy the main highlights of the Yellow Mountains and visit a medieval village and street — Hongcun and Tunxi Old Street — at a relaxed pace.

See below for a sample 3-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival, visit Tunxi Ancient Street and Hongcun
• Day 2: Yellow Mountains tour
• Day 3: Yellow Mountains sunrise, departure

Enjoy a comfortable stroll through Hongcun — a quiet (except for the seasonal tourist droves) and artistically charming tiny village nestling at the foot of the Yellow Mountains. Our guide could help take some awesome memorial photos for you there.

You would spend a day and a night on the Yellow Mountains to enjoy their highlights including a captivating sunset and sunrise. With our tailored guidance, you can choose the level of exploration that suits you best. Our guide would customize the best route according to your preference and fitness level, whether you are an energetic hiker who wants to explore off-the-beaten-path or beginners, a family with children, or senior citizens.

Sunset and sunrise on the Yellow Mountains would definitely be highlights of your tour (with good weather). Our experienced guide would lead you to the best vantage points for these awe-inspiring moments. The weather plays a significant role in this experience. We recommend consulting your travel advisor when planning your trip to inquire about the potential for favorable weather conditions, increasing your chances of watching enchanting sunset or sunrise panoramas. 

Huangshan in 4 Days — In-Depth Trekking Experience

If you want a deep exploration of the Yellow Mountains, we can help you arrange a trekking route on less-traveled paths, allowing you to appreciate undisturbed beauty away from the tourists.

Here's a sample itinerary for your consideration:

• Day 1: Huangshan arrival
• Day 2: Trek up the Yellow Mountains, sunset among the peaks
• Day 3: Trek in West Sea Grand Canyon
• Day 4: Trek down the mountainside

During this itinerary, you would have a great adventure exploring the legendary mountain area on foot. You would uncover hidden gems that normal travelers never have a chance to see.

Your guide would accompany you every step of the way. You would trek at your own pace, savor the picturesque landscapes, and capture stunning photographs without the usual tour-group disruptions. You would hike up and down the mountain on different paths, ensuring that you experience a diverse range of views and trails.

Recommended tour: 4-Day Trekking in the Yellow Mountains 

Huangshan in 2 Days — a Quick Explore

With a 2-day tour, we recommend you focus on the main highlights of the Yellow Mountains. To make the most of your short trip, we recommend the following well-planned 2-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Yellow Mountain tour
• Day 2: Yellow Mountain sunrise, Hongcun village, departure

To have a full 2 days for your Yellow Mountains tour, you would need to arrive a day earlier. You would take a cable car up the mountain and explore key attractions, such as Beginning-to-Believe Peak, Bright Summit Peak, and the West Sea Grand Canyon. You would also catch a sunrise and/or sunset during your stay if the weather permits.

However, with a 2-day tour, you would probably miss the beautiful surrounding villages. We recommend leaving at least 3 days to explore both the Yellow Mountains and the old-style villages at the mountains' foot.

If your goal is to experience the essence of Huangshan within a limited time, a well-planned 2-day trip can undoubtedly be a rewarding and memorable adventure.

Yellow Mountains Itineraries from Shanghai/Hangzhou

The Yellow Mountains are somewhat conveniently located near Shanghai and Hangzhou (2½/1½ hours by bullet train + 1 hour by car), making an excellent extension to your trip from either city.

A typical well-planned Huangshan itinerary from Shanghai or Hangzhou is as follows:

• Day 1: Huangshan arrival, Bishan Village
• Day 2: The Yellow Mountains
• Day 3: Sunrise on the Yellow Mountains, departure

Relax in picturesque and serene Bishan Village, explore its traditional Hui-style architecture, and observe local artists at work. Enjoy fantastic rocks, seas of clouds, sunset, and sunrise on the Yellow Mountains.

Recommended tour: Escape to Huangshan from Shanghai or Hangzhou  

 Visit the Yellow Mountains with China Highlights

Below are our most popular Huangshan tours. All our itineraries can be customized according to your preferences. Alternatively, we can create a new personalized Yellow Mountains itinerary just for you, tailored to your interests and needs.

