Huashan Mountain, one of China’s most iconic peaks, attracts thousands of visitors each year for its breathtaking views, challenging trails, and historical significance. Whether you’re planning a hike, a cable car ride, or simply want to know more about how to visit, this guide answers all your frequently asked questions about Huashan Mountain, including ticketing, transportation, routes, and the unique features of each peak. Here’s everything you need to know before your visit!
1. How Many Entrance Gates Are There at Huashan Mountain?
Huashan Mountain has two main ticket entrances:
- Foot Hiking Entrance: Located at the Yuquan Temple (玉泉院), also known as Huashan Gate.
- Cable Car Entrance: Located at the Huashan Visitor Center ticket hall (华山游客中心).
2. What Are the Hiking and Cable Car Options for Reaching Huashan Mountain?
There are several ways to ascend Huashan Mountain, depending on your preference for hiking or taking the cable car:
- Hiking Routes: You can begin your hike from the Yuquan Temple (Huashan Gate).
- Cable Car Routes: There are two cable car options available:
- West Peak Cable Car: Starts from the West Peak.
- North Peak Cable Car: Starts from the North Peak.
3. How to Get to Huashan from Xi’an?
For those visiting Huashan from Xi’an, there are various transportation options:
- By Car: If driving, use a GPS to navigate directly to the designated ticket entrance.
- By High-Speed Train:
- Take the high-speed train to Huashan North Station.
- After disembarking, head to the Huayin Bus Station (located to your left as you exit) to catch the free shuttle bus (Route 2/1) to the Huashan Visitor Center (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM).
- For Cable Car Access: After reaching the visitor center, proceed to the ticket hall to board the shuttle bus to the cable car station.
- For Hiking: From the visitor center, take the shuttle bus to the No. 1 parking lot in the park, then proceed on foot to Yuquan Temple to start your hike.
- By Bus: Direct tourist buses from Xi’an to Huashan are available, making the journey convenient and comfortable.
4. What Are the Huashan Mountain Ticket Prices?
Ticket prices for Huashan Mountain vary depending on the season and type of access you choose:
- Peak Season (March 1 – November 30):
- Adult Admission: ¥160
- East Route (North Peak Cable Car): One-way ticket ¥80; Bus ticket to North Peak ¥40
- West Route (West Peak Cable Car): One-way ticket ¥140; Bus ticket to West Peak ¥20
- Off-Peak Season (December 1 – February 28):
- Adult Admission: ¥100
- East Route (North Peak Cable Car): One-way ticket ¥45; Bus ticket to North Peak ¥40
- West Route (West Peak Cable Car): One-way ticket ¥120; Bus ticket to West Peak ¥20
- Ticket Inclusions: The entrance ticket includes access to the main Huashan Scenic Area, the Xiyue Temple, and the Fairy Valley Scenic Area. All tickets are subject to real-name reservations, and tickets are not sold at the entrance. You can reserve tickets up to 10 days in advance.
- Extra Activities (Paid in Cash):
- Kite Flipping Challenge: ¥30
- Chang Kong Plank Walk: ¥30
5. What Are the Main Features of the Five Peaks of Huashan Mountain?
Each of Huashan’s five peaks has its own unique characteristics, offering something special for visitors:
- East Peak: The best spot for watching the sunrise, where brave visitors can challenge themselves with the “Kite Flipping” experience.
- South Peak: The highest peak of the five, offering stunning views and home to the famous Chang Kong Plank Walk, often considered the most dangerous path on Huashan.
- Middle Peak: Known for its rich historical stories, it’s often linked to the love story of the “Flute Playing Phoenix,” adding a cultural dimension to your hike.
- West Peak: A majestic spot offering panoramic views, especially loved for its stunning landscape and the famous Taoist Temple.
- North Peak: Known for its steep, rugged trails and impressive rock formations, the North Peak is a challenging yet rewarding destination for serious hikers.