Huangshan, located in Eastern China, is prominently renowned for the majestic Yellow Mountain, serving as a canvas for nature's finest strokes. Its surreal granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and the enchanting sea of clouds have long captivated the hearts of travelers, artists, and poets, making it a fantastic natural spot for a memorable hiking experience!
However, beyond its natural wonders, there is also a rich tapestry of history, culture, and tradition waiting to be explored. At the foot of Huangshan, there is a cluster of ancient villages like Xidi, and Hongcun that still retain the architectural style of the Huizhou region. With their white walls and dark tiled roofs, they vividly contrast against the lush green mountain backdrop, creating a scene reminiscent of a traditional Chinese ink painting. Walking through these villages is akin to stepping back in time, where every alleyway, courtyard, and pond tells a story of the people who once inhabited them. Additionally, Huangshan city itself serves as a repository of Huizhou culture. From traditional ink paintings, calligraphy, and handicrafts to the delightful local cuisine, Huangshan provides myriad opportunities to delve into the very soul of this unique region.
How to Plan a Huangshan Tour?
To fully appreciate the beauty and significance of Huangshan, travelers often allocate 3 to 4 days for their tour. (1) Yellow Mountain Scenic Area: Spend 1 or 2 days marveling at the natural wonders of Yellow Mountain. Depending on their preferences, they have the option to hike the mountain trails or use the cable cars to access the best viewpoints. (2) Huangshan UNESCO Ancient Villages: It is recommended to extend the tour by a day to explore one or two of the ancient villages near Huangshan, such as Hongcun, Xidi, Nanping, and Bishan. (3) Downtown area: Dedicating half a day for a cultural exploration in Huangshan downtown is advised. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely walk along Tunxi Old Street, visit local museums, and savor the local delicacies.
Usually, travelers will travel from Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, or other popular destinations to Huangshan by high-speed train or air. It is important to note that all tours can be customized according to individual preferences and budget. Feel free to share your ideas and preferences with us.
"Excellent Tour, best experience"
"A unique experience despite a difficult context thanks
to an experience team of organisers"
Huangshan is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering travelers a wide range of experiences. If you're planning a visit, consider the following Best Huangshan Tours to get the most out of your trip. Whether your heart yearns for adventure, is captivated by the mesmerizing interplay of Huangshan's vistas and the allure of neighboring ancient villages, desires to delve into the intricate weave of Huizhou's past and traditions, or simply craves relaxation, we have a tailored experience just for you.
Unfold the natural tapestry of Yellow Mountain with our Yellow Mountain Hiking Tours. Every moment becomes a story, every view a painting, and every step a dance with nature. The mountain is divided into three mesmerizing regions. The Front Mountain showcases towering peaks, beautiful stone paths, and expansive views. The Back Mountain is renowned for its picturesque minor peaks and shapely pine trees. The West Sea Grand Canyon is an enchanting region known for its deep valleys and breathtaking cliffs. For those with a zest for a brief yet memorable escapade, our 1 to 1.5-day itinerary offers a glimpse into the mountain's essence. But for souls yearning for a deeper communion with nature, our 2-day route unfolds every secret, every beauty of all three regions. Join us, embrace the adventure, feel the magic, and let Yellow Mountain's splendor become a part of your story.
Given the close proximity of Huangshan to major cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou, it's a popular choice for travelers to start their journey from these cities.With frequent high-speed trains operating daily, you can reach Huangshan City in a matter of a few hours. Embarking on a Huangshan tour from Shanghai or Hangzhou is both convenient and scenic. Starting your journey from these bustling cities and transitioning to the serene landscapes of Huangshan provides a delightful contrast that's sure to enhance your travel experience.
Considering a trip to the majestic Huangshan but unsure how to kick-start your plans? Fear not! We have compiled a wealth of Huangshan travel information to guide you seamlessly through your tour planning.
Delve into our extensive library of up-to-date and insightful travel articles that touch on a multitude of topics. Some of our highlighted pieces include Yellow Mountain," "Best Time to Visit Huangshan", " How to Plan A Hangzhou-Huangshan Tour","How to Plan A Shanghai-Huangshan Tour, and "Frequently Asked Questions About Huangshan Travel ."