• 3 Days: Essence of Huangshan
• 4 Days: Trekking in the Yellow Mountains
• 15 Days: China's Ancient Cities and Celebrated Mountains
• 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
• 12-Day China Silk Road Tour from Xi'an to Kashgar
• 11-Day China Classic Tour
• 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
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• 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
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• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
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• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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Huangshan Travel

Located in the south of Anhui province, Huangshan is an enchanting city that can be easily reached by high-speed train from Hangzhou , Suzhou , and Shanghai . With its iconic mountain range, serene ancient villages, and distinctive Hui-style architecture, Huangshan is a destination that deserves a spot on every traveler's itinerary. Huangshan is home to several spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites, with the most famous being Huangshan Mountain , Hongcun , and Xidi .

Huangshan Mountain stands as the undisputed gem of the city, captivating visitors with its extraordinary granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and soothing hot springs. Hiking through its trails allows you to witness the ethereal beauty that has inspired generations of poets and artists, immersing yourself in a realm of natural wonder and awe-inspiring vistas.

Hongcun is a living testament to traditional Huizhou architecture. Its well-preserved buildings, intricate carvings, tranquil waterways, and idyllic surroundings create a picturesque setting reminiscent of Chinese ink paintings. Xidi showcases the distinctive architectural style of the Huizhou region. Its elegant courtyards, stone-paved streets, and ancestral halls reflect the rich cultural heritage of the area.

To make the best of your Huangshan visit, check out the latest Huangshan Travel Guide . It offers comprehensive planning information, including the best times to visit , popular hiking routes, and insights into the local culture. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking challenging trails, or a culture enthusiast interested in historical architecture, Huangshan promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of China's natural and cultural essence.

Huangshan Travel Essentials – Travel to Huangshan Before You Go

Embarking on a journey to Huangshan ? This collection of Huangshan travel guides is your ultimate pre-travel guide. Covering everything from itinerary planning and optimal travel periods to overviews of top attractions and must-do activities, these articles provide comprehensive knowledge and insider tips for your Huangshan travel plan. Whether you're an experienced traveler or it's your first visit to Huangshan , these travel guide will help you plan a smooth and unforgettable experience. As a local travel agency based in Huangshan , we've curated these articles to ensure you're well-prepared for the natural beauty and cultural heritage that awaits in Huangshan !

Explore Huangshan Top Attractions on Map

Eager to explore the enchanting city of Huangshan ? Utilize our interactive Huangshan map to plan your itinerary and uncover top landmarks and hidden gems. This map, teeming with must-visit spots, will help you optimize your time and enhance your Huangshan journey. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Huangshan Mountain , experience the tranquility of ancient villages like Hongcun and Xidi , and absorb the cultural richness of Tunxi Old Street. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture lover, Huangshan offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. Let our map guide you on this journey of discovery.

Best Things to Do in Huangshan

Huangshan Travel Itineraries 2023/2024

As a seasoned travel agency in Huangshan , we curate diverse tour packages catering to different interests, ensuring every traveler experiences the city's splendor. Our offerings span from Huangshan Mountain Hiking Tours for adventure seekers, to Cultural Tours exploring the ancient Hui-style villages for history enthusiasts. With our customized Huangshan tour packages, you're set for an unforgettable exploration of this scenic city.

1. How to plan a Huangshan Hiking Tour? +

Yellow Mountain comprises three distinct regions : the Front Mountain, Back Mountain, and the West Sea Grand Canyon.The Front Mountain features towering peaks, beautiful stone paths, and expansive views. The Back Mountain is famous for picturesque minor peaks and shapely pine trees. The West Sea Grand Canyon is an enchanting region known for its deep valleys, breathtaking cliffs. Most of the highlighting attractions are located on the mountain top area, accessible either by hiking or taking a cable car.

