Mount Huashan South Peak | “Peak of Wild Geese” and the Roof of China’s Sacred Mountains

1. Overview
The South Peak (南峰) of Mount Huashan (华山)—also known as Luoyan Peak (落雁峰) or “Wild Goose Landing Peak”—is the highest summit of Huashan, standing at 2,160 meters (7,087 ft). As the tallest of the Five Great Taoist Mountains, South Peak offers breathtaking panoramas, cliff-edge paths, and a spiritual presence revered by pilgrims and adventurers alike. It’s both a test of courage and a reward of beauty, making it a bucket-list climb for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and soul searchers.

2. Highlights
Cliff-Edge Views – Epic 360° vistas over the Qinling Mountains and valleys below
Legend of Wild Geese – Named for flocks of geese seen landing on the narrow summit plateau
Sunrise & Sunset Spot – Best place on Huashan for sky-gazing above the clouds
Plank Walk to the South Cliff – One of the most daring trails in the world (optional but famous)
Ancient Taoist Shrines – Temples and inscriptions honoring immortality, balance, and the way of nature
Quiet Escape – Less crowded than North or East Peak, offering peaceful energy

3. Tips
Best photo spots:
On the summit rock slab with the “South Peak” inscription
Cliffside shots of narrow stone paths and rising clouds
Sunset light painting the stone red-orange with mist
Best time:
Sunrise – Start ascent around 3:00–4:00 AM from the East Peak
Afternoon – For photos with better light and fewer crowds
South Peak is part of the main Huashan scenic ticket (~¥160 + cable car fees)
Wear layers—it’s colder and windier than the base or other peaks
Stay cautious: paths are narrow with steep drops and metal chains—good shoes essential!

4. Nearby Eats – On or Near Huashan

1. Huashan Teahouse (华山茶舍)
   Rest stop near the peak serving tea, noodles, and snacks
   Along the trail before South Peak final ascent
   24 hours (basic service, self-serve or staff rotation)
2. East Peak Lodge (东峰客栈)
   Instant noodles, rice boxes, and bottled drinks
   Along the ridgeline from East to South Peak
   6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
3. Huashan Base Village Eateries
   Local noodles (biang biang), dumplings, warm hearty meals
   At the mountain base near Huayin
   7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

4B. Sub-Zone Picks – On Your Way to South Peak
West Peak Cable Station (Option 1)
Take the West Peak cable car, then hike east toward South
East Peak Trail Approach (Option 2)
Popular for sunrise climbers—reach South via the ridgeline
Plank Walk Platform
Near South Peak—securely harnessed thrill walk along cliff edge
Taoist Shrine Zone
Small cliffside temples and inscriptions around South Peak trail

5. Access
From Xi’an
High-speed train from Xi’an North Railway Station → Huashan North (~30–40 min)
Short taxi or shuttle bus to Mount Huashan Visitor Center
Trail Options
West Peak Cable Car → 2–3 hr hike to South Peak
North Peak Cable Car → Full ridge hike (longer but scenic)
Local Travel
All peaks connected via ridge paths—expect steep ascents and stairs
Stay overnight at mountain lodges (East Peak area) or in Huayin town hotels

Mount Huashan’s South Peak is the summit of serenity and strength—where the earth falls away, the sky opens up, and you stand with the immortals.