After visiting Mount Emei three times, I finally figured out the best way to explore it!

🚄 Transportation Guide

• High-speed train: Take a 1-hour train from Chengdu East Station/Shuangliu Airport Station to Emeishan Station (2nd class seat ~¥60). Transfer to the scenic shuttle bus to Leidongping (¥90 round-trip).

• Self-drive: Navigate to "Mount Emei Scenic Area". Parking at the foot costs ~¥20/day. Arrive early during peak season to avoid traffic.

💰 Tickets & Transport

• Entrance: Peak season (Jan 16-Dec 14) ¥160/person; Off-season (Dec 15-Jan 15) ¥110/person. 50% discount for students/seniors over 60.

• Cable cars:
◦ Golden Summit: Up ¥65/down ¥55 (round-trip recommended).
◦ Wannian Temple: Up ¥65/down ¥45.

• Shuttle buses: Baoguo Temple→Leidongping ¥90 round-trip; Wuxiangang→Leidongping ¥50 one-way.

🏨 Accommodation

• Golden Summit: Golden Summit Hotel (cloud views, sunrise access, premium pricing).
• Foot of mountain: B&Bs near Baoguo Temple (great value, local food, try "Emeishan Mozhuang Zen Hotel").
• Qingyin Pavilion: Farmstays (ideal for hikers, wake to birdsong/mountain views).

🌄 Classic Routes

• 1-Day Highlights:
Baoguo Temple→Leidongping (2h by bus)→1.5km walk to Jieyin Temple→Golden Summit cable car→Golden Summit (sea of clouds, Samantabhadra statue)→Wannian Temple→Qingyin Pavilion→Monkey Zone→Return from Wuxiangang.

• 2-Day In-Depth:
Day1: Mountain foot→Leidongping→Golden Summit (overnight).
Day2: Sunrise→Descend→Wannian Temple→Qingyin Pavilion→Monkey Zone→Return.

📸 Must-See Spots

1. Golden Summit (3079m): Cloud seas, sunrise, Buddhist light phenomena, golden Samantabhadra statue.
2. Qingyin Pavilion: "Emei's #1 view" with twin waterfalls, ancient temple, wild monkeys (guard belongings!).
3. Wanfo Summit: Highest peak via forest train, panoramic mountain vistas.
4. Monkey Zone: Interact with macaques (no feeding/red clothing/plastic bags).

🍜 Local Flavors

• Qiaojiao Beef: Tender beef in herbal broth (try "Feng Siniang").
• Spicy Tofu Pudding: Breakfast staple topped with crispy noodles.
• Sweet-Skin Duck: Crispy with mildly sweet glaze.
• Temple Vegetarian Cuisine: Light meals at Wannian/Baoguo Temples.

🚨 Important Tips

1. Monkey safety: Avoid red clothes/plastic bags. Hide phones/snacks.
2. Weather prep: Summit 10°C+ colder than base. Bring down jackets/ice cleats (possible April sleet).
3. Avoid crowds: Golden Summit cable cars get busy—arrive early/weekdays.
4. Discounts: Students/seniors get 50% off; free for 65+ with ID.

📌 Pro Tips

• Pack snacks—summit food is pricey.
• Wear hiking shoes/bring poles for long trails.
• Book tickets/shuttle via "Mount Emei Scenic Area" official WeChat.

✨ Mount Emei's beauty is worth the journey! Capture rolling cloud seas and nature's grandeur with this guide. #EmeiGuide #SichuanTravel #CloudSeaSunrise