Tip
Notice:
Under current policy, Laojun Mountain (and the entire Luanchuan County area to which it belongs) does not admit foreign visitors. Holders of foreign passports or foreign residence permits will not be permitted to pass through the ticket checkpoints, and there are no special approval channels available.
Residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan are welcome to visit the park, though the ticketing process differs from that for visitors from mainland China. Those holding identity documents from Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan must purchase tickets at the on-site ticket center. Alternatively, if they book online using a Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents or a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (commonly known as a "Home Return Permit"), they must still visit the ticket counter to exchange their booking for a physical ticket before entering; they cannot gain entry by simply scanning their identification documents as visitors from the mainland do.
Why it’s worth visiting
Located in Luanchuan County, Luoyang, Henan Province, Laojun Mountain is the main peak of the Funiu Mountain range, rising to an elevation of 2,217 meters. With over two thousand years of cultural history, its appeal can be summarized in three points: it is one of the most significant mountains in the history of Chinese Taoism; the complex of golden-roofed Taoist temples at the summit, perched above a sea of clouds, resembles a "celestial palace"; and the "Ten-Li Painted Screen"—a vast expanse of granite peaks—unfolds along cliffside walkways like a three-dimensional landscape painting.
What should I focus on?
The Golden Summit Taoist Temple Complex (the absolute core of the site)
Comprising structures such as the Laozi Temple (Laojun Miao), Yuhuang Peak (Jade Emperor Peak), Liangbao Terrace, and the Golden Hall of the Five Mothers, this complex is built along a mountain ridge at an altitude of 2,200 meters. The second level of Liangbao Terrace serves as an excellent vantage point for capturing panoramic views of the Golden Summit. From the "Sky Bridge" (Tianqiao) at the Golden Summit, one can shoot the temple complex from a low angle—a perspective that yields stunning results, especially when framed against a backdrop of clouds and mist. At dusk, when the lights are illuminated, the scene takes on an ethereal, "fantasy-wuxia" atmosphere.
Ten-Mile Gallery of Peaks
Starting from the lower station of the second-level cable car, a cliffside walkway—traversable in about 1.5 hours—offers a gentle, level path and stands as the most spectacular walking route on Mount Laojun. Bizarre rock formations and unique peaks line the suspended trail, with highlights such as the "Laozi Enlightenment Rock" and various high-altitude viewing platforms serving as popular spots for photographs.
South Heaven Gate (Nan Tian Men)
An iconic stone-arched gateway located just before the final ascent to the Golden Summit. It offers a striking, atmospheric perspective when photographed from below, making it a natural, must-visit photo spot along the route.
How to get there
There is no direct high-speed train to Laojun Mountain; you must first travel to Luoyang and then transfer to reach the mountain.
1. High-speed rail/train → Luoyang → Scenic area
Take a high-speed train to Luoyang Longmen Station.
After exiting the station, turn right to reach the Longmen Passenger Transport Center, where you can take a direct bus to Laojun Mountain.
2. Ride-sharing/Chartered Vehicle
You can book a one-day trip to Laojun Mountain by opting for a shared or chartered vehicle through various travel agencies.
Recommended Visiting Route
One-Day Essential Itinerary (Ideal for those short on time who want to cover the core highlights in a single day)
Visitor Center → Scenic Shuttle Bus → First-Stage Cable Car (Zhongling/Yunjing) → Zhongtianmen (Middle Heaven Gate) → Second-Stage Cable Car (Fenglin) → Fairyland Tunnel → Shili Huaping (Ten-Mile Gallery of Peaks – approx. 1.5 hours) → Mazongling → Nantianmen (South Heaven Gate) → Golden Summit Taoist Temple Complex → Descend via the same cable car route
Best Season
April–May: Wildflowers are in full bloom, temperatures are comfortable, and there is a high probability of seeing a sea of clouds.
June–August: Ideal for escaping the summer heat, though it is also the rainy season; the best time to catch a sea of clouds is on the morning following a rainfall.
October–November: Crisp, clear autumn weather with vibrant red foliage; excellent visibility makes it perfect for photography.
December–February: Breathtaking snowy landscapes—the "Golden Summit" transforms into a celestial palace. Be sure to take precautions against slippery conditions and freezing temperatures; note that cable car operations may be affected by the weather.
Try to avoid public holidays and weekends, as long queues for the cable car can significantly extend your travel time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is it mandatory to take the first-stage cable car?
I strongly recommend taking the transport. Hiking up takes 4–5 hours with no scenery along the way, and a one-day trip would severely limit the time you have at the summit.
Q2: Is one day enough?
You can cover the core scenic spots in a single day by following a route that includes the two cable car lines, the "Ten-Mile Gallery" (Shili Huaping), and the Golden Summit. However, if you wish to catch the sunrise or see the evening illuminations, a two-day, one-night trip would be more relaxed—in which case, you must stay overnight near the summit or in the vicinity of the Mid-Heaven Gate (Zhongtianmen).
Q3: What time are the lights turned on at the Golden Summit?
The lighting time varies by season, typically falling between 18:30 and 19:30, and the lights remain on for about 40 minutes to an hour.
Q4: Is it cold at the summit? What should I bring?
The temperature at the summit is consistently 8–10°C lower than at the base, and it can be quite windy. You should bring a light jacket or a windbreaker, even in summer; if you plan to watch the sunrise or enjoy the night view, you will need warmer clothing.
Q5：Can I fly a drone?
Regulations are strict; unauthorized drone flights are prohibited throughout the entire area, and any violations may result in the seizure of your equipment.
