Climb Mount Tai, Embrace the World: Unlock the Majesty and Grandeur of the First of the Five Great Mountains

On the vast land of China, Mount Tai stands tall and magnificent in Tai'an, Shandong Province, like an immortal monument of Chinese civilization. This sacred mountain, rich in historical culture and stunning natural scenery, attracts countless visitors to climb and experience the boldness of "standing on the summit to overlook all other mountains."

Mount Tai Scenic Area is located in Tai'an City, central Shandong Province, stretching across Tai'an, Jinan, and Zibo. It is a UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage site, revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times. It boasts not only magnificent natural landscapes but also a profound cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.

Recommended Attractions

1. Dai Temple: Located on the southern foot of Mount Tai in Tai'an City, it was the place where ancient emperors worshipped the god of Mount Tai. It is the largest and most complete ancient architectural complex on Mount Tai, with records stating "Qin Dynasty built fields here" and "Han Dynasty also established palaces." The temple’s architectural style resembles an imperial palace city, with a perimeter of over 1,500 meters. Ancient cypress trees tower inside, and numerous steles stand throughout. The Tiankuang Hall is the main building of Dai Temple and is considered one of the "Three Great Ancient Palaces of China," alongside the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City and the Dacheng Hall in the Confucius Temple in Qufu. Inside, it preserves a large Song Dynasty mural, "The Divine Procession of Mount Tai," depicting the grand scene of the god of Mount Tai’s inspection tour. Admission is 30 RMB.

2. Red Gate: The starting point for the middle route hiking trail of Mount Tai, named after two red rocks on the northwest cliff that resemble a gate. This is the oldest climbing path on Mount Tai, featuring many steles and ancient buildings along the way, such as Wanxian Tower and Doumu Palace. It is a perfect blend of cultural and natural scenery. Starting the climb from Red Gate allows visitors to appreciate ancient temples and inscriptions, feel the weight of history, and enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Tai, with captivating views at every step. This section is free to climb but requires a Mount Tai Scenic Area ticket.

3. Eighteen Bends: The most perilous section of the Mount Tai climbing switchbacks, with over 1,600 steps and a vertical height of more than 400 meters. The slope is steep, and the rock layers are sheer. The Eighteen Bends are divided into three parts: "Slow Eighteen," "Moderate Eighteen," and "Steep Eighteen," with the "Steep Eighteen" being the most dangerous. The cliffs on both sides are like blades, and looking up, the steps pierce the clouds, earning it the nickname "Heaven’s Ladder." Climbing the Eighteen Bends is a great test of physical strength and perseverance, but the sense of achievement and magnificent views at the top make it all worthwhile. Included in the Mount Tai Scenic Area ticket.

4. South Heavenly Gate: Located at the end of the Eighteen Bends, at an altitude of 1,460 meters, historically known as "Heaven’s Gate Pass." It is built in a low saddle between Feilong Rock and Xiangfeng Ridge, flanked by two peaks, as if the gate to heaven has opened. The gate is a pavilion-style building with red walls and yellow tiles, grand and imposing. From the South Heavenly Gate, you can overlook the winding Eighteen Bends and the rolling mountains, offering spectacular scenery. Entering the South Heavenly Gate means entering the celestial realm of Mount Tai, with nearby attractions such as Tianjie Street and Bixia Temple. Included in the Mount Tai Scenic Area ticket.

5. Jade Emperor Peak: The summit of Mount Tai, named after the Jade Emperor Temple located there. It is the highest point of Mount Tai, at 1,545 meters above sea level. Inside the Jade Emperor Temple is the "Summit Stone," marking the highest point of Mount Tai, where visitors often take photos. From the peak, you can gaze far and wide at the endless mountains and swirling clouds, fully appreciating the majestic and magnificent scenery of Mount Tai, truly experiencing the meaning of "Climbing Mount Tai to see all under heaven as small." Nearby are attractions like Sun Viewing Peak and Moon Viewing Peak, excellent spots for watching sunrise and sunset. Included in the Mount Tai Scenic Area ticket.

Mount Tai Ticket Prices: Full price 115 RMB/person, with discounts for students, children, and others.
Dai Temple ticket: 30 RMB/person.

