How to Spend 3 Days in Huangshan

With three days in Huangshan, you can explore a few of the scenic ancient towns, and spend the night on Mount Huangshan, allowing you to see some of the top attractions and sites on the mountain. Here's how to make the most of 72 hours in the area.

Day 1: Ancient Streets and Villages

Start the day with a visit to 800-year-old Hongcun Village, which appeared in the film,Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. Explore on foot or by bike and admire the Hui architecture and Moon Lake. Enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family. Explore nearby Tachuan Village or Xidi Village, a classic Anhui village dating back 1,000 years. Alternatively, head to Tangmo Village, known as “Small West Lake.” Or explore Tangyue Memorial Arches, a collection of tall stone gateway and roof structures. Back in Huangshan City, shop for souvenirs, go tea tasting, or have dinner on well preserved Tunxi Old Street.

Day 2: Huangshan Peaks and Valleys

Spend today and tomorrow exploring the main highlight of the region, Mount Huangshan. Most hikers head up the Eastern Steps (the Western Steps take longer). Otherwise, arrive by cable car. Be on the look out for three of the four “wonders” of Mount Huangshan: wind-carved pines, jagged granite peaks, and sea of clouds. Start at Beginning-to-Believe Peak and then explore Mushroom Pavilion or Brush Pen Peak. After lunch, hike to popular attractions such as Turtle Cave, Black Tiger Pine, and Fascinating Pavilion. Sunset viewing options include Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion, Purple Cloud Peak, and Fairy-Walking Bridge. Turn in early to accommodate tomorrow's plans.

Day 3: Huangshan Views and Hot Springs

Get up early enough to catch the sunrise at Refreshing Terrace, Monkey-Watching-the-Sea-of-Clouds, or Dawn Pavilion. Reward yourself with breakfast, and then head to Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion for views of rock formations, the sea of clouds, and the Xihai Grand Canyon. Hike the circular path down the canyon. There’s a monorail to take you back up. Then, ease your tired muscles with a soak in Huangshan Hot Springs, one of the four “wonders” of Mount Huangshan. They're in the tourist zone on the lower front slopes of the mountain, and most are open late.