ShaXi ancient town, YunNan province, with Little Chinese Everywhere

Mount Hua, or HuaShan, is one of China's Five Great Mountains, renowned for its steep trails, breathtaking views, and significant Taoist history. Located in Shaanxi Province, near the city of Huayin, Huashan attracts adventurers and pilgrims alike. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huashan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huashan Mount Hua consists of five main peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: East Peak (Zhaoyang Peak): Known as the "Sunrise Peak," it is the best spot to watch the sunrise. West Peak (Lianhua Peak): Also called the "Lotus Peak," it is famous for its striking rock formations that resemble a lotus flower. South Peak (Luoyan Peak): The highest of the five peaks at 2,154 meters, offering panoramic views. North Peak (Yuntai Peak): Known as the "Cloud Terrace Peak," it serves as the starting point for many hikes. Central Peak (Yunv Peak): Also known as the "Jade Maiden Peak," it is named after a Taoist legend. Huashan Plank Walk The Huashan Plank Walk is one of the most thrilling attractions on the mountain. The narrow wooden walkway is attached to the sheer cliff face of the South Peak, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience and stunning views. Chess Pavilion Perched on a precarious rock, the Chess Pavilion is a small structure with legendary associations. According to legend, it is where a deity played chess with a mortal. Taoist Temples Mount Hua is home to several ancient Taoist temples, including the Jade Spring Temple at the base of the mountain and the Yuquan Temple. These temples are important pilgrimage sites and offer a glimpse into the mountain's spiritual significance. Geology of Huashan Mount Hua is part of the Qinling Mountain range and is primarily composed of granite. The mountain's distinctive steep slopes and sharp peaks are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion over millions of years. The granite rock faces provide both a dramatic landscape and a challenging environment for climbers. Touring Huashan Planning Your Visit Visiting Huashan requires careful planning due to its challenging terrain and the variety of routes available. A typical visit can take one to two days, depending on the routes and peaks you choose to explore. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: North Peak and the Plank Walk Morning: Take the cable car from the East Gate to the North Peak. Spend the morning exploring the North Peak and its surrounding trails. Afternoon: Head towards the South Peak for the Huashan Plank Walk. Ensure you have the proper safety gear and follow all safety instructions. Evening: Consider spending the night on the mountain at one of the guesthouses or temples to experience the sunrise from one of the peaks. Day 2: The Five Peaks Early Morning: Watch the sunrise from the East Peak. Mid-Morning: Hike to the Central Peak, then continue to the West Peak to see the Lotus Flower Rock. Afternoon: Ascend to the South Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Descend back to the North Peak and take the cable car down. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huashan offers challenging hikes with rewarding views. Trails are steep and can be narrow, requiring a good level of fitness and caution. Popular routes include the ascent from the East Gate to the North Peak and the circular route covering the five peaks. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huashan provide excellent opportunities for photography. Key spots include the sunrise from the East Peak, the Plank Walk on the South Peak, and the panoramic views from the highest point. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, try local Shaanxi cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Specialties include biangbiang noodles, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and various dumplings. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the East Gate. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huashan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy, making some trails hazardous. Getting There Huashan is accessible by train, bus, and car. The nearest major city is Xi'an, from where you can take a high-speed train to Huashan North Railway Station. From there, shuttle buses or taxis can take you to the mountain's entrances. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huayin City. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or temple. This allows you to catch the sunrise from one of the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and the Plank Walk. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all five peaks. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the mountain's history, culture, and geology. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.

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A beautiful waterfall in YunNan - LuoPing JiuLong ...

With Living The Dream ... With YanYan go around in China ... JinShanLing Great Wall travel guide Introduction The JinShanLing section of the Great Wall of China is one of the most well-preserved and scenic parts of the wall, located in the mountainous area of Luanping County, Hebei Province, about 130 kilometers northeast of Beijing. This section offers stunning views, rich historical significance, and a less crowded experience compared to other sections. This guide will help you explore the beauty and history of JinShanLing, including must-see highlights, hiking tips, and practical travel information. Must-See Highlights General Tower (将军楼) The General Tower is one of the most iconic watchtowers on the JinShanLing section of the Great Wall. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the winding wall. This tower was used historically for military command and observation. Wangjing Tower (望京楼) Wangjing Tower, also known as the Watching Beijing Tower, is named for its view of Beijing on clear days. This tower is a popular spot for photography and offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Eastern Five-Window Tower (东五眼楼) The Eastern Five-Window Tower is unique for its five windows on each side, providing excellent vantage points for surveillance in ancient times. This tower is a testament to the strategic architectural design of the Great Wall. Western Five-Window Tower (西五眼楼) The Western Five-Window Tower, similar to its eastern counterpart, also features five windows on each side. It offers spectacular views and is a great spot for taking in the expansive landscape of the JinShanLing section. Big and Small Jinshan Towers (大小金山楼) The Big and Small Jinshan Towers are two prominent towers named after their different sizes. These towers are significant historical landmarks and provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the defensive mechanisms of the Great Wall. Hiking Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit JinShanLing is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the scenery is stunning. Hiking Difficulty: The JinShanLing section offers a moderately challenging hike with steep steps and uneven terrain. Suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. What to Wear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, breathable clothing, and a hat. Bring layers as the weather can change quickly. What to Bring: Carry plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. A camera is also recommended for capturing the beautiful scenery. Hiking Route: A popular hiking route is from JinShanLing to Simatai West, which takes about 3-4 hours and covers some of the most picturesque sections of the wall. Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour for a more informative experience. Guides can provide historical context and ensure you don't miss any key sights. Practical Travel Information Getting There: JinShanLing is accessible by bus, car, or private tour from Beijing. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours by car. Buses are available from Beijing's Wangjing West Station. Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for JinShanLing varies depending on the season. Check the official website or contact local tourism offices for up-to-date pricing. Opening Hours: JinShanLing is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Plan to arrive early to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds. Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses and hotels near JinShanLing for those who wish to stay overnight. Beijing offers a wider range of accommodation options if you prefer to stay in the city. Health and Safety: Ensure you are in good health before attempting the hike, as the terrain can be demanding. Stay on designated paths to avoid accidents and respect local regulations and signs. Local Services: Facilities such as restrooms and small shops are available at the entrance and at certain points along the wall. However, it's advisable to bring your own supplies for convenience. Conclusion The JinShanLing section of the Great Wall of China offers a unique and less crowded experience compared to other parts of the wall. Its well-preserved structures, stunning scenery, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Use this guide to plan your visit and enjoy the incredible beauty and historical significance of JinShanLing. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or an avid hiker, JinShanLing promises an unforgettable adventure.

Surprisingly beautiful ...

Apart from a very few fair and independent news outlets, such as GlobalResearch.ca and rt.com/usa/ (though both these have some BS now and then), this is true of all MSM in the West. Nathan Rich breaks it down ...

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The WangXian Valley scenic area in ShangRao, JiangXi, is home to gorges, peaks, giant rocks, waterfalls, and a variety of Buddhist temples. With Walk East ...

Beautiful city-scapes ...