The hiking routes on Huangshan can be customized according to your days, energy condition and interest, basically for 1 day, 1.5 days, 2 days

1 Day Hiking Route (Without Overnight on the Mountain)

Back Mountain + West Sea Grand Canyon 1st Ring

Route: Yungu Cable Way - Begin-to-believe Peak - Monkey Gazing at the Sea - Lion Peak -West Sea Grand Canyon 1st Ring - Loop and Descend by Yungu Cable Way

Walking Distance: about 7~9km/5~6 hrs

1.5 Days Classic Hiking Route ( Overnight on the Mountain)

Back Mountain + West Sea Grand Canyon

First Day Route: Yungu Cable Way - Begin-to-believe Peak - Dispelling Cloud Pavilion -West Sea Grand Canyon - Bright Summit - Flying-over Rock

Second Day Route: Sunrise - Dawn Pavilion - Refreshing Terrace - Monkey Gazing at the Sea - Lion Peak - Yungu Cable Way

Walking Distance: about 3km/2 hrs

2 Days Full Mountain Hiking Route ( Overnight on the Mountain)

Front Mountain + West Sea Grand Canyon + Back Mountain

First Day Route: Yuping Cable Way - Greeting Guest Pine - One Hundred Cloud Ladder - One-Line-Sky - Bright Summit - Flying-over Rock - Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion

Walking Distance: about 11km/6 hrs

Second Day Route: Sunrise - West Sea Grand Canyon - Lion Peak - Begin-to-Believe Peak - Yungu Cable Way

Walking Distance: about 7km/5 hrs

2. What are the main attractions in Huangshan? +

1. The Yellow Mountain (Huangshan Mountain) itself: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for "Fiver Wonders": oddly-shaped pines, bizarre rock formations, sea of clouds, winter snow and hot springs.

2. Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages : These are two exceptionally well-preserved ancient villages, also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known for their historic architecture and beautiful settings.

3. Bishan Village :A rural utopia to experience rural China in its authentic setting, away from the hustle and bustle of touristy spots.

4. Tunxi Old Street: Located in Huangshan City, it's a hub for antiques, local snacks, tea, ink stones, and Hui-style architectures.

5. Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory : Discover how traditional Chinese ink sticks, used in calligraphy and painting, are made.

6. Bao Family Garden : Situated in Yi County, it's a fine example of traditional Chinese garden design.

7. Huizhou Ancient City: Gives visitors a glimpse into the region's storied past and its rich architectural and cultural heritage.

8. Tachuan Village : Known for its autumn scenery, it's a great spot to witness the seasonal beauty.

9. Chengkan :A picturesque ancient village , renowned for its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and unique layout based on feng shui principles.

3. What is the best time to visit Huangshan Mountain? +

Huangshan Mountain is worth visiting all year round , particularly in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) . During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it comfortable for hiking and exploring the mountain.

In spring, the mountain is adorned with blooming flowers , creating a picturesque and vibrant landscape. The cherry blossoms and azaleas are particularly stunning during this time.

During summer , Huangshan offers a cool and pleasant retreat , making it an ideal destination to escape the heat.

Autumn brings breathtaking foliage as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The cool temperatures and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy the panoramic views and take in the beauty of the surrounding nature.

In the cold winter , Huangshan Mountain transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland , with snow-covered vistas that resemble a picturesque painting. Winter is also the best time to appreciate the sunrise, sunset, the sea of clouds, and the winter snow.

Each season has its own unique charm, so the best time to visit Huangshan Mountain ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the experience you wish to have.

4. How do I get to Huangshan? +

Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (TXN) is the primary airport serving Huangshan. It's located in Tunxi District, about 7 kilometers from downtown Huangshan City (Tunxi). The airport has flights connecting major cities like Beijing , Shanghai , Guangzhou , and Xi'an .

Huangshan North Railway Station is the primary station for high-speed trains. It's well-connected with cities such as Shanghai, Hangzhou, Beijing, Hefei, and others.

For those traveling from Shanghai, there are frequent high-speed trains that can take you to Huangshan in around 3 to 4 hours.

From Hangzhou , the journey by high-speed train is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

5. Were to stay in Huangshan? +

In Huangshan, visitors have various accommodation options:

Mountain Top Hotels : For those wishing to catch the sunrise or sunset, there are several hotels located on the mountain top. Popular choices include Beihai Hotel, Paiyunlou Hotel, and Xihai Hotel.

