Quick Answer: Mount Huashan is located in Huayin City, 120km east of Xi'an. Open daily 07:00-19:00 (East Gate); 24-hour for hikers (advance registration required). Tickets ¥160 (Peak season Mar-Nov) / ¥100 (Off-peak); Cable car extra ¥80-150. Take High-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Huayin (30 min, ¥54.5); Bus from Huayin station. Recommended visit duration: 4-8 hours (for full circuit), 2-3 hours (quick visit). The plank walkway is not for those afraid of heights. Start early.
The most dangerous and thrilling mountain hike in China - conquer the legendary peaks of one of the Five Great Mountains
Mount Huashan (华山), located in Huayin City just 120 kilometers east of Xi'an, is renowned as one of China's Five Great Mountains and holds a sacred place in Chinese Taoist culture. This dramatic mountain range features five peaks representing the shape of a blooming lotus flower, with steep granite cliffs that have challenged and inspired pilgrims and adventurers for centuries.
What truly sets Huashan apart is its legendary Plank Road to Heaven (长空栈道) - a narrow walkway bolted to vertical cliffs with nothing but a safety harness between you and certain death. This heart-pounding experience has become a bucket-list adventure for thrill-seekers from around the world, drawing visitors who want to test their courage against the mountain's ancient stone steps and terrifying drop-offs.
The mountain's highest point is South Peak (南峰) at 2,154 meters, offering some of the most spectacular sunrise views in China. The journey to the summit is not for the faint-hearted, but those who complete it are rewarded with an unforgettable sense of achievement and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape that stretch to the horizon.
The legendary narrow walkway bolted to 2,000-meter vertical cliffs. One of the world's most dangerous hikes, requiring nerves of steel and a safety harness.
The highest peak at 2,154 meters. Wake before dawn and hike to the summit for one of China's most spectacular sunrise views over the clouds.
The starting point for most visitors. Accessible by cable car and offers excellent views. A good base for acclimatization before tackling higher peaks.
The most romantic peak, perfect for sunset viewing. Known for its dramatic rock formations and the famous rock that resembles a flower.
Famous for its perilous Plank Walk and vertical climbs, Huashan offers the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers.
The East Peak offers the most spectacular sunrise views—watch dawn break over the sea of clouds.
Huashan has been a Taoist sanctuary for over 2,000 years, featuring ancient temples and sacred springs.
The fastest way: Take a high-speed train from Xi'an North Railway Station to Huashan North Station (30-40 minutes, 55 CNY). Then take Bus 1 or taxi to the cable car station (15 minutes, 20-30 CNY).
Buses depart from Xi'an East Bus Station to Huashan (2-3 hours, 40-50 CNY). Direct buses to the scenic area leave every 30 minutes.
Many tours from Xi'an include transportation, cable car tickets, and accommodation. This is the most convenient option, especially for night hiking to catch the sunrise.
Huaying Town, Huayin City
Weinan, Shaanxi