🚠 How to Go Up Yuelu Mountain — Full Transport Guide for Every Type of Traveller

#falladventures

Yuelu Mountain (岳麓山) is one of Changsha’s must-visit scenic spots — but did you know there are three main ways to reach the top? Whether you want to save time, take photos, or enjoy a scenic stroll, here’s how to pick the best route for you 👇

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🚶♀️ Option 1: Walk Up

⏰ 45 mins–1 hr (one way, depending on pace)
💪 Best for: hikers or those who love nature trails
Walk up from South Gate (南门), passing scenic spots like Aiwan Pavilion (爱晚亭), Yuelu Academy (岳麓书院), and Lushan Temple (麓山寺). You’ll enjoy cultural landmarks and shaded forest

Note that if you walk, it’s not recommended to use the East Gate as there’s nothing much to see there along the way, as the attractions are mostly near the South Gate unless you need to ride the cable car.

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🚐 Option 2: Shuttle Bus (环保车)

💰 ¥20 one-way / ¥30 round-trip
🕓 Runs 7:00–22:00
💡 You can hop on at either East Gate (东门) or South Gate (南门), and it takes about 10–15 minutes to the top. Then descend by another gate or choose to descend via the same gate if you prefer. Of your descend time is near evening, descend via South Gate as you can visit the Hunan University Night Market.
It’s the easiest and fastest way if you’re short on time or visiting with family, or you miss the cable car operating hours

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🚠 Option 3: Cableway (索道)

💰 ¥50 up / ¥40 down / ¥80 round-trip
🕓 Operating hours: roughly 9:00–17:00
🎢 Full ride takes about 15 minutes — glide above lush trees and enjoy panoramic views of Xiangjiang River and Changsha city.
Entrance via East Gate, just 200m from Meixihu Station Exit 3 (地铁2号线溁湾镇站).

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⚠️ Important Notes
• 🪪 You must book your entry via the “岳麓山橘子洲旅游区” WeChat mini-program (3 days in advance in peak season. We went during off peak season so was able to get slots even when we book just an hour before).
• Tickets are time-slotted: 6:00–12:00, 12:00–17:00, or 17:00–22:00.
• Children under 1.2m or without ID must be registered by a guardian.
• Visitors must exit before 23:00.