Huangshan Mountain (Yellow Mountain)
Huangshan Mountain, also known as Yellow Mountain, is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in China. It was acclaimed through art and literature during a good part of Chinese history. Today it holds the same fascination for visitors, poets, painters and photographers, who come in pilgrimage to this enchanting site. Famous for its four magnificent features: Oddly shaped pines, grotesque rock formations, sea of clouds and hot springs, the scenic area occupies 154 square kilometers and reaches an altitude of over 1800 meters.
In 1985, the mountain was elected one of China's Top Ten Scenic Spots. In 1990, Mt. Huangshan was inscribed on the World Heritage List as a Natural Heritage Site. In 2002, Mt. Huangshan established the sister-mountain relationship with Mt. Jungfraujoch, another world heritage site located in Switzerland.
Pay a visit there, and you will understand the saying, “Trips to China’s five great mountains render trips to other mountains unnecessary, and a trip to Huangshan renders trips to the five great mountains unnecessary.”
Huangshan Mountain Facts
Origin of the Name of Huangshan Mountain
Huangshan Mountain, anciently known as Yishan Mountain, derived its name from the dark black color (Yise) of its rocks. Legend has it that the Huangdi (Yellow Emperor) refined elixirs and cultivated his practice here. During the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, Emperor Li Longji, based on Taoist culture and this folk legend, officially renamed Yishan Mountain as "Huangshan Mountain" (Yellow Mountain), which means "the mountain of Huangdi (Yellow Emperor)".
How Was It Formed
Vertical slabs of granite, eroded and fractured over thousands of years, have created soaring pillars of rock and deep ravines. Swirling mists constantly envelop and then reveal the jagged rock faces. The native pine on the mount (the pinus huangshanensis) makes its home in tiny crevices in the rock, with roots several times longer than its trunk, its top flattened by wind and its branches growing in one direction (with the wind or towards the sun). Therefore, Chinese people regard it as a symbol of determination and persistence.
Five Wonders of Huangshan Mountain
Oddly-Shaped Pines
Every peak in Huangshan Mountains is adorned with rocks and every rock is accompanied by pines. The seventy-two peaks are dotted with green pines, like magical brushes that bring life and color to this mountain. No wonder the ancients said, "The beauty of Yellow Mountain begins with its pines."
Greeting Guest Pine: It’s the landmark of this scenic area, rooted in the cliff with a graceful posture, as if warmly welcoming guests from all directions.
Peculiar Rocks
The spectacular rocks of Yellow Mountain in Huangshan are known for their peculiar and abundant formations, with over 120 named rocks. These rocks come in various shapes and possess unique characteristics, serving as an important component of the landscape.
Flying-over Rock: It is located on a flat rock in the Pingtian Gang, formed through natural weathering. The contact surface between the two rocks is very small, and the upper rock seems to have flown in from outer space.
Stone Monkey Watching the Sea: There are cleverly formed rocks resembling a monkey, which seem to be squatting on the edge of a cliff, quietly observing the sea of clouds.
Sea of Clouds
he sea of clouds of Huangshan Mountain has been known as such since ancient times. There are over 200 days of cloudy weather in Anhui’s Yellow Mountain throughout the year. When water vapor rises or fog persists after rain, a vast sea of clouds forms, engulfing the peaks and valleys in clouds and snow waves. The "sea of clouds with glow" at sunrise or sunset is the most spectacular sight, and never miss it during your Huangshan Mountain tours.
Hot Springs
The Huangshan Hot Springs (anciently known as "Zhusha Springs") originate from under the Ziyun Peak at an altitude of 850 meters. The water temperature remains at around 42°C throughout the year and is rich in minerals, which can alleviate fatigue from mountain climbing. When traveling to Huangshan Mountain, you can soak in the hot springs to relax your body and mind and enjoy the gift from nature.
Winter Snow
The beauty of Huangshan Mountain in winter has been continuously discovered and appreciated by people around the world. Nowadays, winter snow is known as the "fifth wonder" of Yellow Mountain in China. During the severe winter, snow will suddenly appear, covering almost every peak. As you look around, everything is clad in silver and adorned with ice sculptures.
>> Recommended 3-Day Huangshan Highlights Tour
Main Peaks of Huangshan Mountain
Lotus Peak
Located in the center of Huangshan Mountain, this is the highest peak of the scenic area with an elevation of 1,864.8 meters. When viewed from a distance, the main peak of Lotus Peak rises high, surrounded by numerous small peaks, resembling a blooming lotus that stands gracefully between heaven and earth.
Tiandu Peak
This is famous alongside Bright Summit and Lotus Peak as one of the three main peaks of Yellow Mountain, with an altitude of 1,810 meters. Climbing Tiandu Peak requires navigating steep stone steps, making it an ideal choice for those who love to challenge themselves.
Bright Summit
This is also a well-known peak of Mount Huangshan, with an altitude of 1,860 meters. It is an excellent spot for appreciating sunrises and sunsets due to its flat terrain and expansive views. During sunrise, the radiant light shines in all directions; at sunset, the afterglow bathes the peak forest, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. By the way, this is one of the best places for taking stunning pictures of China’s Huangshan Mountain.
Hiking Huangshan Mountain
Huangshan Mountain is a must-visit attraction for hiking enthusiasts, and trekking the Yellow Mountain trails is rewarding. The scenic area is divided into the Front Mountain and the Back Mountain. The Front Mountain is steep, while the Back Mountain is relatively gentle. Both routes offer beautiful scenery.
