Mount Huashan Scenic Area
Conquer China's 'most precipitous mountain' with thrilling plank walks and breathtaking panoramic views. An unforgettable adventure awaits!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Mount Huashan Scenic Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer China's 'most precipitous mountain' with thrilling plank walks and breathtaking panoramic views. An unforgettable adventure awaits!
"The insane aesthetic bestowed by this mountain is like one of a lifetime which you would never forget."
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the plank walk and steep trails. Avoid slippery soles to ensure safety.
🧤 Bring Gloves
Helpful for gripping chains on steep sections and the plank walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Thrilling Plank Walk
West Peak
Experience an adrenaline rush on this narrow path carved into a cliff face. A true test of courage with breathtaking views.
Cable Car Views
North or West Peak
Soar above dramatic peaks and valleys for stunning panoramic vistas. A convenient way to access higher trails.
Summit Serenity
Various Peaks
Reach the top and be rewarded with awe-inspiring natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Plank Walk (Safely!)
Navigating Costs & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the plank walk and steep trails. Avoid slippery soles to ensure safety.
🧤 Bring Gloves
Helpful for gripping chains on steep sections and the plank walk.
How to avoid the massive queues at Huashan mountain
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if hiking. Shops are available but can be pricey.
💰 Budget for Costs
Entry, buses, and cable cars add up. Plan your expenses accordingly.
Easiest routes on Mt. Huashan
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the plank walk and steep trails. Avoid slippery soles to ensure safety.
🧤 Bring Gloves
Helpful for gripping chains on steep sections and the plank walk.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if hiking. Shops are available but can be pricey.
💰 Budget for Costs
Entry, buses, and cable cars add up. Plan your expenses accordingly.
🚶♀️ Assess Your Limits
Choose the cable car option if you're not an avid hiker. The views are still incredible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Huashan is lauded for its breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime views and the exhilarating challenge of its famous plank walk. Visitors appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the sense of accomplishment after conquering its peaks. However, many find the experience marred by significant crowds and a complex, expensive ticketing system that feels like constant upselling.
"HuaShan, one of the five mountains of China, is an excellent place I would say to visit or to challenge yourself. There are two options for climbing this significant mountain, either going on a cable car to halfway or climbing the whole mountain by yourself. For those inactive, I highly recommend the first option as it allows you to witness the astonishing view of mountains and valleys whilst reducing how much you walk. I barely do sport but when I chose the first option, I was able to climb to the top without breaking a sweat. I recommend climbing two steps at a time as it is easier. The higher you climb, the more beautiful and astonishing the view. The upper view of nature's creation through the mist is a delightful experience. The delicate wind that breezes on my skin creates a clear contrast to when I am on the ground. Not just the aesthetics of the mountain is amazing, the smell is also so special, the smell of nature.
You will not have to worry about hunger or toilet issues when climbing on the mountain, there are shops on top. The danger issues are limited on the mountain, as there are chains which surrounds the path, there is no possible way where you can "accidentally" slip off and fall to your death if you are being careful.
I highly recommend those to climb this magnificent mountain as the insane aesthetic bestowed by this mountain is like one of a lifetime which you would never forget. The close interaction bewen you and nature will be closer than ever, feeling as if you were mixed within it. As you looked down, the houses in the distance looked like ants, allowing you to obtain the feeling of being in control of everything you look at.
The steps on the way down may be a tiny bit steep so you may have to take your time. It took me 6 hrs to go up and down the mountain.
Remember to bring some gloves and not just one bottle of water if you decide to go here.
Highly recommend this beautiful place. This 5-star review is deserved!"
Kunfu Panda
"The views and cable car ride are absolutely epic.
There are a few downsides though, it is epically crowded, so it feels like you're at a music festival, with (mostly rude) patrons pushing and shoving even on the narrow dangerous pathways. There is definitely no solitude or peace and quiet up there.
Also, the entry and then subsequent transportation costs and tickets are confusing, very expensive, and it really feels like you're being 'nickel and dimed' non stop - you can't just buy any all-inclusive day ticket, you have to pay again and again for various buses and the cable car and then even pay again for the bus to leave!!! All up, it is 10x more expensive than most other scenic areas or attractions in China, which is a bit disappointing.
I have my suspicions that the 'special ticket' office at the entrance is a third party or scam company which resells tickets at a higher price, as it just seemed so far above what the average person could really afford, but once you're there, you kind of have to pay it especially if every guide about the place is years old..."
Glenn Styles
"I had an amazing time coming here with my in-laws ! We hiked all the way up using the stairs , it took almost 6 hours ! I enjoyed every bit of it . It was therapeutical breathing the fresh air and watching over the amazingly shaped mountains !!"
Justin Mccart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Huashan North Station (approx. 30 mins). From Huashan North Station, you can take a local bus or taxi to the mountain's entrance.
There are shuttle buses connecting the entrance to various cable car stations and trailheads. Cable cars are available to ascend to higher points on the mountain.
Private vehicles are generally not allowed to drive directly to the mountain entrance. You'll likely need to park at designated areas and take a shuttle bus.
The plank walk is located on the West Peak. You can reach it via the West Peak cable car or by hiking from other peaks.
Yes, taxis are usually available at Huashan North Station, but it's advisable to confirm availability or have a backup plan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can be complex, involving entry fees, shuttle bus tickets, and cable car tickets. Expect costs to be higher than many other scenic areas in China.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for cable cars during peak season, can save time and guarantee your spot.
The base entrance fee typically covers access to the scenic area, but separate tickets are required for shuttle buses and cable cars.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children, but it's best to check the official website or inquire at the ticket office.
The scenic area is generally open year-round, but specific operating hours for cable cars and trails can vary. It's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While it looks daunting, the plank walk is generally considered safe with chains for support. However, it requires a good head for heights and caution.
There are several routes, including the North Route (steepest, often used for ascent) and the West Route (often used for descent, with cable car access). The East, South, and Central peaks are also accessible.
A round trip, including hiking and cable car usage, can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on your chosen route and pace. Hiking the entire mountain without cable cars can take significantly longer.
There are shops selling food, drinks, and souvenirs, as well as restrooms available at various points on the mountain.
With the cable car options, families can enjoy the views. However, the steeper trails and plank walk may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit views, the plank walk, and the cable car ride offer incredible photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly spectacular.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, with fewer crowds.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive mountain scenery.
Drone usage is typically restricted in scenic areas like Mount Huashan for safety and environmental reasons. It's best to check the latest regulations.
You can capture dramatic shots of the sheer drop below and the rugged mountain landscape. Be sure to secure your phone or camera!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧗♀️ Adventure Seekers & Thrill-Chasers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Plank Walk
While the visual is dramatic, Reddit discussions suggest that the walk itself is made safer by the presence of sturdy chains and the requirement to wear safety gear. However, the experience can be marred by crowds, with people pushing and shoving even on these precarious paths, diminishing the sense of solitude.
Navigating Mount Huashan's Peaks and Trails
Visitors can choose from various hiking routes, with the North and West routes being the most popular for accessing different cable cars and key attractions. Many travelers opt for a combination of hiking and cable cars to manage their time and energy. For instance, taking a cable car up to a certain point and then hiking to other peaks is a common strategy.
Understanding Mount Huashan's Costs and Logistics
To mitigate costs and crowds, visiting on weekdays is highly recommended. Planning your route in advance can also help you decide which cable cars are essential for your visit. While shops are available on the mountain for food and drinks, prices can be inflated, so bringing your own supplies is a good idea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit