Asia 2005 Journal Day Fourteen

Asia 2005 Journey Day Fourteen
Huangshan, China

May 17, 2005: Warm with passing showers. Finally, a chance to see and enjoy the country. Our destination
today is the Huangshan (Translated "Yellow") Mountains. These mountains have been the subject of
Chinese poems and artwork for millenniums.

This World cultural and natural heritage site is located about an hour and one half from the Tunxi town and
Huangshan airport. The drive to the mountains blends flowing rivers, rice fields, and tea bushes that extend
vertically up the side of low level mountains. Almost all the roads are new and have roadside landscaping
of juniper trees and various bushes. Additional upgraded highways are under construction and should reduce
high velocity taxis and tour buses going through small villages.

The Huangshan mountains contain sharp dark gray limestone formations that contrast with with low level
white clouds. One can easily see the inspiration for many an artist. The pathways are extremely well
designed and kept in very good condition. Most tourists use one of the two main cable cars to access the
summit. Several hotels are located in the summit area and allows for quick hiking to see either sunrise or
sunset. Our hike started in rain with misty fog followed by sunshine later in the afternoon.

Supplies to snack kiosks, hotels, or weather stations are hand carried up the long pathways. The old method
of using a horizontal bamboo bar balanced by two stacks of goods seemed to be well used. These suppliers
had to negotiate space with the endless array of yellow or light blue capped tour groups.

Several along the trail said "hello" and smiled. Seems the natural beauty tends to inspire a more hospitable
side with much laughing. The fresh bright green of the bamboo trees contrasted with the older pine and
juniper trees. Spring flowers were still blooming at the higher altitudes (includes Toni's "Rhodies"). One
could spend days here enjoying the endless hiking and new vistas around each corner.