Emei Shan (a.k.a. Emeishan , Mt. O-mei or Mt. Emei ), in Sichuan province, is one of the four Buddhist sacred mountains of China. At 3,099 meters, Mt. Emei is more than 1,000 meters higher than the other three sacred mountains. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking scenery, mysterious natural wonders, and historical Buddhist sites.
The full day's hike to the summit is an unforgettable experience undertaken by many, but minibuses and cable cars are faster alternatives for travelers short on time.
History:
Emei Shan literally means "Delicate Eyebrow Mountain" — it derives its name from two peaks which face each other and look like the delicate eyebrows of a Chinese classic beauty.
Mt. Emei is historically significant as being the site of the first Buddhist temple in China, which was built at the base of the mountain in the 1st century AD. From this first temple, Buddhism spread widely throughout the East.
Emei Shan is sacred to the Bodhisattva Samantabhadra.
Making the climb:
It is five kilometers to the top. If you walk it all, plan for a full day up and a full day down. Monasteries along the way offer reasonably-priced lodging, and there are several comfortable lodges on the summit. Dress in layers - a 20 degree variance between base and summit is normal.
Minibuses and cable cars take tourists most of the way, takes around 10 hours all on foot. Most opt for tours from Chengdu, about three hours to the mountain base, then another two hours to Jieyin Dien, where you already feel the air at 2,540 meters. A Swiss-style cable car soars over pines to Jih Ding, and a final hike of about an hour, huffing and puffing in the high altitude, to the peak. Some spend the night to see the sunrise, others quickly turn around and head back.
Emei Shan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with temples, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery.
The largest surviving site is Baoguo Monastery, at the mountain base. Other temples followed the first, and the mountain soon became a sacred Buddhist site.
Built in the 16th century, Baoguo is the usual starting point for any serious exploration. The monastery includes a library of sutras and a huge porcelain Buddha. Further up the mountain lies the Monastery of the Lurking Tiger (fuhu si), which features a lovely seven-meter high copper pagoda.
Many climates and much wildlife, especially birds and trees. Some of the trees are more than 1,000 years old. Monkeys are accustomed to tourists and assertive; they aren't dangerious but will beg for food and grab at bags as hikers walk along the trails. Many hikers carry walking sticks to shoo them away.
The Four Wonders of Mt. Emei are Buddha's Halo, the Sea of Clouds, the Holy Lamp (or Divine Lights) and the Golden Summit Sunrise. Best seen from Golden Summit monastery. Leshan, one hour from Emei's base, has world's largest Buddha statue. The main attractions include the Baoguo Temple (16th century, at the base) , Fuhu Temple, Leiyin Temple.
Recommended:
Emei Shan Teddy Bear Hotel offers free hiking map, tools and Information, their website:
www.teddybear.com
The owner "andy" is warm-hearted man, any question call this number:
13890681961
Andy's map of Emei Shan
It's available in Mix Hostel and Teddy Bear Hotel
3077m (peak)
What need to be concerned? |
Don't try to piss the monkey off, they may attack you!
All year round. In winter it becomes a snow amusement park.
From the foot of the mountain to the peak, the temperature difference is dramatic.
In summer, the town is hot and humid at the foot of the mountain, but it's pretty chilly
on the peak. You may bring warm clothes with you or, to rent the Jacket on the mountain.
Rain season is from June to September, bring rain coat with you.
By Bus:
Take the bus in Xinnanmen Bus Station, after 2.5 hours you'll arrive in Emei Town. From where you get dropped off, catch a taxi to the entrance of Emei Shan (Bao Guo Si Temple, the Teddy Bear Hotel is near there), which cost you 15Yuan. Or call "Andy" for free pickup if you intend to stay in his hotel.
Tip: For lazy hikers, catch the bus near Teddy bear to the top of the mountain then walk down. The bus back to Chengdu is parked in Bus Station near Teddy Bear, latest one leaves at 6 O'clock. (the time table may be changed, please check it when you arrive in Emei Shan)
