Climb Wudang Mountain

Wudang Mountain: Maps, Transport, Routes, Hotels and Tips

Planning a trip to Mount Wudang (Wudang Mountain) in China requires careful preparation. Here you will find a step-by-step guide to help you plan your visit

Wudang Mountain, also known as Mount Wudang or Wudangshan, is a mountain range located in the northwest of Hubei province, central China. It is renowned for its rich cultural and historical significance, as well as its stunning natural landscapes.

1. Why you should visit Mount Wudang?

Cultural and Historical Significance: Mount Wudang is considered one of the most important spiritual centers of Taoism in China. It has been a place of pilgrimage for Taoist practitioners for centuries. The mountain is associated with the development of Wudang martial arts and is regarded as the birthplace of Tai Chi, one of the most famous martial arts in the world.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Mount Wudang was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It is recognized for its exceptional cultural value as a center of ancient Chinese Taoist practices and the extraordinary architecture of its temples and palaces.

Sacred Taoist Temples and Palaces: Mount Wudang is adorned with numerous grand Taoist temples, palaces, and other religious structures. The most famous temple is the Golden Summit (Jinding), which features the Golden Hall (Jinyang Palace) and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Other notable sites include the Purple Cloud Palace, Zixiao Palace, and Yuzhengong Palace.

Martial Arts and Wudang Kung Fu: Mount Wudang is renowned for its association with martial arts and Wudang Kung Fu. It is considered a cradle of Chinese martial arts culture. Visitors can witness demonstrations, learn martial arts techniques, and explore Wudang Martial Arts Academy.

Scenic Beauty: Mount Wudang is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and serene natural surroundings. It is characterized by numerous peaks, gorges, waterfalls, and ancient trees. The mountain offers breathtaking scenery and is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

2. Best Time to Visit Mount Wudang

The best time to visit Mount Wudang is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

In spring, Wudang weather is mild, and the mountain is covered in lush greenery. The cherry blossoms and other flowers are in bloom, creating a stunning and picturesque atmosphere. This is a great time for hiking and exploring the mountain’s trails and temples.

Autumn is another favorable time to visit Mount Wudang. The temperatures are cooler, and the mountain is adorned with vibrant autumn foliage, displaying shades of red, orange, and yellow. The scenic beauty is enhanced, and the crowds are generally thinner compared to the peak summer season.

Avoid visiting Mount Wudang during the hot and humid summer months (July to August) as the temperatures can be uncomfortably high, making outdoor activities challenging. Winters (December to February) can be quite cold, and the mountain may experience snowfall, impacting hiking conditions.

It’s worth noting that Mount Wudang is a popular tourist destination, especially during Chinese holidays and weekends. To avoid larger crowds, it is advisable to plan your visit on weekdays or during non-peak hours.

Before visiting Mount Wudang, check the weather forecast and plan your trip to Wudang Mountain accordingly. Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers, and bring essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water. Proper planning will ensure a more enjoyable and memorable experience exploring the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Mount Wudang.

3. How to get to Wudang Mountain

Wudang Mountain Scenic Area is located between Danjiangkou City (丹江口)and Shiyan City (十堰)in Hubei Province. It is situated about 40 kilometers from both downtown Shiyan (十堰)and downtown Danjiangkou (丹江口).

There are several train stations around Wudang Mountain: Wudangshan Railway Station (武当山火车站), Wudangshan West Railway Station (武当山火车西站), Shiyan Railway Station (十堰火车站), and Danjiangkou Railway Station (丹江口车站). Additionally, there are three major bus stations: Wudangshan Passenger Transfer Center (武当山客运换乘中心), Shiyan Bus Station (十堰汽车站), and Danjiangkou Passenger Station (江口客运站). The airport in the vicinity is Shiyan Wudangshan Airport (十堰武当山机场).

Plan a trip to Wudang Mountain with this map

While planning your trip to Wudang Mountain from other places, you are generally recommended to first arrive in Shiyan (十堰). From there, you can take a bus to the Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. If there is a direct train to Wudangshan Station or Wudangshan West Station, it will be more convenient, as both stations have buses to the scenic area. Upon arriving at the Wudang Mountain Scenic Area, you can take the sightseeing bus within the area to reach various attractions.

