Climbing up Huashan, known as the "number one precipitous mountain under Heaven", is a real test of one's stamina and courage.

One look straight down the vertical cliff face and not even the offer of harnesses would convince two young, Chinese men to go any further. They stood in awe, staring past their feet at metal bars leading to the path below. They had climbed this far, but chose to turn back.

The Sky Plank, one of Mount Huashan's most spectacular attractions, sits on the side of the mountain's summit, South Peak, which towers 2,154 m above a rock gorge. Snaking around the cliff face, this foot-wide walkway leads to an ancient Taoist cave formed more than 1,000 years ago.

To walk the sky plank travelers must rent a harness, which is required to avoid falling to certain death. This path may be the most dangerous section of the mountain, but the experience is a crucial part of a Huashan adventure.

Huashan lies about 100 km east of Xi'an in Shaanxi province. With daily trains and buses from Xi'an, the mountain is ideal for a one- or two-day trip.

Known since ancient times as the "number one precipitous mountain under Heaven", Huashan is often said to be a dangerous place for travelers, though the new safety features, such as chains, ropes and hand rails, allow even young children to see the mountain's beauty.

Nevertheless, hiking the entire mountain is a feat almost anyone would find difficult. It's worth the effort, however, because according to legend, wealth and happiness will come to those who reach the top of Huashan.

Seasoned Huashan climbers advise travelers to work their way from East Peak to West Peak, where they can watch the sunset. Hotels are also available, so people can stay overnight to watch the sunrise, the most acclaimed sight on Huashan.

A gondola can also lift tourists from Huashan's east gate to the North Peak, offering them the chance to forgo nearly 6 km of strenuous hiking. At 1,614 m, North Peak is the smallest of the mountain's five peaks, the others being a near two-hour climb up the Heavenly Stairs.

However, many climbers skip the gondola and ascend the mountain at midnight. The long, dark hike requires flashlights, and athletic shoes are essential. Moving quickly, the trip lasts four to five hours to East Peak, which offers the best view of the sunrise.

When the sun rises above Qinling Mountain Range at 5:20 am, the gathered crowds of travelers gasp. Bundled up in sweatshirts and exhausted at the height of 2,096 m, this is the reason they came to Huashan. The moment is worth every step.

Source: Chinadaily.com.cn

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