Mt. Taishan Overview & Map Weather Transportation Information
Mt. Taishan, also called Dongyue (Eastern Mountain), is located in the center of Shandong Province, with a total area of 426 sq km, lying across the cities of Tai'an, Jinan and Zibo. Its main peak, Jade Emperor peak within Tai'an City, is about 1532.7 meters (5,029 feet) high. Besides its majesty, the Sunrise, Sunset Glow, Golden Belt of the Yellow River, the Sea of the Clouds is its four wonders. Actually, its reputation comes mostly from its cultural position.
Cultural position in China
In ancient times, the first thing for an emperor to do on ascending to the throne was to climb Mt. Taishan and pray to heaven and earth or their ancestors. It was said that 72 emperors of different dynasties made pilgrimages to this mountain. These special ceremonies and sacrifices earned the mountain widespread fame.
In addition, many poets and literary scholars also visited the mountain to gain inspiration. Renowned scholars, including Confucius whose home town, Qufu, is only 70km away, have composed poetry and prose and left their calligraphy on the mountain. The grandiose temples, the numerous stone inscriptions and stone tablets are the best testaments to these visits. Mt. Taishan also played an important role in the development of Buddhism and Taoism.
Name of the Mountain
The mountain was once called Mt. Daishan, Mt. Daizong or Mt. Taiyue and was renamed Mt. Taishan in the Spring and Autumn Period (770 B.C. - 476 B.C.). Known as Dongyue (Eastern Mountain), Mt. Taishan is held in high esteem. In Chinese culture, east is regarded as a sacred direction since it is where the sun and the moon rise. The word "tai" in Chinese means stability and peace.
A symbol in China
To the Chinese people, Mt. Taishan is a symbol of greatness and grandeur. They use such expressions as "Mt. Taishan Pillar" or "Mt. Taishan Beam" to refer to great historical figures. They say, "Death may be weightier than Mt. Taishan" in praise of those who laid down their lives for a worthy cause. And "as firm as Mt. Taishan" is also a popular phrase used to describe a strong character of dependability and determination. In ancient times, Mt. Taishan was deified by the feudal rulers of various dynasties and given the title "Divine Emperor of the East Peak."
What to enjoy here
Mt. Taishan boasts unique scenery as well as historic relics, so it is definitely a feast for both your eyes and head.
Natural wonders
Formed about 28 hundred million years ago, Mt. Taishan is famous for its imposing natural landscape. The lofty peaks, deep valleys, spectacular waterfalls, enchanting rocks and the centuries-old pines and cypresses will undoubtedly encourage you linger with no thought of leaving. Besides its majesty, the Sunrise, Sunset Glow, Golden Belt of the Yellow River, the Sea of the Clouds is its four wonders.
With a bird's eye view, the mountain is divided by five valleys into six areas, which is features respectively by seclusion, spaciousness, beauty, mystery, elegance, and wonderful spectacles. Around the main peak, Jade Emperor Peak, there are smaller 112 peaks, 98 ridges, 102 streams, 72 springs and 36 peculiar stones.
Cultural treasures
With its abundant cultural treasures, Mt. Taishan is honored as a sacred mountain and the symbol of Chinese national spirit. From ancient times to the Qing Dynasty, emperors came to this reverend peak to hold grand ceremonies to worship the Gods of Heaven and earth. On the mountain there are 22 ancient construction complex, over 100 other buildings, more than 1,800 above carved stones, nearly 20,000 ancient trees and numerous poems and masterpieces written by scholars throughout different dynasties, all of which make Mt. Taishan the epitome of oriental culture.
Jade Emperor Peak
Towering 1,545 meters above sea level, the Jade Emperor Peak has been long known as the Celestial Pillar. It is the summit of Mt. Taishan. The name of the Peak derived from the construction of the Jade Emperor Hall. Overlooking the other smaller peaks in its surroundings, it offers a breathtaking bird's eye view of the entire area. In the summit, visitors can enjoy the sunrise while standing in the Sun-Viewing Pavilion lying to the east; in the west stands a River-Enjoying Pavilion, there tourists can appreciate the Sunrise, Sunset Glow, Golden Belt of the Yellow River, the Sea of the Clouds and a bright full moon.
Taishan Temple
Taishan Temple at the foot of the mountain is one of several major palace architectural complexes in China. According to historical records, construction of the Temple started as early as the Qin Dynasty more than 2,000 years ago and was greatly expanded during the Han, Tang, Song dynasties. Large-scale renovations were made in the later dynasties like the Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing.
Azure Clouds Temple
The Azure Clouds Temple near the top of the mountain is another grand building complex, a special combination of metal components, wood, and bricks and stone structures. It is the most influential, its influence extending over more than half of China. During the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644), Azure Cloud Temple received several hundred thousand worshippers annually. From the Taishan Temple to the Azure Clouds Temple there are numerous stone tablets and inscriptions and ancient buildings on the way.
Climbing up the mountain
East Route
This route is considered to be the Imperial Route because the emperors all took this way to make sacrifices. With elegant natural scenery, palaces, stone inscriptions are also scattered along the winding path. You set off from Dai Temple, and then you will see Dai Zong Archway, Red Gate Palace, Jing Shi Valley, Hu Tian Pavilion and Eighteen Bends, etc. Dai Temple is the place where emperors stayed and offered their sacrifices. The temple was built in the Han Dynasty and expanded in the Tang and Song Dynasties. After several renovations, it has become the biggest and most complete temple on the mountain.
There are 6000-plus steps along this route and it takes about four hours at an average to reach the peak. This classical route is an ideal choice for most people.
West Route
The west route is made up of two parts. The first part is the highroad from the Heaven and Earth Square to Mid-heaven Gate. The other part is the cable way from Mid-heaven Gate to the top of the mountain. This route is well equipped with modern facilities and is the most fashionable way to reach Jade Emperor peak. Attractions concentrated on this route are Heaven and Earth Square, Black Dragon Pool, Tomb of General Feng Yuxiang and Longevity Bridge, etc.
Peach Blossom Ravine Route
This route is the most convenient way to climb the mountain, especially for tourists who drive or take a bus from northern places. Peach Blossom Ravine can be accessed by taking the No.104 national highway, then setting off from the big parking lot by bus to the cable-car stop. From there you reach the top in a few minutes. The ropeway is designed for sightseeing from the air giving a clear view.
The best time to take this route is in spring and summer. The flourishing peach blossom, falling petals and limpid steams will make you feel like you are in heaven.
Tianzhu Peak Route
Just as its name implies, Tianzhu Peak was named because it is shaped like a candle, with a pine tree standing on top like a flame. This route is the most rugged one and is suitable for the adventurous. You will enjoy General Peak, Eight Immortals Cave, Big Tianzhu Peak and Small Tianzhu Peak, etc. It is also a better way to appreciate the pine trees in Hou Shi Wu (a spot where most of the old pine trees are growing).
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Port Chaotianmen
No.1 Bathing Beach
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