Huangshan (Yellow Mountains)
Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountain, is a stunning mountain range located in Anhui Province, China. Renowned for its majestic peaks, sea of clouds, hot springs, and unique granite rock formations, Huangshan is considered one of China's most breathtaking natural wonders.
Huangshan was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 due to its outstanding cultural and natural significance. It is recognized for its unique granite peaks, the diversity of its flora and fauna, and its influence on Chinese landscape painting and literature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Huangshan depends largely on what you hope to see and experience during your trip.
Spring (March to May): This is generally considered one of the best times to visit Huangshan. The weather is mild and the mountain is lush with greenery. The blooming flowers, especially the azaleas, add vibrant colors to the landscape. Rain can occur during this period, so bring waterproof clothing.
Summer (June to August): Summers can be hot and humid, and also the rainy season which may cause some inconvenience for hiking and sightseeing. However, the rains bring out the lush greenery of the mountains and are often followed by spectacular views of the clouds and mist.
Autumn (September to November): Like spring, autumn is an excellent time to visit Huangshan. The weather is generally comfortable for hiking and the autumn foliage creates a beautiful palette of red, orange, and yellow on the mountains. This is also a great time for photography.
Winter (December to February): The mountain in winter can offer a stunning landscape, with snow-capped peaks and frozen waterfalls. If you don't mind the cold and are prepared for winter hiking, this can be a magical time to visit. However, it's also important to note that some trails may be closed due to safety concerns in snowy or icy conditions.
How to Get There
Huangshan is accessible by plane, train, and bus from various major cities in China.
By Plane: Huangshan Tunxi International Airport is about 70 km away from Huangshan Mountain. It has direct flights to and from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, and Chengdu, as well as some international destinations.
By Train: The high-speed train service in China is extensive and efficient. There are high-speed trains to Huangshan from cities such as Shanghai, Hangzhou, Beijing, Xiamen, and Hefei. The journey from Shanghai, for example, takes about 3 to 4 hours. Huangshan North Station is the main train station in the area.
By Bus: There are also long-distance buses to Huangshan from nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Hefei, and Nanjing.
Once you arrive in Huangshan city, there are shuttle buses that will take you to the Huangshan Scenic Area. These buses are generally reliable and convenient, and they operate at regular intervals.
Getting around Huangshan Mountain itself involves a combination of shuttle buses, cable cars, and hiking. There are three cable car routes available that take you to different parts of the mountain: Yungu Cable Car, Yuping Cable Car, and Taiping Cable Car. These can help you cover large distances quickly and easily. However, to truly experience the beauty of Huangshan, you'll need to do some walking or hiking.
The paths are generally well-marked, but the terrain can be challenging in parts, so be prepared with good hiking shoes and be aware of your physical limits. It's also a good idea to have a map or a guide to help you navigate the mountain.
For getting around the city of Huangshan (Tunxi), taxis and public buses are available, and it's quite walkable as well.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Huangshan, China
Top 10 Attractions in the Yellow Mountains
Huangshan, or Yellow Mountain, is known for its breathtaking scenery and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are the top attractions in and around Huangshan:
The Yellow Mountains (Huangshan Mountain Range): Famous for its four wonders - uniquely-shaped granite peaks, ancient and twisted pine trees, hot springs, and the sea of clouds, this mountain range is the primary attraction in Huangshan.
Xihai Grand Canyon (West Sea Grand Canyon): It offers incredible views of the peaks and valleys of Huangshan and is considered the most beautiful site of Yellow Mountain.
Tunxi Old Street: A historical cultural street located in Tunxi District, it offers an insight into the architecture of the Song, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, along with local shops selling traditional crafts and local snacks.
Hongcun Ancient Village: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hongcun is famous for its traditional Hui-style architecture and a unique water system that runs through the village.
Xidi Ancient Village: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xidi has well-preserved residences dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Ink-Stick Workshop: Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory is the oldest continually operating ink stick factory in China. Located in the city center of Huangshan City, it is a time-honored factory that produces traditional Chinese ink sticks.