Front Mountain Hiking Route
Ciguang Pavilion → Greeting Guest Pine → Tiandu Peak → Heart of the Sea Pavilion → Bright Summit → Flying-over Rock → Paiyun Building → Cool Terrace → Stone Monkey Watching the Sea → Black Tiger Pine → Beginning-to-believe Peak → Mushroom Pavilion → Yungu Temple
This route covers most of the classic attractions of Huangshan Mountain and is suitable for tourists in good physical condition.
Back Mountain Hiking Route
Yungu Temple → Xianren Fanzhuo (Fairy Overturning the Table) → Rusheng Pavilion → Xianren Zhilu (Fairy Pointing the Way) → White Goose Ridge → Bright Summit → Turtle Peak → Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder → Greeting Guest Pine → Tiandu Peak → Ciguang Pavilion
For children and the elderly, taking the Yellow Mountain cable car is also a good way to explore the beauty of the mountain peaks.
>> Recommended 6-Day Huangshan Yellow Mountain Hiking Tour (with Ancient Trails)
Tip: The Lotus Peak and Tiandu Peak in the Huangshan Mountain scenic area are open on an alternating basis every five years. Currently, Tiandu Peak is open and is expected to remain open until 2028, barring any unexpected circumstances.
Yellow Mountain Tea
Yellow Mountain is not only one of the top tourist attractions in China but also a paradise for tea growth. During your Huangshan tour, it is good idea to taste the teas there. Among all the Yellow Mountain teas, Huangshan Maofeng Tea stands out for its high quality and is honored as "the aristocrat among green teas." When tasted, it gives a fresh and sweet flavor, leaving a lasting impression on your palate.
>> Recommended 6-Day Huangshan Tea Culture Tour
Huangshan Mountain Hotels
Huangshan Mountain accommodation is divided into two areas: on the mountain top and at the mountain foot. For those who want to catch the Huangshan Mountain sunrise, staying on the mountain is a must. There are fewer hotels on the mountain top and prices are relatively high, with ordinary rooms starting at over 1,000 yuan. Bright Summit Villa and Baiyun Hotel are good choices as they are well-located with good accommodation conditions.
If you prefer staying at the mountain foot, you can stay at Tangkou Town, which is located near the South Gate of Yellow Mountain and is close to the cableway station. Generally speaking, you can find a decent hotel for 200 to 300 yuan there. Juzi Hotel and Atour Hotel are great options.
Best Time to Visit Huangshan Mountain
Huangshan Mountain offers different scenic beauties in the four seasons. But if you want to have the best travel experience, spring and autumn are the optimal times to go. The weather is pleasant and the scenery is magnificent in these two seasons, with a high probability of seeing the sea of clouds.
Spring (March to May)
As spring approaches, the flowers of Yellow Mountain, especially the azaleas, bloom vibrantly, contrasting beautifully with the spectacular pines and rugged rocks. Together with the pleasant climate, it's an ideal time for a tour of Huangshan Mountain in China.
Summer ( June to August)
The average temperature of Huangshan Mountain is about 20-25℃ in summer, making it an excellent destination for a summer retreat. The magnificent waterfalls are also worth visiting. Just note that summer is the peak tourist season. If you wish to stay on the mountain top, you must book a hotel in advance.
Autumn (September to November)
The weather in Huangshan Mountain is nice with plenty of sunny days. The tree leaves turn red and golden, forming a beautiful picture. Besides, it’s also the best time to view sunrises and the sea of clouds.
Winter (December to February)
Huangshan Mountain in winter becomes a kingdom of ice and snow. If you're lucky enough to encounter snowfall, you'll see the entire mountain draped in white, resembling a fairy tale world. At this time, there are fewer tourists, allowing for a serene hiking experience.
>> Recommended 5-day Huangshan Photography Tour with Huizhou village and culture
How to Get to Huangshan Mountain
Huangshan City has a well-developed transportation system, and it’s easy for you to get to Huangshan Mountain from Huangshan City. Both Huangshan Bus Station and Huangshan North Railway Station offer direct buses to there. Or else, you can take the public bus No. 21 to the scenic area for CNY 2.
From Hangzhou to Huangshan Mountain
The most convenient way to travel from Hangzhou to Huangshan Mountain is by high-speed train. Just go to Hangzhou East Railway Station or Hangzhou West Railway Station and take a high-speed train to Huangshan North Railway Station. The tourist center is located next to it. From there, you can take a tourist bus to the South Gate of Huangshan Mountain with CNY 30.
>> Recommended 5-Day Hangzhou Huangshan Tour
From Shanghai to Huangshan Mountain
There is no direct flight from Shanghai to Huangshan, and a high-speed train is a good choice. All the railway stations in Shanghai offer high-speed trains to Huangshan. Upon arrival, head to the tourist center next to the Huangshan North Railway Station and board a bus to the South Gate of Mount Huangshan.
>> Recommended 5-Day Shanghai Huangshan Tour
Touring Huangshan Mountain with ETC
To make your trip to Huangshan easier and more enjoyable, you can travel with us ETC. We are committed to providing tailor-made private tours of China according to your preferences and requirements. Below are our popular China tours including Yellow Mountain.
If you need a customized tour of Huangshan Mountain, feel free to contact us. We can also extend your visit to Hongcun and Xidi Village and Tunxi Old Street as you wish.
