Hua Shan in China, Shaanxi

Introduction :
Hua Shan or Mount Hua as known in western world is a mountain located in the city of Huayin in the China province of shaanxi and is one of the Five Great Mountains of China. It consist of five peaks in total with the south peak highest at 2155 metres. It is one of the steepest mountains in the world and offers a deadly hiking trail to the peak of the mountains. Huashan is a popular mention in ancient Chinese kungfu dramas and most notably in the Legend of the Condor heroes as the place for the top pugilist to pit their skills against each other. Huashan is not only famous for its scenery, but it also plays an important part in Chinese culture and Taoist religion.

Jade Maiden Summit also known as Yu Nv Feng

Scenery in HuaShan
Image attribution to Foto Captor @ Flickr

Long steps in the trail at Hua Shan with temples and buildings
Image attribution to Sherimander @ Flickr

History :
The formation of Hua Shan is the evolution of Solid Earth from 300 million years ago. The region around Huashan is the place where the Chinese civilization began and during the Warring States period from 770 to 221 BC, kingdoms fought for the control of Huashan. A Taoist shrine has been built on the Western peak as early as 200 BC and the temple at the foot of the mountain was often used for Taoist rituals. During the first unification of China in the Qin dynasty, it was made as the sacrificial site of the state and was since recognized as imperial power in the eyes of the Chinese in ancient times.

Chess Pavilion at the Broad Terrace Summit also known as Bo Tai Feng

The dangerous hiking trails at Hua Shan
Image attribution to Feen @ Flickr

Getting there :
Hua Shan’s nearest international airport is in the Xi-an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) which is around 140 km away from the mountains. Visitors usually set off for Hua Shan in the morning from Xi-an which is the capital of Shaanxi as this is usually a whole day affair.