Train to Mount Wudang

Wudangshan West Station (Recommended): This high-speed rail station is about 13 kilometers from Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. After arriving at Wudangshan West Station by high-speed train, you can take bus 301 to the scenic area entrance. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.

Wudangshan West Station
Wudangshan West Station

Wudangshan Station (Recommended): This station is about 15 kilometers from Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. After arriving at Wudangshan Station by train, you can take bus 202 to the scenic area entrance. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.

Shiyan Station: Located in Shiyan City, this station is about 30 kilometers from Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. After arriving at Shiyan Station by high-speed train, you can take bus 202 to the scenic area. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Danjiangkou Station: If you arrive at Danjiangkou Station by train, you need to first go to Danjiangkou Passenger Station. From there, you can take a bus to Wudang Mountain. This route is more complicated.

Flights to Wudang Mountains

If you plan your trip to Wudang Mountain by flight, the nearest major airport to Mount Wudang is Shiyan Wudangshan Airport (WDS). After arriving at Shiyan Wudangshan Airport, you can take the airport bus line 2. The total distance is about 28.6 kilometers.

Shiyan Wudangshan Airport
Shiyan Wudangshan Airport

Get off at the Wudangshan Shanmen Station ( Entrance Gate to Wudang Mountain). The journey takes about 59 minutes and costs 10 yuan.

Bus to Wudangshan

Wudangshan Passenger Transfer Center: This center is only 3 kilometers from the entrance of Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. Provincial tourists can easily reach it by bus. After arriving at the transfer center, you can take bus 206 to the scenic area.

Shiyan Passenger South Station: From here, you can take bus 202 to Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Danjiangkou Passenger Station: You can buy a bus ticket at the station for a bus heading to Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. Then, take the bus to the scenic area.

Once you arrive at the entrance of Mount Wudang, you will need to purchase an admission ticket to access the scenic area. To explore the mountain, you can hike the various paths and trails or take a cable car to reach the higher peaks. It is advisable to plan your visit in advance, especially if you are interested in visiting specific temples or landmarks on the mountain.

Additionally, it may be helpful to have the address and contact information of your accommodation or a local guide to assist you in navigating the transportation options and finding your way around Mount Wudang.

4. Wudang Mountain Accommodation Guide

Wudang Mountain Scenic Area offers a variety of accommodation options. You can choose to stay at the mountaintop, halfway up, or at the foot of the mountain. Select the best location based on your needs and activities.

Mountaintop Accommodation

The mountaintop is perfect for watching the sunrise but has fewer options and higher prices. Most accommodations are near Jinding, including Jinding VIP Lodge (金顶贵宾楼) and Jinding Tianyun Lodge (金顶天云楼). You can book these places in advance through travel apps.

For example, Jinding VIP Lodge (金顶贵宾楼) is the closest to Jinding, with the highest price and best environment. It’s about a 5-minute walk to the sunrise viewing platform from here.

Halfway Up Accommodation

Accommodations halfway up the mountain are mainly near several sightseeing bus stops, such as Taizipo 太子坡, Nanyan (Wuyaling) 南岩(乌鸦岭) , Qixingshu 七星树, and Qiongtai 琼台. These places usually feature local houses converted into guesthouses, offering convenient transportation.

For instance, there are many accommodations near Nanyan (Wuyaling) and Qixingshu. They are ideal for sunrise watchers. It takes about 2-3 hours to walk from these locations to Jinding (金顶).

Foot of the Mountain Accommodation

The foot of the mountain has numerous accommodation options at relatively low prices. This is perfect for those wanting to experience local life or those on a budget. There are also many restaurants and shops here for dining and shopping.

Additionally, the Wudang Mountain Scenic Area offers various homestays and hotels, such as Dayue Hostel, Manzhu Manor, and Funing Residence. These homestays usually provide comprehensive services, including dining, lodging, and entertainment. They have elegant environments and complete facilities, making them a great choice to experience Wudang Mountain culture.

In summary, when choosing accommodation at Wudang Mountain, you can select a location based on your needs and preferences, considering sunrise plans. You can also consider booking a homestay or hotel in the scenic area to enjoy a richer travel experience.

5. Wudang Mountain Tickets

Purchase your entrance tickets to Mount Wudang at the ticket office in Wudangshan Town. Prices may vary depending on the season and whether you want access to specific attractions.

