Qiyun Mountain (齐云山), nestled in Anhui Province, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Taoist temples, and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history enthusiast, this one-day itinerary will guide you through the key attractions of Qiyun Mountain, offering a perfect blend of hiking, sightseeing, and cultural exploration. From the stunning viewpoints to the ancient temples, every step along this journey promises unforgettable experiences.
Itinerary for a Day at Qiyun Mountain
09:20 – 10:40: Train to Huangshan North: Depart from Anqing Station and take a high-speed train to Huangshan North Station. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Accommodation and Lunch: Upon arrival, walk to your accommodation, Huangshan Chujian Inn (黄山初见客栈). Breakfast is not included, but you can enjoy lunch at the inn.
10:50: Taxi to Dengfeng Bridge: Take a 50-minute taxi ride to Dengfeng Bridge (登封桥) to start your hike. If you prefer, you can take a cable car to the top from the base, but the round-trip ticket for the cable car costs ¥120.
Hiking to the Top: Cross the bridge and pass through a small village. Start your hike at Buyun Pavilion (步云亭), and follow the trail through 13 pavilions to reach the summit. The hike takes about 1 hour.
68 Yuan Entrance Fee at Wangxian Tower: At the top of the mountain, visit Wangxian Tower (望仙楼) and purchase your entrance ticket, which costs ¥68 per person.
Explore Key Attractions: From Wangxian Tower, explore the following scenic spots:
- Dongtian Fudi (洞天福地)
- Shouzi Rock (寿字岩)
- Zhenxian Cave (真仙洞府)
- Yuehua Tianjie (月华天街)
- Taisu Palace (太素宫)
- Xiaohu Tian (小壶天)
- Yuxu Palace (玉虚宫) – This is a key choice point for your route.
Route Options: After Yuxu Palace, you have three possible routes:
- Option 1: Go to Ziyun Pass (紫云关). This route is long and requires climbing back up the mountain, as Ziyun Pass is located on another peak. We recommend avoiding this option due to the distance.
- Option 2: The Hundred-Step Ladder (百步阶梯) is a loop that leads you back to Yuxu Palace. This route is not recommended as it consumes too much energy.
- Option 3: Head to the Highest Peak and then proceed to the Danxia Corridor (丹霞长廊). This is the most recommended route as it provides beautiful views and saves energy. Afterward, return to Yuehua Tianjie (月华天街).
18:30: Return Down the Mountain: By the time you reach Yuehua Tianjie, it will likely be around 18:30. You can buy an ice cream at a local convenience store near a large tree and the store owner may offer to give you a ride down the mountain, which is a convenient and affordable option. If you decide to take the cable car, make sure to note that the last ride down is at 17:30.
Return to Tunxi Old Street: After descending the mountain, take a taxi to Tunxi Old Street (屯溪老街) to enjoy the night scene. Afterward, return to your hotel for a restful night.