The first snow has arrived at Emei Mountain! Please keep this 2-day winter snow play guide handy

Snowflakes gently fall from the sky, covering the Golden Summit in a blanket of white, transforming Emei Mountain into a dreamy ice and snow kingdom. The first heavy snowfall of this winter has dressed Emei Mountain in silver. Jade trees and snowy branches fill the mountains, with seas of clouds blending into the snowy veil, creating a fairyland. From December to January each year is the off-season at Emei Mountain, offering not only cheaper tickets but also fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil snowy scenery in solitude. Key Attractions and Winter Charm In winter, the following sights at Emei Mountain are not to be missed: - Golden Summit after Snow: As the symbol of Emei Mountain, the Golden Summit looks even more solemn and pure after snowfall. The Samantabhadra statue stands solemnly amid the white snow, and if you encounter a sea of clouds, you can witness the spectacular "Golden Summit Auspicious Light." - Daping Snow Clearing: One of the classic snow scenes among the "Ten Views of Emei Mountain." After the snow clears, the solitary peak resembles a blooming snow lotus, and evergreen trees covered in snow form "jade branches and leaves," making it an excellent photography subject. - Xianfeng Temple and Jiulao Cave: Quiet spots along the hiking trail. Staying overnight in the ancient temple on a winter night and listening to the sound of falling snow is a rare experience away from the city. - Leidongping Ski Resort: The place for ice and snow fun. After exhilarating skiing, you can soak in the Lingxiu Hot Springs at the foot of the mountain, experiencing the delightful contrast of "ice and fire." 2-Day Essential Itinerary For visitors with limited time, the following 2-day tour route efficiently connects classic scenery and experiences: Day 1: First Encounter with the Snow Kingdom, Zen of the Ancient Temple - Morning: Depart from Baoguo Temple Visitor Center by car, then start hiking after the zero-kilometer mark. Pass through Hongchunping, where the snow thickens along the way, and the scenery transitions from autumn to winter. - Afternoon: Challenge the famous "Ninety-Nine Bends," arriving at Xianfeng Temple by evening to check in. The temple offers simple vegetarian meals and lodging with ample hot water, a great choice to experience the tranquility of a mountain temple. - Evening: Enjoy the temple's vegetarian dinner and rest early to conserve energy for the next day's climb. Day 2: Golden Summit Sunrise, Ice and Snow Celebration - Early Morning: Wake up around 6:30 AM to head to the Golden Summit to watch the sunrise and sea of clouds (sunrise is around 7:15 AM). The sunrise after snow is especially breathtaking. - Morning: Tour the Golden Summit and pay respects to the Samantabhadra statue. Then take the Golden Summit cable car down to Jieyin Hall, followed by a walk to Leidongping. - Afternoon: Experience skiing at Leidongping Ski Resort (during the Ice and Snow Hot Springs Festival, a free 1-hour ski session is available with a scenic area ticket), then take a car back to the mountain base. - Evening: Stay at a hotel at the mountain base and be sure to enjoy a steaming radon hot spring bath to wash away the fatigue from hiking, perfectly ending the trip. Travel Preparation and Practical Tips To make your trip smoother, prepare the following in advance: Clothing and Gear Temperatures are very low on the mountain, so warmth and slip resistance are key: - Clothing: Use layering—wear moisture-wicking base layers, add fleece or a thin down jacket in the middle, and a windproof, waterproof shell jacket on top; bring a hat, gloves, and scarf. - Footwear: Hiking boots paired with crampons are essential for snow trekking. Simple crampons are easily damaged, so it’s recommended to prepare a high-quality pair in advance. - Others: Trekking poles, thermos (hot water is available on the mountain), power bank, and some high-energy snacks (like chocolate or beef jerky). Tickets and Cost Reference - Scenic area tickets: Off-season from December 15 to January 15, tickets cost 110 RMB (peak season 160 RMB). - Other expenses: Sightseeing bus and cable car fees are about 200-300 RMB; mountain lodging (such as a bed at Xianfeng Temple) is about 90 RMB per night; daily meals average about 100 RMB. - Total budget: For a streamlined 2-day trip, the per-person cost can be controlled around 700 RMB, offering great value. Avoiding Pitfalls - About the Monkeys: Monkeys are less active in winter; encountering them is luck, and not seeing them is no regret. If you do meet them, keep your food and plastic bags secure and do not provoke them. - About the Cable Car: The cable car may be temporarily closed in winter due to weather. Please check the latest announcements on the "Emei Mountain Tourism Official Platform" before departure. - Time Management: The sightseeing bus stops running earlier in winter (uphill service ends around 4:00 PM). Plan your time reasonably to avoid missing the bus down the mountain. At the turn of the year, the 27th Emei Mountain Ice and Snow Hot Springs Festival has already begun. It’s time to leave the urban hustle behind and come for a date with ice, snow, seas of clouds, and ancient temples. In this thousand-year-old sacred mountain, find your own piece of winter tranquility and grandeur.