Just returned from Laojun Mountain, sisters planning to visit between July-September must read this!

My long-awaited trip to Laojun Mountain finally happened! Standing atop the Golden Summit overlooking mist-shrouded peaks, I truly understood the awe of "traveling far for a celestial feast." Here's a super-detailed guide to avoid detours and immerse you in the charm of this Taoist sacred mountain. Itinerary Suggestions One-day Recommended Route: Zhongling Cableway/Yunjing Cableway (Level 1) → Zhongtianmen Wooden Walkway → Fenglin Cableway (Level 2) → Fairyland Tunnel → Shili Huaping → Funiu Summit → Golden Summit Taoist Complex → Return same way or descend via South Heavenly Gate Two-day Recommended Route: Day1: Zhongling/Yunjing Cableway → Zhongtianmen → Dream Valley → Overnight rest Day2: Fenglin Cableway → Shili Huaping → Funiu Summit → Golden Summit Complex → Descend Ultra-Practical Guide Transportation: - Independent Travel: Take direct shuttle from Luoyang Station/Longmen HSR Station (¥35 one-way, 2hrs); Drive to "Laojun Mountain Scenic Area", parking ¥10-20/day - Group Tour: Highly recommended one-day tour (¥150-200 including round-trip + Level 1 cableway), hassle-free with no return transport worries - In-Scenic Area Transport: - Level 1 Cableway (Mandatory): Zhongling/Yunjing (¥70 one-way, ¥130 round-trip) - Level 2 Cableway (Optional): Fenglin (¥45 one-way, ¥80 round-trip), saves 1hr climbing Hiking Routes Explained: Effort-Saving Route: Take Level 1 cableway → Right-side wooden walkway at Zhongtianmen (gentle) → Level 2 cableway → Fairyland Tunnel (natural AC, bring jacket) → Shili Huaping (breathtaking granite peaks) → Funiu Summit → Golden Summit Complex Challenging Route: Skip Level 2 cableway, hike through Shili Huaping including "Sky Ladder", suitable for fit hikers Must-Visit Spots: - Shili Huaping: Granite peaks emerging from clouds, bring wide-angle lens - Golden Summit Complex: Ming-Qing era structures including Five Mothers Hall, best viewed by drone - Sea of Clouds: Most likely after rain clears, best 7-9am or 4-6pm Essential Tips: Gear: - Clothing: Quick-dry shirt + windproof jacket (10°C cooler at summit, bring light down even in summer) - Footwear: Anti-slip hiking shoes/sneakers - Others: Power bank, sunglasses, sunhat, raincoat (unpredictable weather) Budget Guide: - Hiking poles: Buy used poles near Zhongtianmen (¥1), cheaper than in park - Food: Instant noodles ¥10 at Level 1 cableway, ¥12 at summit; bring light snacks - Prayer items: Buy wish plaques downhill (¥10-20), double price uphill Taoist Culture: - Laojun Temple: Pray for health - Daode Hall: For smooth endeavors - Jade Emperor Summit: Academic/career prayers - Golden Hall: Matchmaking for singles Local Food Recommendations: - Luanchuan Tofu Banquet: Try "Yishuiwan Hotel" with 18 tofu dishes - Acorn Jelly: Local specialty, available at nearby shops - Mutton Soup: Must-try post-hike at "Old Luoyang Noodle House" Accommodation: - Mountain: Hostel beds ~¥80/person, ideal for sunrise/sunset; B&Bs near Golden Summit offer cloud views - Foothills: Better value in Luanchuan town, recommend "Cloud Rose B&B" with photogenic Nordic design Personal Experience: Though steep, it's easier than Mount Tai! Following this route, average hikers can summit in 4-5 hours. Pack your camera and curiosity for an unforgettable fairyland adventure! 🌄