Mount Culaishan in Tai'an, Unlock the Hidden Gem Experience

Tired of crowded popular attractions? Want to roam freely in natural scenery and explore the threads of history and culture? Mount Culaishan in Tai'an will definitely satisfy you! This underrated treasure spot, known as the sister mountain of Mount Tai, holds many surprises waiting for you to discover.

Preparation Before the Trip

• Ticket: 40 RMB per person per visit.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. It is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid peak crowds and enjoy more time for sightseeing.

• Essentials: Comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots for easy trekking; pack enough drinking water as there are few supply points on the mountain; sun protection items such as hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are indispensable; if traveling during the rainy season, remember to bring a raincoat.

Transportation Guide

• Self-driving: From Tai'an city center, head south along Tailou Road (Tai'an to Loude) for 19 kilometers, turn left at Xinanwang Village (signposted), and go straight to the scenic area; alternatively, take Longtan South Road via Tai'an High-tech Zone and enter the Culaishan Tourism Expressway for a smooth drive. If driving from Jinan, navigate to "Culaishan Forest Park North Gate," about a 1-hour drive.

• Public Bus: Take bus No. 219 from Tai'an city to "Culaicun" stop. Note that the last bus departs at 5:30 PM.

Sightseeing Routes

One-day Leisure Tour

Morning: Take a shuttle from the scenic area entrance to the swing frame, said to be where the old lady of Mount Tai swung as a child. The swing’s unique shape resembles two ox horns and is an excellent spot to view the "Culaishan Sunset." Then head to Zhongjunzhang, stroll around the Zhongjunzhang Reservoir, admire the millennium-old Dragon and Phoenix Pines, ancient ginkgo trees, and the Zhongjun Buddha. Hiking enthusiasts can challenge Wangyue Peak.

Afternoon: Take a shuttle to Qiyunping and climb the main peak Taipingding at 1,028 meters elevation. Visitors with good stamina can venture deeper into the forest to tackle the famous eighteen switchbacks of Culaishan, passing Lover’s Cliff and Lover’s Bridge; those with less stamina can choose a shorter mountain path. Once on the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Culaishan and the joy of reaching the top before heading back.

In-depth Two-day Tour

Day 1: In the morning, explore the Longwan geological wonder, where volcanic rock forms natural "dragon scale" riverbeds. If lucky, you might find crystal raw stones in the rock crevices. In the afternoon, visit the ancient pine forest at Zhongjunzhang, relax under the 2,000-year-old "Welcoming Pine," picnic and roll on the pine needle carpet, enjoying a leisurely time. Stay overnight at a nearby guesthouse and savor authentic farmhouse cuisine.

Day 2: Rise early to visit Zhuolongwan Waterfall, which during the rainy season resembles the spectacular "Little Huangguoshu Waterfall." The deep pool beneath the waterfall is clear and suitable for swimming (safety first). In the afternoon, climb Taipingding to experience the wild charm of the forest. After descending, visit the Cherry Valley Glass Skywalk for a thrilling suspended walk before returning.

Must-visit Attractions

• Longwan Geological Wonder: The riverbed is covered with unique "dragon scale" patterns formed by volcanic rock shaped over time—a masterpiece of nature. Here, you can walk barefoot in the cool mountain spring water and search for crystal raw stones hidden in the rock crevices. Bring a small hammer; you might get an unexpected find.

• Zhongjunzhang Ancient Pine Forest: Home to a 2,000-year-old "Welcoming Pine" that has witnessed the passage of time. Thick pine needles form a natural carpet, and the tall canopy provides shade. Picnic, hang a hammock, and immerse yourself in the forest’s tranquility.

• Zhuolongwan Waterfall: Majestic during the rainy season, resembling the "Little Huangguoshu." The deep pool beneath is crystal clear, perfect for swimming and playing, enjoying nature’s refreshing gift.

• Taipingding: The main peak of Culaishan at 1,028 meters. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of rolling mountains and the seasonal beauty of the forest along the hike.

Photo Spots

• Tianchi Viewing Platform: An excellent place to watch the sea of clouds and sunrise. At dawn, the horizon glows softly, clouds roll beneath your feet, and the sun rises slowly, bathing you in golden light—every shot is a masterpiece.

• Caoshiyu Rainbow Road: An S-shaped curve lined with blooming flowers. Walking along the winding road surrounded by colorful blossoms makes for stunning photos.

• Ancient Post Road Moss Wall: Full of forest vibes, moss-covered walls tell stories of time. Stand in front of the wall with a green background for fresh and natural photos.

• Cherry Valley Glass Skywalk: Transparent glass underfoot with a thrilling suspended feeling, backed by green mountains and trees. Brave visitors can capture unique check-in photos here.

• Medicinal Village Starry Sky Camp: On clear nights, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. Pitch a tent, lie on the lawn, and use the vast starry sky as your backdrop to capture dreamy moments.

Food Recommendations

• Wenhe Fish Soup: Made with wild crucian carp freshly cooked in Culaishan spring water. The soup is milky white and delicious, with every sip tasting like nature’s gift.

• Pine Branch Roasted Sweet Potato: Roasted slowly by an old lady at the mountain foot using dry pine branches, giving a unique pine aroma. One bite is sweet, soft, and full of childhood memories.

• Mount Tai Polygonatum Tea: Homemade by herbal gatherers, with a sweet aftertaste like eating red dates. It quenches thirst and promotes health.

• Seasonal Wild Vegetables: Culaishan is rich in wild vegetables, served cold or stir-fried to retain original flavor, nutritious and healthy.

Accommodation Options

• Treehouse Guesthouse: Hidden halfway up the mountain, like a fairy tale cottage. Wake up to birdsong, open the window to lush greenery, and at night, lie in bed gazing at the starry sky.

• Tent Camp: Equipped with barbecue grills and telescopes. Enjoy barbecues and stargazing with friends, perfect for team building and family gatherings.

• Guesthouses at the Mountain Foot: Affordable prices, authentic farmhouse dishes, and fall asleep to the sound of insects, experiencing the tranquility of rural life.

Helpful Tips

1. No open flames are allowed inside Culaishan; do not bring fire sources into the mountain, or you may face legal consequences.

2. Avoid taking wild trails during the rainy season to prevent encounters with snakes and insects; safety first.

3. Signal is unstable in the mountains; download offline maps in advance and carry some cash just in case.

4. Do not trust villagers’ invitations to "guide you to pick mushrooms," as many wild mushrooms are poisonous.