Xianglu Peak

Introducing Xianglu Peak

Xianglu Peak, located in front of Taisu Palace on Yuehua Street, stands tall and independent, resembling an incense burner, hence its name. The peak's base is small and sturdy, while the body is thick and robust, with the top of the peak almost identical in size to the base. Legend has it that the iron pavilion and incense burner atop were originally gifted by Zhu Yuanzhang.

From the terrace in front of Wangxian Tower, I gazed at the pavilion on Xianglu Peak, and for a moment I imagined whether there was an immortal like me, meditating peacefully amidst the swirling clouds. The melodious chirping of birds among the treetops in the deep ravine forest, accompanied by the gurgling sound of the mountain spring, was like the sound of nature. Among the ink paintings of the black tiles and white walls of the Hui-style buildings, the morning smoke from the farmhouses curled up, adding a few strokes of freehand brushstrokes, like the icing on the cake.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suitable for sightseeing, strolling and leisure

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xianglu Peak

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Xianglu Peak is one of the major peaks of Huangshan, which is renowned for its natural beauty and significance in Chinese culture. The mountain has inspired poets, artists, and philosophers for centuries. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its "four wonders": peculiar pines, strange rocks, sea of clouds, and hot springs.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Xianglu Peak is located in Huangshan, Anhui Province, China. The easiest way to reach Huangshan is by train or bus from major cities like Hangzhou or Shanghai. From the base of the mountain, visitors can take a cable car or hike up the mountain to reach the peak.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The peak itself does not have specific opening hours, but the cable cars typically operate from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is from spring to autumn (April to October), when the weather is mild and the mountain views are most clear. Winter can be cold, but it offers a beautiful, snow-covered landscape.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Huangshan Mountain is approximately 230 CNY for adults. You can buy tickets online through official websites or on-site at the ticket counter. Additional fees apply for the cable car rides, which range from 80 CNY to 160 CNY depending on the route taken.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking at least a few days before your visit is advised to ensure availability and avoid long waiting times at the ticket counter.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Xianglu Peak can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours depending on how much time you spend hiking, taking photos, and resting at scenic spots. If you're taking the cable car, you can explore the peak in about 2 to 3 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights at Xianglu Peak include the dramatic rock formations, the famous pine trees, and the panoramic views from the summit. The "Sea of Clouds" phenomenon, where the clouds appear to engulf the mountain peaks, is also a breathtaking sight.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available and typically offered in Mandarin, though some English-speaking guides may be available upon request. Audio guides may also be provided in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are located at the top of Xianglu Peak, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The "Sea of Clouds" and the "Xianglu" (incense burner) rock formation are also popular spots for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes taking the cable car up to the upper station and then hiking towards Xianglu Peak. Be sure to stop at major viewpoints like the "West Sea Canyon" and "Lotus Peak" along the way. You can also take time to rest at the mountain huts and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not common for Xianglu Peak, as it is primarily a daytime destination. However, during special seasons, there may be evening events or light shows in the surrounding areas of Huangshan, especially in the town below the mountain.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Huangshan can be crowded, especially during public holidays or weekends. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays outside of Chinese holidays (April to June, September to November).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets, food stalls, and small rest areas available along the trails and near the cable car stations. For those staying overnight on the mountain, there are several hotels and restaurants offering basic food and accommodations.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the rugged terrain and steep hikes. However, the cable car offers easier access to the top for those who may have difficulty hiking.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted on the mountain, but many facilities now also accept mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay. Credit cards are accepted in most places at the base of the mountain and in major hotels.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small restaurants and cafes near the cable car stations and on the mountain itself, offering simple meals like noodles, rice, and dumplings. The town of Huangshan also offers more dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the restaurants on the mountain, with dishes based on rice, vegetables, and tofu. Halal food is not widely available on the mountain but may be found in the town of Huangshan.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses on the mountain, including the Huangshan Mountain Hotel and the Xihai Hotel. Additional accommodations can be found in the town of Huangshan at the base of the mountain.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Huangshan Hot Springs and the Ancient Villages of Xidi and Hongcun, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These can easily be visited on the same day as Xianglu Peak if time permits.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops on the mountain selling items such as traditional Chinese paintings, tea, and handicrafts. Popular souvenirs include Huangshan tea and miniature models of the mountain's iconic pine trees and rock formations.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options are to take a bus or taxi back to the town of Huangshan, where you can catch trains or buses to other cities like Hangzhou or Shanghai. You can also hire a private car to continue your journey.