Good to Know:

Staying on the mountain allows you more time to appreciate additional scenic views of Huangshan, especially sunrise and sea of clouds. However, due to the high transportation costs on the mountain, hotel facilities may be limited. The star-rated hotels might not be up to the standard of those in big cities like Shanghai.

Ancient Villages: If you're looking for a cultural experience, consider staying in one of the ancient villages like Hongcun or Xidi. Here, you can find traditional Huizhou-style guesthouses that provide a unique experience.

Huangshan City Hotels: For those who prefer urban amenities, there are numerous hotels in Huangshan City (Tunxi District). This location is further from the mountain, but it offers more dining and shopping options.

6. What should I pack for a Huangshan tour? +

1. Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential for walking the mountain paths safely.

2. Clothing: Depending on the season, pack layers. Consider lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing for summer, and warm layers for autumn and winter.

3. Rain Gear: A light rain jacket or poncho is always a good idea due to unpredictable mountain weather.

4. Backpack: A comfortable daypack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and other personal items during your hike.

5. Refreshments: While there are some vendors on the mountain, they can be pricey. It's a good idea to bring your own water and non-perishable snacks, like energy bars or nuts.

6. Sun Protection: Hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun during clear days.

7. Cash: While some places might accept electronic payment, having cash on hand is always a good idea, especially in more remote areas.

8. Toiletries: If you're staying overnight, pack lightweight toiletries. Don't forget essentials like tissues or wet wipes.

7. Is it necessary to have a guide for a Huangshan tour? +

Yes, while it's possible to explore Huangshan independently, having a guide can provide deeper insights into the area's history, culture, and natural wonders.

Create a tour based truly on your preferences, including all aspects of your travel in the destination

Rachel Meets China

A Three Day Itinerary for Hiking Huangshan

Huangshan is one of the most famous mountains in China and the perfect place to visit for a break from city life . Also known as the Yellow Mountains, Huangshan can be fit into a one, two, or three day trip, depending on how much time you have.

I recently visited Huangshan and spent two total days in Huangshan and Hongcun, and 1.5 days traveling to and from Huangshan.

For a full guide on planning a trip to Huangshan, check out my post:  A Guide to Hiking Huangshan

Day 1: Traveling to Huangshan

Huangshan City is located in the Anhui province, south of the province capital Hefei. Huangshan City is actually not where the mountain scenic area is located, but you’ll need to arrive here first before going to the mountain.

To get to Huangshan City you can:

• Fly to the Huangshan Tunxi International Airport
• Take a train to Huangshan Railway Station
• Take a high-speed train to Huangshan North Railway Station
• Take a long-distance bus to get to Huangshan (from close cities like Shanghai)

After you arrive in Huangshan City (黄山市), then need to take a bus to the scenic area. Go to the public transportation hub and  get a bus ticket to Tangkouzhen , the little city right next to Huangshan Mountain.

Day 2: Hiking Up Huangshan 

Morning: shuttle bus to yungu cable way, xihai grand canyon.

I started the morning early, arriving at the park ticket office around 6:30am. From here you can choose where to start hiking on Huangshan: the Eastern steps (Temple of Cloud Valley) or the Western steps (Mercy of Light). I bought a shuttle bus ticket for 19 RMB, and rode 30 minutes up the mountain to the Eastern entrance.

From the east side you can either hike up (which takes 2-3 hours) or take the cable car (8 minutes). I wanted more time to hike on the top, so I took the cable car up (80 RMB).

Unfortunately it was really foggy for the first part of the morning when I started hiking from the cable car, so I couldn’t see much. I hiked for an hour around the Shixin Peak up to my hotel (The White Goose Hotel) and waited for the fog to clear a bit.

After the fog cleared up around 9am, I hiked to the Xihai Grand Canyon Area . This area was stunning and an amazing place for photos! There were lots of tour groups coming from this way, but I was able to walk ahead of them for a bit to get some photos.

