Many tourists visit Xi’an for the Terracotta Army and leave shortly after. While some may explore the Muslim Quarter or visit the city’s mosques and pagodas, few discover Mount Hua Shan, a hidden gem near Xi’an.
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What is Mount Hua Shan?
Mount Hua (华山), meaning “Magnificent Mountain,” is one of China’s Five Sacred Mountains, located about 120 km east of Xi’an. Hua Shan is renowned for being the “world’s most dangerous hiking trail,” yet no special climbing skills are required to appreciate its breathtaking scenery
Mount Hua Shan is known for its deep spiritual roots in Taoism. Temples, shrines, and sacred spots are scattered throughout the mountain, making it a place of pilgrimage. For centuries, Taoist monks have inhabited its peaks, seeking solitude and spiritual enlightenment.
The mountain has five main peaks, each with its own distinct beauty:
- East Peak (Sunrise Peak): Famous for its spectacular sunrise views.
- West Peak (Lotus Flower Peak): Known for its unique lotus-flower shape.
- South Peak: The highest point, with dramatic vistas.
- North Peak: The lowest and most accessible peak, with a cable car for visitors.
- Middle Peak: Between East and West, offering serene views.
Hiking on Mount Hua Shan and the “World’s Most Dangerous Trail”
When searching for Hua Shan, you’ll likely come across references to the “World’s Most Dangerous Hiking Trail.” Photos of steep steel ladders, narrow wooden planks, and sheer cliff drops over 1,000 meters might make it seem intimidating.
But in reality, these images are of a small section of the trail called 长空栈道 (The “Death Trail”, Changkong Zhandao, or “Plank Walk in the Sky”), which is not required to reach the summit.
Additionally, the “dangerous trail” has become a major tourist attraction, and safety harnesses are mandatory, making it much safer than it appears. The biggest risk is dropping your phone or valuables!
There are two routes to the summit: the “easy” and the “hard” paths. Even the easier path includes some challenging sections, but it’s accessible to most visitors.
In fact, even tourists more focused on their phones than the trail manage to reach the top—though it may take some time.
If you prefer not to hike, cable cars are available. The ride to the North Peak costs 80 CNY one way or 150 CNY round trip. A new cable car to the West Peak costs 140 CNY one way. Be prepared for long lines, especially during peak tourist season.
How to plan your trip to Huashan?
The entrance fee to Hua Shan Park is 180 RMB (CNY), with half-price discounts available for students, including international student cards.
If you’re traveling by bus, there’s plenty of time to visit the mountain and return to Xi’an on the same day. The last bus departs between 5 PM and 7 PM, depending on the season. Trains run until 11 PM as well.
For those wishing to witness the sunrise or sunset, staying overnight is an option. Dormitory-style guesthouses are available at the top, while more comfortable accommodations can be found in the village at the foot of the mountain.
How to get to Mount Hua Shan
The easiest way to reach Mount Hua Shan is to travel to Xi’an and then take either a train or bus. While the train is faster, the bus is more convenient since tickets don’t need to be purchased in advance and the bus stop is closer to the mountain.
- By Train
The nearest station to the mountain is Hua Shan North Railway Station (华山火车北站, Hua Shan Huoche Bei Zhan). Many trains from cities like Luoyang, Zhengzhou, Datong, and Xi’an stop here, including the Beijing-Xi’an high-speed train.
Travel time and costs vary depending on the train type and departure city. For example, the high-speed train from Xi’an takes about 30 minutes and costs roughly 55 CNY. From the station, you can take a minibus or a taxi to the mountain, with taxi fares ranging between 20-30 CNY.
- By Bus
Tourist buses to Hua Shan depart from the east side of Xi’an’s main station, the same place where buses to the Terracotta Army leave. Look for a bus with the sign “华山” on top.
The journey takes about two hours, with tickets costing around 30 CNY. Buses only depart when full, so avoid boarding an empty one.
Upon arrival, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the park entrance. Tuk-tuk drivers (called 蹦蹦车, bengbengche, meaning “jump-jump car”) or taxi drivers may tell you the entrance is far, but it’s quite manageable on foot. If you prefer a ride, a local tuk-tuk will cost no more than 10 CNY.
Best time to visit
There are a few periods in China when it’s best to avoid traveling due to heavy tourist traffic:
- Chinese New Year (around February or March)
- Children’s summer vacation (July and August)
- National Day Holiday (first week of October)
During these times, attractions across the country, including Mount Hua Shan, will be crowded with tourists.
However, July and August generally offer good weather, though it can get quite hot. The ideal months to visit Hua Shan are in spring, July, September, and October. Winter brings its own charm, with snow covering the peaks, creating a beautiful landscape.
Safety on the Death Trail
Though the Changkong Zhandao plank walk looks perilous, it is relatively safe due to mandatory safety gear. The trail has become a bucket-list experience for adventurers and photographers, providing unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains.
And remember, that it is not necessary to get on the Death Trail. You always can choose just not to go there.
Some tips for your travel to Huashan:
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for long walks. Professional hiking boots are not necessary, but avoid flip-flops, sandals, or high heels. (Though, surprisingly, you may see some locals attempting the climb in heels!)
- Keep valuables secure: Items like sunglasses, glasses, or small belongings can easily fall off the cliffs.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen year-round, as the sun can be strong at high altitudes.
- Warm clothing: Even in summer, it can be cool and windy at the summit, so bring layers.
