Huashan

Xian, which is located in the northwest central part of the People's Republic of China is one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. There are many significant historical, religious and cultural things to do and see around the city from Huashan or Hua Shan to the Terracotta Warriors.

The city of Xian is located in central northwest China and it is a fascinating city to visit as it is one of the major influences on the development of Chinese culture from ancient times. It also has the exotic benefit of being the eastern terminal of the fabled Silk Road.

Huashan is one of the five most sacred mountains in all of the People's Republic of China. When looked at from a distance the five mountain peaks seem to form a flower shape, which is called "hua" in Chinese and "shan" is the word given to mountains, therefore it is called Hua Shan.

The mountain has always been an important place for the Taoist faithful and it is a popular pilgrimage site. People come from all over China to visit the temples there and to complete the heart stopping hike to the northern peak. If you are fainthearted and do not want to brave the trail, then you can take the cable car to the 1613 meter Huashan northern peak to enjoy the stunning views.

If you decide to hike, there are three possible routes to take. The original one is the most popular, but it is not for the faint hearted. Much of the 6 kilometer hike is somewhat perilous passing by narrow path around rock faces and having only chains and wooden planks to stop you plunging down the mountain.

There are guides who can take you on tours around the temples and the natural regions of the mountain as well as leading you on the hiking trail. The trail is not for those who have a fear of heights as the path skirts some dangerously steep drops and you may only be assisted by narrow plank paths and chains in some parts of the trail. However, it is often the thrill of conquering the mountain and its challenging route that attracts people to climb it in the first place.

There are sacred Taoist temples that are on top of the mountain. At the south peak there is an important temple called the Baidi Temple and this is the host temple of the god Shaohao. At the base of the mountain is Xi Yue Temple, which is one of the most ancient temples of all China.

While you are visiting Xian, you should make a day trip to Hua Shan a priority on your itinerary. There are many places that can offer day trips to the mountain and bring you back in the afternoon. The mountain has a wonderful combination of spiritualism, excitement and natural beauty to offer every visitor that climbs its peaks.

Xian is an amazing city and one that should not be left off any itinerary to China. There are plenty of tours that can guide you around all the attractions including Huashan and ensure that you get to see everything and get to know the rich history and culture of the ancient city.