From the Xihai Grand Canyon area I took the Cable Car (tram) up to  and stopped to grab some food and rest. I also ran into a Chinese family who asked me to hold their baby!

AFTERNOON: Turtle Peak and Lotus Peak

After resting, I hiked to the top of Turtle Peak, then headed over to Lotus Peak.

Lotus Peak was a bit tough but totally worth all the stairs up! I almost waited to hike Lotus Peak because I originally planned to hike down the Western side of the mountain, but I decided to try it in one day then head back down the Eastern side the next day to see what I missed when it was foggy.

EVENING: Hike to the hotel and sunset

I headed back down Lotus Peak, back up Turtle Peak, and then up to the Beihai Hotel to catch sunset around 5:30 p.m. Afterwards I walked back to my hotel to rest early for sunrise the next morning. 12 miles and sore legs, but a full and happy first day hiking!

Day 3: Hiking Down Huangshan & Hongcun Village

Morning: sunrise, hiking shixin peak, cable car down.

I woke around 4:30 a.m. to catch the sunrise outside – it was so worth waking up early, and there wasn’t any fog like the previous day, so we had a nice clear view of the sun!

After sunrise I went back to sleep a little longer, than began my hike down. I decided to go down the Eastern Side because I wanted to see what I missed when it was foggy. Shixin Peak was especially nice!

I would have loved to get a photo here, but there were so many tour groups going through there was no way it was going to happen.

I went down the mountain at an unusual time and an unusual route, so I got a cable car to myself which was nice. This route worked for me, because I did more hiking the first day than I planned and I didn’t want to go back up Lotus Hill to go down the mountain (that was a hard hike!)

AFTERNOON: Hongcun Ancient Village

Once I reached the bottom of the mountain, I took a shuttle bus back to Tangkouzhen and made plans to go to Hongcun. Usually to get to Hongcun you take a bus from the bus station, but the buses only leave a few times a day so I would have to wait awhile. Fortunately my first hotel host Mr. Hu told me he knew of a private van going. Normally a bus ticket costs 15 RMB, but I paid 26 RMB to ride in the van – a cheap upgrade to leave earlier in the day and get more time at Hongcun!

Hongcun was a lovely place to stroll around, try local Anhui snacks, and enjoy the ancient village. There were lots of tour groups that came through in the afternoon, but if you avoided them and explored the little alleyways it was much quieter. For a break I stopped inside a cute little coffee shop, and they were nice enough to let me leave my big bag inside their shop while I went outside to take more photos.

EVENING: Hongcun Railway OR Tunxi Old Street

Depending on your time schedule, you may want to leave Huangshan and go back to the airport or railway station from Hongcun, or if you have extra time you can go back to Huangshan City and spend the night near Tunxi Old Street.

(Day 4 Optional: Leave Huangshan)

Morning: airport or railway station.

I had an early train the next morning, so I left Tunxi Old Street at 7:15 for a 30 minute ride to Huangshan North Railway Station.

Hiking the Yellow Mountains

If you’re looking for adventure and some breathtaking scenery, Huangshan is the place to be! There are plenty of stunning photo opportunities and despite the tour groups, there  are even places to avoid the crowds and get some space to yourself for a bit. If you have two or three free days while traveling in China, I highly recommend a trip to Huangshan.

*Note! My schedule was very tight is and is not for those wanting a leisurely holiday. I packed it full to make sure I had time to see everything and also hiked hard my first day. If you want more time on the mountain, feel free to skip Hongcun. If you don’t want to rush your hiking but still want to see Hongcun, skip some parts I did (like Lotus Peak or The Grand Canyon). It really depends on your timing and what you enjoy doing!

Check out some of my itineraries for other destinations in China:

• The Ultimate 7-Day Beijing Itinerary
• 6-Day Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang Itinerary
• A Guide To Hiking Jinshanling Great Wall

See you in the mountains!

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19 comments.

Wow, what a beautiful place 😊

Waah. I envy your adventure. You’ve had so much fun, judging from the pictures alone.