Wudang Mountain Entrance Fees and Cable Car
RMB 235 yuan ( 130 yuan ticket +100 yuan transportation inside the spot +5 yuan insurance )
Jinding ( Golden Hall ): 27 yuan
Purple Xiao Hall: 15 yuan scenic spot
Cable Car : 90 yuan up and 80 yuan down( Two -way: 170 yuan)

Wudang Mountain is open daily from 07:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

In the summer, the Qiong Tai Sightseeing Bus runs from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. In the cooler months (spring, autumn, and winter), it operates from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

6. Wudangshan Tour Itineraries

As shown in the scenic map below, Wudang Mountain’s routes are simple. You can go left up and right down, or right up and left down.

The right side has more attractions, while the left side has none but offers a cable car to the top. A one-day trip is tight but enough for key attractions. To see the sunrise, stay on the mountain near Qiongtai, Nanyan, or Jinding. Below are itineraries based on duration.

One-Day Trip Itinerary

Route 1:
  • Wudang Mountain Visitor Center → take sightseeing bus (about 1 hour) → reach Qiongtai → take cable car (about 20 minutes) → reach Jinding (tour Jinding for about 1 hour) → cable car → Qiongtai → sightseeing bus back to Visitor Center (about 1 hour).
  • This is the easiest and fastest route, taking about 4 hours.
Route 2:
  • Wudang Mountain Visitor Center → take sightseeing bus (about 1 hour) → reach Qiongtai → take cable car (about 20 minutes) → reach Jinding (tour Jinding for about 1 hour) → Qing Shendao (or Ming Shendao, about 1.5-2 hours) → Chaotian Palace → walk to Nanyan (about 1 hour) → tour Nanyan Palace (about 1.5 hours) → sightseeing bus to Xiaoyaogu (tour for about 1 hour) → sightseeing bus to Taizipo (tour for about 1 hour) → sightseeing bus back to Visitor Center (about 20 minutes).
  • This is a full tour route, taking about 10 hours. You might need to skip some spots depending on your time.
Route 3:
  • Wudang Mountain Visitor Center → take sightseeing bus (about 20 minutes) → reach Taizipo (tour for about 1 hour) → take sightseeing bus (about 20 minutes) → reach Nanyan (tour Nanyan Palace, round trip about 1.5-2 hours) → walk to Chaotian Gate (about 1 hour) → Qing Shendao (or Ming Shendao, about 1.5-2 hours) → reach Jinding (tour for about 1 hour) → cable car → Qiongtai (tour Qiongtai Palace if time permits) → sightseeing bus back to Visitor Center (tour for about 1 hour) → sightseeing bus to Taizipo (tour for about 1 hour) → sightseeing bus back to Visitor Center (about 20 minutes).
Sunset at Wudang Mountain

Two-Day Trip Itinerary

Day 1:
  • Wudang Mountain Visitor Center → take sightseeing bus (about 1 hour) → reach Qiongtai → tour Qiongtai Palace (about 1 hour) → overnight stay at Qiongtai.
  • (Alternatively, visit Taizipo and Xiaoyaogu first, then take a sightseeing bus from Taizipo to Qiongtai)
Day 2:
  • 2 hours before sunrise, go from Qiongtai to Jinding → watch the sunrise → tour Jinding Taihe Palace (about 1 hour) → Qing Shendao or Ming Shendao (about 2 hours) → reach Chaotian Palace → walk to Nanyan (about 1 hour) → tour Nanyan Palace (about 1.5-2 hours) → sightseeing bus to visit Lingxiao Palace, Xiaoyaogu, and Taizipo in order → sightseeing bus back to Visitor Center.

7. Wudang Mountain Dining Guide

Wudang Mountain boasts beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delightful cuisine. So in the process of planning your trip to Wudang Mountain, do try to have time for tasting local specialties while exploring Wudang Mountain, a unique experience. Here are some recommended restaurants in the scenic area:

Wudang Taoist Vegetarian Restaurant

Located in Zixiao Palace, this vegetarian restaurant is renowned for its light and healthy dishes. The restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients and exquisite cooking techniques.

The food is colorful, aromatic, and flavorful, aligning with Taoist health principles while satisfying visitors’ palates. Dining here offers a deep immersion into the Taoist cultural atmosphere.

Zixiao Palace Flavor Restaurant

Also situated within Zixiao Palace, this restaurant offers dishes with local flavors, blending Hubei and Sichuan cuisines. The elegant environment and traditional decor enhance the dining experience, allowing guests to appreciate traditional architectural art while enjoying their meals.

