Qiyun Mountain (齐云山) is a beautiful and serene destination that attracts visitors for its majestic views, Taoist temples, and peaceful hiking trails. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled a guide with essential tips on accommodation, dining, and travel advice. Whether you’re planning to catch the sunrise from the mountain or enjoy the local culture in nearby towns, these insights will enhance your experience.
Accommodation Choices for Qiyun Mountain: If you’re hoping to catch the sunrise or sunset from the mountain, consider staying at Yuehua Tianjie (月华天街) located on the mountain itself. This area is well-positioned for taking the cable car, providing easy access to the scenic views. On the other hand, if you prefer a more local experience, enjoy the town life, and wish to attend local performances, staying near Dengfeng Bridge (登封桥) would be ideal. This location is just a 10-minute walk from the visitor center and offers a convenient base for your travels.
Dining Recommendations: While exploring the area, don’t miss the chance to try some of Qiyun Mountain’s unique local dishes, such as Stinky Mandarin Fish (臭鳜鱼), Braised Pork with Dried Bamboo Shoots (笋干烧肉), and Ge Fen Balls (葛粉丸子). For authentic local flavors, head to the few well-known old restaurants near Dengfeng Bridge. These establishments are highly rated on platforms like Dazhong Dianping (大众点评), where you can discover more about their menus and customer reviews.
Hiking Route: Qiyun Mountain offers three different hiking circuits with varying levels of difficulty. If you’re looking to see the most scenic views, we recommend taking the Grand Loop , which is relatively moderate in terms of difficulty. Starting from Wangxian Tower (望仙楼), the entire loop will take about 5 hours if you’re walking at a leisurely pace.
Ticket Reservation: Be sure to purchase tickets online a day before your visit, as it costs ¥57 in advance compared to the on-site price of ¥68. If your schedule allows, visiting on a Wednesday is free of charge, offering a great opportunity to explore without an entrance fee.
Supplies Along the Route: While Yuehua Tianjie offers some basic supplies, there are no shops on the mountain trail, so it’s important to bring your own water and snacks. The prices for drinks on the mountain tend to be higher, so make sure to pack enough for the hike. For those planning to walk the entire mountain on foot, it’s essential to gauge your physical condition and time, and opt for the cable car if you want to save energy.
Operating Hours of the Cable Car and Bus: The cable car operates from 08:15 to 16:45 daily, so plan your hike accordingly. The last bus from the Qiyun Mountain Tourist Center to Huangshan North Station (黄山北站) departs at 17:35, so be sure to time your visit to catch the last ride.
Star Gazing and Night Tips: Qiyun Mountain is located in a Level 2 Dark Sky Zone, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. The area is very dark after 10:00 PM as all the lights are turned off, creating ideal conditions for clear views of the night sky. If the weather permits, bring a telescope or use a star-gazing app to enhance your experience.
Check the Weather: Before heading out, make sure to check the weather forecast, particularly cloud cover, to maximize your chances of witnessing the sunrise or sunset, as well as stargazing opportunities.
Bring Essentials: Pack basic travel essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, mosquito repellent, and hiking poles to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.