Huangshan, famously praised by the ancient traveler Xu Xiake as the mountain that makes all others pale in comparison, is truly a wonder of China. Known for its “Four Wonders”—odd-shaped pines, dramatic granite peaks, a sea of clouds, and soothing hot springs—this UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site is a dream destination for many.
For first-time international visitors, however, navigating the Huangshan attraction ticket system can be confusing. There are several entrances and cable car stations, multiple nearby scenic areas, and different ticket rules depending on the season.
That’s why we’ve created this easy guide. In this article, you’ll learn how to book Huangshan attraction tickets, understand the different ticket types, find out where and when to buy, and get practical travel tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free.
Whether you’re planning to hike, take the cable car, or just enjoy the stunning views, this guide will help you plan your visit with confidence. Ready to explore Huangshan? Let’s get started!
1. Huangshan Ticket Guide for Visitors
Before you head to Huangshan, it’s important to understand the ticketing rules. The park uses a real-name reservation system, and nearly all major attractions require online booking in advance.
🕒 When to Book
During peak travel season (March 1 to November 30), tickets often sell out days ahead. Therefore, we recommend booking at least 1–3 days in advance. In busy times like holidays, it’s safer to book a week ahead.
📍 For Foreign Tourists
Foreign travelers cannot use China’s ID-based online system. Instead, you’ll need to buy tickets in person at the scenic area using your passport. Visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan can book with their Mainland Travel Permit.
🚪 Special Access for Foreigners
If the online booking system doesn’t support your document type, or you’re traveling solo without a smartphone, don’t worry. Just bring your passport to the South Gate or North Gate service window, and staff will help you book and enter on-site.
🎟 Ticket Validity
Each ticket is valid for three days, starting from your first entry. However, you must get a free re-entry stamp each time you go back in.
💰 Discounts & Payments
In 2025, foreign tourists enjoy 50% off the regular ticket price (from ¥190). You can pay by Visa, Mastercard, Alipay, or WeChat Pay. However, note that some sites only accept Chinese payment apps.
2. Must-Reserve Attractions in Huangshan
1) Huangshan Scenic Area
Huangshan is one of China’s most famous mountain parks. It’s well known for its bizarre pine trees, jagged granite peaks, floating clouds, and relaxing hot springs. The main summit, Lotus Peak, reaches 1,864 meters. Bright Summit is the top spot to watch the sunrise or cloud sea. Notably, Huangshan is a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site.
🔗 How to Book Huangshan Attraction Tickets
You must book online in advance. The “Huangshan Tourism” (黄山旅游官方平台) WeChat Mini Program is the official channel, but it requires a Chinese phone number. Foreign travelers can use Trip.com or TravelChinaGuide, which offer English service and support international credit cards.
👉 Book Your Mt. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Tours and Tickets
Alternatively, you can book a bundled tour package with tickets through Viator, Klook, or GetYourGuide—great options for English-speaking travelers
🧭 What If You Can’t Book Online?
Some platforms may not support foreign passports. If that happens—or if you’re traveling solo without a smartphone—just bring your passport to the South Gate or North Gate service desk. They will assist with an on-site booking and entry pass.
🎫 Ticket Prices
- Peak season (March–November): ¥190 (foreigners: ¥95)
- Off-season (December–February): ¥150 (foreigners: ¥75)
- Cable car (one-way): ¥80–¥100
🕒 Opening Hours
- Monday to Friday, Sunday: 06:30–16:30
- Saturday: 06:00–16:30
- Xihai Grand Canyon Cable Car: 07:30–17:00
📞 Contact
- Phone: +86 559 556 1111
- 🌐 Official Website: hsgwh.huangshan.gov.cn
- Address: Tangkou Town, Huangshan Scenic Area, Anhui Province 黄山市黄山风景区汤口镇
🚇 How to Get There
- From Huangshan North Railway Station: tourist shuttle (about 1 hour)
- From Tunxi Airport: taxi (about 1 hour)
- Inside the park at Tangkou Town: switch to a green shuttle bus (¥19 one way) to reach the cable car base
2) Xihai Grand Canyon 西海大峡谷
Often called the dreamlike side of Huangshan, the Xihai Grand Canyon offers some of the park’s most thrilling scenery. The area is filled with deep gorges, unique rock shapes, and sweeping cloud views. The mini train (ground cable car) inside the canyon is a highlight, especially for photographers.
