First, choose how to climb
- East Gate (Jiangkou side): mainly shuttle and cable car, flexible and easier — suits most visitors;
- West Gate (Yinjiang side): no cable car; a full hike with thousands of steps, usually 4–6 hours one way up — for fit hikers.
The high stone steps in the core area
Whichever gate you use, you still walk a stretch of steps in the core area. From the cable-car upper station or the footpath up to the Golden Peak area, the steps are so numerous they are called the "cloud ladder of ten thousand steps." They follow the mountain, steep in places, and though well laid, still test your strength and stamina.
Pacing yourself
- Sleep well and eat moderately before climbing — avoid going hungry or too full;
- Keep a steady pace and sip water often — better than sprinting;
- Use handrails on steep steps and turn sideways; mind your knees going down;
- Allow ample time for the round trip and queues, and avoid walking at night.
Gear and safety
- Footwear: non-slip, enclosing hiking or sports shoes;
- Clothing: quick-dry base, warm mid-layer, windproof shell — the summit swing is large;
- Other: trekking poles, rain gear, sun protection, water and high-energy snacks;
- In thunderstorms, strong wind or heavy fog the steps get slippery and visibility drops — follow on-site guidance and adjust plans if needed; those with underlying conditions should judge for themselves.
