Wudang Mountain

Introducing Wudang Mountain

Wudang Mountain, a holy place of Taoism in China, is also known as Taihe Mountain, Xieluo Mountain, Shenshang Mountain and Xianshi Mountain. It was known as "Taiyue", "Xuanyue" and "Dayue" in ancient times.

Located in Danjiangkou, Shiyan City, in northwestern Hubei Province, Wudang Mountain borders the renowned ancient city of Xiangyang to the east, the urban center of Shiyan to the west, the primeval forest of Shennongjia to the south, and the Danjiangkou Reservoir to the north. During the Ming Dynasty, the emperor bestowed upon Wudang Mountain the titles of "Great Mountain" and "Profound Mountain for Governing the World," revered as the "Imperial Family Temple." Its status as the "Crown of the Five Mountains," where "the Four Great Mountains bow in respect, and the Five Immortal Mountains pay homage to it," is renowned worldwide.

Climate and best time to travel

All seasons are suitable, spring and autumn are the best, the temperature is suitable

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Golden Palace (Golden Roof)

Located atop Tianzhu Peak, the highest peak in Wudang Mountain, the Golden Hall was built by the personal order of Emperor Zhu Di of the Ming Dynasty. It is a symbol of Wudang Mountain and a hallmark of the prosperity of Wudang Taoism, which was fostered by the Ming Dynasty imperial family. The Golden Hall incorporates the highest architectural standards of the time—a double-eaved hipped roof—comparable to the Hall of Supreme Harmony in Beijing's Forbidden City. Standing in front of the Golden Hall offers sweeping views of the Wudang Mountains.

Tickets

210 yuan/person (140 yuan entrance fee + 70 yuan transportation fee)

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Wudang Mountain

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Wudang Mountain is a sacred Taoist site and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mountain has been a center for Taoism and martial arts, especially Wudang Kung Fu, since ancient times. It is believed to be the home of the Taoist immortal Zhang Sanfeng, and the temples here are important for both spiritual and martial arts training. It has been a symbol of Taoist culture for over 1,000 years.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Wudang Mountain is located in Shiyan City, Hubei Province. The easiest way to get there is by taking a high-speed train to Shiyan Railway Station, followed by a taxi or bus to the Wudang Mountain scenic area. Shiyan is also accessible by bus or taxi from Wuhan. Once on the mountain, walking or using a cable car is common to explore the temples.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Wudang Mountain Scenic Area is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Avoid the winter months when the area can be cold and snowy, and the summer months when it tends to be more crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to Wudang Mountain is generally around ¥120 to ¥160 for access to the main temples and scenic areas. Cable car rides are additional. Tickets can be purchased online through official websites or at the ticket counters at the base of the mountain.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but during peak seasons like national holidays, it is advisable to book 1-2 days in advance to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Wudang Mountain, including hiking to the temples and enjoying the scenic views, you would need about 2-3 days. If you're focused on the temples and a relaxed visit, 1-2 days would suffice.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Golden Hall – Located at the highest point, this temple offers stunning views and is a key Taoist site.
• Purple Cloud Temple – A historical Taoist temple dedicated to the founder of Wudang martial arts.
• Nanyan Temple – An ancient and scenic temple with views of the mountain.
• Wudang Kung Fu School – Watch or learn the traditional martial arts of the area.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at the mountain, and most guides speak Mandarin. In certain areas, you may find guides who speak English, but it's recommended to check in advance if an English-speaking guide is required. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin and sometimes in English at major temples.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Golden Hall offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
• The Purple Cloud Temple is situated on a cliffside, perfect for capturing the mountains and forest below.
• The Wudang Mountain Cable Car offers great aerial views of the area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary starts with a visit to the Purple Cloud Temple, then hike up to the Golden Hall for panoramic views. You can also visit Nanyan Temple and explore the tranquil forested areas around the temples. The Wudang Kung Fu School is also a good stop to learn about martial arts culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not available as the area is not typically open after dark. However, during special occasions, there might be Taoist ceremonies and light shows in the evening. It’s best to inquire about such events before your visit.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Wudang Mountain can get crowded during Chinese New Year and National Day holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays in spring and autumn, with early mornings and late afternoons offering a quieter experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets at major temples and scenic points. Food stalls and restaurants are available at the base of the mountain and around the main temples, offering local dishes. Water can be bought at several spots, and small shops sell souvenirs like Taoist trinkets and Wudang martial arts gear.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Wudang Mountain’s terrain is mountainous and may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Some areas are accessible by cable car, but others may require hiking on steep paths. It is recommended to plan accordingly for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in larger shops and restaurants. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions, especially in remote areas of the mountain.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few restaurants and food stalls offering local specialties near the main temples and at the base of the mountain. These include simple Chinese meals like noodles, dumplings, and rice dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available at many of the mountain’s restaurants, especially in Taoist temples. However, halal food might be more limited, so it's best to check in advance if necessary.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses near the base of Wudang Mountain, such as Wudang Mountain Resort and Shiyan hotels. For a more authentic experience, you can also stay in small guesthouses closer to the temples.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Shiyan City – The city itself has a few attractions and is the gateway to Wudang Mountain.
• Daxiaodong – A scenic area featuring caves and beautiful nature around Wudang Mountain.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling Taoist statues, prayer beads, Wudang Kung Fu clothing, and other traditional items. Martial arts equipment and medicinal herbs are also popular items to purchase.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Wudang Mountain, you can return to Shiyan Railway Station or Shiyan City for further travel. From Shiyan, you can take a train or bus to Wuhan or other destinations. Taxi or private cars are also an option for onward travel.