Huangshan Hot Springs: These hot springs are the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking. There are several hot springs in Huangshan, including Piaoxue (Snow) Hot Spring, which is located at the foot of the Yellow Mountains, Fengda Hot Spring, which is 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the Yellow Mountains, and Zui (Drunk) Hot Spring, which is in the downtown area.
Mt. Qiyun: One of the four sacred mountains of Taoism, it's famous for its ancient inscriptions, temples, and unique Danxia landform.
Lotus Peak, Celestial Capital Peak, and Bright Summit Peak: These are the three highest peaks of Huangshan Mountain and are known for their spectacular views.
Mukeng Bamboo Forest (Mukeng Zhuhai): This vast bamboo forest covers an area of about 2 miles and has been designated as a natural reserve. It's an enchanting place to visit, offering cool shade, fresh air, and a calming atmosphere.
Top 10 Activities to do in the Yellow Mountains
Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is not only about sightseeing, it offers a wide range of activities for its visitors. Here are some of the top activities to do in Huangshan:
Hiking: Huangshan is a hiker's paradise, with numerous trails leading you through breathtaking scenery, from its famous granite peaks to lush forests.
Photography: With its unique granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and ever-changing mist and cloud formations, Huangshan provides countless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Visit Ancient Villages: Spend a day exploring ancient villages like Hongcun and Xidi, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They offer a unique look into China's past with their well-preserved architecture and traditional way of life.
Try Local Cuisine: Don't miss trying Hui cuisine, one of the Eight Culinary Traditions of Chinese cuisine. Famous dishes include Smelly Mandarin Fish and Braised Pigeon in Soy Sauce.
Hot Spring Bathing: After a day of hiking, relax in one of the hot springs found at the foot of Yellow Mountain.
Visit an Ink-Stick Factory: Learn about the traditional process of making ink sticks, an important part of Chinese culture, at Hu Kaiwen Ink-stick Factory.
Explore Tunxi Old Street: This ancient street is the perfect place to sample local snacks, shop for souvenirs, and admire architecture from the Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Bamboo Rafting: Take a bamboo raft ride in the Bamboo Sea in Shexian County for a serene and unique experience amidst the dense bamboo forest.
Tea Tasting: Huangshan is famous for its Maofeng green tea. Visit a tea plantation to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a tea tasting session.
Visit Temples: Explore ancient temples such as the ones on Mt. Qiyun, one of the four sacred mountains of Taoism.
Best Shopping
Huangshan offers a variety of shopping experiences, where you can find a wide array of local products, arts and crafts, as well as traditional Chinese items. Here are a few recommended places to shop:
Tunxi Old Street: This is the most famous shopping area in Huangshan, where the history and modernity coexist. The street is lined with historic buildings that house a variety of shops selling traditional Chinese items such as tea, ink stones, brushes for calligraphy, locally produced silk, jade, and antiques. It's also a good place to try local snacks.
Ink-Stick Factory: Huangshan is famous for its Hui Ink, which has been produced here for centuries. At the Hu Kaiwen Ink-stick Factory, you can learn about the traditional process of making ink sticks, which are used in Chinese brush painting and calligraphy, and buy some to take home as a unique souvenir.
Local Tea Shops: Huangshan Maofeng Tea is one of the most famous teas in China. You'll find many tea shops around Huangshan where you can taste and buy this local specialty.
Art Shops: Huangshan's natural beauty has long inspired artists, and the area is known for its traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy. You'll find many art shops and galleries, particularly around Tunxi Old Street, where you can buy beautiful artworks, or supplies to create your own.
Huangshan City Market: If you're interested in everyday local life, visit the city market where locals buy their food and daily necessities. While it might not be the place to find typical souvenirs, it's a great place to experience local life.
Local Craft Stores: Huangshan is also known for its beautiful stone carvings and intricate bamboo products. Look out for these at local craft stores and consider them as unique souvenirs.
