Mount Taishan
By Ruth Silbermayr
What is Mount Taishan?
Mount Taishan (泰山 in Chinese) is a mountain located in Shandong Province, China. It is easily accessible from the provincial capital, Jinan – where tours to Mount Taishan are offered – or from Tai’an City, which lies at the foot of the mountain.
Mount Taishan stands 1,532 meters (5,026 feet) high.
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Why is Mount Taishan a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Mount Taishan was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987 due to its numerous cultural landmarks, many of which are scattered across the mountain and can be visited during a climb. The key monument is the Temple to the God of Taishan. According to UNESCO, the mountain represents “a unique artistic achievement. The eleven gates, the fourteen archways, the fourteen kiosks and the four pavilions, which are scattered along the flight of 6,660 steps that rise between heaven and earth are not just simple architectural achievements, but are the final touches by human hands to the elements of a splendid natural site.”
In addition, Mount Taishan holds great significance in Taoism and is revered as one of the Five Great Mountains of China. It has served as a key place of worship for 2,000 years.
What can you expect on a visit to Mount Taishan?
Mount Taishan is known for its Taoist temples. The mountain can be climbed in approximately six hours, but there is also a bus that takes visitors halfway up. From there, you can either continue climbing or take a cable car to the summit. The path consists of stone stairs that are generally accessible year-round, unless weather conditions are severe.
If you walk the 6,660 steps, you’ll pass “12 historically recorded imperial ceremonies in homage to Heaven and Earth, about 1,800 stone tablets and inscriptions, and 22 temples,” according to UNESCO. There are also a number of ancient trees, planted more than a thousand years ago.
Is the mountain worth visiting?
Yes! If you enjoy hiking Chinese mountains, Mount Taishan is well worth a visit. Climbing the mountain and exploring its historical buildings is an enjoyable experience, provided you’re okay with commercialization and large crowds. It’s especially popular with domestic tourists, so expect it to be busy – even on weekdays.
If you dislike large crowds or commercialization, you may want to reconsider. Avoid visiting during national holidays, when it can become so crowded that you might find yourself stuck standing in place. Even on regular days, anticipate a lively and noisy atmosphere. Climbing Mount Taishan is a social experience – people often greet you, wave, and strike up conversations.
You can also combine your visit with a trip to Dai Temple in Tai’an, a beautiful complex with climbable walls offering scenic views. Alternatively, you can visit the Three Confucian Sites in Qufu, just a 19-minute high-speed train ride from Tai’an and also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Book your accommodations in Tai’an.
What sorts of travelers would like Mount Taishan?
Almost everyone I met enjoyed visiting the mountain. It’s particularly popular with travelers who enjoy mountain scenery, Chinese landscapes, and climbing.
Although I saw many children during my visit, I wouldn’t recommend bringing young kids, as the crowds can be overwhelming and at times pushy. Even if you take the bus and cable car, there are still stairs to climb to reach the temples.
Tips for visiting the mountain
Dress warmly, especially for mornings or windy days, so you won’t need to buy extra clothes on the mountain. Wear sturdy hiking shoes or strong sports shoes. Be cautious in winter – stairs can become slippery and dangerous unless you’re an experienced climber.
I visited in April, and it was noticeably colder on the mountain than in the city, so be sure to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The wind can make it feel much chillier.
Start early to encounter fewer crowds, though be aware you may still run into other early birds.
This private day-tour of the mountain from Tai’an includes lunch and the cable car ticket. This private tour from Jinan can be arranged purely as a car transfer or include a guide.
Bring your own food and water to avoid overpaying – prices on the mountain are much higher than in the city. Restaurants and souvenir shops are available at the summit, offering Chinese food, snacks, water, and gifts. You can even purchase mountain gear or clothing if needed.
Mount Taishan can be accessed through the city of Tai’an in Shandong Province. Tai’an is a beautiful, clean city (by Chinese standards) with many friendly locals. However, not all hikers on the mountain are equally courteous—be prepared to encounter some pushy behavior, as some people prioritize reaching the summit quickly.
Where is Mount Taishan?
Address: Longtan Road, Taishan District, Tai’an City, Shandong Province (山东省泰安市泰山区龙潭
路)
Taking the train is the most popular option to reach the mountain. High-speed trains run to Tai’an from major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. From Beijing, it takes 2 hours and 8 minutes by high-speed train. From Shanghai, it takes 4 hours and 1 minute by high-speed train.
Book your accommodations in Tai’an, Beijing or Shanghai.
From Tai’an, you can take a taxi to Mount Taishan; fares are reasonable (around 40–50 yuan). The Tianwaicun (天外村) gate is the entrance where you can catch the bus and cable car, or choose to climb on foot.
Mount Taishan is also accessible from Jinan, the provincial capital, in 17 minutes by the fastest train. It takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes by car to reach Tai’an City from Jinan. Parking lots are available.
For more information about Mount Taishan, including opening hours and admission fees, check this website.
Have you been to Mount Taishan? If so, do you have any additional information or advice about this UNESCO World Heritage site? Please add your comments below!