Huayin

Introduction

Huayin is a county-level city in Weinan, Shaanxi province, China, and its name tells you exactly where you are: it means "to the north of Mount Hua," the mountain that rises beside it. Until 1990, the place was administered as a county rather than a city.

Three days in Huayin

Day one: Arrive in Huayin, a small city in Shaanxi, China, at the foot of Mount Hua. Use the day to settle in and get your bearings before the climb. The city itself is compact and functional, with the mountain looming over everything. Rest early, because the ascent is best started before dawn.

Day two: Climb Mount Hua. The mountain is the reason you are here, and it rewards an early start. Paths and stairways cut into the rock lead you up through changing terrain, and the views open out over the surrounding country. Take your time, pace yourself, and carry what you need. Until you reach the top, the mountain keeps revealing new angles and new stretches of trail.

Day three: Come down from Mount Hua and give yourself a slower day in Huayin. Weinan, the larger city nearby, is within reach if you want a change of scene. Otherwise, wander what you missed on the first day, eat well, and let your legs recover before you move on.