🔗 How to Book
Huangshan Scenic Area uses a “one-ticket system.” This means all attractions, including the Xihai Grand Canyon, are covered under a single main entrance ticket. Visitors only need to purchase the standard Huangshan ticket to access the canyon and other scenic spots.
🎫 Ticket Prices
- Entry is included in the Huangshan ticket
- Xihai Grand Canyon Cable Car (Mini train) (one-way): ¥100
🕒 Opening Hours
- Daily: 07:30–17:00 (hours may vary with the season)
🚇 How to Get There
- Walk from Paiyunting or Tianhai viewing points inside Huangshan
3. Huangshan Cableways You Can Buy On-Site (But Better Book in Advance)
Huangshan has three main cableways that help save energy and time while offering spectacular views. While you can buy tickets at the station, it’s highly recommended to book online in advance—especially during weekends or holidays when lines can be long.
Huangshan has three major cableways and one canyon cable car. You can buy tickets on-site, but we strongly recommend booking in advance, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons.
1) Yuping Cableway (玉屏索道)
This is the main cableway on the front mountain route, connecting Ciguang Pavilion to Yuping Tower, near the famous Welcoming Pine. It’s steep but offers stunning views of Tiandu Peak and Lotus Peak.
- 🔗 Booking: Available on-site, but long queues are common; book in advance via Ctrip, Tongcheng, or the Huangshan Tourism WeChat Mini Program; Foreign travelers can use Trip.com or TravelChinaGuide, which offer English service and support international credit cards.
👉 Book Your Mt. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Tours and Tickets
Alternatively, you can book a bundled tour package with tickets through Viator, Klook, or GetYourGuide—great options for English-speaking travelers
- 🎫 Ticket Price: ¥90 one-way
- 🕒 Opening Hours: 07:00–17:00 (peak); 07:30–16:30 (off-season)
- 📍 Address: Ciguang Pavilion Station, Huangshan Scenic Area
- 🚇 Transportation: Take a green shuttle bus from Tangkou Tourist Center
2) Yungu Cableway (云谷索道)
This cableway serves the back mountain route, from Yungu Temple to White Goose Ridge. It’s the most popular route for uphill hikers due to its gentler slope.
- 🔗 Booking: Can be purchased at the station, but pre-booking via Ctrip or the WeChat Mini Program is advised; Foreign travelers can use Trip.com or TravelChinaGuide, which offer English service and support international credit cards.
👉 Book Your Mt. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Tours and Tickets
Alternatively, you can book a bundled tour package with tickets through Viator, Klook, or GetYourGuide—great options for English-speaking travelers
- 🎫 Ticket Price: ¥80 one-way
- 🕒 Opening Hours: 07:00–17:00 (peak); 07:30–16:30 (off-season)
- 📍 Address: Yungu Temple Station, Huangshan Scenic Area
- 🚇 Transportation: Shuttle bus from Tangkou Tourist Center
3) Taiping Cableway (太平索道)
This long, panoramic route connects Songgu Temple and Danxia Station, passing above cloud valleys and jagged peaks. It’s the best choice from the North Gate entrance.
- 🔗 Booking: Can be purchased at the station, or Book through Ctrip, Tongcheng, or the WeChat Mini Program; on-site available but often crowded in peak season; Foreign travelers can use ,Trip.com or TravelChinaGuide, which offer English service and support international credit cards.
👉 Book Your Mt. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Tours and Tickets
Alternatively, you can book a bundled tour package with tickets through Viator, Klook, or GetYourGuide—great options for English-speaking travelers
- 🎫 Ticket Price:
- ¥80 (Jan 21–Dec 19)
- ¥65 (Dec 20–Jan 20)
- Children 1.2–1.5m: Half-price
- 🕒 Opening Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 07:00–17:10
- Sat, Sun, holidays: 06:30–17:40
- 📍 Address:
- Upper Station: Pine Forest Peak, near Paiyunting
- Lower Station: Songgu Temple, ~20 km from Huangshan District
- 🚇 Transportation:
- Tourist shuttle or taxi from Huangshan North Station or Tunxi Airport
- Scenic area transfer via eco-bus
- Self-driving: Navigate to Songgu Temple Cableway Parking Lot
4) Xihai Grand Canyon Cable Car (西海大峡谷缆车)
Known as the Xihai Mini Train, this glass-view cabin runs between Tianhai Station and Paiyunxi Station inside the Grand Canyon. It’s a fast and scenic shortcut with dramatic cliffside views.
