Lianyungang Huaguoshan | Embark on a Mountain-Sea Journey, Fulfil a Dream of Journey to the West
Everyone harbours an unruly and free Monkey King in their childhood. A trip to Huaguoshan in Lianyungang reveals that the fairyland depicted in Journey to the West is never a fictional tale, but a romantic mountain and sea wonderland on earth.
Known as the No.1 Fairy Mountain in Jiangsu and the prototype scenic spot of Journey to the West, this 5A-level scenic mountain embraces mountains and faces the sea, boasting the exquisite and magnificent scenery of Yuntai Mountains. Towering ancient trees dot the mountains, golden-inlaid jade bamboos sway gently, and clear streams wind through the woods. With blooming flowers and ripe fruits all year round and lively macaques playing among the trees, every step unfolds an ethereal fairyland scene.
Hiking up the mountain is an immersive healing journey to explore the stories of Journey to the West. The most breathtaking attraction is undoubtedly the Water Curtain Cave. Waterfalls cascade down like white silk, whose rustling sound shuts out the worldly noise. Stepping through the misty cave entrance, you will see the primitive stone beds and benches inside. At this moment, you seem to relive the classic scene of the Monkey King returning to his mountain, fulfilling your childhood dream of the pilgrimage journey. On sunny days, mist lingers around the cave, and soft rainbows occasionally appear, creating a perfect atmospheric scenery.
Further up the path lies the ancient Sanyuan Palace. The thousand-year-old bricks and tiles embody the tranquility of time. Shaded by ancient trees and surrounded by curling incense smoke, it frees people from the bustle of the mountains and brings a peaceful and serene state of mind.
Reaching the summit of Yunu Peak, the highest point in Jiangsu with an altitude of 624.4 metres, offers the ultimate romance of the whole trip. After rain and fog, sea of clouds surges over the mountains, hiding the rolling hills in misty white fog, just like a heavenly fairyland. On clear days, mountains meet the sea, with urban buildings and the vast Yellow Sea facing each other from afar. The grand landscape in sight heals all travel fatigue.
The mountain wind brushing the forest echoes the tales of Journey to the West. There is no need to chase illusory fairylands far away. Come to Huaguoshan of Lianyungang, venture into the Water Curtain Cave, stand atop the sea of clouds, encounter a thousand-year-old myth among green mountains and clear waters, and discover the unique tenderness and grandeur of this fairy mountain by the sea.