Food Experience

1. Mount Tai Three Delicacies Soup: Made from Mount Tai’s cabbage, tofu, and spring water, the soup is milky white, with tender cabbage and smooth tofu. It tastes delicious and is nutritious, reflecting the original flavors of Mount Tai ingredients. Available in restaurants around Mount Tai, priced about 30 - 50 RMB per serving.

2. Pancake Wrapped with Scallion: A traditional Shandong delicacy, also common in the Mount Tai area. The pancake is made from mixed grains, thin and crispy, paired with spicy scallions and special sauce, creating a rich and unique flavor. Available at street stalls or small shops, affordable at about 5 - 10 RMB per set.

3. Mount Tai Redscale Fish: A rare fish unique to Mount Tai, with tender flesh, delicious taste, and rich nutrition. Due to its scarcity, it is relatively expensive and usually steamed to preserve its original flavor. Available in some high-end restaurants, prices vary depending on size and quality, with an average cost of 100 - 300 RMB per person.

Accommodation Recommendations

1. Taian Baosheng Hotel: Located in downtown Tai'an, with convenient transportation and complete shopping and dining facilities nearby. The hotel offers an elegant environment, spacious and comfortable rooms, and leisure facilities such as a gym and swimming pool. Prices range from about 300 - 800 RMB per night.

2. Hanting Hotel (Taian Mount Tai Branch): Cost-effective, located near Mount Tai Scenic Area, convenient for travel. The rooms are clean and tidy, providing basic accommodation services. Prices range from about 150 - 350 RMB per night.

3. Mount Tai Summit Accommodation: For those who want to watch the sunrise on Mount Tai, staying at the summit is an option. There are several hotels and guesthouses at the summit, such as Mount Tai Shenqi Hotel, but prices are relatively high and conditions are simple. Standard rooms cost about 500 - 1500 RMB per night, with higher prices during peak season. Tent rental services are also available, priced about 100 - 300 RMB per tent, suitable for visitors who enjoy outdoor living experiences.

Travel Tips and Itinerary

1. Travel Tips:

- Mount Tai can be visited year-round, with each season offering unique charms: spring (March-May) with blooming flowers, summer (June-August) with misty clouds, autumn (September-November) with clear skies, and winter (December-February) with snowy scenery. To watch the sunrise, check the weather forecast and choose a clear day for climbing.

- Prepare comfortable sports shoes, a light backpack, sufficient water and food before climbing. Use sun protection in summer and keep warm in winter.

- There are various ways to climb Mount Tai: hiking takes about 6-8 hours; alternatively, visitors can take a tourist bus from Tianwaicun to Zhongtianmen, then transfer to a cable car to South Heavenly Gate, suitable for those with limited physical strength or time.

- Smoking and open flames are strictly prohibited in the scenic area. Please protect the environment and do not litter.

2. Itinerary:

- One-day hiking tour: Start in the morning at Dai Temple to experience ancient royal sacrificial culture. Then head to Red Gate to begin the hiking journey, passing Wanxian Tower, Doumu Palace, Eighteen Bends, and finally reaching South Heavenly Gate. Have lunch at a restaurant along the way, tasting Mount Tai Three Delicacies Soup and other local foods. In the afternoon, visit Tianjie Street and Bixia Temple, then climb to Jade Emperor Peak. If time permits, wait at Sun Viewing Peak for sunset to enjoy the magnificent evening glow of Mount Tai, then descend by the same route or take the cable car to Zhongtianmen and a bus down.

- Two-day tour: Arrive in Tai'an on the first morning, check into Taian Baosheng Hotel or Hanting Hotel (Taian Mount Tai Branch), rest briefly, then visit Dai Temple. In the afternoon, go to Red Gate and hike to the summit, staying overnight at a summit hotel or renting a tent. Enjoy the starry night at the summit, preparing for the next day’s sunrise. On the second day, wake early to watch the sunrise at Sun Viewing Peak or Jade Emperor Peak, then visit nearby attractions such as Zhanlu Platform and Zhangren Peak. Have lunch at the summit, then descend by cable car or on foot, concluding a pleasant trip.

Mount Tai, a sacred mountain carrying the millennia-old history and spirit of the Chinese nation, awaits your conquest and exploration with its majestic scenery and profound cultural heritage. Here, you will gain not only an unforgettable journey but also reverence and insight into nature and history. Come to Mount Tai and start this soul-stirring climbing adventure!