You've got to visit Mount Taishan! Pack the sunrise and the sea of clouds into your travel memories.

Mount Taishan, the most revered of the Five Great Mountains. This trip to Mount Taishan truly allowed me to experience the meaning of "Reaching the summit, I gaze upon the myriad mountains below." Now, let me share this piping hot guide with you~ 📍Itinerary Day 1: Tianwai Village - Zhongtian Gate - Nantian Gate - Heavenly Street - Jade Emperor Peak Take a taxi from the city center to Tianwai Village and take the sightseeing bus directly to Zhongtian Gate. The journey takes about 30 mins. Along this route, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mount Taishan, with its towering mountains, dense forests, and murmuring streams. Upon reaching Zhongtian Gate, you can take a short break and grab some food to replenish your energy. There are many snack stalls and convenience stores here. Then, begin your hike up the Eighteen Turns. This is the most challenging section of the climb, with steep slopes and narrow, numerous steps. Be sure to pay attention to safety and take it slow, pausing to catch your breath after each section. It takes about 2–3 hrs to reach Nantian Gate. Once you pass through Nantian Gate, it's like entering a wonderland, surrounded by clouds and mist, with Heavenly Street right before your eyes. Stroll along Heavenly Street, admiring the various unique shops and ancient buildings, and pick up some souvenirs. Finally, head to Jade Emperor Peak, the highest point of Mount Taishan, at an altitude of 1,545m. Standing at the summit and overlooking the surrounding area, the endless mountains stretch out before you, offering an indescribable and awe-inspiring view. Day 2: Sunrise Viewing Peak - Houshiwu - Tianzhu Peak - Descent If you want to see the sunrise, be sure to wake up early. Check the sunrise time in advance and arrive at Sunrise Viewing Peak at least 1–2 hrs early to secure a good spot. As the sun slowly rises from the east, bathing you in golden sunlight, you'll find yourself completely captivated by this beautiful scene. After watching the sunrise, head to Houshiwu, which boasts unique peaks and lush forests. The scenery is incredibly pristine, like a fairyland forgotten by the world. Then, explore Tianzhu Peak, admiring the unusual peaks and rocks along the way, and marvel at the wonders of nature. Finally, you can choose to descend from Tianzhu Peak, which takes about 3–4 hrs on foot, or take the cable car to Zhongtian Gate and transfer to a sightseeing bus to go down the mountain. 🍱Food Recommendations While Mount Taishan may not have a wide variety of food, it does offer some unique specialties. Be sure to try the Taishan pancake, a thin pancake made from mixed grains. It has a crispy texture and can be filled with various ingredients, such as pickled vegetables, eggs, shredded potatoes, and more, creating a unique flavor. There's also Taishan Sanmei Soup, made from Chinese cabbage, tofu, and Taishan spring water. The soup is delicious and nutritious, perfect for revitalizing yourself after a tiring climb. The roasted sweet potatoes on the mountain are also quite good, sweet and soft, offering a warm treat on a cold winter day. 🛏Accommodation Recommendations If you plan to watch the sunrise, it's recommended to stay at a hotel or guesthouse on the mountaintop for convenient early access. However, be prepared for relatively higher prices and more basic conditions. If you're on a budget, you can also choose to stay at a hotel at the foot of the mountain, where prices are more affordable and the environment is better. Then, wake up early the next morning to climb the mountain and watch the sunrise. 🚗Transportation Guide If you arrive by train, get off at Taian Station and take a bus or taxi to the Mount Taishan scenic area. If you're driving, there are several parking lots around the scenic area, making parking convenient. However, it can get crowded during holidays, so it's advisable to start early. ❗Important Notes Mount Taishan is at a high altitude and has lower temperatures. Even in summer, the nights can be quite cold, so be sure to bring a warm jacket. Remember to stay hydrated and energized during your climb, but avoid carrying too much to lighten your load. It gets crowded when watching the sunrise, so be mindful of your safety and keep your belongings secure. The steps on Mount Taishan are steep, so be extra careful when descending. It's best to bring trekking poles for assistance. Mount Taishan is truly a worthwhile destination, captivating visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. I hope this guide is helpful for those planning a trip to Mount Taishan. Wishing you all a memorable journey~