磨心尖: Ascent to the Heavens

Mount 磨心尖 (Moxinjian) — the queen of Changshan County, rising to 1523 metres. An ideal place for those seeking genuine adventures: trails winding through pristine bamboo forests, mountain streams, picturesque waterfalls and the breathtaking 'Sky Ridge' with railings over the abyss. If the weather is kind, you will be rewarded with a true sea of clouds — a sight that will stay in your memory forever.

The tour is designed for active travellers who do not require special mountaineering training. The guide leads at a steady pace, with stops for photos and snacks. Departure from Shanghai early in the morning so that you reach the top by noon and fully enjoy the mountain landscapes. A great way to escape the noisy metropolis and spend a day alone with majestic nature.

⛰️Highest point 1523 m
☁️Sea of clouds
🥾Distance 8 km
🎋Bamboo groves
💧Cascading waterfalls

Atmosphere of the route

Trekking tour program

  • Meeting and departure (06:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, 4‑4.5 hours drive (420 km) to Changshan County. Short breakfast stop at a roadside cafe.
  • Arrival at the trailhead (~10:30) — restroom, briefing, warm‑up. Start of the active ascent.
  • 'Bamboo Tunnel' trek (10:45–12:00) — climb stone steps through dense bamboo thickets, mini‑waterfalls.
  • 'Cloud Haven' viewpoint (12:00–12:30) — snack stop (bring your own dry ration), impressive views at 1380 m.
  • Dragon Ridge and final push (12:30–13:30) — extreme section along the rock ridge with railings, then a dash to the 1523 m summit.
  • Summit 磨心尖 (13:30–14:15) — rest, photo session at the highest point, enjoying the sea of clouds (weather permitting).
  • Descent along the southern slope (14:15–16:15) — gentler trail through a pine forest and an old stone bridge.
  • Dinner in the village at the foot (16:30–17:30) — hot meal in a local restaurant: village dishes, stewed chicken with mushrooms.
  • Departure to Shanghai (17:45) — return with one sanitary stop.
  • Estimated arrival (~22:00) — drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station.

Detailed timeline

TimeStageDetails and recommendations
06:00Departure from ShanghaiMeeting at Xinzhuang metro station (north exit). A light snack with you won't hurt.
10:30Trail startRestroom, payment of entrance tickets (60¥). Prepare backpacks.
10:45–12:00Bamboo TunnelAscent 2.5 km, elevation gain 350 m. Plenty of shade, moderate pace.
12:00–12:30Picnic at 'Cloud Haven'Snack (dry ration). Mesmerising views of the valley.
12:30–13:30Dragon Ridge + summitThe most impressive section. Be careful near the edge of the cliffs.
13:30–14:15Rest at the peak (1523 m)Photos, relaxation. Chance to see the sea of clouds.
14:15–16:15Descent (southern slope)Easier trail through a pine forest.
16:30–17:30Dinner (local cuisine)Restaurant at the foot. Paid separately (~70¥).
17:45Return to Shanghai十七章Strict departure on schedule.
~22:00Arrival in ShanghaiFinal stop — Xinzhuang metro station.

💡 Important hiking tips:

  • Wear trekking shoes with good grip (no slippers or casual sneakers).
  • Take at least 1.5 litres of water per person + snacks (bars, nuts), windproof jacket.
  • Charge your phone and camera — there are no charging points on the route.
  • Mountain weather is changeable, fog is possible. Do not stray from the guide.

Price and conditions (trekking)

💰

Tour price

By comfortable car

VIP transfer

Door‑to‑door transfer. Russian‑speaking guide services + transport.

$430per group of 1‑3 people
For groups of 4+ people — individual price.
🎫

Additional expenses (per person)

  • Entrance ticket to Moxinjian reserve60¥ (~$8)
  • Hot lunch/dinner (local restaurant)70‑90¥ (~$10‑13)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)50¥ (~$7)
  • Bamboo raft ride (optional)30¥ (~$4)
⏱️

Duration

~16 hours
departure 06:00, return ~22:00

Additional services

✈️
Airport transfer
+$100
🚗
Minivan rental for large groups
+$80
🏨
Overnight in Changshan (3* hotel)
+$110 (room)
📷
Professional mountain photo session
+$80

Frequently asked questions

磨心尖 — how hard is the climb?
Moderate difficulty. Total return distance about 8 km, elevation gain 650 m. Good physical shape and reliable trekking shoes are needed. Suitable for active adults and teenagers from 14 years old.
What exactly should I take on the hike?
Trekking boots or trainers with good tread, windproof jacket, snacks (energy bars, nuts), 1.5‑2 litres of water, cap/bandana, sunscreen, power bank. Trekking poles optional.
Are there shops or water sources on the route?
No, there are no kiosks or springs along the way. You must have all water and snacks with you from the start.
Is this tour suitable for a beginner with no experience?
Yes, if you have no heart or circulatory problems and you regularly go for walks. The guide gives instructions and maintains a comfortable pace with stops.
What is the weather like at the top?
On the summit it is 7‑10°C colder, windy, often foggy and cloudy — people come here precisely for the 'sea of clouds'. Be sure to take a windproof jacket.
Do I have to pay for entry?
Yes, the entrance fee to the Moxinjian scenic area is 60¥ (about $8). Paid on the spot or through the guide.
⚠️

Important information

Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). If cancelled 48 hours in advance — full refund, less than 48 hours — 50% refund. The route may be changed or cancelled by the guide in extreme weather conditions (heavy rain, storm wind). The participant confirms that they have no medical contraindications for moderate difficulty hiking.