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The Changkong Plank Road, located on the eastern slope of Huashan's South Peak, was built by He Zhizhen, the first master of the Huashan School during the Yuan Dynasty, in order to achieve immortality through seclusion. He Zhizhen inlaid stone piles into the cliffs and covered them with wooden planks. At the end of the plank road, you can see the "Hezu Cave," where He Zhizhen cultivated himself.
The entire plank road is divided into three sections, totaling approximately 50 meters. The upper section, which runs from the Nantianmen Stone Archway to the west of Chaoyuan Cave, is carved into the cliff, about 20 meters long and 60 centimeters wide. This section is guardrailed. Turning downward, iron bars run through the gaps between the cliff rocks, resembling a suspended ladder. Visitors must hold onto the iron chains and descend step by step, a process known as "chicken descending the shelf." This is the middle section. Turning west, the lower section is the most dangerous. Road builders have carved holes into the cliff face, driven stone piles into the holes, and laid 40-centimeter-wide wooden planks between the piles. Visitors must lean against the cliff face, hold onto the iron chains, step on the wooden planks, and slowly move forward sideways.
After walking along the plank road, you'll reach a small flat plateau. A cave carved into the cliff face is known as "Hezu Cave." Legend has it that this is where Taoist Master He Zhizhen cultivated himself. Above "Hezu Cave" stands a massive rock, jutting out into the air. At its base, in a depression parallel to the ground, are the characters "Quanzhen Cliff."
It's important to note that the "Changkong Plank Road" is a dead-end road! If you go the same way, you must return the same way, effectively experiencing the adventure twice. This path is for exploration only, not a mandatory part of the climb. Those with acrophobia, heart disease, or mental health issues are advised not to venture there. There have been cases of tourists dying from heart attacks and falling here due to fear. Many have even cried so hard that their legs gave out due to the shock.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The Changkong plank road is located below the West Rock of Huashan's South Peak, on a smooth cliff thousands of feet high. It is almost 90 degrees. Looking up at the cliff, you can see dozens of meters, and looking down, you can't see the bottom of the valley for at least two or three hundred meters. The plank road is only more than thirty centimeters wide. One side is suspended in the air without a railing, and the other side has an iron rope nailed on the cliff for handholds.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
Free safety rope 30 yuan/person
Open all day
The Skywalk in Huayin, Shaanxi, is part of the scenic mountain area, designed to provide visitors with immersive views of the landscape. It is a modern attraction enhancing tourism in the region while showcasing the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Located in Huayin city, Shaanxi province, the Skywalk is accessible by local taxi or bus from Huayin center. Visitors can walk from nearby parking areas or take shuttle services offered within the scenic area.
The Skywalk is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn provide the best weather for clear views and comfortable walking conditions.
Entrance fees may vary; the Skywalk often requires a separate ticket, purchased online or at the ticket office on-site.
It is recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially on weekends or holidays, to avoid queues.
1–2 hours are sufficient to walk the Skywalk, take photos, and enjoy the views. Hiking nearby trails may extend the visit to 3–4 hours.
Guided tours may be available locally in Chinese; audio guides in English are limited. Independent exploration is common.
The Skywalk closes before dark; night visits or light shows are not available. Special events may occur seasonally.
Weekends and public holidays are busiest. Weekday mornings are the least crowded and most enjoyable for walking.
The Skywalk may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to height and incline. Children should be supervised at all times.
Tickets and small purchases can usually be paid via cash, mobile payments, or cards, depending on the vendor.
Vegetarian options are usually available; vegan and halal options may be limited and should be confirmed locally.
Souvenir shops sell postcards, keychains, local crafts, and small mountain-themed items.
