Huangshan

At Huangshan in China's Anhui province, you'll climb granite peaks rising 1,864 meters into the sky. Walk up 60,000 stone steps to watch pine trees growing at impossible angles from sheer rock walls. In winter, clouds drift between the peaks, creating what locals call the "Sea of Clouds." Near the mountains, you can soak in 42.5°C hot springs or explore Hongcun, where water still flows through Ming Dynasty channels beneath white-walled houses.

Getting to Huangshan Mountain

Take a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Station to Huangshan North Station - the journey takes 3 hours and costs ¥191. From either the train station or Huangshan Tunxi International Airport, you'll need another hour to reach the mountain area. Book your accommodation in Tangkouzhen at the mountain's base instead of Huangshan city or Tunxi to save time on daily travel to the scenic area.

Exploring the Mountain Peaks

Three peaks dominate Huangshan: Lotus Peak (1,864m), Bright Peak (1,860m), and Celestial Peak (1,829m). While cable cars take you part way up, reaching the summits requires climbing many stone steps. Look for the Huangshan pines jutting out from the granite faces at sharp angles. Entry costs ¥190 from January 21 to December 19, and ¥150 from December 20 to January 20.

Weather and Cloud Formations

Huangshan creates its own weather patterns. In the valleys between peaks, mist often collects into what's known as the "Sea of Clouds." You'll see this phenomenon most often during winter mornings. While winter temperatures drop below freezing at higher elevations, you'll encounter fewer visitors and see frost-covered pines.

Flora and Natural Environment

Different plants grow at different heights on Huangshan. You'll walk through mesic forests below 1,100 meters, dense deciduous trees between 1,100 and 1,800 meters, and alpine grasslands above 1,800 meters. The mountain holds more than half of China's fern species and the endemic Huangshan pines, which grow nowhere else on Earth.

Ancient Villages Near Huangshan

Take a 1.5-hour trip from the mountain to reach Hongcun village. Walk through streets designed in an ox shape, where water still runs through Ming and Qing Dynasty channels. You'll see art students sketching the distinctive horse-head walls and detailed roof tiles of white-walled houses.

Hot Springs and Relaxation

Dip into hot springs that maintain 42.5°C throughout the year. Choose between public and private pools filled with mineral-rich water. Many bathing spots look out toward the mountains, and you can visit regardless of the weather.