Qiyunshan: The Mountain That Rivals the Clouds
Qiyunshan Mountain (齐云山) is one of China's four sacred Taoist mountains, located in Anhui Province. Its name translates as "Mountain that rivals the clouds". The unique red sandstone cliffs (Danxia), over 530 ancient rock inscriptions, and temples built directly into the cliffs make this place a true gem of Eastern China.
The main highlight is the hanging street Yuehua Tianjie (月华天街), where Taoist priests still live. You'll walk through the imperial temples Taisugong and Yusugong, see the 7-meter "Milky Way Waterfall" made of calcite (in Zhenxian Cave) and enjoy breathtaking panoramas. For adventure lovers, the Ziyoujia Camp (自由家营地) at the foot of the mountain offers zipline, climbing wall, and rope parks.
Gems of Qiyunshan
What awaits you
- Departure from Shanghai (06:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~5–5.5 hours drive (430 km) with one stop.
- Arrival at Qiyunshan (~11:30) — short break, ticket purchase (guide will assist).
- Cable car ascent (12:00) — 7-minute ride with panoramic views of the Danxia cliffs.
- Mountain tour (12:00–15:30) — Yuehua Tianjie, Taisugong and Yusugong temples, Immortal's Cave, Xianglufeng peak, rock inscriptions.
- Lunch (13:30–14:30) — traditional Anhui cuisine at a restaurant on the mountain or at the foot.
- Adrenaline option (15:30–17:00) — for those interested: Ziyoujia camp (zipline, climbing wall, buggies) at extra cost.
- Return to Shanghai (17:00–22:30) — estimated arrival at Xinzhuang metro around 22:30.
Sample tour itinerary (1 day)
*Option also available: high-speed train Shanghai — Huangshan-North + taxi (30–40 min).
| Time | Program Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 06:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro)\n | 430 km drive, ~5 hours, one 15–20 min stop.\n |
| 11:30 | \nArrival at Qiyunshan tourist center | \nRestroom, ticket purchase (entrance + cable car).\n |
| 12:00 | \nCable car ascent | \nAscent takes ~7 minutes, peak height up to 585 m.\n |
| 12:15–15:30 | \nWalking route on the mountain | \nYuehua Tianjie street, Taisugong Temple (Ming Dynasty), Yusugong cliff temple, Zhenxian Dongfu grotto (rock inscriptions), Xianglufeng Peak. Length ~3 km.\n |
| 13:30–14:30 | \nLunch | \nRestaurant with local cuisine (stewed fish, hair tofu, rice).\n |
| 15:30–17:00 | \nFree time / optional Ziyoujia camp | \nFor the active: zipline (150 m), climbing wall, buggies, rope park. For relaxation: stroll at the foot, souvenir shop.\n |
| 17:00 | \nMeeting and departure for Shanghai | \nApproximate departure time.\n |
| ~22:30 | \nArrival in Shanghai | \nDrop-off at Xinzhuang metro station (time may vary due to traffic).\n |
💡 Important notes:
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes (trails with stone steps).
- It's windy on the mountain — even in summer, bring a light jacket.
- Passport, cash yuan (cards not accepted everywhere), water, camera, umbrella/raincoat.
- The tour is suitable for all ages if using the cable car.
- If you want to visit Ziyoujia, inform the guide in advance — tickets are best purchased online.
Price and conditions
Tour price
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets at the entrance, ticket assistance. Transfer to station self-arranged.
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
Additional expenses per person
- Entrance ticket (mountain)75¥ (~$10)
- Cable car (round trip)95¥ (~$13)
- Combo (entrance + cable car)160¥ (~$22)
- Lunch at restaurant70¥ (~$10)
- Ziyoujia camp (basic ticket)29–180¥ (~$4–25)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Huangshan-North (round trip, 2nd class)~450¥ (~$62)
- Taxi from station to mountain (round trip, per group)~120¥ (~$17)
Duration
Additional services
Nearby attractions
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to modify the program due to weather conditions or force majeure. In case of heavy fog, the cable car may be closed — the guide will offer an alternative.