Huangshan – A dreamlike journey atop a sea of ​​clouds!

Hey everyone! If you haven't been to Huangshan yet, you're seriously missing out! Huangshan, hailed as "the most wondrous mountain under heaven," is like a magical fairyland, where every scene will leave you breathless with amazement 😱. Don't hesitate, follow my guide and embark on this magical Huangshan journey together! Preparations Documents ID card, student ID (bring them if you have them; they might offer discounts on entrance tickets and cable car tickets). Clothing The weather in Huangshan is quite changeable. Even in summer, bring a thick jacket; the temperature difference between day and night is no joke 😜. Comfortable sneakers are also essential, as you'll be walking a lot on the mountain. Other Items Prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella or raincoat (the weather on the mountain is unpredictable; it can rain unexpectedly). You can also bring some high-energy snacks, such as chocolate or beef jerky, to replenish your energy during the climb. Tickets and Transportation Ticket Booking Tickets can be booked in advance on the "Huangshan Tourism Official Platform" WeChat mini-program. Huangshan has peak and off-peak seasons. Peak season (March 1st - November 30th) tickets are 190 RMB/person, and off-peak season (December 1st - end of February of the following year) tickets are 150 RMB/person. Transportation Guide ● External Transportation: If arriving by plane, you can first arrive at Huangshan Tunxi International Airport, and then take the airport bus or taxi to Huangshan Scenic Area. If arriving by train, Huangshan North Station is the closest station, and there are direct buses to Huangshan Scenic Area from the station exit. ● Scenic Area Transportation: From the foot of Huangshan to the trailhead, you need to take the scenic area bus, the ticket price is 19 RMB/person. There are different cable car options: Yungu Cableway costs 80 yuan per person one way during peak season and 65 yuan per person during off-season; Yuping Cableway costs 90 yuan per person one way during peak season and 75 yuan per person during off-season. Itinerary Two-Day Itinerary Day 1 ● Morning: Take the Yungu Cableway from Yungu Temple up the mountain. After arriving at Bai'e Ridge, explore along the path towards Shixin Peak. Although Shixin Peak is not high, it is home to many uniquely shaped pines, including the Black Tiger Pine, the Conjoined Pine, and the Dragon Claw Pine. Each pine tree is like a work of art meticulously sculpted by nature. ● Lunch: Have lunch near Beihai Hotel to replenish your energy. Beihai Hotel has a restaurant offering various cuisines. Although the prices are slightly higher than at the foot of the mountain, it's very satisfying to have a hot meal on the mountain. ● Afternoon: Head to Lion Peak, the best spot to observe the monkeys watching the sea. Standing atop Lion Peak, you'll see a giant rock resembling a monkey crouching there, gazing at the distant sea of ​​clouds, seemingly lost in thought 🤔. Next, head to Paiyun Pavilion, the entrance to the West Sea Grand Canyon, where you can overlook its magnificent scenery. ● Evening: Check into the Xihai Hotel and get a good rest to recharge for the next day's itinerary. Day Two ● Morning: Wake up early to watch the sunrise at Danxia Peak 🌅. Danxia Peak is one of the best spots in Huangshan to watch the sunrise. As the sun slowly rises from the horizon, golden sunlight spills onto the sea of ​​clouds and mountain peaks—the scenery is breathtaking. After watching the sunrise, return to the hotel for breakfast. ● Morning: Enter the West Sea Grand Canyon and experience a thrilling descent on the popular mini-train. The West Sea Grand Canyon is known as a "dreamlike scenic area," with peaks of various shapes, some like swords piercing the sky, others like graceful fairies standing tall. The train ticket costs 100 yuan per person, but it's definitely worth the price. ● Lunch: Lunch at Tianhai Food Plaza. There are various snacks and fast food options available. ● Afternoon: Head to Bright Summit (Guangmingding), the second highest peak in Huangshan, and a great place to watch the sea of ​​clouds and sunset. From Bright Summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Huangshan. Then, proceed from Bright Summit to Jade Screen Pavilion, where you can see the Welcoming Pine along the way. The Welcoming Pine is a landmark of Huangshan, like a warm host welcoming every visitor. Finally, take the Jade Screen Cableway down the mountain. Food Recommendations ● Huangshan Stinky Mandarin Fish: This dish smells pungent but tastes delicious. The fish is tender and juicy, making it one of Huangshan's signature dishes. ● Hairy Tofu: Hairy tofu is a traditional dish from the Huizhou region. The tofu is covered with white fuzz, and after being fried, the outer skin is golden and crispy, while the inside is tender and delicious. ● Stone Cake: This is a type of charcoal-baked cake filled with various fillings, such as preserved mustard greens and fresh meat, with a crispy texture. Accommodation Suggestions For a two-day trip, you can stay at hotels on the mountain, such as Beihai Hotel and Xihai Hotel. Although the price is relatively high, it offers convenient access to watch the sunrise and sunset. If you don't want to stay on the mountain, you can also stay in Tangkou Town at the foot of Huangshan Mountain, where there are hotels and guesthouses of various price ranges to choose from. Precautions ● Check the weather forecast in advance and choose a suitable time to go to Huangshan. Severe weather, such as heavy rain or strong winds, may affect your travel experience. ● Be careful while climbing; do not linger or take photos in dangerous areas. ● Prices within the scenic area are relatively high; it's advisable to bring your own water and food. My darlings, the beautiful scenery of Huangshan awaits you! Pack your bags and embark on this dreamlike Huangshan journey! I believe this will be a trip you'll never forget 🧳.