Live Your Best Lives
Explore the scenic hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views from the mountain's peaks, and visit historical temples along the way. The area is also popular for photography and nature walks.
Tayun Mountain, located 35 kilometers southwest of Zhen'an County, Shaanxi Province, and 15 kilometers from the Dongping Exit of the Xikang Expressway, has a peak elevation of 1,665.8 meters. The mountain boasts more than a dozen ancient and ingeniously designed halls and pavilions, all constructed during the 25th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty.
It was listed as a provincial second-level cultural relic protection unit in 2003.
Ta Yun Mountain is a renowned Taoist mountain in Qin, Hubei, Sichuan, and Henan. Located in Chaiping Town, 35 kilometers west of Zhen'an County, its main peak, Jinding, rises 1,665.8 meters above sea level. Resembling a pagoda, it rises into the clouds, earning it the nickname "Golden Summit piercing the sky, pine trees amidst the clouds." Its ancient Taoist architectural complex, built during the Zhengde reign of the Ming Dynasty (1505-1521), comprises a pavilion, a pagoda, a temple, a hall, and nine halls, all boasting a simple yet elegant style. The Jinding Guanyin Hall, built atop the mountain's towering summit and suspended on three sides over a chasm, is a breathtaking display of exceptional craftsmanship, earning it the nickname "the single pillar of Qin and Chu, the pinnacle of Taoist temples." Since the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, the Ta Yun Mountain complex has undergone five renovations and boasts over 500 years of history. It is a provincial-level, second-class cultural relic protection unit. Ta Yun Mountain is famous for its steepness, uniqueness, beauty, grandeur and mystery. It not only has a profound and long-standing Taoist culture, but also has colorful natural scenery.
In 2011, Tayun Mountain was selected as one of China's ten most promising Taoist mountains in the country. Ren Farong, President of the China Taoist Association, highly praised Tayun Mountain in an inscription: "The first fairyland in the Qinling Mountains, the most dangerous Taoist temple in the world." In December 2015, Tayun Mountain was designated a National AAAA-level tourist attraction.
Tayun Mountain boasts a subtropical, semi-humid climate and is renowned for its ruggedness, uniqueness, beauty, steepness, and mystical beauty. It boasts not only stunning natural scenery but also a rich and ancient Taoist culture. Its treacherous peaks, strange rocks, ancient pines, seas of clouds, secluded caves, canyons, and dense forests blend seamlessly with the Taoist cultural landscape, making it a perfect place to visit in all seasons.
Tayunxian Pavilion and Guanyin Hall;
Recommended one-day tour
70 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Tayun Mountain has cultural and historical significance as a site for ancient Chinese Buddhist temples and shrines. It is revered by locals for its natural beauty and spiritual importance.
Tayun Mountain is located in Shaanxi Province, China. It can be accessed via taxi or private transport from nearby cities, with roads leading directly to the base. Public transportation options may be limited in more remote areas.
The mountain is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
The entrance fee typically ranges from 50 to 100 CNY, depending on the season and specific attractions within the area. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through official tourism platforms.
It is recommended to book tickets at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
To fully explore Tayun Mountain, allocate about 4-6 hours, depending on your pace and which trails you choose to hike.
The temple complex at the summit, the panoramic viewpoints, and the scenic hiking trails are the main highlights. Be sure to visit the ancient stone inscriptions along the way.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides can also be rented at the base of the mountain.
The summit offers the best viewpoints for panoramic photos. The views over the valley below and the surrounding mountains are especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset.
Start with the lower trails leading to the temple at the middle of the mountain, then ascend to the summit for the best views. It’s recommended to follow marked paths to ensure safety.
Night visits are generally not available due to the challenging terrain, but special tours during festivals or holidays may include cultural performances or light installations.
The mountain can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The best time to visit for fewer crowds is early mornings on weekdays, particularly in the off-season (autumn and winter).
Basic facilities such as toilets, small shops, and water stations are available at the base and along popular hiking routes. However, you should bring your own snacks and drinks for the hike.
The mountain trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to their steep and rugged nature. However, the base area and certain temple complexes are accessible to all visitors.
Cash is commonly used, but larger vendors may accept mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay). It’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases in remote areas.
There are a few small restaurants and local eateries at the base serving traditional Shaanxi cuisine, such as noodles and dumplings.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants, and some halal food can be found in the nearby towns, particularly for Muslim visitors.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns such as Baoji and Tongchuan. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a local guesthouse.
Nearby attractions include the Famen Temple and the Qinling Mountains, both of which are easily accessible and make for great additions to a day trip.
Souvenir shops at the base sell local handicrafts, such as paper fans, traditional tea sets, and locally-made art pieces.
After visiting Tayun Mountain, taxis, private cars, or buses can be used to continue to nearby attractions. The closest major transport hub is the city of Baoji, which has rail and bus connections.
