Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Question
 

We're considering going to Huangshan as part of our up-coming vacation. Only problem -- I'm a coward when it comes to heights (that's right, and I'm a frequent flyer, too. ;) ). How are the cable cars that go up to the various scenic areas? Are they reasonably stable? Do they sway? I've got to figure out how much Valium to ask my doctor to give me.

I don't have experience with Huangshan, but I've taken trams in other places in China (including Huashan), and have found the experience to be more of less the same as in the US and Europe. Often the cars accomodate only four persons, and will sway about as much as a triple or quad ski chair. But even in those four-person cars I have shifted around quite a bit taking in the scenery, and haven't found the bump and sway to be excessive. At a place like Huangshan, the alternative to taking a tram is of course several hours of fairly strenuous hiking.

I've been to Huangshan 3 times in the last 3 years, last time in January. IME, Huangshan is often cloaked in clouds, so riding in the cable car is sort of like riding in an elevator -- often, there's not much to see. On the other hand, walking up is exhausting but great fun if you are up for it.

If you have a problem with heights, however, I don't think I would recommend a trip up Huangshan. The top of the cable car is not the top of the mountain, so you still have to climb. Moreover, getting to many of the more beautiful scenic spots requires steep climbs on narrow stairways. All have railings, but many struck me as being more decorative than functional. Also, Huangshan is often crowded (except in winter), so you may have to deal with passing people/getting passed while negotiating those narrow steps.

That being said, Huangshan is stunning, as is the area around around it. I particularly recommend visiting Hongcun and Nanping villages, which are famous for their traditional architecture.

We'll be going in January, so crowds aren't an issue. I've got to say, I'm not real fond of elevators, either. Looks like I'll need 10 mg instead of 5 mg. :)

Hope you enjoy your trip! Huangshan is one of my favorite areas in China, and my experience of traveling there in January was great. Keep your fingers crossed for snow as that will make the mountain even more stunning.

Mr Zhu simply adores Huang Shan. What a splendid place! Splendid. That said Mr Zhu is thinking you may want to reconsider. The cable car is fine.

Some of the paths Mr Zhu followed were another matter. Mr Zhu thought he should be on belay at times. Mr Zhu would never want to attempt some of those paths under Valium. Mr Zhu does think you can avoid the worst spots…..

It does offer a fascinating example of how the virtual non-existence of liability lawyers in China creates a radically different experience. Perhaps the U.S. should export some to China? It would help with the trade deficit!

Photos (not of Mr Zhu):
http://www.perrochon.com/photo/china...an/china23.jpg
http://www.perrochon.com/photo/china...an/china82.jpg