Hidden next to Huangshan Mountain: A Cool and Immortal Mountain | A Deep Guide to Tianzhu Mountain

Hidden next to Huangshan: A "Cool Fairy Mountain" | An In-Depth Guide to Tianzhu Mountain: Escape the Crowds and Enjoy a 22°C Summer

If you're tired of the crowds at Huangshan and want a secluded escape where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the stunning mountains and waters while enjoying a refreshing cool in the summer, Tianzhu Mountain is definitely worth adding to your list. Praised by Li Bai as the "Fairy Mountain of Anhui," this mountain boasts a 97% forest coverage rate and an average summer temperature of just 22°C. It combines the breathtaking ruggedness of Huangshan with the tranquility of undisturbed nature. This guide combines essential routes, must-see highlights, and practical tips to help you discover the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the shortest possible time.

I. First Impressions of Tianzhu Mountain: Why Recommend It?

• Cooling the Summer: The refreshing coolness of the mountains in the summer is a natural "air-conditioning barrier," allowing you to hike without the scorching heat.

• Small, less crowded, and breathtaking scenery: Located adjacent to Huangshan, it's much more understated. Skip the queues at popular photo spots and enjoy the mountain's sea of clouds and dramatic peaks all to yourself.

• A diverse landscape: From steep, nearly 90-degree mountain paths to emerald green alpine lakes and breathtaking seas of clouds, every step is breathtaking.

• Convenient and cost-effective transportation: Direct high-speed rail access means affordable transportation to the scenic area, allowing you to set off without any complicated planning.

II. Pre-trip Essentials: Transportation and Accommodation

1. Transportation Guide

• Transportation: Take the high-speed rail to Qianshan Station. After exiting, there's a direct bus to the scenic area, conveniently located at the entrance. Tickets are only 10 yuan per person and depart at scheduled times (be sure to inquire about departure times in advance to avoid waiting).

• Transportation within the scenic area: Access to key attractions requires cable cars. We recommend the Dalongwo Cable Car (ascending the mountain) and the Longtan River Cable Car (descending the mountain, on the return trip along the eastern route) to conserve energy and maximize the views.

2. Accommodation Recommendations

If you want to fully explore the area and avoid the stress of early morning travel, we recommend staying the night beforehand near the scenic area. The following two hotels are reliable and have been tested:

• Fuyao Tianzhu Mountain View Pool B&B: Open the window to enjoy the sweeping mountain views, and the courtyard and pool complement each other beautifully, making for photo ops. The owner is incredibly welcoming and will thoughtfully plan an itinerary based on your schedule.

• Mohai Xingu B&B: Quiet and inviting, with a vibrant atmosphere, you can wake up to the sound of birdsong. It's located within walking distance of the scenic area entrance.

III. Highlights Route: Choose the Right Route Based on Your Time

1. Short Time (2-3 Hours): West Route Small Loop (Highlights)

Route: Dalongwo Cableway → Mysterious Valley → Tianchi Peak → Zongguanzhai (Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder) → Zhenyigang → Dalongwo Cableway
Highlights: This route condenses the essence of the West Route, allowing you to experience the profound wonders of Mysterious Valley, the expansive views of Tianchi Peak, and the thrill of the Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder. It's moderately strenuous and suitable for a short trip.

2. Ample Time (4-5 hours): Western Grand Loop (Immersive Scenic Viewing)

Route: Dalongwo Cableway → Mystic Valley → Tianchi Peak → Penglai Peak → Qinglongbei → Xiguanzhai → Liandan Lake → Zhenyigang → Dalongwo Cableway
Highlights: This route offers access to three key locations: Penglai Peak, Qinglongbei, and Liandan Lake. Experience the feeling of "flying on a sword" suspended in the air on three sides, and enjoy a moment of tranquility beside the alpine lake.

3. Experienced (1 Day): Combined East and West Route (See All Highlights in One Go)

Route: Dalongwo Cableway → Zhenyigang → Mysterious Valley → Zongguanzhai (Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder) → Tianchi Peak → Qinglongbei → Liandan Lake → Echo Terrace → Diecui Pavilion → Yangguan Sandie → Datianmen → Tianshi Peak → Queqiao → Glass Plank Road → Longtan River Cableway
Highlights: This route combines the highlights of the East and West Route, allowing you to experience both the breathtaking awe of the West Route and the rugged wildness of the East Route. The Glass Plank Road and Datianmen are unmissable highlights of the East Route, making this a truly "one-stop, no-regrets" experience.

IV. Must-See Highlights: Don't Miss These Spots

1. Tianchi Peak (1489m): The centerpiece of Tianzhu Mountain's scenic views! Gaze eastward at the shrouded mist of Penglai, westward at the emerald-like Liandan Lake nestled among the mountains, and northward at the breathtaking cliffs of Feilai Peak. Especially after rain, when the weather clears up, there's a 99% chance of encountering a sea of clouds, a breathtaking sight.

2. Penglai Peak: A popular spot suspended on three sides, overlooking the mountains from the cliffside, with clouds swirling beneath your feet, you'll instantly capture a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Remember to hold onto the railings when taking photos to ensure both beauty and safety.

3. Qinglongbei: A unique fault ridge, the 90-degree vertical Dragon Ridge Trail is incredibly challenging. Leaning down allows you to capture the panoramic view of Liandan Lake. While the hike can be tiring, the photos are 100% accurate.

4. Hundred-Step Cloud Ladder: A "brave challenge" within Zongguanzhai. These nearly vertical steps lead directly to the summit, making the climb a thrilling and exhilarating experience. The glimpse back from the summit is a truly rewarding experience.

5. Liandan Lake: China's third-largest alpine lake, its emerald waters reflect the surrounding peaks. A stroll around the lake or a leisurely stroll in a lakeside cafe, enjoying the cool mountain breeze, will instantly soothe your climbing fatigue.

V. Travel Tips: Pitfalls to Avoid and Practical Reminders

1. Time Planning: The scenic area cable car ceases operation at 5:30 PM. Be sure to plan your descent time in advance, especially for those taking a long route. It's recommended to depart before 8 AM to avoid missing the last bus.

2. Equipment: Wear breathable and sweat-wicking clothing (the wind can be strong on the summit, so bring a light jacket). Comfortable sneakers are essential to avoid slipping. Bring your own trekking poles (or rent some at the scenic area) to conserve energy. Bring water and dry food as needed; there are resupply points within the scenic area, but they are slightly more expensive.

3. Weather and Scenic Views: If you want to see the sea of clouds, choose a sunny day after rain. Summer showers are common in the mountains, so bring a light raincoat (which is more convenient than an umbrella).

4. Tips for Avoiding Peaks: Weekdays are less crowded. If you can only visit on weekends, depart early to take advantage of the quiet morning hours and avoid the afternoon crowds.

This guide captures all the best of Tianzhu Mountain, allowing you to avoid the crowds and enjoy the stunning scenery while accurately capturing every breathtaking spot. Before it goes viral, grab some friends and experience the 22°C summer heat and breathtaking scenery of this "Fairy Mountain of Anhui"!