Huangshan (Yellow Mountains): When to Go, How to Get There, and Where to Stay

Huangshan, or Yellow Mountains, is one of China’s most iconic landscapes. Famous for its granite peaks, pine trees, sea of clouds, and dramatic sunrises, it’s a destination that feels almost unreal, especially for travelers who enjoy nature, hiking, and photography.

If you’re planning a visit, here’s a clear and practical guide on when to go, how to get there, where to stay, and how long to plan for.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Huangshan?

Huangshan can be visited year-round, but the experience varies greatly depending on the season.

The best times to go are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). Spring brings fresh greenery and a higher chance of seeing the famous sea of clouds after rain, while autumn offers cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and excellent visibility.

Summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and rainy, with large crowds during school holidays. Winter (December to February) is cold but very scenic, with snow transforming the mountains into a dramatic landscape. Some trails may close due to ice, but crowds are much smaller.

How to Get to Huangshan

The most common way to reach Huangshan is by high-speed train.

Take a train to Huangshan North Station (黄山北站). From major cities like Shanghai, the journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. From Hangzhou, it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Once you arrive at Huangshan North Station, take a bus or taxi to Tangkou Town, which takes approximately 50 minutes. If you have a hotel booked, you can arrange with your hotel for a pickup at the train station.

Where to Stay: Why Tangkou Is the Best Option

Tangkou Town is the best place to stay when visiting Huangshan.

It is the main gateway to the mountain, with direct access to the official shuttle buses that take visitors to the cable cars and hiking entrances. Tangkou offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels.

Staying in Tangkou allows you to start early in the morning, avoid unnecessary stress, and return easily after a long day of hiking.

Hotels on the mountain do exist, but they are expensive, basic, and highly dependent on weather conditions. For most travelers, Tangkou is the most practical and comfortable choice.

How Long Should You Stay?

The ideal stay for most visitors is two nights and one full day.

On the first day, arrive in Tangkou and rest. On the second day, spend a full day exploring Huangshan. On the third day, depart in the morning.

Trying to visit Huangshan as a day trip from another city is not recommended, as it is tiring and does not do the landscape justice.

Final Thoughts

Huangshan is not just a sightseeing stop, it’s an experience. From standing above the clouds to walking through mist-covered pine forests, it represents one of China’s most classic natural landscapes.

If you’re a photography enthusiast and would like to explore the Yellow Mountains together, or if you have questions about planning your visit, feel free to reach out. I’m always open to connecting with fellow travelers and photographers.