How to Visit Mount Hua (Huashan) – Your Complete Guide

In this guide, you’ll learn how to visit Mount Hua (Huashan), including transportation options, things to do, safety tips, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler, this complete guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Mount Hua (Huashan) is one of China’s most iconic mountains and an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. Located just 120 kilometers (75 miles) east of Xi’an, Huashan is known for its dramatic peaks, thrilling hiking routes, and rich cultural significance.

1. Basic Knowledge of Mount Hua

Geological and Historical Significance: Mount Hua is part of the Qinling mountain range and is known for its unique geological formations and steep cliffs. It has a long history, dating back over 2,000 years, and has been an important site for religious and cultural activities in China.

Five Peaks: Mount Hua is famous for its five peaks, each offering a different experience and view. They are the East Peak (Facing Sun Peak), South Peak (Landing Wild Goose Peak), West Peak (Lotus Flower Peak), North Peak (Cloud Terrace Peak), and Middle Peak (Jade Maiden Peak). The South Peak is the highest and most popular among visitors.

Cultural and Religious Sites: Mount Hua is home to numerous temples and shrines, making it an important place of worship for Taoism and Buddhism. The most famous temple is the Xiyue Temple, located at the foot of the mountain, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Other notable sites include the Yunyang Palace and the Chess Pavilion.

2. Best Time to Visit Huashan

Timing is crucial when visiting Mount Hua. The mountain’s weather can greatly affect your experience, and different seasons offer unique highlights.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit. The weather is mild, flowers bloom across the mountain, and the trails are less crowded compared to summer.

Summer (June-August)

Summer brings warmer weather but also more tourists. However, the views are stunning, with clear skies and green landscapes.

Be prepared for crowds, especially in late July and August, when school vacations are in full swing. During this time, large crowds of domestic tourists flock to the mountain.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is arguably the best season for visiting Mount Hua. The weather is cool and pleasant, and the mountain transforms into a palette of red, orange, and yellow. It’s also less crowded compared to summer.

Winter (December-February)

Winter is the quietest season, but it comes with challenges. The trails can be icy and slippery, requiring extra caution. However, if you enjoy solitude and snowy landscapes, winter offers a magical experience.

Consider the best time to visit Mount Huashan based on weather and peak tourist seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally recommended for pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters are cold.

3. How to Get to Mount Hua from Xi’an

The important step in how to visit Mount Hua (Huashan) is figuring out how to get there from Xi’an. Thankfully, the journey is straightforward and offers several convenient options.

By Flight

If arriving by air, the nearest major airport is Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or high speed train to Huashan North Railway Station.

By Train

The most popular and efficient way to get from Xi’an to Mount Hua is by high-speed train. Trains depart frequently from Xi’an North Railway Station and arrive at Huashan North Station in just 30 to 40 minutes. Once you arrive, you can take a short shuttle bus or taxi ride to the entrance of the scenic area.

From Huashan North Railway Station, you can take the shuttle bus or taxi to the Tourist Centre where you buy your entrance tickets and the tickets for car cable up or down.

By Bus

Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus from Xi’an. Buses depart from the Xi’an Chengdong Bus Station and the journey takes about two hours. This option is slightly slower but convenient for those who prefer direct bus transfers.

By Private Car

If you prefer more flexibility, consider hiring a private car or booking a tour that includes transportation. This allows for a more relaxed schedule and personalized drop-off and pick-up options at the base of Mount Hua.

From the Tourist Centre, you take the shuttle bus to the cable station or the starting point for your hike.

4. Lodging on the Mountain

If you plan to stay overnight, there are several accommodation options near the base of Mount Hua or on the mountain itself. Guesthouses and hotels cater to all budgets, and some even offer spectacular views of the peaks.

If you wish to experience the sunrise or sunset on Mount Hua, consider staying at one of the mountain’s lodges. Book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Wuyunfeng Hotel (华山五云峰饭店)
Tel:  15319160066
Location: about 30minutes walking distance to the East Peak
Over 100 twin and triple rooms, a good choice for a short stay to catch a sunrise at the East Peak.

