Climbing Mount Taishan: A Life-Changing Experience!

Family, Mount Taishan is truly worth it! Here's a super comprehensive guide. Hey everyone 👋 I just got back from my Mount Taishan "pilgrimage," and it was such an unforgettable trip. I have to share this piping hot guide with you all, so save it now! 📍Location: Mount Taishan is located in Tai'an City, Shandong Province. As the "Foremost of the Five Sacred Mountains," it's the ultimate climbing destination for countless people ⛰️ No matter where you're coming from, getting to Tai'an isn't difficult. If you take the high-speed train, Tai'an Station is very close to the Mount Taishan scenic area. After exiting the station, you can take a taxi or bus directly there; it's very convenient 🚗 🎫Reservation Guide: You need to make reservations in advance to visit Mount Taishan now, so don't just show up. Search for the "Mount Taishan Scenic Area" official account on WeChat, click on "WeChat Ticket Purchase" in the menu bar below, and follow the steps to select the date, time slot, and ticket type (adult, student, etc.). Fill in your personal information, and once the payment is successful, your reservation is complete 🎟️ Pay close attention to your reserved entry time slot; don't miss it, or you won't be able to enter. During peak season, it's crowded, so it's recommended to book about a week in advance to avoid your preferred time slot being snatched up. 🌟Highlights: 🌅Watching the Sunrise: This is an absolute must-do when visiting Mount Taishan! For that breathtaking sunrise, I crawled out of bed at 3 a.m. to start my night climb. The trail was bustling with people, all filled with anticipation for the sunrise, encouraging each other along the way. When we reached the summit and saw the first hint of dawn in the sky, gradually turning orange-red as the sun slowly rose, the feeling was truly indescribable. It felt like all the hard work was worth it! The best spots for sunrise viewing are at Jade Emperor Peak and Sun Viewing Peak. Remember to get there early to snag a good spot, or you'll just be looking at a sea of heads 🤣 🚶‍♂️Hiking: For those who love a challenge, I highly recommend hiking up the mountain. Starting from the Red Gate, follow the ancient stone path, ascending step by step. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous historical sites, as if traveling through time and walking alongside ancient people. At each pavilion, you can take a break and admire the stone carvings along the way, immersing yourself in the charm of history. However, hiking is quite physically demanding, so pace yourself. Rest when you're tired, and don't push yourself too hard. 🧘‍♀️Praying at the Summit: Mount Taishan has always been a sacred symbol in people's hearts, and the Bixia Temple at the summit is a popular place of worship. You can buy incense here and make a wish; who knows, it might come true! The feeling of being enveloped by the sacred atmosphere is truly magical. 🍜Food Recommendations: After climbing the mountain, you definitely deserve a good meal! 🥘Taishan Three Delights: Cabbage, tofu, and water. These seemingly simple ingredients create a surprisingly delicious soup. A bowl of this will warm you up and instantly dispel any fatigue. 🍲Stir-fried Chicken: Tai'an's stir-fried chicken is also a must-try. The chicken is tender and flavorful, paired with fragrant pancakes. Carbs plus protein, pure bliss! I could devour two big bowls! 📸Photo Spots: Mount Taishan is full of picturesque scenery, perfect for capturing stunning photos. ✅Midway Gate to Heaven: The view here is expansive, allowing you to capture the rolling mountains and winding paths, creating a fantastic backdrop. ✅Eighteen Turns: This is the most challenging section of Mount Taishan. Have a friend take photos of you during the climb for a sense of accomplishment. ✅Summit: At sunrise, with the golden sky and sea of clouds as your backdrop, silhouette shots are absolutely stunning, creating a truly magical atmosphere! 💡Important Notes: 1. Bring a flashlight for night climbs. Although there are streetlights along the way, some areas are still quite dark. 2. The temperature at the summit is low, so regardless of the season, bring a thick jacket, or you'll freeze 🐶 3. There are many stalls selling water and food along the way, but the prices get higher as you go up. It's recommended to bring some light snacks and water. Mount Taishan is truly a place worth visiting again and again. Whether it's the challenging climb or the breathtaking sunrise, it will leave a lasting impression. Don't just dream about it, make it happen! Experience the charm of Mount Taishan, and you might even gain some unique life insights at the summit!