Hiking from Xihai to Yunggu cable car (the opposite)?

Question

Hi,

I am planning to stay in Xihai, and unlike most people do I want to go up using Taiping cableway and go down using Yunggu. However, I saw someone saying that the hike from Yunggu to Xihai is mostly stairs going down, is this true? In this case I would not want to go the opposite way, since it means I will have to be climbing up...

Also, if anyone has experience with Taiping cable car, how was it? I am mostly taking it since I am afraid Yunggu will be too crowed (or is it ok on a Monday?)

Thank you

Answer

Yes, you are correct about the trail conditions. The hike from Yungu Cable Car station down to Xihai is mostly stairways and steep paths. If you attempt it in the opposite direction—starting from Xihai and going up toward Yungu—you will be climbing a long series of stairs, which can be quite strenuous. For most visitors, this is why people prefer to take Yungu as a descent rather than an ascent.

Regarding the Taiping Cableway, it is generally smooth and efficient. The ride takes you quickly up the mountain with minimal walking, which is ideal if you want to save energy or avoid climbing steep paths. Here are some additional points to consider:

Taiping Cableway tends to be less crowded than Yungu, especially on weekdays like Monday, so your plan to avoid the crowds is reasonable.
The cable car offers scenic views during the ride, which is a great way to appreciate the Huangshan landscape without strenuous effort.
Once you arrive at the top via Taiping, you can follow the trails toward Xihai area and nearby scenic points.
If you choose to descend via Yungu, the path is mostly downhill stairs, so it will be tiring on your knees if you are not used to long stair descents, but it is generally safer than climbing up.

Other tips:

Wear good hiking shoes with grip, as the stairs can be slippery, especially in early spring or after rain.
Bring trekking poles if you have knee concerns; they help a lot on steep stair descents.
Start early in the day to avoid any potential small crowds, although Mondays are usually quiet.
Carry water and light snacks as the descent, although faster, still requires energy.

In summary, your planned route—ascending via Taiping Cableway and descending via Yungu—is practical and avoids climbing the strenuous stairways. Yungu on a Monday is unlikely to be crowded, making it a comfortable choice for your descent.

Hiking from Xihai to Yunggu cable car (the opposite)?

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