1. Hike Yellow Mountain's iconic peaks, sunrise spots, and the West Sea Grand Canyon
2. Descend via the classic Western Steps with legendary mountain views
3. Explore UNESCO-listed Hongcun and authentic Huizhou villages like Mukeng and Nanping
4. Walk the scenic Xihong Ancient Trail linking Hongcun and Xidi
5. A perfect mix of hiking adventure and traditional village culture
Day 1: Arrival in Huangshan → Eastern Yellow Mountain Highlights
Transportation: Car
Meals:Lunch
Overnight on Yellow Mountain
Arrive in Huangshan City by morning train. Your guide and driver will meet you at the railway station and transfer you (about 1 hour) to Huangshan Scenic Area.
Take the Yungu Cable Car up to the mountaintop. Before reaching Xihai Hotel, enjoy short, scenic hikes to several iconic viewpoints on the eastern section of the mountain, including Beginning-to-Believe Peak, Black Tiger Pine, Stone Monkey Watching the Sea, and Lion Peak.
Walking distance: approx. 7.5 km
Hiking time: about 2.5 hours (may vary depending on arrival time)
Check in at the hotel and enjoy free time to relax or explore nearby viewpoints.
Day 2: Yellow Mountain → West Sea Grand Canyon Hike
Transportation: Car
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight on Yellow Mountain
If weather permits, rise early to watch the sunrise from Lion Peak or Danxia Peak.
After breakfast, prepare for a challenging but rewarding hike into the West Sea Grand Canyon, descending approximately 600 meters from Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion to the canyon floor. The trail features dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, misty views, and ever-changing cloud formations—one of the most spectacular hiking routes on Huangshan.
For most travelers, we recommend the downhill route only, which takes about 2.5–3 hours, depending on pace. At the bottom, take the sightseeing monorail (about 5 minutes) up to Tianhai Station, followed by a short walk (about 500 meters) to Baiyun Hotel for lunch.
For energetic hikers, an optional afternoon hike to Buxian Bridge offers additional breathtaking views of the western side of the canyon (Xihai).
Optional hike duration: approx. 2 hours round trip
Day 3: Yellow Mountain → Western Steps Descent
Transportation: Car
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Huangshan City
An early start offers one last chance to enjoy sunrise from Bright Summit Peak.
Today, complete a full descent to the mountain foot via the Western Steps, a classic hiking route showcasing iconic scenery. Highlights along the way include One Hundred Ladders, Jade Screen Pavilion (home to the famous Greeting-Guests Pine), and Celestial Capital Peak.
Total hiking distance: approx. 12 km
Hiking time: about 6 hours
For those who prefer a lighter walk, cable cars are available midway to shorten the descent.
Transfer to Huangshan City in the afternoon and check in to your hotel.
Day 4: Huizhou Villages – Hongcun, Mukeng & Nanping
Transportation: Car
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Huangshan City
Today focuses on the cultural heart of Huizhou architecture and rural life. Visit a selection of beautifully preserved villages known for their white-walled houses, grey-tiled roofs, ancestral halls, and tranquil countryside settings.
Hongcun Village (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Mukeng Village – famous for bamboo forests and peaceful scenery
Nanping Village – less visited, offering a closer look at authentic local life
Stroll through narrow lanes, admire ancient residences and memorial archways, and experience the timeless charm often depicted in traditional Chinese paintings.
Day 5: Xihong Ancient Trail Hike → Departure
Transportation: Car
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Before departure, enjoy a final highlight: a scenic hike along the Xihong Ancient Trail.
This 8 km (approx. 3 hours) walk begins in Hongcun Village and ends at another UNESCO site, Xidi Village. Once an important historical route connecting southern and northern Anhui, the trail now offers one of the most picturesque hiking experiences in Yixian County.
The path follows rivers and lakes, passing through untouched countryside and traditional villages—an ideal, gentle finale to your Huangshan journey.
After the hike, transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Price Inclusions
a. All sightseeing activities as listed in the itinerary.
b. Ground transportation by air-conditioned vehicle (car, minibus, or coach, depending on group size).
c. Lunches as specified in the itinerary at local restaurants, including one soft drink per meal.
d. Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast (based on double occupancy).
e. Services of a licensed, experienced English-speaking local guide.
Price Exclusions
a. Chinese visa fees.
b. International transportation to and from China.
c. Tips or gratuities for the driver and tour guide.
d. Personal expenses not mentioned in the itinerary.
Hiking & Travel Notes
· Seasonal closure: West Sea Grand Canyon is usually closed from December to March due to snow. Canyon hiking will be excluded from winter itineraries.
· Physical level: Suitable for healthy adults with good mobility. The canyon trail involves many steep stone steps and narrow paths. Not recommended for guests with knee or heart conditions, or for small children.
· What to prepare: Sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, light rain gear, and optional trekking poles. Gloves are useful in cooler seasons.
· Weather conditions: Mountain weather changes quickly, with temperature differences between morning and midday. Fog, wind, and rain are common. Packing advice will be provided based on your travel date.
· Pack light: You must carry what you bring. Large luggage can be stored at the mountain foot or city hotel.
· Best hiking time: April–May and October–November. Avoid major public holidays (May 1–7, Oct 1–7) due to crowds.
About the Hiking Experience
· Difficulty: Overall moderate, with the West Sea Grand Canyon as the most demanding section. A sightseeing monorail allows hikers to skip the uphill climb from the canyon bottom.
· Cable cars: Available on both eastern and western routes, making Yellow Mountain accessible for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level.
What Customers Say About This Hiking Tour
Unforgettable Scenery:
“The views in the West Sea Grand Canyon were breathtaking—cliffs, mist, and valleys that looked like paintings.”
Well-Paced Adventure:
“The mix of challenging hikes and cable car rides was perfect. We felt active but not exhausted.”
Cultural Balance:
“Visiting Hongcun, Nanping, and the ancient Xihong trail added so much depth to the trip. It felt like real China.”
Great Guides:
“Our guide was knowledgeable and spoke great English. They helped us feel safe and enjoy every part of the journey.”
Photographer’s Dream:
“Sunrise on the mountain and rural trails were incredible for photos. Every turn had a new view.”
Smooth Logistics:
“Transfers, hotels, and meals were all well organised—we never had to worry about the details.”
Suitable for Active Travelers:
“This wasn’t a lazy sightseeing tour—perfect for people who love walking, nature, and authentic local experiences.”
15 days before commencement of services: 100% refund.
7 to 14 days before commencement of services: charge 10% of the tour price.
2 to 6 days before commencement of services: charge 50% of the tour price.
Within 2 days of commencement of services or no-show travelers: charge 100% of the tour price.
After the trip has commenced, we are unable to refund any amount for unused services due to your willingness, early departure, late arrival, or missed days on tours.
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