Climb Songshan-Shaoshishan, walk through Shaolin Temple, and pass through the spectacular Shuce Cliff to Sanhuangzhai

Zhongyue Songshan is divided into two parts, Shaoshishan and Taishishan. Shaoshishan is more famous for its Shaolin Temple and unique landforms. Its highest peak is Liantian Peak (1,512 meters, also the highest peak in Songshan). However, Baidu says that "due to its dangerous terrain, it has never been developed to this day" and most people don't do it except for wild climbing. Therefore, there is no "mountaintop" to take photos when climbing Shaoshishan. According to the B&B owner's suggestion, we could enter Sanhuangzhai from Shaolin Temple to avoid the crowds. We set out in the morning before the scenic area opened at 8 a.m. Since we needed an ID card to buy tickets online, we could only buy them at the ticket office (tickets were ￥80). As soon as we entered the scenic area, we were shocked by the crowds of group tourists in the square in front of the entrance (it's not an exaggeration to say there were over a thousand people). We were afraid that Shaolin Temple would be closed in the afternoon, so we had to bite the bullet and follow the crowd. After watching the martial arts performance, we walked through Shaolin Temple and the Forest of Pagodas. We were finally able to get rid of the large crowds. However, probably because it was the weekend, there were still many people climbing the mountain. There are 36 peaks in Shaoshi Mountain. Because you don't climb to the top of the peak, but walk around the peaks. There are steps going up and down along the way that follow the undulating mountain. When you walk to the suspended plank road, you can see the important symbol of Shaoshi Mountain - the spectacular Book Cliff. After arriving at Sanhuangzhai, go down the mountain and take the scenic area bus (¥20, you have to walk 6k on the road, I chose to take the bus) back to the Sanhuangzhai Visitor Center, and then call the boss to take you back to the B&B. The actual hiking in Sanhuangzhai Scenic Area is about 5 hours. It seems steep, but it is not difficult to climb and it won't be too tiring. #AprilGoodDestinations2025