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Visitors to Tayun Mountain Scenic Area can enjoy hiking on its scenic trails, explore the natural beauty, take in the breathtaking views from the mountain peaks, and visit the temples and cultural sites scattered throughout the area.
Ta Yun Mountain, also known as Taoer Mountain, is a famous Taoist mountain in Qin, Hubei, Sichuan, Henan and other places. It is located in Chaiping Town, 35 kilometers west of Zhen'an County. The main peak, Jinding, is 1,665.8 meters above sea level. It is shaped like a pagoda and rises into the clouds. It is known as "Golden Summit piercing the blue sky, pine sea among clouds and mist".
Ta Yun Mountain is renowned for its precipitous, unique, beautiful, spectacular, and mysterious features. It boasts not only a rich and ancient Taoist culture but also vibrant natural scenery. In 2011, Ta Yun Mountain was selected as one of China's top ten most promising Taoist mountains in the country.
Tayun Mountain boasts a steep terrain and jagged rocks, with peaks, canyons, and cliffs. Dense forests offer breathtaking scenery, towering trees, and fresh air. Taoist buildings on the mountain, built to the contours of the mountain, feature carved beams and painted rafters, creating a unique architectural style that remains remarkably well-preserved after over 400 years. The Golden Summit, towering atop a thousand-foot cliff, is particularly renowned.
The warm temperate semi-humid monsoon climate features four distinct seasons, with rain and heat occurring in the same season, and distinct dry and wet seasons in the summer and winter. Avoid the cold winter and travel in spring, summer, and autumn.
The first scenic spot on Tayun Mountain is the Tayun Immortal Hall. With five main halls and a two-story pavilion, the hall provides accommodation for pilgrims and tourists, accommodating over 500 people. The main entrance is framed with blue glazed tiles, with the four shimmering blue characters "Tayun Immortal Hall" engraved in the center. To the upper right of the hall is a large hall, adorned with green roofs, carved beams and painted rafters, and richly painted walls. It features 12 vibrant clay statues of deities. Heading southeast from the hall, around a bend and over a small mountain pass, you'll see dozens of neatly arranged stone tablets.
Climb the tower to admire the marvelous scenery, and the most spectacular part is the Golden Summit. The Golden Summit houses the Guanyin Temple. This small temple, less than six square meters, boasts a precarious structure. Perched atop the top of Tayun Mountain, it overhangs a chasm on three sides. Four stone pillars are inserted into the rock crevices, the foundation is paved with stone strips, and the temple's roof is crowned with a brass spire. The brass roof, shimmering in the sunlight, gleams with golden light, earning it the name "Golden Summit." The Guanyin Temple boasts four raised eaves, each adorned with a 21-jin (12-pound) copper bell.
To the left of Tayun Mountain lies Chifeng Mountain, a steep mountain with towering ancient pines. Standing on the summit offers panoramic views of the mountain, making it a great place for tourists to relax. To the right is Dongfeng Mountain, a majestic and magnificent mountain with dense forests. Near the slope is a spacious horse-grazing slope. Ascending this slope, one can take in Tayun Mountain, Sheshi Cliff, and the Golden Summit.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
Adult ticket for Tayun Mountain Scenic Area (adult ticket includes round-trip transportation within the scenic area) 90 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Tayun Mountain is known for its rich history and cultural significance, with historical temples and sites that reflect the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. The mountain has been a site for Buddhist practices and local legends for centuries.
Tayun Mountain Scenic Area is located in Shaanxi Province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from nearby cities, such as Xi'an. Public transportation options may include buses that connect to the area, though they can require transfers.
The mountain area is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn, when the weather is cool and comfortable, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
The entrance fee is approximately 60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, or visitors can use online ticketing platforms for added convenience.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, though doing so is recommended during peak travel seasons to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
A full visit to Tayun Mountain can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the trails you choose to hike and how much time you spend exploring the temples and cultural sites.
The must-see highlights include the panoramic views from the mountain peaks, the ancient temples, and the scenic trails that wind through the area. The cliffs and rock formations also provide stunning photography opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some tours offering basic English explanations. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin, and English versions may be offered upon request.
The best viewpoints are at the mountain peaks and along the ridgelines, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The temples nestled in the valleys also provide great opportunities for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start by visiting the main entrance and hiking up to the mountain's highest peak. Take time to explore the temples along the way. For a more leisurely visit, you can also enjoy the various scenic spots near the base of the mountain.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Tayun Mountain. The area is best enjoyed during the day when you can fully appreciate its natural beauty and cultural significance.
The area can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. Weekdays, especially in the off-season (spring and autumn), tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
Facilities at Tayun Mountain include basic toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and drinks. There are also a few restaurants near the base of the mountain that offer local food.
While the main trails are well-maintained, some parts of Tayun Mountain may be challenging for elderly, children, or disabled visitors due to steep inclines. It is advisable to check with local guides for the most accessible routes.
Both mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted, although cash may be needed in some smaller shops or for local vendors.
There are several restaurants near the base of the mountain, offering traditional Shaanxi dishes. However, the food options within the scenic area are limited to small snack shops.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants in the area. Halal food may be available in nearby towns, as Shaanxi is home to many Muslim communities.
There are a few hotels near the base of Tayun Mountain, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. For more luxurious options, visitors can stay in Xi'an and travel to the mountain for a day trip.
Nearby attractions include the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, Mount Hua, and the ancient city wall of Xi'an. These landmarks can be easily visited on a day trip or combined with a visit to Tayun Mountain.
Souvenir shops at Tayun Mountain sell items such as local crafts, religious items, and traditional Shaanxi souvenirs like tea and pottery. You can also find small statues of the mountain's famous deities.
After visiting Tayun Mountain, taxis, buses, and private cars are the best options to continue the journey. Visitors can also return to Xi'an for further exploration of the city’s famous landmarks.