- 🔗 Booking: Pre-book via the WeChat Mini Program, Ctrip, or Tongcheng; on-site tickets available, but queues are long in high season.
- 🎫 Ticket Price:
- One-way: ¥100 (child: ¥50)
- Round-trip: ¥200 (child: ¥100)
- 🕒 Opening Hours:
- Peak season (Mar 28–Nov 30): 08:00–17:00
- Off-season (Dec 1–Mar 27): Closed
- 📍 Address:
- Upper Station: Tianhai Area (near Baiyun Hotel)
- Lower Station: Paiyunxi, bottom of Xihai Canyon
- 🚇 Transportation: Reachable by walking or shuttle bus inside the scenic area
4. Huangshan Cableways: Front Mountain vs. Back Mountain
The terms “Front Mountain” (前山) and “Back Mountain” (后山) in Huangshan can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. These names actually come from traditional hiking routes, not from strict north-south directions on a map.
1) Geographic Location
- Front Mountain (south side): Near Tangkou Town, includes Ciguang Pavilion and Yuping Tower.
- Back Mountain (north side): Near Yungu Temple and the entrance to White Goose Ridge.
2. Huangshan Cableway Location Comparison
| 🚡 Cableway Name | 📍 Actual Location | 🧭 Why It’s Called “Front” or “Back” Mountain |
|---|---|---|
| Yuping Cableway | South (Front Mountain) | Starts at Ciguang Pavilion and goes to Yuping Tower, the classic front-side route. |
| Yungu Cableway | North (Back Mountain) | Starts at Yungu Temple and ends at White Goose Ridge, the start of the traditional back route. |
| Taiping Cableway | North Gate Area | Connects Songgu Temple and Danxia Station, part of the northern line. |
3) Why the Confusion?
On modern maps, things can look misleading.
For example, the Yungu Cableway (Back Mountain) is actually on the eastern side of the mountain. Meanwhile, Yuping Cableway (Front Mountain) lies to the south. These terms stick because they come from historic hiking paths, not compass directions.
So even though the terms might not match GPS coordinates, locals and experienced hikers still use them out of habit and tradition.
4) Practical Advice for Travelers
- Front Mountain Route (via Yuping Cableway):
Steeper, more intense climb. Best for the downhill route or fit travelers. You’ll reach famous sights like Welcoming Pine quickly. - Back Mountain Route (via Yungu Cableway):
Gentler slope and more scenic stops. Ideal for first-time visitors or uphill hikes. The path is easier and offers more rest points.
This naming style keeps the spirit of Huangshan’s mountain culture alive. While it may seem confusing at first, understanding these routes helps you choose the right cableway for your adventure.
5. How Many Entrances Does Huangshan Have?
Huangshan Scenic Area has two main official entrances—the South Gate and the North Gate—plus one partially developed entrance known as the West Gate. Below is a breakdown of each entrance, nearby cableways, and helpful travel tips.
1) South Gate (Tangkou Town) 南大门（汤口镇）
Located in Tangkou Town, Huangshan’s South Gate is the main entry point for most visitors. Around 95% of travelers enter from here.
- 🔗 Nearby Cableways:
- Yungu Cableway (Back Mountain): Located near Yungu Temple, ideal for a gentler uphill hike.
- Yuping Cableway (Front Mountain): Starts from Ciguang Pavilion, perfect for a steeper route or downhill return.
- 🚇 Transportation:
- From Huangshan North Station or Tunxi Airport, take a tourist bus or taxi (around 1 hour) to the Tangkou transfer center.
- Then switch to a green shuttle bus (¥19) to reach Yungu Temple or Ciguang Pavilion.