Like Liked by 1 person

It was so awesome!! Definitely a must if you have time in China!

Haha! You’re helping extend a very long bucket list already. But it’s all in good spirit 🙂

A natural wonder. So beautiful! 🙂

Yes agreed! Such an incredible place!

Great Escapades. Very challenging and fearsome.

Yes quite an amazing hike!

Fascinating, beautiful, and informative. Thank you.

Thank you! 😊

Great post and beautiful pictures. I LOVE that photo of the empty alleyway with the red lanterns!!

Thank you!! Yes it was such a beautiful place, I loved all the lanterns hanging everywhere!

YES THE VIEWS ARE AMAZING BUT THE SKIES ARE EVEN BETTER. THANKS FOR SHARING RACHEL, CHINA

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Thanks for reading! Loved hiking in Huangshan!

Reblogged this on LIVING THE DREAM and commented: RACHEL MEETS CHINA

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU SPEND RESEARCHING YOUR NEXT TRIP BEFORE YOU LEAVE RACHEL, IT MUST BE HARD WORH PLANNING HOTELS, TOUR GUIDES ETC, CHINA

Nice Itinerary, you had done a great trip rachel ！ but I am afraid you just finished half of huangshan. the east way, which is normally called the back mountain (后山）, is usually considerd the secondary route of the mountain. the western way, which is usually called the front mountain (前山）,is the main area. so you had missed some famous places like: Guest-Greeting Pine (迎客松）——Iconic landmark of huangshan. Yuping building （玉屏楼） the Bright Summit（光明顶） the Heavenly Capital Peak（天都峰） another Iconic landmark of huangshan you missed is the flying stone (飞来石） the lotus peak，the Bright Summit and the Heavenly Capital Peak are the top three highest peaks of huangshan, you miss two. and in my opinion，the Heavenly Capital Peak is more Spectacular and more fun than the lotus peak. and you don’t need to re-climb the lotus peak to access the front mountain, there is a way to bypass it 🙂

Wow great information! Thank you for sharing! I want to go back and hike Huangshan again – I will have to visit these famous places you mentioned that I didn’t see last time!

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3 Classic Huangshan Hiking Routes

 Xin'an River Hiking Route

West Sea Grand Canyon Route

West Sea Grand Canyon or Xihai Grand Canyon, Chinese 西海大峡谷, is one of the must-see parts of Mt. Huangshan. West Sea Grand Canyon, as the valley has the Baiyun Creek in it, also known as "White Cloud Valley". It is one of the famous grand canyons in the Yellow Mountain, which allows people to enjoy the sight of the valley on the circling halfway canyon.3 classic Huangshan hiking routes are worthy of visiting.

Mt. Huangshan Front Mountain Route 

Mt. Huangshan Front Mountain contains a classic Huangshan hiking route: Ciguangge Temple - Yupinglou/Bright Summit Peak. This route includes so many landmarks of Mt. Huangshan, such as Guest Greeting Pine (迎客松), Crucian Backbone (鲫鱼背), etc.. 

Recommended Mt.Huangshan Hiking Tour:

4 Days Mt. Huangshan Highlight Tour

5 Days Huangshan & Xin'an River Trekking Tour

Recommended China Tours

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The “International Visitor Friendly Scenic Spot” initiative is the first of its kind in China. The initiative helps global travelers visiting Huangshan enjoy convenient payment options, including card, mobile payment and cash, as well as claim tailored digital red packet to enjoy shopping discounts and check travel guide and tips in 16 languages.

Huangshan Tourism Group will also collaborate with Alipay to launch local Hui culture experience tours and activities for international tourists.

“The beautiful scenery of Mount Huangshan and splendid Hui culture are must-have experiences when traveling in Huangshan. We hope to enhance global travelers’ experience through digital solutions on Alipay platform,” said Jiajia Li, vice president of Alipay business group at Ant Group.

An increasing number of overseas tourists are visiting China given the expansion of the visa-free policy and continued recovery of international flights. Official data showed the number of foreign nationals visiting China in the first quarter of 2024 increased more than three times year-on-year.

