Plank Walk in the Sky
Most terrifying trail on South Peak sheer cliff, only 30cm wide. Safety harness required — ultimate courage test.
Overview
Mount Hua in Huayin, Shaanxi, has South Peak at 2,154.9m — highest of the Five Sacred Mountains. Famous for precipitous terrain, 'one path up since ancient times'. The Plank Walk clings to a sheer cliff only 30cm wide. Black Dragon Ridge is a knife-edge with abyss on both sides. Jin Yong's 'Mount Hua Sword Competition' brought worldwide fame. Mount Hua is also a Quanzhen Taoist sanctuary.
Key Facts
Area148 km²
Population27万
LanguageGuanzhong dialect
Best timeApr-Oct
Top Attractions
Black Dragon Ridge
Knife-edge ridge 1,500m long, only 1m wide. Sheer drops both sides — one of Hua's most feared sections.
East Peak Sunrise
East Peak (Facing Sun) is best for sunrise. Climb before dawn for spectacular sunrise rays.
Sword Competition Stele
Jin Yong personally inscribed stele at North Peak summit. A must for martial arts fans.
Food & Snacks
Big Knife Noodles
Huayin traditional wide noodles cut with big knife. Chewy with spicy-sour broth or minced meat.
Huayin Jelly Noodles
Mung bean jelly with garlic and chili oil. Sour-spicy refreshing summer hiking snack.
Roujiamo
Braised meat in crispy flatbread — best energy before hiking.
Festivals & Events
Mount Hua Ancient Temple Fair — 15th of 3rd lunar month (~Apr)
World & Intangible Heritage
- Mount Hua Taoist Music (2006) — Blends ancient court and folk music, heard at Yuquan Temple.
Practical Tips
Safety First
Plank Walk is optional — don't force if acrophobic
Fitness & Gear
Non-slip shoes, gloves for chains. Bring enough water and food
Wear Anti-Slip Shoes
Mount Hua is precipitous with stone steps and chains, wear anti-slip sports shoes for safety