Mountain scenery of the Funiu range with a large Buddha statue nearby, entry about ¥65 (~$10) per listings.
Yaoshan (Mount Yao) Summit Trails climb through the Yaoshan Scenic Area (尧山风景区) on Zhenshan Road in Lushan County, Pingdingshan, Henan Province, China. The area lies in the Funiu mountain range and is known for forested ridges, rock faces and a large Buddha statue nearby. It is a long day trip from Luohe, about 160 km in a straight line from the city centre.
Trailhead access is by a combination of rail, bus and taxi. Visitors can take a train or bus from Luohe to Pingdingshan, continue by bus to Lushan County, and then take a taxi to the scenic-area gate. Because the journey is long, many visitors stay overnight in Lushan County rather than attempting a return trip in one day. Entry costs about ¥65 (around $10) according to listings, and a ticket is required at the gate; visitors should confirm current prices on arrival. Parking is available for drivers.
The scenic area offers several stepped routes, and the length depends on the route chosen, so no single distance is published. The climb is substantial and made mostly on stone steps, which places the effort in the moderate range for visitors with reasonable fitness. Surfaces are stone steps and paved paths, with some rocky or damp sections that are slippery after rain. Exposure rises toward the ridges, where there is less shade and weather can change quickly, while lower sections pass through forest.
Key landmarks include the mountain viewpoints across the Funiu range and the large Buddha statue in the surrounding area. Turn-around points can be chosen at viewpoints along each stepped route, which allows hikers to shorten the day if time or weather demands. Water and snacks should be carried from the start, as prices inside the area are higher and supplies are not guaranteed on the higher sections. Shelter is available at pavilions and visitor facilities, but there are no formal refuge huts on the main routes.
Spring and early autumn provide the best conditions, with clear air and moderate temperatures. Summer brings heat and sudden rain, while winter can bring cold and icy steps on the upper sections.
| Distance | Several stepped routes; length depends on route chosen |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full day |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Train or bus Luohe to Pingdingshan, then bus to Lushan County and taxi to the gate; about 160 km straight-line from central Luohe |
| Best season | April-June, September-October |
| Address | Yaoshan Scenic Area (尧山风景区), Zhenshan Road, Lushan County, Pingdingshan |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Lushan County, Pingdingshan
What to bring
- Hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Water
- Snacks
Location
Yaoshan Scenic Area (尧山风景区), Zhenshan Road, Lushan County, Pingdingshan
33.7303, 112.2955 View on map
Highlights
- Stone-step climbs through the Funiu mountain range
- Ridge viewpoints with panoramic mountain scenery
- Large Buddha statue in the surrounding area
- Several route options that suit half-day or full-day outings
Tips for visiting
- Wear hiking boots with good grip, since stone steps can be slippery in damp weather.
- Carry a rain jacket, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Consider staying overnight in Lushan County because the journey from Luohe is long.
- Take water and snacks; supplies on the upper sections are limited and expensive.
- Allow a full day and start early to finish before dark.
When to visit
April to June and September to October bring clear weather and comfortable temperatures. Early starts help avoid midday heat and weekend crowds.
Accessibility
The routes rely on long flights of stone steps, so they are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Visitors with limited mobility can enjoy the lower paved areas near the entrance.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the entry ticket?
Listings give an entry price of about ¥65 (around $10). Visitors should confirm the current price at the gate.
How do visitors reach Yaoshan from Luohe?
Visitors can take a train or bus from Luohe to Pingdingshan, then a bus to Lushan County and a taxi to the gate. The site is about 160 km in a straight line from Luohe.
How long does the climb take?
The routes are best treated as a full-day outing. The time depends on the route chosen and the visitor's fitness.
Is the trail suitable for beginners?
Reasonably fit beginners can manage the stone-step routes at a slow pace. The climb is substantial, so rest stops are advisable.