Wudang Mountain Hotel Chinese Restaurant

Located in the scenic area, this restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including delicate dim sum and authentic Hubei cuisine. The excellent service makes it a great place for visitors to relax and dine.

Wudang Taiji Restaurant

Famous for its unique Taiji culture theme, this restaurant features decor with Taiji patterns, exuding philosophical and cultural charm. The dishes are not only delicious but also creatively presented, reflecting the harmony of yin and yang in Taiji.

Farmhouses at the Foot of Wudang Mountain

Though not in the core scenic area, the farmhouses at the foot of Wudang Mountain are a good choice. These establishments offer authentic farmhouse dishes with ingredients often home-grown or raised, ensuring freshness and no pollution. Visitors can savor genuine country chicken, wild vegetables, and more, experiencing the tranquility and nature of rural life.

Dining in Wudang Mountain scenic area allows you to taste delicious food and experience local culture and customs. However, the prices in the scenic area’s restaurants can be high, so choose according to your budget and taste. During peak tourist seasons, restaurants might be crowded, so it’s advisable to book in advance or avoid peak dining times. Respecting local dietary habits and cultural traditions is also important.

8. Pack Accordingly

While planning your trip to Wudang Mountain, please check the weather before your visit and pack appropriate clothing.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, a hat, and sunscreen. Also, consider bringing warm layers, as temperatures can vary at higher elevations.

9. Wudang Guided Tours

If you prefer planning your trip to Wudang Mountain by taking part in the organized tour, this is also a good choice. This way, you can have a knowledgeable guide to explain the history and significance of the sites, as well as provide logistical support during your visit.


Remember that Mount Wudang is not just a tourist attraction but also a spiritual place, so be respectful of the local culture and environment during your visit. Enjoy your journey to this culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination.

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

4 Comments

  1. LC

    Hello,
    thank you for sharing such valuable insights.
    Do you know from what time the sightseeing start operating please ?
    I would need to get a train around 08.00 am, and would like to stay near Qiongtai, but am concerned about being able to reach the train station in time.
    Many thanks in advance!

    • Hello LC,

      Thanks for reaching out to Ruqin China Travel!

      Wudang Mountain is open daily from 07:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

      In the summer, the Qiong Tai Sightseeing Bus runs from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. In the cooler months (spring, autumn, and winter), it operates from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

      Now, a quick tip: If you have an 8:00 AM train to catch starting from Qiong Tai, it’s wise to stay near the station the night before. This way, you can avoid the stress of rushing and possibly missing your train.

      Safe travels and enjoy your time in this peaceful, historical mountain!

      This is just a suggestion for your reference.

  2. Daniel

    Hi,

    May I enquire how much is the guided tour with planned itinerary for 4 days 3 nites at Wudangshan please?

    – 2 pax
    – Reach Wudangshan evening 19-Oct
    – Depart from Wudangshan morning 23-Oct
    – See sunrise
    – Not too hectic hike as I am coming along with an elderly, but able to see all the attractions

    Many thanks, Mary
    ———————————————————-

    Dear Mary,

    Thank you for reaching out to Ruqin China Travel with your inquiry.

    We’re glad to hear that you are planning a trip to Wudangshan. As we specialize in providing expert travel advice and guidance rather than booking services, we are unable to offer guided tours or specific price quotations for travel packages. However, we would be happy to provide you with some helpful information to plan your visit.

    For your 4-day, 3-night stay, we recommend the following highlights in Wudangshan:

    Day 1 (19th October): Arrival in Wudangshan in the evening.
    Day 2 (20th October): Explore key attractions such as the Golden Summit and the Wudang Mountain Taoist Temple Complex, which are accessible with moderate hiking trails. These sites are perfect for leisurely exploration, especially for those with an elderly companion.
    Day 3 (21st October): Visit the Purple Cloud Temple and Wudang Tai Chi school. The sunrise viewing at Golden Peak is a popular activity, and we recommend taking a cable car to minimize the physical strain while still enjoying the stunning view.
    Day 4 (22nd October): Relax and explore the beautiful natural surroundings. You may also want to visit the Nanyan Taoist Temple and other less strenuous scenic areas.

