Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for your trip with details on high-speed rail, regional buses, and essential packing items for steep mountain trails.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) and Hongcun Village
Tangkou Town (Huangshan) and Hongcun Town (Yi County), Huangshan City
GPS 30.125, 118.16667
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to the mountain and ancient villages.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train: High-speed rail to Huangshan North Railway Station from Shanghai (2.5-3 hrs) or Hangzhou (1.5-2 hrs). | 1.5-3 hours | Varies by departure | Huangshan North is the main regional transport hub. From there, take a bus to Tangkou or Hongcun. |
| Bus: Direct tourist buses from Huangshan North Railway Station or Tunxi to Tangkou (South Gate) and Hongcun. | 1 hour | approx 30 RMB | Buses run frequently during the day; check the local schedule upon arrival at the high-speed rail station. |
| Car: Private transfers and taxis are available from Huangshan airport or train stations to Tangkou or Hongcun. | 1 hour | 150-250 RMB | Convenient for groups or for those with early morning departures. |
| Walk: Hiking up the mountain from the gates instead of taking the cable car. | 2-3 hours up | Free (with park entry) | Requires high physical fitness due to thousands of steep stone steps. |
| Tour: Join a multi-day guided tour from Shanghai or Hangzhou covering Huangshan and nearby ancient villages. | 2-4 days | 2000+ RMB | Includes guides who handle all ticket reservations, which is very helpful for foreign travelers. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
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- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The mountain is open year-round. September to November provides autumn foliage and clear weather. Late March to May offers fresh spring views. Winter brings beautiful snowscapes.
What to bring
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Heavy luggage should stay at your hotel in Tangkou.
Bring a lightweight daypack for your mountain ascent.
How the day runs
Suggested routes to maximize your time.
Hike the main peaks and stay overnight on the summit.
- Arrive in Tangkou
Take the 19 RMB scenic shuttle bus from Tangkou to the mountain gates.
- Cable Car Ascent
Ride the Yungu or Yuping cable car up the mountain.
- Explore West Sea Grand Canyon
Hike the steep, narrow stairs clinging to sheer cliffs.
- Check in to Summit Hotel
Drop your gear at an official summit hotel.
- North Sea Sunrise
Wake up early to view the sunrise and sea of clouds from Refreshing Terrace.
Explore the ancient water systems and Hui-style architecture.
- Bus from Huangshan City
Take the 1-hour direct bus from Huangshan North Station to Hongcun.
- Walk around South Lake
View the stone bridge and watch art students painting.
- Explore Moon Pond
See the crescent-shaped pond reflecting the white-walled houses.
- Visit Chengzhi Hall
Examine complex Qing Dynasty wood carvings in the Folk Palace.
Mountain Rules and Packing
You must bring your original physical passport to validate your entry. Smoking is strictly prohibited outside designated areas due to severe fire risks. Wild camping is banned; visitors staying overnight must book official hotels.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with strong grip. You will encounter thousands of steep stone steps. Bring trekking poles, rain gear, and a power bank. See our full Packing Essentials for more gear advice.
Easiest way to do it
3-Day Yellow Mountains, Hongcun Village and Tunxi Ancient Street Private Tour
72 h 4.9 (76)
- Bottled water every day
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional English speaking tour guide
- 1 night 5 stars hotel on the mountain: Xihai Hotel New Wing
From$513per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How to get from Huangshan to Hongcun Village?
You can take a direct tourist bus from Huangshan North Railway Station or Tunxi. The ride takes about 1 hour and costs approximately 30 RMB.
How much time do you need in Hongcun?
Most visitors spend a half day walking around the waterways, South Lake, and historic halls like Chengzhi Hall.
Where should I stay when visiting Huangshan?
Leave heavy luggage at a hotel in Tangkou Town at the mountain base. To see the sunrise, book a room at an official hotel on the summit.