Embark on a thrilling 2-day Mount Hua adventure in Xi'an! Traverse the legendary Jade Plank Road and Cloud Step Path, scaling China's highest peak (2,154m) for panoramic sunrise vistas. Guided by experienced local experts, you'll witness stunning natural wonders like the Shennong's Axe Socket and celestial Hua Shan sunrise. Perfect for active travelers, this tour combines rigorous hiking with cultural immersion—visit ancient temples, learn about Daoist traditions, and enjoy hotpot dinners overlooking the mountains. Safe, affordable, and tailored for beginners to seasoned climbers, it's a bucket-list journey through Xi'an's most sacred and scenic landscapes. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!
1. Iconic Jade Plank Road & Cloud Step Path
Trek along narrow, vertigo-inducing cliff-side paths carved into granite cliffs, including the legendary Jade Plank Road (72 bends) and Cloud Step Path (180step iron ladder).
2. Breathtaking Sunrise at East Peak
Wake before dawn to summit East Peak (2,096m) for a magical sunrise over mist-shrouded valleys and snow-capped peaks—a spiritual highlight of the trip.
3. Five Great Peaks Exploration
Conquer all five peaks of Mount Hua:
South Peak (2,154m): The highest peak with panoramic views.
West Peak (2,038m): Known for its serene "Plum Blossom Cave."
North Peak (1,614m): Offers a quieter, forested hiking experience.
4. Ancient Daoist Temples & Monasteries
Visit cliff-side shrines like the Huashan Temple and Changkong Monastery, built into sheer rock faces over 1,000 years ago, showcasing Daoist heritage.
5. Stunning Scenic Vistas
Admire the Shennong's Axe Socket (a massive rock crevice) and Huashan Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading down cliffs.
6. Guided Safety & Support
Expert local guides ensure safe passage on treacherous trails, with harnesses and ropes provided for steep sections.
7. Cultural Immersion
Learn about Daoist philosophy, meditation practices, and local legends tied to the mountain's spiritual significance.
Why It Stands Out: Combines heart-pumping adventure, rich Daoist history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty, making it a must-do for thrill-seekers and culture lovers alike.
Morning: Departure from Xi'an
Leave Xi'an early in the morning, around 6:00 AM.
Arrival and Initial Exploration
Upon arrival, head to the West Peak Cable Car Station. Take the cable car up to the West Peak, also known as "Lotus Flower Peak," which is the second-highest peak at 2,082 meters (6,831 feet). The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the mountain's steep cliffs and dramatic landscapes.
Hiking and Key Attractions
From the West Peak, begin your hike towards the South Peak, the highest point on Mount Hua at 2,154 meters (7,070 feet). This route is challenging but rewarding, with steep stairways, narrow ridges, and awe-inspiring drops on either side. Along the way, you'll encounter famous spots like the Black Dragon Ridge and Golden Lock Pass, where visitors place locks for good luck. The highlight of this route is the Huashan Plank Walk, a narrow wooden plank path perched on the cliffside. Safety harnesses are provided, making it a thrilling yet safe experience.
Lunch and Rest
Enjoy a simple lunch at one of the mountain's guesthouses or bring your own snacks to refuel during your hike. The mountain offers basic dining options, but it's advisable to bring high-energy snacks to maintain stamina.
Afternoon Exploration
After lunch, continue your exploration of Mount Hua. Visit the East Peak, known as the Facing Sun Peak, which is the best place to catch the sunrise. The East Peak route is moderate in difficulty and offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks as the sun rises over the horizon. Alternatively, you can explore the Central Peak, also known as Jade Maiden Peak, which offers a quieter, more peaceful hiking experience.
Evening and Overnight Stay
Plan to spend the night at one of the guesthouses or hotels near the East Peak. This will allow you to wake up early the next morning to catch the sunrise, one of the most beautiful sights on Mount Hua. The guesthouses offer basic amenities and a unique experience of staying on the mountain.
Early Morning: Sunrise at the East Peak
Wake up early, around 5:00 AM, to witness the breathtaking sunrise at the East Peak. This is a truly unforgettable experience, with the first light of dawn illuminating the rugged peaks and valleys of Mount Hua. Take some time to enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture some memorable photos.
Breakfast and Further Exploration
After the sunrise, enjoy a light breakfast at your guesthouse. Spend some more time exploring the area around the East Peak, or visit other nearby attractions such as the North Peak, also known as Cloud Terrace Peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Return to Xi'an
Descend the mountain by mid-morning, around 10:00 AM, to ensure you have enough time to return to Xi'an. The descent can be done by cable car or on foot, depending on your preference. The return journey by cable car and coach or train will take approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on your chosen transportation method. Aim to be back in Xi'an by around 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, allowing you to rest and reflect on your adventurous two-day visit to Mount Hua.
Adult(Age:8-80) Price/p.p | Child(Age:4-7) Price/p.p | Infant(Age:0-3) Price/p.p |
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Private transportation through out the itinerary. Linkedtours will arrange for all travelers to be met on arrival and seen off on departure based on your flight or train info.
Shared accommodations in well located, tourist to superior class hotels include breakfast, service charge and government tax.
All entrance fees(shuttle bus) sightseeing; excursions and activities as per the itinerary.
Domestic flights and 2nd class express train listed in the itinerary.
Private friendly and professional English-Speaking guides (French, Italy, Russian, German can be arranged per your request).
Visa support letter for you to apply Chinese visa easily.
Travel and health insurance when travelling with us.
Complimentary 2 bottles of water each person on daily use.
8, A 24/7 helpline while you are traveling.
International and domestic flights not indicated.
Food, Lunch or dinner not specified
Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers
Personal expenses and the other tours or activities not mentioned
Transportation
We will use business MPV to luxurious coaches and trains.
All the hotels we selected are 4-5 star well-located in the city center with good and proper breakfast for our clients.
Our guides are very friendly, knowledgeable, helpful. And our group tours will be escorted from Linkedtours.