Overview
Mount Hua (Huashan) is one of China's Five Sacred Mountains, rising 2,155 metres with near-vertical granite cliffs. Located 120 km east of Xi'an.
Highlights
- Plank Road in the Sky: A narrow plank walkway bolted to a sheer cliff face.
- Five Peaks: West Peak for sunset, East Peak for sunrise, South Peak as highest point.
- Cable cars: Two modern cable cars make summits accessible without hiking.
History
A sacred Taoist mountain for over 2,000 years, with temples dating to the Han dynasty. Stone stairways were first hewn during the Tang dynasty.
Visitor Tips
- Start early: Sunrise from East Peak requires overnight stay or early cable car.
- Plank Road: Harnesses provided and mandatory.
- Duration: Full day (5–8 hours).