Practical Tips

Before you start, leave behind everything you don't need – best to be mobile; at some point, you'll need both hands to cling onto railings for support. A pair of cotton gloves might be useful to keep blisters at bay they cost about RMB 2. Maps of Hua Shan are handy to identify scenic spots; they're about RMB 1 to 2 each. Bring adequate water, sun protection gear (cap, sunscreen, sunglasses) in hotter months and adequate winter gear in the colder season. Good track shoes are indispensable. If you decide to climb up at night be sure to bring a flashlight and it's advised to go in a group. Pay attention to your surroundings as some places during the climb is rather narrow and dangerous. Check with your hotel as some offer day-trip packages to Hua Shan, at RMB 220 per person, including transport and admission costs.

April to May and October are the busiest months, but not all visitors necessarily stay overnight on Hua Shan, while September is the most beautiful time to visit Hua Shan. During the winter months Hua Shan remains open to tourists. The main paths are cleared of snow, but it's more hazardous to visit then.

Accommodations on top of the mountain tend to be basic. It's a place to commune with nature, so time is best spent outdoors anyways.