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Huangshan City, formerly known as Huizhou, is located in the upper reaches of the Xin'an River and was formerly known as Xin'an. It boasts numerous scenic spots, including the Huangshan Scenic Area, a national key scenic spot; Qiyun Mountain, one of the four famous Taoist mountains; and Tunxi Old Street, a "moving painting of the Qingming River." Huangshan is a world-renowned modern international tourist city, a major tourist hub in the Yangtze River Delta, an interprovincial hub for Anhui, Zhejiang, and Jiangxi, and a secondary regional transportation hub in East China.
Huangshan, formerly known as Huizhou, is not only the hometown of Huizhou merchants but also a key birthplace of Hui culture. Its Xin'an School of Painting, Xin'an Medicine, Huizhou Architecture, the Four Types of Huizhou Sculpture, and Huizhou Bonsai are among its most influential examples. Hui Opera is the forerunner of Peking Opera, and Hui Cuisine is one of China's eight major cuisines. Huangshan, located within Huangshan City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient villages of Xidi and Hongcun in southern Anhui are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Suitable for all seasons
Huangshan City belongs to the subtropical monsoon humid climate zone, with the main characteristics of four distinct seasons, short spring and autumn, long summer and winter, and abundant heat.
The biggest feature of Huangshan City is its rich tourism resources and unique landscape. It not only has unparalleled mountain and water scenery created by nature, but also has a large number of cultural landscapes that showcase China's ancient culture.
Huangshan
There is stone on every peak, pine on every stone and strange-looking pine on every pine. It is famous for its four unique features: strange pines, grotesque rocks, sea of clouds and hot springs.
Xidi and Hongcun
The two most representative ancient villages in southern Anhui are famous for their idyllic rural scenery, well-preserved village forms, exquisitely crafted Hui-style houses and rich historical and cultural connotations. They are known as "villages in paintings".
Recommended number of days for a visit: 2-3 days
Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountains, has been a cultural and spiritual landmark in China for centuries. Famous for its unique granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and mystical scenery, it has inspired poets, painters, and philosophers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds deep cultural and historical significance as a symbol of Chinese natural beauty and spirituality.
Huangshan is located in southern Anhui province, China. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Huangshan City (about 60 km from the mountain), or you can take a high-speed train from major cities like Shanghai or Hangzhou to the Huangshan North Railway Station. Once at the base, you can use local buses or cable cars to ascend the mountain.
Huangshan is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is particularly beautiful. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are more crowded due to tourists.
The entrance fee for Huangshan is approximately 230 RMB for the mountain itself, with additional costs for the cable cars. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official Huangshan website or third-party booking platforms. It's recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like spring and autumn. Booking 2-3 days ahead is usually sufficient, but during holidays, booking at least a week in advance is advisable to ensure availability.
To fully explore Huangshan, including hiking, visiting key viewpoints, and taking the cable car, you will need at least two days. A one-day trip is possible but will be rushed and may not allow time for a full exploration of the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking guides upon request. Audio guides are also available in several languages, including English, and can be rented at the entrance.
The recommended itinerary is to take the cable car up to the mountain and explore major peaks like Bright Summit and Lotus Peak, then hike down through the Xihai Grand Canyon and enjoy views of the ancient pine trees. Finish your day at the hot springs for relaxation. If staying overnight, there are several mountain hotels to enjoy the sunrise the next day.
Night visits are not allowed to the mountain’s summit, but some hotels offer views of the sunrise and sunset. Light shows and special tours are not typically available, but seasonal activities may be offered during peak times.
Huangshan can get crowded, especially during national holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-peak seasons (winter or early spring), when the weather is cooler and fewer tourists visit.
There are toilets, food stalls, rest areas, and shops scattered throughout the mountain. However, it's a good idea to bring snacks, water, and essentials with you, as some parts of the mountain can be quite remote.
Huangshan can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to steep and uneven paths, but there are cable cars that provide easy access to the summit. Children will enjoy the scenic views, but it’s important to keep an eye on them due to the rugged terrain. It is advisable for those with mobility challenges to consult with the visitor center for the most accessible routes.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash is still accepted, but mobile payments are more convenient. Carrying cash for small purchases may be necessary in remote areas of the mountain.
There are a few restaurants and cafes on the mountain that offer basic Chinese food, including noodles and rice dishes. Near the base of the mountain, Huangshan City has a wider range of dining options, including local specialties like Huangshan beef.
Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but available in some of the restaurants on the mountain. Halal food may be more difficult to find, but some restaurants in Huangshan City may offer it.
There are several souvenir shops offering local crafts, tea, and items related to Huangshan, such as miniature models of the mountains and local art. Local tea, particularly Huangshan Maofeng, is a popular souvenir.
After visiting Huangshan, taxis or buses can take you to nearby destinations. The Huangshan North Railway Station and the Huangshan Tunxi Airport are both well-connected for further travel. Trains and flights to major cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Beijing are readily available.