Huangshan is the top tourist attraction for international visitors to Anhui Province. After the mutual visa-free policy between China and Singapore went into effect in February, 2024, the first week of visa-free travel between the two countries saw the transaction volume via Alipay from Singaporeans visiting Huangshan increase by over 400% year-on-year.

China’s central bank, the People’s Bank of China, has been guiding banks and mobile payment companies to take measures to optimize payment experience for international visitors.

Recent data from Alipay shows that in March 2024, transaction volume by international tourists using Alipay in the Chinese mainland increased by nearly 10 times compared to that of last year and the number of transactions increased by 8 times year-on-year.

Alipay enables international visitors to pay at tens of millions of merchants across China after downloading the app and linking an international credit or debit card from Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover ® , and Diners Club International ® . Beyond providing a convenient and secure mobile payment service, Alipay collaborates with industry partners to offer global tourists various travel services to enhance their travel experience in China. These easy-to-access services include online translation, car-hailing, public transport, hotel booking, and train ticket booking, which are all available on the homepage of Alipay.

In addition to using Alipay to pay like a local in China, international tourists can also use their home e-wallet while traveling around China. These home e-wallets include AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR, China), MPay (Macao SAR, China), Touch ‘n Go eWallet (Malaysia) and Kakao Pay (South Korea), Hipay (Mongolia), Changi Pay (Singapore), OCBC (Singapore), Naver Pay (South Korea), Toss Pay (South Korea), TrueMoney (Thailand), and NayaPay (Pakistan).

Hashtag: #HuangshanTourismGroup #Alipay

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Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Radiators fail once more: Moscow suburbs residents appeal to Putin

R esidents across the Moscow suburbs are besieged by a heating problem, for which they plead direct intervention from President Vladimir Putin. These individuals have yet to experience any semblance of home heating since winter started due to a dwindling supply of heating oil. The issue, one largely avoided by local authority communication, has left residents desperate to the point of directly appealing to the president.

While plots have been uncovered to disrupt Ukraine's infrastructure for a second consecutive winter, thus depriving civilians of heating, it seems Russians are now mired in their crisis. Irony drips from the fact that those under Putin's leadership are looking to cause turmoil in Ukraine, yet at home, they face a similar predicament.

Many dwellings within the Moscow agglomeration are presently without heat. The capital's residents are desperate, directly appealing to President Putin due to a perceived lack of alternate avenues for assistance. The absence of suitable heating functionality since winter commenced pushes them towards desperation with no relief in sight.

This seems improbable, but in Russia, it appears that anything can happen.

It remains uncertain if Vladimir Putin is actively addressing the heating crisis. Some experts suggest that Russia's heating oil reserves are depleting, which negatively affects residents' quality of life. Plagued by cold radiators and plummeting winter temperatures, these citizens have directly addressed their pleas to their head of state.

This heating crisis is happening in Elektrostal, a town approximately 71 miles from Moscow.

Ironically, Russia has constantly aimed to destroy the Ukrainian infrastructure since war broke out, deliberately trying to leave Ukrainians without heating during the harsh winters, aiming to break their strong will. It's an irony they now struggle with a domestic heating crisis, particularly near Moscow, their largest and most pivotal city.

Desperate individuals are reaching out to Vladimir Putin. They question his knowledge of the heating infrastructure conditions in the Moscow suburbs and the dire situations residents face there. Sundown brings no relief from the harsh Russian winter and without heating, their houses turn cold. With elections nearing, more and more residents find themselves reaching out directly to their president.

"Since winter's start, we've been without heating. This has been a yearly occurrence for the past three years. Despite paying for heating, we don't have enough. We implore you, help us!" - these are the desperate pleas from the heavily dressed populace dealing with the Russian winter conditions.

Experts attribute the heating oil shortage to international sanctions and surging demands for diesel fuel, pivotal to military operations. Russia now grapples with a dearth of raw materials essential for boiler and heating plant operation. As supplies dwindle, houses grow cold with little hope of any immediate corrective intervention.

It would be adequate if the war ceased, residents were prioritized, and attention accorded to their welfare.

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