Huangshan Hiking Guide | A Journey to a Fairyland on Earth

| A Journey to a Fairyland on Earth. Hey everyone 👋 "After visiting the Five Great Mountains, no other mountains are worth seeing; after returning from Huangshan, even the Five Great Mountains pale in comparison." This saying is so inspiring that I couldn't resist finally checking off my bucket-list trip to Huangshan! After experiencing it firsthand, I've compiled this ultra-detailed hiking guide 📖 for all you fellow hikers planning to explore Huangshan—bookmark it now! 📍 Itinerary 🗓 Day 1: Yungu Temple - White Goose Ridge - Shixin Peak - Monkey Gazing at the Sea - Lion Peak - Paiyun Pavilion - Xihai Grand Canyon (First Loop) - Xihai Grand Canyon (Second Loop) - Valley Bottom - Take the Cable Car - Tianhai - Bright Summit (Sunset Viewing) - Overnight at Bright Summit Hotel or Baiyun Hotel ⏰ Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours of hiking, plus sightseeing, breaks, and photo time—a full and rewarding day. 🚶‍♀️ Route Details: - Morning: Start your hike from Yungu Temple. The entire route is uphill, passing scenic spots like Immortal Flipping the Table, Rusheng Pavilion, and Immortal Pointing the Way. The stunning views along the way keep the hike from feeling monotonous. This section takes about 2-3 hours. Those with lower stamina can opt for the Yungu Cable Car, which reaches White Goose Ridge in just 8 minutes, saving energy. - Noon: After arriving at White Goose Ridge, head to Shixin Peak (about 30 minutes). This is the perfect spot to admire Huangshan's uniquely shaped pines, such as Dragon Claw Pine and Crouching Dragon Pine, showcasing nature's artistry. From Shixin Peak, proceed to Monkey Gazing at the Sea (about 50 minutes), passing Black Tiger Pine and Dream Brush Sprouting Flowers. The aptly named Monkey Gazing at the Sea features a rock formation resembling a crouching monkey silently watching the sea of clouds—utterly fascinating. Next, hike to Lion Peak (just 15 minutes), where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. - Afternoon: After a short break, head to Paiyun Pavilion (about 1 hour). This is the gateway to Xihai Grand Canyon, offering expansive views and quirky rock formations like "Immortal Drying Boots." Enter Xihai Grand Canyon, tackling the First Loop followed by the Second Loop. The entire descent involves steep steps, which can be tough on the knees—knee braces are recommended. These two sections take about 1.5-2 hours, with cliffs, bizarre rocks, and caves making you feel like you've stepped into a mystical world. At the valley bottom, take the cable car (the viral "mini train") to Tianhai. Note: The last train departs at 17:00, so time it right. - Evening: From Tianhai, hike to Bright Summit (about 30 minutes). At 1,860 meters, Bright Summit is Huangshan's second-highest peak, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and an ideal sunset spot. After sunset, check in at nearby Bright Summit Hotel or Baiyun Hotel. 🗓 Day 2: Bright Summit (Sunrise) - Aoyu Peak - Hundred-Step Ladder - Lotus Peak - Greeting Pine - Yuping Cable Car (Descent) - Ciguang Pavilion ⏰ Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours of hiking. 🚶‍♀️ Route Details: - Dawn: Wake up early for sunrise at Bright Summit (around 5:30-6:30, depending on the season). Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good spot. After sunrise, return to the hotel for breakfast and check out. - Morning: Hike from Bright Summit to Aoyu Peak (about 30 minutes). Named for its resemblance to a mythical turtle-fish, Aoyu Peak impresses with its grandeur. Next, tackle the steep Hundred-Step Ladder (about 20 minutes), passing rock formations like "Tortoise and Hare Race." Then ascend Lotus Peak (note: Lotus Peak and Tiandu Peak alternate openings—check in advance). The round trip takes about 1.5-2 hours. At 1,864.8 meters, Lotus Peak is Huangshan's highest point—reaching the summit is an unparalleled achievement. - Noon: Descend to Greeting Pine, Huangshan's iconic landmark. Snap a photo with it to cherish the memory. Then take the Yuping Cable Car down (about 15 minutes to Ciguang Pavilion), concluding your Huangshan adventure. 🍜 Food Recommendations 🍙 Huangshan Sesame Cake: Crispy on the outside, filled with savory preserved vegetables and pork—perfect for snacking. Available in Tangkou Town and the scenic area. 🐟 Stinky Mandarin Fish: A Hui cuisine classic—pungent but delicious, with tender flesh. A must-try in Tangkou Town's restaurants. 🥔 Hairy Tofu: Fermented tofu with a white fuzz, pan-fried and served with special sauce—a unique texture worth trying! 🎒 Packing List 👟 Non-slip Hiking Shoes: Huangshan's rugged trails and stone steps demand sturdy, broken-in shoes to prevent blisters. 🥾 Trekking Poles: Reduce leg strain, especially downhill, and protect your knees—one per person is ideal. 🧥 Warm Layers: Summit temperatures are much lower; even in summer, pack a light down jacket or windbreaker for sunrise/sunset. 🌂 Raincoat: Weather changes fast—a raincoat is safer and more convenient than an umbrella. Don’t get caught in a downpour! 💧 Water & Snacks: Bring at least 2 bottles of water per person, plus energy bars, chocolate, or bread. Food on the mountain is pricey—packing your own saves money. ❗ Tips 1. Check Huangshan’s weather and attraction openings in advance, especially Lotus Peak/Tiandu Peak rotations, to avoid disappointment. 2. While hiking, remember: "Walk without sightseeing, sightsee without walking." Stay safe and steady when taking photos. 3. Yield to porters carrying supplies—respect their labor and avoid photographing them without permission. 4. Travel light. A small backpack is enough—avoid unnecessary weight. Huangshan’s beauty is beyond words. Only by hiking it can you truly grasp its magic. May this guide help you create unforgettable memories in Huangshan ✨