Remember to bargain where appropriate, as it's a common practice in China. It's always a good idea to compare prices in a few different shops before making a purchase to ensure you're getting a good deal.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Huangshan's nightlife may not be as bustling as that in China's major cities, but there are still a variety of evening activities that can provide entertainment. Here are a few options:
Night Hike on Yellow Mountain: For a unique experience, take a night hike up Huangshan Mountain. You'll need a flashlight, but the tranquility and the star-studded sky make it worth the effort. Keep in mind that this is more suitable for experienced hikers.
Evening stroll on Tunxi Old Street: When night falls, the buildings on Tunxi Old Street are beautifully lit, creating a magical atmosphere. It's the perfect time to stroll around, enjoy local street food, and soak up the ambiance.
Local Performances: You can watch performances of local folk dances and music at some hotels and tourist spots. One popular show is "Impression of Huangshan", which is a cultural performance showcasing local music, dance, and folklore.
Hot Spring Bathing: The hot springs at the foot of Huangshan Mountain are open in the evening, offering a relaxing soak under the stars.
Tea Houses and Cafes: Spend a relaxing evening in a local tea house or café, sampling local teas or other beverages and perhaps enjoying some traditional music.
Bars and Clubs: There are a few bars and clubs in Huangshan City, particularly around Tunxi district, if you're looking for a more lively night out. While they are not as plentiful or extravagant as in larger cities, they can still provide an enjoyable evening.
Local Cuisine
Huangshan is in Anhui Province, and the local cuisine is known as Hui Cuisine, one of the Eight Culinary Traditions of China. Hui Cuisine is known for its simple yet bold flavors, use of wild ingredients from the region, and slow-cooking methods. Here are a few dishes and snacks you might want to try when visiting Huangshan:
Hairy Tofu (Mao Doufu): It's a type of fermented tofu that has a layer of white fuzz on its surface. It has a strong flavor and is usually deep-fried and served with a spicy and sour sauce.
Smelly Mandarin Fish (Chou Guiyu): Despite its off-putting name, this dish is actually quite delicious. The fish is first fried, then stewed with mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and other ingredients in a rich sauce.
Stewed Pigeon in Soy Sauce (Hongshao Ge): This dish is renowned for its tender meat and rich flavor from the slow-cooking process.
Huangshan Maofeng Tea: One of the most famous teas in China, it is grown in the Huangshan area. The tea is renowned for its pleasant aroma and sweet taste.
Yellow Crab Shell Cake (Huangshan Piju): This local snack is a crispy and sweet pastry that resembles a crab shell, hence the name.
Mizhi River Snails: This is a popular local dish where river snails are cooked in a flavorful broth with soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, and other seasonings.
Bamboo Shoots Cooked in Soy Sauce (Jiangzhu Sun): Anhui cuisine often features bamboo shoots, and this simple dish brings out their crisp texture and fresh taste.
Three-Cup Chicken (Sanbeiji): Though it originates from Jiangxi province, this dish is popular in Anhui as well. It's made with chicken, ginger, garlic, and chili, cooked in a sauce made from equal parts soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil.
Accommodations
When visiting Huangshan, where you should stay can depend on what you want to prioritize during your visit. Here are some areas that you might consider:
Tunxi District: This is the downtown area of Huangshan City, where you'll find numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops. Staying here means you'll be close to the action, with easy access to Tunxi Old Street and a short journey to Huangshan Scenic Area.
Huangshan Scenic Area: If you're mainly interested in visiting Yellow Mountain, you might consider staying at one of the hotels within the scenic area itself. Some hotels are located at the foot of the mountain, while there are also a few located on the mountain, allowing you to wake up to the breathtaking scenery.
Xidi and Hongcun Villages: If you want a more traditional experience, you could stay at a guesthouse in Xidi or Hongcun. These ancient villages are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and staying here allows you to experience their charm without the crowds.
Hot Springs Area: The area at the foot of Yellow Mountain is known for its hot springs, and there are several hotels and resorts here that offer comfortable accommodation with the added bonus of hot spring facilities.
