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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