Wulaofeng (Five Old Peaks)

Wulaofeng (Five Old Peaks) is a scenic mountain area in the Zhongtiao Mountains of Yongji City, Yuncheng, Shanxi province, China. Five granite summits rise together and are said to resemble five elders standing side by side, which gives the area its name. The range is forested and cooler than the Yellow River plain below, and it has long been associated with Daoism, with temples, pavilions and meditation sites tucked among the slopes. Visitors follow paths and steps through pine and broadleaf forest, passing Daoist halls, stone carvings, streams and viewpoints that look across the peaks and down toward the plain. Routes range from gentle walks near the entrance to steeper climbs to the main summits, so visitors can tailor the day to fitness and time. A full visit takes half a day to a full day. The best photo angles are from the upper viewpoints, where the five peaks line up in the distance, especially in clear morning light or when mist lingers in the valleys. Ticket prices are typically CNY 60-100 and hours roughly 08:00-17:30. Crowds peak in summer and on holidays, when residents of the hot plain come to escape the heat, while weekdays and early mornings are much quieter. The season from May to October offers green forests and comfortable temperatures, though afternoon rain is possible in summer. From Yuncheng, an intercity bus to Yongji followed by a taxi of about 40 minutes (CNY 80-120) reaches the scenic area. Sturdy shoes, water and a rain layer are advisable, and visitors should leave enough time to return before the last transport back.