Just came back from Jiaozi Snow Mountain, a lesson learned with blood and tears—if it can save even one person, it's worth it

📌Real experience: It's truly breathtaking to the point of speechlessness!! Standing at the peak of the snow mountain at an altitude of 4223 meters, with a sea of clouds rolling around you, you instantly feel all the hardship was worth it! (But it’s really exhausting…) The scenery changes completely with the seasons: winter is a fairy tale world of ice and snow, summer is a sea of alpine rhododendrons, and every photo you take looks like a masterpiece! ⚠️⚠️⚠️【Pitfall Avoidance Guide】⚠️⚠️⚠️ 1️⃣ Don’t buy oxygen tanks at the scenic area! 💰They’re double the price! Buy them in advance at supermarkets in the city; 1-2 cans per person are enough. 2️⃣ The cable car has two sections. The first section is a must (saves 3 hours of climbing and energy), the second section is optional—hiking offers more stunning views but is very tiring! 3️⃣ Rent anti-slip shoe covers at the foot of the mountain! Ice cleats are essential! The ice on the mountain is very slippery; I saw several people fall. 4️⃣ Start early! It’s recommended to arrive at the scenic area before 8 AM. After 2 PM, the weather at the summit changes frequently, often suddenly foggy with no visibility. 5️⃣ It’s best to bring your own food. There’s only a small shop on the mountain (instant noodles cost 15 yuan, hot water is charged separately…). 🚗【Super Detailed Guide】 ▶️Transportation: About 3 hours driving from Kunming. Navigate to “Jiaozi Snow Mountain Scenic Area Parking Lot.” The last stretch of mountain road has many curves, drive carefully. ▶️Tickets: Peak season ticket + shuttle bus + cable car combo about 💰298 yuan (10 yuan cheaper if booked online in advance). ▶️Route: Visitor Center → Shuttle Bus → Xiapingzi → Cable Car → Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) → Foguang Cliff → Jiao Ding (Summit!) ▶️Must-bring list: ✅ High SPF sunscreen + sunglasses (snow reflection is very strong) ✅ Warm hat + gloves (the wind at the summit can cause headaches) ✅ Energy bars/chocolate (to prevent altitude sickness and low blood sugar) ✅ Thermos (hot water is life-saving when cold) ✅ Power bank (phones lose battery very fast in low temperatures) 💡Hidden gems: • There are little squirrels near Tianchi, they’re not afraid of people and super cute. • Around the 15th day of the lunar month, there’s a high chance to see the “Buddha’s Light” phenomenon. • The roasted potatoes and lamb skewers at the scenic area exit are cheap and delicious! ✨Final honest words: Although my legs were shaking from exhaustion, the shock of standing at the top of the mountains is beyond words! Everyone must experience this once in a lifetime, but make sure you’re well prepared before you come!