Qingcheng (Qianshan) mountain - Front side

Question

Hi everybody, I have to choose between 2 day trips, one from Chengdu and the other one from Xi'an. Which one would you suggest more?

- Transfer from Chengdu by train to Qingcheng (Qianshan) mountain

Hike from ticket office to the lake, then cable car, stopover to the Pagoda, then hike all the way down via various temples.

- Transfer from Xi'an by train to Huashan mountain

Go trip through North Peak Cable Way, then by foot: East Peak - South Peak - West Peak. Down by West Peak Cableway

Thanks

Answer

Both Qingcheng (Qianshan) near Chengdu and Huashan near Xi'an are famous mountains in China, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose:

1. Qingcheng (Qianshan) from Chengdu:

Distance/Travel: Qingchengshan is about 70 km from Chengdu. You can take a high-speed train or bus to the nearby town, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the entrance. Total travel time is usually around 1.5–2 hours each way.
Hiking: The trail from the ticket office to the lake is gentle and scenic, suitable for moderate fitness levels. It offers serene forest paths, streams, and Taoist temples along the way.
Cable Car: The cable car can help you reach the upper parts of the mountain without too much strenuous climbing.
Temples and Sights: Stops at major temples and pagodas provide cultural interest, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful and less crowded.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed hike with cultural and natural scenery.

2. Huashan from Xi'an:

Distance/Travel: Huashan is around 120 km from Xi'an. The fastest way is to take a high-speed train to Huashan North Station, then a bus to the mountain entrance. Travel time is roughly 1.5–2 hours each way, similar to Qingcheng.
Hiking: Huashan is famous for steep, dramatic cliffs and the famous plank walk. Hiking between North Peak, East Peak, South Peak, and West Peak is challenging and requires good stamina and a head for heights.
Cable Car: Cable cars are available for North Peak and West Peak, but much of the trek still involves strenuous climbing.
Sights: Huashan offers breathtaking vistas and adrenaline-filled trails, but is more crowded during peak season.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult. Suitable for experienced hikers or those seeking adventure and dramatic scenery.

Recommendation:

If you prefer a more relaxed day trip with scenic forests, Taoist temples, and moderate hiking, choose Qingcheng (Qianshan) from Chengdu. It’s less strenuous and culturally rich.

If you are looking for a challenging hike with dramatic mountain peaks and stunning views, and are comfortable with heights and physical exertion, choose Huashan from Xi'an.

Consider your fitness level, interest in culture vs. adventure, and tolerance for crowds when making your choice.