If you haven’t been to Huashan yet, this is the one. Famous for its sheer cliffs, heart-racing plank paths, and dramatic peaks, Huashan delivers one of China’s most iconic mountain adventures—equal parts adrenaline and awe. Safety harnesses are in place, so it’s thrilling without being reckless.

• Location: Huashan, Shaanxi (near Xi’an)
• Duration: 3 Days
• Trip Type: Hiking, mountain adventure, cultural sightseeing
• Suitable for: Active travelers, adventure seekers
• Organizer: M2 Adventure

What to Expect

This 3-day adventure takes you from historic Xi’an to the granite cliffs of Huashan—one of China’s Five Great Mountains and arguably the most dramatic of them all. Expect:

• Steep stair climbs and epic ridge walks with nonstop mountain views
• The legendary Huashan Plank Walk, bolted to a sheer cliff face (optional, fully harnessed)
• A night spent on top of the mountain, dorm-style, just steps from sunrise viewpoints
• Sunrise at East Peak and a traverse toward South Peak, Huashan’s highest point
• A visit to Xiyue Temple, known as the “Forbidden City of the West,” where emperors once prayed to Huashan’s mountain god

It’s physically demanding, undeniably exciting, and one of the most memorable mountain experiences in China.

Location

Huashan is located in Shaanxi Province, about 120km east of Xi’an. The mountain is famous for its knife-edge ridges, near-vertical staircases, and cliff-hugging trails. While once considered extremely dangerous, today all exposed sections are secured with harness systems, making the experience safe as long as instructions are followed. The mountain remains legendary not because it’s unsafe—but because of how dramatic it feels.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Xi’an

Arrive in Xi’an anytime by flight or train.
Check in to the hotel and explore the city independently if time allows.

Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Xi’an hotel (shared room, 2 people per room)

Day 2: Huashan Ascent

• 08:00 – Meet at the hotel lobby and depart by private coach
• 10:00 – Arrive at Huashan entrance and begin hiking toward North Peak

The climb is non-technical but steep, consisting mostly of stairs. You can hike at your own pace, with plenty of photo stops along the way.

Lunch break at North Peak (not included; bring your own or purchase on-site)

Continue hiking in the afternoon, including optional photo stops along steep ladder sections]

• 16:30 – Arrive at the mountaintop hotel and check in

Optional:
For those with extra energy, there’s an optional cliff descent near the hotel using a harness, leading to a small stone pagoda with panoramic views (additional fee).

• 18:00 – Sunset viewing, followed by dinner at the mountaintop restaurant (not included)

Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Mountaintop dormitory (8–10 people per room)
Note: No shower facilities. Public toilets only.

Day 3: Sunrise, Plank Walk & Return

• 05:30 – Early wake-up for sunrise
• 06:30 – Sunrise at East Peak

After sunrise, begin the day’s hike toward South Peak

• 08:00 – Queue for the famous Plank Walk (optional, harness required and included). This is Huashan’s most iconic section and the main adrenaline highlight of the trip.
• 10:30 – Begin descent toward the cable car

If time permits, visit Xiyue Temple, the “Forbidden City of the West,” a grand palace-style Taoist temple complex.

• 13:00 – Transfer to Huashan Railway Station
• 14:30 – High-speed train back to Shanghai
• 21:30 – Estimated arrival at Shanghai Hongqiao Station

Meals: Not included

Note: Itinerary is for reference only and may change depending on weather, crowd levels, or organizational factors.

Difficulty

Challenging – Long stair climbs, steep sections, and early starts. Suitable for active travelers comfortable with heights. All exposed areas are secured with safety equipment.

Packlist

Essentials to Bring:

• Original passport / ID
• Backpack (you must carry all belongings throughout the trip)
• Anti-slip hiking shoes
• Warm outdoor clothing (temperatures drop at night)
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Wet wipes (no showers on the mountain)
• Personal medication
• Snacks and energy bars
• Power bank

Pricing Details

• 1300 RMB per person

Deposit: 500 RMB per person to secure a spot

Room Arrangement Policy

Accommodation on Huashan is shared dormitory-style (8–10 people per room). Pillow and blanket are provided. No private room option is available on the mountain.

What’s Included in the Package?

• Private transportation between Xi’an hotel and Huashan (Saturday)
• Transfer from Huashan to Huashan Railway Station (Sunday)
• Entrance ticket to Huashan
• One night accommodation on Huashan (dormitory-style)
• One night hotel stay in Xi’an (shared room)
• Access fee and safety equipment for the plank walk
• Cable car down on Sunday
• Visit to Xiyue Temple, including transport and entrance
• Trip organization and booking services

Not Included in the Package

• All meals
• Train or flight tickets to and from Xi’an / Shanghai
• Optional second “dangerous” spot near the hotel (50 RMB)
• Personal expenses and incidental costs
• Any personal expenses

Recommended Train (for Shanghai-based travelers)

G1972: Huashan North → Shanghai Hongqiao
14:36 – 21:32: Second Class Seat: 643 RMB

How to Book

• Secure your spot by completing deposit payment on SmartShanghai.
• Once payment is made, the event organizer will contact you to confirm your booking.
• Further details, including trip specifics, schedules, and any additional information, will be provided.
• The remaining balance must be paid directly to the event organizer. Please ensure payment is completed as per the instructions provided by the organizer to confirm your participation.
• For any questions or special requests, guests are welcome to reach out.

Your spot will be secured—just put on your hiking shoes and get ready for an epic adventure!

*Booking closes once spots are full or 2 days in advance, whichever comes first. Secure your spot early to avoid missing out!

Cancellation Policy

• Cancel 7+ days in advance: Full refund.
• Cancel less than 7 days before departure: No refund unless participant finds someone to replace them.
• Trip canceled due to bad weather: Full refund or reschedule.

Note: If the weather is unsafe (e.g., heavy rain or thunderstorms), the trip will be canceled 2/3 days in advance, and refunds will be issued.

*Please note that your booking is confirmed only when full payment is made. Seats are limited. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your spot to a friend, but rescheduling to another trip is not permitted.

Disclaimer

All forms of outdoor recreation, carry a higher level of risk compared to most ordinary activities. By participating in M2adventure's trip, participants acknowledge and accept full responsibility for assessing the suitability of the activity for themselves. They are responsible for their own safety, conduct, and well-being and agree to participate solely at their own risk.

M2adventure, its organizers, and hike leaders will not be held liable for any loss, injury, or damage sustained as a result of participation in these activities.

Photography Policy: Photos taken during the trip may be used for promotional purposes. Those who wish to opt out should notify the organizers before signing up.