Best Photo Spot for Welcoming Pine
Introduction to Huangshan
Huangshan, located in the southern part of Anhui Province within Huangshan City, is a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site, a World Geopark, and a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It is famous for its "Five Wonders": peculiar pines, strange rocks, seas of clouds, hot springs, and winter snow, earning it the title "The Most Magnificent Mountain Under Heaven." The mountain area covers about 1,200 square kilometers, with the scenic area spanning 160.6 square kilometers. It has 88 peaks over 1,000 meters high. The main peak, Lotus Peak, stands at 1,864 meters and, along with Bright Summit Peak and Celestial Capital Peak, forms the three major peaks. The Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake once praised, "Climbing Huangshan, there is no other mountain under heaven." Its topography features "majestic front mountains and beautiful rear mountains," and its rich ecological resources (forest coverage rate of 98.29%) make it the "natural oxygen bar" and "plant treasure house" of East China.
Recommended Attractions
Welcoming Pine
Address: East side of Yuping Peak
Reason to Visit: A symbol of Huangshan, this pine tree is over 800 years old, growing out of rocks with side branches extending toward the valley, resembling a hospitable host welcoming guests. It symbolizes the Chinese nation's warm hospitality.
Lotus Peak
Address: Central Huangshan, southwest of Yuping Peak
Reason to Visit: The highest peak of Huangshan (1,864 meters). Named for its main peak’s abrupt rise and surrounding smaller peaks resembling a lotus flower. From the summit, you can overlook the sea of clouds and surrounding peaks, creating a magnificent view.
Bright Summit Peak
Reason to Visit: The second highest peak of Huangshan (1,841 meters). Its flat and open summit is an excellent spot to watch the sea of clouds, sunrise, and sunset. It is also home to the Huangshan Meteorological Station.
Celestial Capital Peak
Reason to Visit: The most perilous main peak of Huangshan (1,829 meters), known for its steepness. Climbing to the top requires passing dangerous sections like "Crucian Carp’s Back." After the challenge, you can experience the grandeur of "looking down on all other mountains."
Flying-Over Rock
Reason to Visit: Located in the Beihai Scenic Area, this huge rock is perched precariously on a peak with minimal contact at its base, appearing as if it flew from the sky. It was featured in the opening scene of "Dream of the Red Chamber" and is a representative of Huangshan’s strange rocks.
West Sea Grand Canyon
Reason to Visit: Also known as the "Dreamland Scenic Area," the canyon is filled with unique peaks and winding plank roads. When shrouded in mist, it feels like entering a fairyland. It is a must-visit route for hiking enthusiasts.
Hot Spring Scenic Area
Reason to Visit: One of Huangshan’s "Five Wonders," the hot spring water maintains a temperature of about 42°C year-round and is rich in minerals. It is perfect for soaking and relaxation. Nearby are historical sites such as Ciguang Pavilion.
Notes
Tickets and Opening Hours: Regular season (January 21 to December 19) ticket price is 190 RMB; winter season (December 20 to January 20) ticket price is 150 RMB. Opening hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is recommended to book in advance through official channels.
Transportation Tips: Cable cars (Yungu, Yuping, Taiping) are available within the scenic area to save energy. The classic route is to ascend via the Yungu Temple cable car on the back mountain and descend via the Yuping cable car on the front mountain.
Tour Suggestions: It is recommended to spend 2-3 days exploring. Staying at mountain hotels (such as Beihai Hotel or West Sea Hotel) allows for watching the sunrise. The mountain climate is changeable, so bring rain gear and warm clothing.
Ecological Protection: Smoking is prohibited in the scenic area. Do not pick flowers or break branches, and avoid littering. Let’s work together to maintain the "natural oxygen bar" environment.