A hidden gem in Anhui

A hidden gem in Anhui Have you ever felt a sense of familiarity when visiting a place for the first time? Mount Qiyun in Huangshan City is one such place. With its stunning scenery and fewer crowds, it feels like a true fairyland. As one of the four sacred mountains of Taoism (the other three are Mount Wudang in Shiyan, Hubei, Mount Longhu in Yingtan, Jiangxi, and Mount Qingcheng in Dujiangyan, Sichuan), Mount Qiyun is less famous and popular than the other three. However, its Taoist culture and natural scenery are equally impressive. Even within Anhui Province, Mount Qiyun is overshadowed by the famous Mount Huangshan and Xidi and Hongcun Villages to the north, Wuyuan, the most beautiful village in China, to the south, and Huizhou Ancient City to the east. As a result, few people know about Mount Qiyun, and even fewer have visited it. This Taoist mountain has become a hidden gem for niche travelers. However, this seemingly awkward situation has also contributed to Mount Qiyun's unique charm. The ancient Chinese poet once compared Mount Huangshan and Mount Baiyue, the latter being Mount Qiyun. This mountain, which stands in harmony with Mount Huangshan, was once praised by Emperor Qianlong as the "No. 1 famous mountain in Jiangnan." With its unique peaks, mysterious caves, pavilions, palaces, magnificent Danxia landform, Huizhou-style architecture built on cliffs, and the beautiful Hengjiang River, Mount Qiyun offers a perfect blend of natural and cultural experiences. It is also home to the nationally protected Qiyun Mountain Stone Carvings and Xiuning Dengfeng Bridge, making it a hidden gem for niche travelers. Recommended route: Grand Loop: Wangxian Tower - Taoyuan Archway - Dongtianfudi - Dongtian Archway - Shouzi Rock - Yitian Gate - Zhenxian Cave - Ertian Gate - Santian Gate - Yuehua Street - Taisu Palace - Xiaohutian - Changsheng Building - Yuxu Palace - Ziyun Pass - Fangla Cave - Fangla Village - Highest Peak - Baiyue Restaurant - Yuehua Terrace - Fengyuan Terrace - Lingxu Road - Zhankao Peak - Zuwang Terrace - Mengzhen Bridge - Wangxian Tower After descending the mountain, you can take a bamboo raft or stroll along the Hengjiang River. In the evening, enjoy the rich and exciting intangible cultural heritage performances in Qiyun Town.