Yuntai Mountain, exploring the soul of mountains and waters, visit Hongshi Gorge and Zhuyu Peak

Yuntai Mountain, located in Jiaozuo, Henan, is a national 5A-level scenic area and a world geopark, famous for its "gorge wonders, cascading waterfalls, and northern landscapes." It combines grandeur, danger, beauty, and tranquility, suitable for family trips, hiking enthusiasts, and photography lovers. A 3-day 2-night itinerary is reasonable and relaxed, with a per capita budget of about 800-1200 RMB.

D1: Arrive in Jiaozuo, initial exploration of Hongshi Gorge (core highlight)
Take the high-speed train to [Jiaozuo Station] or [Xiuwu West Station], then transfer to the tourist shuttle bus directly to the Yuntai Mountain Visitor Center (about 30 minutes). Stay at a guesthouse or budget hotel in the riverside service area (about 200-260 RMB/night). In the afternoon, enter the scenic area and first check in at the "China's First Marvelous Gorge" — [Hongshi Gorge]: red cliffs and clear water, winding paths leading to secluded spots, a 2-kilometer plank road winding along the valley floor, layered waterfalls, dappled light and shadow, about 2 hours walking, a cool summer retreat.

D2: Full-day deep tour, take the cable car to Zhuyu Peak
Early morning drive to [Tanpu Gorge], see the Lovers' Waterfall and Yazi Waterfall, picturesque and delicate; then visit [Quanpu Gorge], ending at Asia's highest drop [Yuntai Heavenly Waterfall] (single drop 314 meters), especially spectacular in the rainy season. After lunch, take the Fenghuangling cable car up the mountain (one way 80 RMB), reach the summit of [Zhuyu Peak] — the inspiration place where Wang Wei wrote "Planting Zhuyu everywhere, one person is missing," the glass plank road is thrilling, overlooking endless mountains, and when the sea of clouds surges, it looks like a fairyland.

D3: Monkey Valley + return trip or free travel at Xiaozhai Valley
In the morning, go to [Monkey Valley] to observe wild Taihang monkeys up close, very interesting (do not feed them). Alternatively, choose to revisit [Xiaozhai Valley] for a deep hike, enjoying the babbling streams and changing scenery with every step. Return in the afternoon, and you can visit the Xiuwu Dangyangyu Jiao Tai Porcelain Museum along the way to learn about intangible cultural heritage.

Tips:
Best season: April to October, summer and autumn have abundant water and the most beautiful scenery;
Scenic area transportation: includes sightseeing bus (ticket 120 RMB + bus fare 60 RMB, valid for three days);
Wear non-slip shoes, bring a raincoat or light jacket, as there is a big temperature difference on the mountain.

A natural baptism walking among the clouds in the gorge, reading the soul of the Taihang Mountains between waterfalls and red rocks.

Post by Daisy~Cook | Oct 27, 2025