Cuihua Mountain (翠华山), also known as Taiyi Mountain in ancient times, is renowned for its lush, green peaks that inspired its name. The mountain is famous for its steep slopes, rugged terrain, valleys, and winding streams. Cuihua is not only a destination for nature lovers but also a place rich in historical and cultural significance. Located in one of China’s most geologically active regions, the area is home to some of the most developed and well-preserved mountain collapse features in the country. As such, it has earned the nickname “Geological Museum of Mountain Collapse.”
Visiting Cuihua Mountain: Key Information
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Entrance Fee: Adult tickets cost ¥65, which can be purchased online through the Cuihua Mountain WeChat Mini Program or onsite. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance during holidays to avoid long lines.
Transportation:
- Take Line 2 of the Xi’an Metro to Changning Palace Station (常宁宫站), then transfer to a Chang’an bus that directly reaches the scenic area (¥15 per person). The journey typically takes about 40 minutes without traffic.
- Alternatively, you can share a ride with drivers waiting at the metro exit, with prices starting at ¥20 per person.
- If you prefer, you can take a bus from the metro station to Xi’an Translation College and then grab a taxi to the mountain, which will take about 1.5 hours.
Cuihua Mountain Hiking Routes Overview
Left Line (Longer Route): The trail from the main entrance to Cuihua Peak includes several attractions, including Shibapan, Tianchi (Heavenly Pool), the Wind Cave and Ice Cave, and the final climb to Cuihua Peak.
Right Line (Shorter Route): This route offers a scenic walk through Bihshan Lake and the Longji Liang Path before reaching Cuihua Peak.
Both routes offer opportunities for exploration, but hikers can choose which direction to ascend or descend, or simply return the same way.
Left Line Details:
Distance and Duration: From the main entrance to Tianchi, there are two options:
- Walking takes about 40 minutes, but this path is steep, so be prepared for a physical challenge.
- Self-driving or taking a scenic shuttle (¥20 per person one way) is also available for those who prefer not to hike the entire way.
Wind Cave and Ice Cave: After reaching Tianchi, you will encounter the Wind Cave and Ice Cave, which are both quite narrow. It is highly recommended to skip these caves if you are short on time, as the route inside can be claustrophobic and lacks any substantial natural features to admire. If you choose to visit, expect to spend about 10 minutes here on a non-holiday day; however, during busy seasons, it could take up to 50 minutes due to crowds.
Cuihua Peak: The final section to Cuihua Peak is a steep climb that includes stairs, and a 20-meter-long suspension bridge. This part of the hike can take around 30 minutes on non-peak days, but during busy times, expect a longer wait. It’s best to plan for delays if you’re visiting during holidays.
Right Line Details:
Route Duration: The descent down this path took about 1 hour for me, and the trail offers a slightly easier descent with fewer stairs compared to the Left Line.
Climbing Difficulty: The overall difficulty of both routes is not too high, making them suitable for beginners or first-time hikers. However, the incline from the entrance to Tianchi is quite steep, and the climb can be exhausting, even for seasoned hikers.
Safety Considerations: While the trail is not particularly dangerous, some of the stairs lack handrails and can be narrow, posing potential risks, especially during crowded times. The stairs can become congested, and hikers may need to maneuver past each other in tight spaces. It is highly recommended that young children and elderly individuals avoid this hike due to the potential hazards and the physical demands of the climb.
Hiking Tips
Tianchi (Heavenly Pool): The Left Line passes by Tianchi, which is a beautiful natural spot. However, it can become crowded, especially during holidays. If you’re planning to drive to Tianchi, it is advisable to follow the Left Line on the way up and the Right Line on the descent to prevent overcrowding.
Footwear: Make sure to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, especially during the wet season when the paths can be slippery.
Pack Snacks and Water: There are food and beverage stalls along the route, but prices are higher than usual. It’s a good idea to bring snacks and enough water to keep you energized throughout the hike.
Crowds: Weekends and holidays can get very crowded, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the rush. Some areas can become congested, particularly at narrow spots like the Wind Cave and Ice Cave.