Mount Hua, located in Huayin City, Shaanxi Province, is one of China’s renowned Five Great Mountains, celebrated worldwide for its steep and dramatic terrain. Often called “The Most Dangerous Mountain in the World,” it features five majestic peaks: East, West, South, North, and Central. Along the way, visitors are treated to sheer cliffs, breathtaking sunrises over a sea of clouds, and awe-inspiring scenery. Beyond its natural beauty, Mount Hua holds deep significance in Taoist culture, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers alike.
Opening Hours & Visitor Information
Opening Hours: Daily 07:00–19:00 (hours may be extended during peak season). Cable car and facility schedules vary by season—check official announcements before visiting.
Suggested Duration: Plan for 1 or 2 days. You can take the cable car up and explore on foot, or challenge yourself to hike the entire route. For sunrise viewing, stay overnight on the mountain.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (April–June and September–October) offer pleasant weather and clear views. In summer, avoid midday heat by hiking early morning or late afternoon.
Other Tips:
Book tickets and cable car passes online in advance—especially during peak season, when they sell out quickly.
Many trails consist of stone steps and steep paths; wear non-slip hiking shoes and watch your footing.
For night hikes, bring a headlamp and warm clothing.
Mount Hua consistently earns high praise from travelers. Over 90% of visitors admire its majestic peaks and the rewarding challenge of the climb, with highlights such as the Plank Walk, Thousand-Foot Cliff, and Golden Lock Pass. Many photographers favor the East Peak for capturing sunrise and sea-of-cloud scenes. However, be aware that during peak season, cable cars and popular spots may have long lines, and the hike can be physically demanding—plan routes according to your ability.
Related Guides & Recommended Tours
Want an easier way to plan your Mount Hua adventure? We offer detailed guides to hiking and cable car routes, scenic photography spots, and safety tips. You can also pair your visit with other Xi’an attractions—like the Terracotta Army and Huaqing Palace—for a perfect blend of culture and nature over two days.
Q: Can I buy Mount Hua tickets on the same day? A: Yes, but during peak season and holidays, lines may be long. It’s best to book through official platforms or authorized channels in advance.
Q: Is Mount Hua suitable for beginner hikers? A: For beginners, we recommend taking the cable car both ways and walking between the main sights, rather than hiking the full distance.
Q: How many cable car routes are there? A: There are two main routes—North Peak and West Peak. The North Peak route is shorter, while the West Peak route goes higher and saves more energy.
Q: Are there dining and lodging options on the mountain? A: Yes, some peaks and mid-way rest points have dining and simple lodging, though prices are higher and spaces are limited. Book in advance.
Q: Where is the best place to watch the sunrise? A: The East Peak is one of the best sunrise spots, offering wide-open views of both the sunrise and sea of clouds.