Xi'an ~ Qinling Zhongnan Mountain South Wutai Travel Guide

South Wutai Mountain Scenic Area is about 30 kilometers from Xi'an city center. Historically known as Taiyi Mountain, it is a branch of Zhongnan Mountain. The scenic area features five peaks: Qingliang, Wenshu, Sheshen, Lingying, and Guanyin. It is also one of the sacred Buddhist sites, home to many ancient temples with rich history. Opening Hours 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (no entry after 4:00 PM). It is recommended to start early. During special events, hours may be adjusted, so please check the official website or relevant travel platforms before your trip. Ticket Information Currently in peak season (March - November), adult tickets are 45 RMB per person, student tickets are 22 RMB per person. - **Free Admission Policy**: - Seniors aged 65 and above (including 65) with valid ID can exchange tickets at the visitor center when accompanied by family members. - Free admission for active military personnel (including retired military cadres) and people with disability certificates upon presenting officer ID (retirement ID), non-commissioned officer ID, or soldier ID. - Children under 1.2 meters tall (including 1.2 meters, must be accompanied by a guardian) or children aged 6 and under (including 6) with valid ID are free. - **Half-Price Discount Policy**: Full-time university students below undergraduate level can enjoy half-price tickets with a student ID. Transportation Guide - **Subway and Bus**: Take Metro Line 2 to "Weiqunan" Station, Exit B, then transfer to Bus No. 730, which goes directly to the scenic area entrance. The last bus is at 7:30 PM, so don’t miss it. Morning trips are recommended. - **Self-Driving**: Navigate to South Wutai Scenic Area. There is a parking lot at the entrance and nearby village-built parking lots charging 10 RMB with no time limit, but parking spaces may be limited, so arriving early is advised. The scenic area has new energy vehicle charging stations at the front, but they are limited and slow charging. - **Direct Shuttle Bus**: - **Chang'an District Passenger Transport**: Departure point is Metro Line 2 Weiqunan Station Exit B to South Wutai Scenic Area, operating on weekends and holidays at 9:00 AM. The shuttle ticket costs 10 RMB per person. - **Xi'an Direct Shuttle**: Meeting point is on the east side of the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Departure times are Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:00 AM. Ticket prices are 78 RMB for adults and 60 RMB for students, including round-trip bus fare and South Wutai Scenic Area entrance ticket. Travel Route - **Going Up**: Ticket collection - Scenic shuttle (about 30 minutes) - Trailhead - 1,888 steps (about 2 hours) - Summit sightseeing and check-in (1 - 2 hours). - **Going Down**: Summit - 1,888 steps (about 1 hour) - Trailhead - Scenic shuttle (about 30 minutes) - Scenic area entrance. - **Recommended Route**: Scenic area gate - Fire Dragon Cave - Black Tiger Hall - Buddhist Culture Garden - Purple Bamboo Forest - Lingying Platform - Qingliang Platform - Wenshu Platform - Guanyin Platform. This route allows visitors to fully appreciate the natural scenery and Buddhist culture of South Wutai. Notes - It is recommended to book tickets online in advance for smooth entry. - The mountain paths are long; wear comfortable sports shoes and windproof, warm outdoor jackets. The summit has a large temperature difference, so bring a light jacket. - Bring water and light snacks to replenish energy during the hike. The scenic area has vending machines and offers free hot water. Instant noodles cost 10 RMB per cup at the foot of the mountain and 15 RMB per cup at the summit. - Visitors planning to watch the sunset should enter the mountain before 4:00 PM. The scenic area will ensure return transportation. - After rain, there is a high chance to see a sea of clouds. The sunrise before 7:00 AM is stunning. Avoid peak crowds from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on holidays.