Dongfeng Hotel ( East Peak Hotel)  东峰饭店
The best choice for viewing the sunrise from the East Peak
Tel: 0913 – 4301312

Xifeng Hotel ( West Peak Hostel )
It is a basic and friendly place for your overnight stay  西峰饭店
0913 – 4301310

Beifeng Hotel ( North Peak Hotel )  北峰饭店
The busiest hotel on the mountain.
Tel:  15719136466 ( mobile)

Hotel at the foot of Mt.Huashan
Jingyuan Hotel Tel:  +86-(0)913-4368688
Lianhua Hotel Tel:  +86-(0)913-4368888
Huashan Hotel Tel:  +86-(0)913-4658111

5. Huashan Entrance Fees and Tickets

Before starting your adventure at Mount Hua, you’ll need to stop at the Huashan Visitor Center, located at the base of the mountain. This is where you can purchase all necessary tickets for your visit, including entrance fees, shuttle bus tickets, and cable car passes.

At the Huashan Visitor Center,, you can buy the following:

• Entrance Tickets: Required for access to the scenic area, priced around 160 CNY (varies slightly by season). The entrance tickets are valid with 48 hours.
• Shuttle Bus Tickets: To reach the cable car stations, you’ll need to take a shuttle bus, which costs about 40 CNY for a round trip.
• Cable Car Tickets: Whether you’re heading to the North Peak or West Peak, cable car tickets can be purchased here. The North Peak cable car is 80 CNY one-way, while the West Peak cable car costs 140 CNY one-way.

Additionally, if you’re arriving by high-speed train from Xi’an, shuttle buses are available at Huashan North Railway Station to take you directly to the Huashan Visitor Center,. This makes it easy for visitors to seamlessly transition from the train station to the start of their Huashan adventure.

By organizing everything at the Huashan Visitor Center,, you can ensure a smooth and efficient start to your day at Mount Hua.

Note: The entrance ticket also allows you to visit other three attractions: Xiyue Temple, Yuquan Temple and Xianyu Valley. Xiyue Temple, in particular, is worth visiting! 

6. Cable Car or Hiking

Decide whether you want to take the cable car up the mountain or hike. Hiking is challenging but provides a more immersive experience. The cable car is a convenient option, especially if you’re short on time or not comfortable with steep trails.

There are two cable car stations – one at the North Peak and the other at the West Peak. You may take the cable up to the north peak, then hike to the West Peak and take the West Peak’s cable car down (about 4 hours’ walk).

You don’t have to retrace to the North Peak. Of course, you need strong legs hiking from the north peak to the west peak.  If you don’t have strong legs, you may retrace to the north peak,  take cable car down.

Note: The last cable car starts at 19:00 ( high season: March – November ); 17:00 ( low season: December – February ).

Cable car ticket: RMB 80 (two ways Dec – Feb); RMB150 (two ways March – November). The cable car ticket is separated from the entrance tickets and people have to buy at the cable car station. Each cable car accommodates 6 passengers.

North Peak Cable Car: This is the more popular and shorter route, taking you directly to the North Peak in just 8-10 minutes. It’s ideal for beginners or those with less time.

West Peak Cable Car: The West Peak cable car is longer and more scenic, offering stunning views as you ascend the cliffs. This route is often preferred by travelers who want to hike the more challenging and rewarding trails from the West Peak.

7. Huashan Hiking Routes

Mount Huashan offers multiple routes for hiking and exploring its peaks. The most popular is the Huashan Plank Walk, which is known for its thrilling cliffside planks. Research the different routes, such as the East Peak, South Peak, West Peak, and North Peak, and choose the ones that suit your fitness level and preferences.

1) The North Peak Route (Beginner-Friendly)

The North Peak, also known as the “Cloud Terrace Peak,” sits at an elevation of 1,614 meters (5,295 feet). This route is the most accessible and beginner-friendly option, making it popular for those who want to experience Mount Hua without an intense climb.

