I've been to Mount Taishan in Taiyuan five times and finally figured out the best way to explore it.

Mount Taishan in Taiyuan is a scenic area with a rich history and beautiful landscapes. Here's a guide to help you plan your trip:

Preparation

• Check the opening hours: Peak season (April–October): 8am–6pm (last entry 5pm); Off-season (November–March): 9am–5pm (last entry 4pm). The park opens half an hour earlier on weekends and holidays.

• Purchase tickets: Peak season: CNY 50; Off-season: CNY 30; Student tickets are half price. Certain groups are eligible for free admission. Tickets can be purchased in advance on platforms such as WeChat Official Accounts.

• Choose your transportation: If driving, navigate to "Taishan Parking Lot." By bus, take No. 308 or 310 to Jinyang Avenue Longshan Street Stop, or take No. 329 or Y5 directly to the parking lot.

Tour Route

Enter through the main gate and visit the following attractions in order: Hall of Heavenly Kings, Maitreya Hall, Taishan Academy, Guanyin Hall, Tang Dynasty Pagoda Ruins, Sarira Stupa, Dragon Spring, Dragon Palace, Sutra Repository, Wangdu Pavilion, and Mahavira Hall. For your descent, take a different route to experience varied scenery.

Must-See Attractions

• Longquan Temple: The heart of the scenic area, this temple boasts a long history, exquisite architecture, and an underground palace where Buddha relics were unearthed.

• Tang Dynasty Pagoda Ruins: Featuring a three-meter-tall Buddha statue and magnificent architecture, this site offers a glimpse into the area's rich history and culture.

• Hanging Walkway: Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Mount Taishan and its stunning natural scenery.

Unique Experiences

• Wear Hanfu: The scenic area offers free Hanfu rentals. Dress up in traditional clothing, take photos, and participate in stamp-collecting activities.

• Enjoy a vegetarian meal: The scenic area offers vegetarian cuisine. Breakfast is CNY 20, and lunch is around CNY 50. Immerse yourself in the Zen Buddhist culinary culture.

• Participate in activities: The scenic area hosts cultural events such as shadow puppet shows and intangible cultural heritage rubbing. Check the schedule and join in the fun.