Laojunshan (Luoyang)

Taoist Mountain With Golden Roofed Summit Temples; National 5A Tourist Attraction · Luoyang, Henan

A Taoist mountain in the Funiu range south of Luoyang, named for Laozi, who is said to have retired here to cultivate the Way after leaving the imperial archives. Temples have stood on the summit ridge since the Northern Wei, and the modern versions are what draw the crowds: a group of golden-roofed halls perched on rock spires, reached by two cable cars and a walkway, which on a misty morning appear to float above a white sea with only the peaks of the Funiu showing. The Ten Thousand Immortals Peak, the Golden Summit and the Yulu Temple line the ridge, linked by stone stairs and a cliff-edge plank walk, and the whole ensemble has become one of the most photographed places in Henan. Lower down, the Zhuiju Gorge cuts through granite in a series of pools and falls, and a boardwalk follows it. The mountain sits at about 2,200 metres, is markedly colder than Luoyang, and closes at short notice in snow and ice.

Laojunshan Scenic Area, Luanchuan County, Luoyang, Luoyang, Henan, China

Daily, with hiking access about 7:00-16:00 and cable cars about 8:00-18:00, adjusted seasonally; timed real-name booking required and closures in snow (check).

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