Sunday, March 16, 2014

China's Sacred peaks

To primitive man, the mountains were secret places, sources of cosmic energy inhabited by gods and spirits. Poets such as Qu Yuan celebrated the twilight world of witches and beings that populated the slopes of China’s mountainous realm. These were places rife with superstition, magic and the unknown. Animists worshipped mountains last minute China travel deals such as Tai Shan even before the Daoists claimed it as their own.
Daoist peaks
The Daoist peaks include Tai Shan in Shandong province – probably the world’s most climbed mountain. Perhaps the most dramatic, however, is Hua Shan in Shaanxi province, with its hair-raising ascents. The steep rocky slopes rise 2,160m (7,087 feet) above the dusty plains of central China. Young couples seeking a long and happy marriage attach red ribbons and engraved padlocks to the guardrails and then throw the key into the mists below.

The other Daoist peaks are Song Shan in Henan province, which attracts huge crowds, largely because the Shaolin Temple China best tours lies on its slopes, as well as two peaks (hundreds of miles apart) sharing the name of Heng Shan: one in Shanxi province and the other in Hunan province further south.
Buddhist peaks
China’s Buddhist peaks largely began as Daoist preserves, before becoming associated with the followers of Buddha. Perhaps the best known, Emei Shan in Sichuan province, inspires devotion in its legions of pilgrims. Putuo Shan, on a small island off the east coast, is also a major pilgrimage destination. Buddhist Jiuhua Shan in Anhui province may be overshadowed by nearby Huang Shan, China’s most famous (non-sacred) mountain, but that makes it far less touristy. Noted for its dramatic scenery and fine temple architecture, Wutai Shan in Shanxi province is governed by Wenshu, the god of wisdom.
Plan your ascent
Climbing these sacred mountains is considered a rite of worship, but you won’t need crampons or ice axes as stone steps and guardrails line the route popular China tour package. Take care, as the steps can be very slippery. Alternatively, cable cars whisk those with little time or desire for contemplation up to the summit for a quick look at the view – a sign that these peaceful peaks have become hostage to the tourist economy. Be aware that litter and noise can be a problem, particularly at weekends so plan accordingly.
For the full experience, stay overnight in a monastery high on the mountain (there are several possibilities in this respect) and get up early to witness the sunrise: this often takes place above a sea of cloud and is truly spectacular.
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