Huangshan: The Classic Chinese Landscape

Huangshan in Anhui Province is the archetype of Chinese mountain scenery: granite peaks, twisted pines, and seas of cloud. For centuries, it has inspired poets and painters; its image appears in countless works of art. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site in 1990.

Four Wonders

Huangshan is famous for four wonders: peculiar pines, absurd stones, sea of clouds, and hot springs. The pines grow from granite crevices, their trunks gnarled and twisted. The rocks are sculpted into fantastic shapes. The clouds fill valleys on humid mornings. The hot springs at the base offer relaxation after hiking.

Beginning-to-Believe Peak

Beginning-to-Believe Peak is the classic Huangshan viewpoint. From here, you see granite pillars rising from a sea of clouds, their surfaces dotted with pines. The sunrise view is legendary. The peak is reached by cable car or a strenuous hike.

Flying Stone

The Flying Stone is a boulder perched impossibly on a granite pillar. It seems ready to fall but has remained for millennia. The formation is one of Huangshan most photographed sights.

Guest-Greeting Pine

The Guest-Greeting Pine extends one branch as if beckoning visitors. It is the symbol of Huangshan, appearing on logos and souvenirs. The tree is over 800 years old.

Hot Springs

At the base of Huangshan, natural hot springs offer relaxation. The water emerges at about 42°C. Several resorts have pools. Soaking after a day of hiking is a classic Huangshan experience.

Getting There

Huangshan is about 1 hour by bus from Huangshan City (Tunxi), which has an airport and high-speed rail. Plan 2 days on the mountain. Spring and autumn are the best times; summer is humid, winter offers snow and fewer crowds.