    In terms of transportation, Wudangshan has cable cars and buses that make it easier to access the more difficult-to-reach sites. There are also plenty of resting spots along the way.

    We recommend that you consult a local tour operator for detailed itineraries, including prices and group-specific options, as they will be able to arrange transportation and a guide suited to your pace and needs.

    Should you need any further advice or tips regarding your visit, such as local customs, recommended restaurants, or hiking trails, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help!

    Wishing you a wonderful trip to Wudangshan!

    Best regards,
    Ruqin China Travel

  3. Dear Mary,

    Thank you for reaching out again. We are pleased to assist you with your upcoming trip to Wudang Mountain. Below are our recommendations based on your previous email.

    1. Sunrise Viewing:
    For the best experience of Wudang Mountain’s stunning sunrise, we recommend staying either on the mountain itself or at a mid-mountain location. Staying at the base of the mountain may limit your time for hiking and sunrise viewing.

    If, due to time constraints, you need to reach the mountain top to view the sunrise from the foothill, you will need to depart by 2:00 AM. It takes approximately three to four hours to reach the Golden Summit in time for sunrise.

    Viewing Platform: The viewing platform at the entrance to the Golden Summit offers a stunning spot for watching the sunrise. After enjoying the view, it takes just 10 more minutes to climb to the very top of the Golden Summit.

    Sunrise Time: The exact time of sunrise varies depending on the season. We recommend arriving at the viewing platform at least 30 minutes before sunrise to secure a good spot.

    Descent Route: After watching the sunrise, you can take the cable car, which will bring you to Qiongtai in about 10 minutes. From there, you can catch a bus back to the base of the mountain.

    2. Wudang Mountain Cultural Insights:
    Wudang Mountain is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also as a hub of Taoist culture and martial arts. It is the birthplace of Tai Chi, and you can explore ancient Taoist temples like the Golden Hall, which offers a deep spiritual experience. The journey up the mountain is filled with significant cultural landmarks, including the Purple Cloud Temple and Wudang Taoist Academy, which offer a glimpse into the rich traditions of Taoism and martial arts training. Along the way, you can encounter traditional rituals and scenic views that provide a profound sense of history and tranquility.

    3. Dining Recommendations Around Wudang Mountain:
    We have compiled a list of local restaurants at different points along your journey:

    Base of the Mountain:
    Yuanhe Lou (元和楼‌) – Located at the foot of Wudang Mountain, this restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes in an elegant, old-fashioned atmosphere. The restaurant’s design blends beautifully with the surrounding natural environment, and it is perfect for family gatherings or casual meals with friends.
    Signature dishes are well-balanced in taste and presentation, and the service is exceptional.

    On the Way Up:
    Lao Wei Dao 1992 (老味道1992‌) – This Hubei-style restaurant is famous for its Shui Ji Gong (spicy chicken stew), a must-try dish with a rich, flavorful broth that pairs perfectly with rice. Also highly recommended are the local Mao Gen Cai (wild vegetables) and Ye Cai Tang (wild vegetable soup), which provide a fresh and delicious taste of the region.

    Tai Chi Club Restaurant (太极会馆特色餐厅‌) – Known for its Xiang Gu Tu Ji Guo (mushroom and chicken hotpot) and crispy Huo Shao Mo (flatbread), this place offers flavorful local dishes in a warm, welcoming environment. Their wild mushroom soup is another standout item.

    On the Mountain:
    Shang Shan Fang (上善坊‌) – This restaurant on the mountain offers a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes. Highly recommended are their Shui Ji Gong (spicy chicken stew), Ye Zhu Sun Chao La Rou (stir-fried bamboo shoots with cured pork), and Xiang Jian Da Bai Yu (pan-fried large white fish). With fresh ingredients and attentive service, dining here is a memorable experience.
    The price range for meals on the mountain is reasonable: vegetarian dishes start around 40 RMB, while meat dishes are about 70 RMB.

    4. Transportation from the Base to the West Station:
    Using Didi (ride-hailing) services at the base of Wudang Mountain can be slow and inconvenient. It is advisable to pre-arrange a local taxi through your hotel. The ride is approximately 15 kilometers and will cost around 50 RMB.

    We hope this information helps with your planning, and please let us know if you need any further details or have additional questions. We wish you an amazing and unforgettable experience at Wudang Mountain!

    Best regards,
    Ruqin China Travel

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