Route Overview:

• Start Point: North Peak Cable Car Station (Optional: Hike from the base)
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours (one way via cable car), 4 to 6 hours (hiking from base)
• Highlights:
  • North Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and is a great introduction to Mount Hua.
  • The path is well-paved and includes staircases and handrails for safety.
  • Along the way, you’ll find several small temples, pavilions, and ancient stone inscriptions that add to the cultural experience.

Hike Details:

If you prefer a less strenuous hike, you can take the North Peak cable car, which ascends from the base of the mountain to the North Peak in about 8-10 minutes. From there, the hike to the peak is relatively short and not too demanding. This route is perfect for families, beginner hikers, or those short on time.

For more adventurous hikers, you can opt to start from the base of Mount Hua and hike up to the North Peak. This trail, while longer and more demanding, offers rewarding views and a more immersive experience with the mountain’s natural beauty.

2) The West Peak to South Peak Route (Challenging)

For those looking for a more challenging and thrilling hike, the West Peak to South Peak route is the perfect option. West Peak, also known as “Lotus Flower Peak,” is the second-highest peak of Mount Hua at 2,082 meters (6,831 feet), and the South Peak is the highest at 2,154 meters (7,070 feet).

Route Overview:

• Start Point: West Peak Cable Car Station
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
• Duration: 4 to 6 hours (West Peak to South Peak)
• Highlights:
  • The West Peak cable car offers breathtaking views of the mountain’s steep cliffs and dramatic landscapes.
  • The route passes by key attractions, including the famous Huashan Plank Walk.
  • Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, especially from the South Peak, the highest point on the mountain.

Hike Details:

After reaching the West Peak by cable car, you can begin your hike towards the South Peak. The route is challenging, with steep stairways, narrow ridges, and awe-inspiring drops on either side. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of Mount Hua’s most famous spots, including the Black Dragon Ridge and Golden Lock Pass, where you’ll see countless locks placed by visitors for good luck.

The highlight of this route is undoubtedly the Huashan Plank Walk. Perched on the cliffside, this narrow wooden plank path is not for the faint of heart, but it offers one of the most thrilling experiences you can find on any mountain. Safety harnesses are provided for all participants, and though it may seem scary, thousands of hikers safely enjoy this adventure each year.

At the end of this route, the South Peak offers some of the best views on the mountain. As the highest peak of Mount Hua, it provides panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Qinling Mountains to the south.

3) The Central Peak Route (Moderate)

The Central Peak, also known as Jade Maiden Peak, is a more moderate hiking route that connects the North Peak, West Peak, and East Peak. It’s a fantastic option for hikers who want to avoid the large crowds but still enjoy some of Mount Hua’s most iconic views.

Route Overview:

• Start Point: North Peak or West Peak
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Duration: 3 to 5 hours
• Highlights:
  • The trail offers a quieter, more peaceful hiking experience compared to the busier North and West Peak routes.
  • You’ll pass by the famous Jade Maiden Pavilion, a beautiful Taoist temple steeped in legend.
  • Stunning views of Mount Hua’s rugged terrain and natural beauty, especially from the Central Peak summit.

Hike Details:

The Central Peak route is ideal for those seeking a middle-ground option between the easy North Peak route and the challenging West to South Peak hike. Starting from either the North or West Peak, this trail offers a relatively moderate climb with fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the mountain.

Legend has it that the Jade Maiden Pavilion was home to a Taoist goddess who used to train in the arts of swordsmanship on the mountain. Today, it remains one of the more peaceful and spiritually significant spots on the mountain, making it a perfect place to rest and soak in the atmosphere before continuing your hike.

4) The East Peak Route (For Sunrise Lovers)

If you’re hoping to witness the famous Huashan Sunrise, the East Peak is the place to be. Known as the “Facing Sun Peak,” this is where travelers gather early in the morning to catch the first rays of sunlight over the jagged cliffs and deep valleys.

Route Overview:

• Start Point: East Peak or North Peak
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Duration: 2 to 4 hours (depending on start point)
• Highlights:
  • The best place to catch the sunrise on Mount Hua.
  • Incredible views of the surrounding peaks as the sun rises over the horizon.
  • Several nearby temples and pavilions to explore after watching the sunrise.