- ⭐ Highlights:
- Best infrastructure with plenty of hotels and restaurants nearby.
- Offers flexible route choices: start from the back mountain (Yungu) and descend via the front (Yuping) for a one-way hike.
2) North Gate (Gengcheng Town / Taiping Area) 北大门（耿城镇/太平县
The North Gate is located in Huangshan District (formerly Taiping County). It’s quieter and less crowded, making it ideal for self-driving visitors or those coming from the north side.
- 🔗 Nearby Cableway:
- Taiping Cableway: Connects Songgu Temple to Danxia Station. It’s the largest cable car in Huangshan, carrying up to 100 passengers per cabin and reaching Beihai Scenic Area in 8 minutes.
- 🚇 Transportation:
- From Huangshan North Station or Tunxi Airport, take a bus to Taiping, then switch to scenic shuttle transport (¥5) to reach the cableway.
- ⭐ Highlights:
- Fewer tourists, ideal for in-depth exploration.
- Closest access to Xihai Grand Canyon via Paiyunting.
- However, if you descend via the South Gate, you’ll need to return to the North Gate by transport to retrieve your car.
3) West Gate (Diaoqiao’an) 西大门（钓桥庵）
The West Gate, located in Jiaocun Town, is not fully developed and mainly serves adventurous hikers exploring the Xihai Grand Canyon.
- 🔗 Nearby Transport:
- Xihai Mini Train (ground cable car) runs from Tianhai to the bottom of Xihai Grand Canyon.
- 🚇 Transportation:
- Access is mostly by foot or internal scenic routes. Infrastructure is limited.
- ⭐ Highlights:
- Very few tourists, great for off-the-beaten-path hiking.
- However, facilities are basic, so it’s best for experienced hikers.
✅ Suggested Entry Routes
- For First-Time Visitors:
- Enter via the South Gate, ride the Yungu Cableway (Back Mountain) up, and descend by Yuping Cableway (Front Mountain).
- This loop avoids backtracking and gives you the best of both routes.
- For In-Depth Trips / Canyon Exploration:
- Start from the North Gate, take the Taiping Cableway, hike through Beihai, and explore the Xihai Grand Canyon.
6. Free Attractions in Huangshan
Huangshan isn’t just about mountain views—its city area also offers free cultural attractions that are worth exploring. These sites are perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening stroll, with no entry fees and plenty of local charm.
1) Tunxi Old Street (屯溪老街)
Often called a “living scroll of ancient China,” Tunxi Old Street is one of the best-preserved commercial streets from the Song Dynasty. Lined with Hui-style architecture, it features traditional shops, teahouses, and local eateries. At night, red lanterns create a warm, nostalgic glow that makes the walk even more memorable.
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; Shops usually operate from 09:00 to 22:00
- 🚇 Transportation: Take Bus 21 or a 20-minute taxi from Huangshan North Railway Station
- 📍 Address: Central Tunxi District, Huangshan City
2) Liyang In Alley (黎阳in巷)
Just across the bridge from Tunxi Old Street, Liyang In Alley blends modern design with Hui-style buildings. It’s filled with boutique shops, coffee houses, and art spaces. In the evening, the area hosts light shows and water screen projections, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages.
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; Shops usually operate from 10:00 to 22:00
- 🚇 Transportation: Walk across the bridge from Tunxi Old Street
- 📍 Address: Liyang Town, Tunxi District, Huangshan City
7. Worthwhile Day Trips Near Huangshan
If you have extra time after exploring Huangshan Mountain, consider visiting these nearby attractions. Each spot offers something unique—from ancient villages to lush valleys—giving you a deeper look into Hui culture and local landscapes.
1) Hongcun Village (宏村)
Known as “a village in a Chinese painting,” Hongcun charms visitors with its ox-shaped water system, peaceful ponds, and Ming and Qing architecture. It’s also a famous filming location for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Be sure to stop at Moon Pond and South Lake for classic photo ops.
