Embark on a two-day amazing hiking journey on Mount Tai, the most famous and sacred mountain in China. Mount Tai, a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site as well as a World Geopark, perfectly combines the fun of mountain hiking with the exploration of history and culture. It is a unique hiking destination for you. Climb along the classic “Imperial Road”, where the footprints of 13 ancient Chinese emperors, including the great Qin Shi Huang, were left. They climbed to the top of Mount Tai to hold the worship ceremony. You will also stay on the mountain for one night to enjoy the breathtaking sunset and sunrise.

Highlights of the Tour

Day – by – Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hiking on the Imperial Route of Mount Tai + Sunset

In the early morning, your exclusive Mount Tai hiking guide will meet you at your hotel in Tai’an or at the train station and then start the classic Mount Tai hiking journey.

Today’s hike starts from Dai Temple and ends at Jade Emperor Summit on the top of Mount Tai. This route is famous because 13 ancient Chinese emperors once climbed this route to offer sacrifices to the gods. With a distance of about 9 kilometers and more than 7,000 stone steps, it takes about 5 – 6 hours to complete the hike.

First, you will visit Dai Temple, one of the four largest existing ancient architectural complexes in China. Originally built in the Han Dynasty, it was the place where ancient Chinese emperors worshipped the gods of Mount Tai and held sacrifice ceremonies.

Then transfer to Hongmen (the Red Gate), where you will officially enter the mountain area of Mount Tai.

The rest of the hike can be divided into two parts. The first part starts from Hongmen and ends at Zhongtianmen (the Middle Heaven Gate), with a distance of about 4 kilometers. The path slopes up gradually with not many ups and downs and can be completed in 1.5 – 2 hours. There are many characteristic Taoist temples, ancient Buddhist texts carved on the rocks, and many giant cypress trees with strange shapes. You can stop to take a rest and feel the profound cultural heritage of Mount Tai. Take a break at Zhongtianmen (880 meters above sea level). If you need, you can get water and food supplies here. Then start the second – part hike from Zhongtianmen to Nantianmen (the South Heaven Gate). This is the most challenging part of the Mount Tai hike, with more than 2,000 steep steps, which requires a lot of energy and time. Finally, you will reach Nantianmen (1,460 meters above sea level), which means you have already set foot on the top of Mount Tai. At this time, you can slow down your pace, stroll on the Heavenly Street, worship in the Jade Emperor Hall, which has a centuries – old altar used for the worship ceremony, appreciate the rock inscriptions of Chinese calligraphy, overlook the peaks, and enjoy the sea of clouds.

If the weather permits, after enjoying the magnificent sunset, check in to your hotel on the mountain.

Day 2: Sunrise + Tranquil Hiking Down Mount Tai

Get up early in the morning to find the best viewing spot and enjoy the magnificent sunrise on the top of the mountain.

After breakfast, choose another route to go down the mountain – Tianzhu Peak Trail, which is located on the eastern side of Mount Tai, about 5.4 kilometers long and can be completed in about 2 hours. This route is less traveled, with fresh air, a flat path, and fewer tourists. It is the best choice for those who pursue tranquility and the beauty of nature. You will stroll in the quiet mountains and valleys, encounter beautiful pine trees, enjoy the views of streams and waterfalls, and visit ancient temples.

After arriving at the tourist center at the foot of Mount Tai, the guide and driver will take you to the train station. You will embark on the journey to your next destination, and the pleasant Mount Tai hiking tour comes to an end!