Why wait? Dive into the planning process now and prepare to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Huangshan. For a comprehensive look at what awaits, browse through our complete Huangshan Travel Guide >>.
Yellow Mountain comprises three distinct regions: the Front Mountain, Back Mountain, and the West Sea Grand Canyon.The Front Mountain features towering peaks, beautiful stone paths, and expansive views. The Back Mountain is famous for picturesque minor peaks and shapely pine trees. The West Sea Grand Canyon is an enchanting region known for its deep valleys, breathtaking cliffs. Most of the highlighting attractions are located on the mountain top area, accessible either by hiking or taking a cable car.
The hiking routes on Huangshan can be customized according to your days, energy condition and interest, basically for 1 day, 1.5 days, 2 days
1 Day Hiking Route (Without Overnight on the Mountain)
Back Mountain + West Sea Grand Canyon 1st Ring
Route: Yungu Cable Way - Begin-to-believe Peak - Monkey Gazing at the Sea - Lion Peak -West Sea Grand Canyon 1st Ring - Loop and Descend by Yungu Cable Way
Walking Distance: about 7~9km/5~6 hrs
1.5 Days Classic Hiking Route ( Overnight on the Mountain)
Back Mountain + West Sea Grand Canyon
First Day Route: Yungu Cable Way - Begin-to-believe Peak - Dispelling Cloud Pavilion -West Sea Grand Canyon - Bright Summit - Flying-over Rock
Walking Distance: about 7~9km/5~6 hrs
Second Day Route: Sunrise - Dawn Pavilion - Refreshing Terrace - Monkey Gazing at the Sea - Lion Peak - Yungu Cable Way
Walking Distance: about 3km/2 hrs
2 Days Full Mountain Hiking Route ( Overnight on the Mountain)
Front Mountain + West Sea Grand Canyon + Back Mountain
First Day Route: Yuping Cable Way - Greeting Guest Pine - One Hundred Cloud Ladder - One-Line-Sky - Bright Summit - Flying-over Rock - Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion
Walking Distance: about 11km/6 hrs
Second Day Route: Sunrise - West Sea Grand Canyon - Lion Peak - Begin-to-Believe Peak - Yungu Cable Way
Walking Distance: about 7km/5 hrs
1. The Yellow Mountain (Huangshan Mountain) itself: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for "Fiver Wonders": oddly-shaped pines, bizarre rock formations, sea of clouds, winter snow and hot springs.
2. Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages: These are two exceptionally well-preserved ancient villages, also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known for their historic architecture and beautiful settings.
3. Bishan Village:A rural utopia to experience rural China in its authentic setting, away from the hustle and bustle of touristy spots.
4. Tunxi Old Street: Located in Huangshan City, it's a hub for antiques, local snacks, tea, ink stones, and Hui-style architectures.
5. Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory: Discover how traditional Chinese ink sticks, used in calligraphy and painting, are made.
6. Bao Family Garden: Situated in Yi County, it's a fine example of traditional Chinese garden design.
7. Huizhou Ancient City: Gives visitors a glimpse into the region's storied past and its rich architectural and cultural heritage.
8. Tachuan Village: Known for its autumn scenery, it's a great spot to witness the seasonal beauty.
9. Chengkan:A picturesque ancient village , renowned for its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and unique layout based on feng shui principles.
Yes, there are cable cars available in Huangshan.
Getting Up the Back Mountain
(a) Yungu Cableway: Yungu Temple – White Goose Ridge Station
Getting Up the Front Mountain
(b) Yuping Cableway: Mercy Light Temple - Jade Screen Pavilion
Huangshan Mountain is worth visiting all year round, particularly in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it comfortable for hiking and exploring the mountain.
In spring, the mountain is adorned with blooming flowers, creating a picturesque and vibrant landscape. The cherry blossoms and azaleas are particularly stunning during this time.
During summer, Huangshan offers a cool and pleasant retreat, making it an ideal destination to escape the heat.
