Climbing Sacred Mount Tai – Shandong, China
Mount Tai (泰山) or Taishan Mountain is a mountain of historical and cultural significance located north of the city of Taian (泰安市) in Shandong Province, China.
In China, it is known as “the first of the Five Sacred Mountains”, “the most respected of the Five Sacred Mountains”, and “the best mountain in the world”. It is called “China’s Mount Olympus” by Chinese and foreign scholars.
As a symbol of cultural and spiritual significance for over 3,000 years, it has been a destination of pilgrimage and inspiration for emperors, poets, and travelers alike.
The tallest peak is the Jade Emperor Peak (玉皇顶), which is 1,545 meters (5,069 ft) high. It embodies harmony between heaven and earth, and climbing its majestic slopes has long been associated with seeking blessings for peace and prosperity.
There is a saying that “when Mount Tai is safe, the whole world is safe”. From the Qin Shi Huang to the Qing Dynasty, 13 generations of emperors personally ascended Mount Tai to offer sacrifices or worship, and another 24 generations of emperors sent officials to offer sacrifices 72 times.
In 1982, Mount Tai was listed in the first batch of national scenic spots. In 1987, it was approved by UNESCO as China’s first World Cultural and Natural Dual Heritage.
In 2002, the mountain was rated as the first of the “Ten Famous Cultural Mountains in China”.
In 2005, Mount Tai became a national geological park. In 2006, it became a world geological park due to its unique geological value.
In March 2007, Mount Tai was rated as a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction; in December, it was named China’s first “Chinese Calligraphy Mountain”.
The journey to the summit is an adventure rich with history and natural beauty. The Ancient Imperial Route consists of 6,293 stone steps that wind through lush forests, rugged cliffs, and cultural relics.
Along the path, you will encounter landmarks such as the Red Gate Palace (红门宫), the Middle Gate to Heaven (中天门), Bixia Temple (碧霞祠), and the spectacular Jade Emperor Peak (玉皇顶), which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Bixia Temple (碧霞祠) was first built in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). It is the ancestral temple of Bixia Yuanjun, a famous Taoist goddess, and is the largest ancient alpine building complex in Mount Tai.
Bixia Yuanjun (碧霞元君; lit. “The Primordial Sovereign of the Colored Clouds of Dawn”), also known as Taishan Niangniang (泰山娘娘, “The Lady of Mount Tai”), is the goddess of Mount Tai.
The highlight of a visit to the mountain is the unforgettable sunrise at the summit. Watching the first rays of sunlight break through a sea of clouds is a profound and magical experience.
Many visitors start their hike in the early hours of the morning to witness this breathtaking moment, while others take the cable car for a more relaxed ascent.
Video Source: China’s First UNESCO World Heritage Site – A Must-See Historical Wonder (4K UHD) from DuckTravel on Youtube ⁄ CC BY