Hike Details:

The East Peak route is moderate in difficulty, but the early start time can make it challenging for some. Most hikers begin their trek to East Peak the night before, arriving at one of the guesthouses near the peak to rest before waking up for the sunrise. Alternatively, some visitors hike through the night with headlamps to reach the summit in time for the morning spectacle.

The sunrise at East Peak is considered one of the most beautiful sights in China, and the experience is well worth the effort. Be sure to pack warm clothing, as it can get cold on the peak in the early morning hours.

5) The Plank Walk (Extreme)

Though not a full route, the Huashan Plank Walk deserves special mention due to its reputation as one of the most dangerous and thrilling hikes in the world.

Overview:

• Location: Between South and East Peaks
• Difficulty Level: Extreme (not recommended for those with a fear of heights)
• Duration: 30 to 60 minutes
• Highlights:
  • Walking along a narrow plank bolted into the side of a sheer cliff face.
  • Secured with a safety harness, but still one of the most exhilarating experiences on Mount Hua.
  • Stunning views straight down to the valley floor below, with the sheer drop beneath your feet.

Details:

The Plank Walk isn’t long in terms of distance, but it’s an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you breathless. After securing your harness, you’ll traverse the wooden planks that cling to the cliffside, making your way across one of the most thrilling sections of Mount Hua. This hike is not for everyone, but for thrill-seekers, it’s an unforgettable part of the Mount Hua adventure.

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8. Sunrise and Sunset Views

Watching the sunrise or sunset from one of the peaks of Mount Hua is a highly recommended experience. The breathtaking views and the changing colors of the sky make it an unforgettable sight.

Huashan Sunrise and Sunset Time in a year 

Months	Sunrise	Sunset
Jan-Feb	7:42-7:47	17:45-18:03
Mar-Apr	6:35-7:10	18:35-18:56
May-June	5:29-5:44	19:08-19:28
July-Aug	5:31-5:44	19:44-19:57
Sept-Oct	6:15-6:29	18:04-19:10
Nov-Dec	6:03-6:24	17:35-18:47

9. What to Pack for Huashan Trip

Packing the right items will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essentials:

• Comfortable Shoes: Sturdy hiking shoes are a must, even if you plan to take the cable car.
• Layers of Clothing: The weather on the mountain can change quickly, so bring layers to stay warm.
• Snacks and Water: While there are shops on the mountain, it’s a good idea to bring snacks and water, especially if you’re hiking.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Even on cooler days, the sun can be strong, especially at higher elevations.
• Cash: Many places on the mountain don’t accept credit cards, so bring enough cash for tickets, food, and souvenirs.

10. Mount Hua Safety Tips

Safety should always be a top priority when visiting Mount Hua. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Watch the Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike. Avoid hiking in heavy rain or snow, as the trails can become slippery.

Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid taking shortcuts or wandering off the marked paths, as some areas are dangerous.

Use Safety Gear: If you’re doing the Plank Walk or other challenging routes, always use the provided safety gear.

Mount Huashan can be physically demanding and has some challenging sections. It is important to be prepared and take necessary safety precautions. Be cautious while hiking, follow the designated paths, and avoid risky behaviors. If you have any medical conditions or physical limitations, consult with a healthcare professional before attempting the hike.

11. Guided Tours to Mount Hua

If you prefer a more structured experience, consider booking a guided tour. Many companies offer day trips or multi-day tours to Mount Hua, including transportation, entrance fees, and a guide to help you navigate the trails.

12. Local Cuisine

Try the local cuisine in Huayin City before or after your hike. It’s a chance to savor regional flavors and dishes unique to the area.

Visiting Mount Hua is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re drawn by its rich history, breathtaking views, or thrilling hiking routes. By following this complete guide, you’ll know exactly how to visit Mount Hua (Huashan) and make the most of your adventure. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and stay safe as you explore one of China’s most famous mountains!

If you have any questions or queries, then please feel free to drop us a line.