Autumn brings breathtaking foliage as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The cool temperatures and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy the panoramic views and take in the beauty of the surrounding nature.
In the cold winter, Huangshan Mountain transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, with snow-covered vistas that resemble a picturesque painting. Winter is also the best time to appreciate the sunrise, sunset, the sea of clouds, and the winter snow.
Each season has its own unique charm, so the best time to visit Huangshan Mountain ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the experience you wish to have.
By Air:
Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (TXN) is the primary airport serving Huangshan. It's located in Tunxi District, about 7 kilometers from downtown Huangshan City (Tunxi). The airport has flights connecting major cities like Beijing, Shanghai , Guangzhou , and Xi'an .
By Train:
Huangshan North Railway Station is the primary station for high-speed trains. It's well-connected with cities such as Shanghai, Hangzhou, Beijing, Hefei, and others.
For those traveling from Shanghai, there are frequent high-speed trains that can take you to Huangshan in around 3 to 4 hours.
From Hangzhou , the journey by high-speed train is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
In Huangshan, visitors have various accommodation options:
Mountain Top Hotels: For those wishing to catch the sunrise or sunset, there are several hotels located on the mountain top. Popular choices include Beihai Hotel, Paiyunlou Hotel, and Xihai Hotel.
Good to Know:
Staying on the mountain allows you more time to appreciate additional scenic views of Huangshan, especially sunrise and sea of clouds. However, due to the high transportation costs on the mountain, hotel facilities may be limited. The star-rated hotels might not be up to the standard of those in big cities like Shanghai.
Ancient Villages: If you're looking for a cultural experience, consider staying in one of the ancient villages like Hongcun or Xidi. Here, you can find traditional Huizhou-style guesthouses that provide a unique experience.
Huangshan City Hotels: For those who prefer urban amenities, there are numerous hotels in Huangshan City (Tunxi District). This location is further from the mountain, but it offers more dining and shopping options.
1.Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential for walking the mountain paths safely.
2.Clothing: Depending on the season, pack layers. Consider lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing for summer, and warm layers for autumn and winter.
3.Rain Gear: A light rain jacket or poncho is always a good idea due to unpredictable mountain weather.
4.Backpack: A comfortable daypack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and other personal items during your hike.
5.Refreshments: While there are some vendors on the mountain, they can be pricey. It's a good idea to bring your own water and non-perishable snacks, like energy bars or nuts.
6.Sun Protection: Hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun during clear days.
7.Cash: While some places might accept electronic payment, having cash on hand is always a good idea, especially in more remote areas.
8.Toiletries: If you're staying overnight, pack lightweight toiletries. Don't forget essentials like tissues or wet wipes.
Yes, while it's possible to explore Huangshan independently, having a guide can provide deeper insights into the area's history, culture, and natural wonders.
Heather K
Australia
Destination(s): Huangshan
Date of Experience: Aug 10, 2023
Tour Customized by: Isaac
You May be Interested in This Tour: 3 Days Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) In-depth Hiking Tour - Full Mountain Hiking Route
Ben R
Malaysia
Destination(s): Huangshan
Date of Experience: Jun 19, 2023
Tour Customized by: Shirley
You May be Interested in This Tour: 4 Day Huangshan Heritage Tour: Yellow Mountain, Hongcun & Xidi Ancient Villages
Camille
Canada
Joining the small group tour in China with Asia Odyssey Travel was truly unforgettable. With just 8 people in the group, it fostered a sense of camaraderie among fellow travelers. The cost-sharing aspect made it an affordable choice, which was an added bonus. From the lively cityscape of Shanghai to the awe-inspiring beauty of Huangshan and the cultural treasures of Xian and Beijing, each destination left a lasting impact. Both I and David particularly enjoyed the exhilarating hikes at Mutianyu Great Wall and Yellow Mountain. China's breathtaking nature was truly amazing. We highly recommend this tour for a unique and cost-effective travel experience!
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Huangshan
Date of Experience: Oct 09, 2023
Tour Customized by: Hannah
You May be Interested in This Tour: 11 Days Shanghai Huangshan Xian Beijing Stunning Group Tour