- 🎫 Ticket Price: ¥104 (online discounts may apply)
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Open all day (ticket sales: 07:30–17:30)
- 📍 Address: Hongcun Town, Yi County, Huangshan
- 🚇 Transportation: Take a 1-hour bus from Huangshan Scenic Area or Bus 10 from Yi County
2) Xidi Village (西递)
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a quieter and more traditional village feel compared to Hongcun. Famous for its Hu Wenguang Archway and delicately carved stone buildings, Xidi is perfect for history lovers and photographers looking to capture authentic Hui-style charm.
- 🎫 Ticket Price: ¥104 (check online for discounts)
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Open all day (ticket sales: 07:30–17:30)
- 📍 Address: Xidi Town, Yi County, Huangshan
- 🚇 Transportation: Take a 30-minute bus from Hongcun or Bus 2 from Yi County
3) Emerald Valley (翡翠谷)
Also known as “Lover’s Valley,” this lush canyon is full of emerald-colored pools, flowing waterfalls, and bamboo groves. Parts of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon were filmed here. In summer, it’s a refreshing place to hike, take photos, or simply enjoy nature.
- 🎫 Ticket Price: ¥90
- 🕒 Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00
- 📍 Address: 8 km northeast of Tangkou Town, Huangshan
- 🚇 Transportation: Take a 15-minute taxi ride from Huangshan Scenic Area
8. Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Huangshan
Traveling to Huangshan is rewarding, but being well-prepared makes the journey smoother—especially for international visitors. Below are essential tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
🌐 Essentials for International Visitors
- Internet Access:
Many booking and navigation services require a stable connection. It’s best to buy a Chinese SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi device in advance. - Language Barrier:
While most signs include English, many staff members speak limited English. We recommend downloading a translation app for easier communication. - Cash vs. Card:
Some remote areas do not accept credit cards. Always carry a small amount of RMB cash, just in case. - Weather Ready:
The weather in Huangshan can change quickly. Even in summer, pack a windbreaker and light rain gear. - Hiking Gear:
Wear comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes. You can buy a basic hiking stick near the entrance for ¥10–20.
🧭 Sample Itineraries
🗓 2 Days, 1 Night (Classic Trip)
Day 1:
- Take Yungu Cableway up
- Visit Beginning-to-Believe Peak, Black Tiger Pine, and Dream Pen in a Flower
- Hike to Paiyunting and Xihai Grand Canyon
- Stay overnight in a mountain hotel
Day 2:
- Watch the sunrise at Bright Summit
- Hike through Turtle Peak and Hundred-Step Ladder
- Visit Welcoming Pine
- Descend via Yuping Cableway
- In the afternoon, tour Hongcun Village
🗓 3 Days, 2 Nights (In-Depth Trip)
Day 1:
- Explore Hongcun Village and stay overnight
Day 2:
- Head up early to visit Beihai and Xihai scenic areas
- Stay overnight on the mountain
Day 3:
- Watch the sunrise
- Visit Tianhai and Yuping scenic spots
- Descend in the afternoon
🗓 5 Days, 4 Nights (Full Scenic Tour)
Add Xidi Village, Emerald Valley, or other nearby attractions for a more relaxed pace and well-rounded cultural experience.
👉 All Huangshan Tours & Excursions
Huangshan and its surrounding areas offer a perfect mix of majestic scenery, historic villages, and cultural charm. To make the most of your visit, be sure to plan ahead and understand how to book Huangshan attraction tickets before you go.
By booking early—especially during peak seasons—you can avoid long lines, secure the best routes, and focus more on enjoying the journey. Whether you’re climbing toward dramatic peaks, relaxing in quiet valleys, or exploring ancient villages, knowing how to book Huangshan attraction tickets is the first step toward a smooth, stress-free experience.
No matter your travel style—adventurous, cultural, or a bit of both—Huangshan will leave you inspired. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for a trip you’ll never forget.
☎️ Useful Contacts
- Huangshan Tourist Info: +86 559 556 1111
- Tourist Complaints: +86 559 12301
- Emergency Rescue: 110 / 120
- Help for Foreigners in China: 12308 (Ministry of Foreign Affairs Emergency Hotline)
📌 Further Reading
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Beijing
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Xi’an
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Shanghai
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Guilin
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Suzhou
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Chengdu
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Hong Kong
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Hangzhou
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Guangzhou
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Sanya
How to Book Zhangjiajie Attraction Tickets
