Laojun Mountain: A trip to the mortal world for a stunning feast, to witness the grandeur of an era

Laojun Mountain, originally named Jingshi Mountain, is said to be the retreat and cultivation site of Laozi, the forefather of Taoism. A temple was built in his honor during the Northern Wei Dynasty, and it is acclaimed as a sacred Taoist mountain. Laojun Mountain combines natural landscapes with Taoist culture. The peaks stretch continuously, majestic and precipitous, appearing from afar like ink-washed mountains. Visitors feel as if they are in a fairyland, which enhances their understanding of Taoist philosophy and culture. Taoist temples are often built on mountain summits. Taoists believe that the summit is closer to the heavens, with better air and tranquility, conducive to cultivation. As one ascends, it's like walking the path of immortality, braving the dangers, endlessly approaching the sky, and becoming one with nature. At the top, the solemn and resplendent structures like Laojun Temple, the Hall of Virtue, the Golden Palace of the Five Mothers, the Liangbao Platform, and the Jade Emperor Peak are built in harmony with the mountain terrain, offering a visually stunning experience. It feels as if one has endured great hardships to finally achieve immortality and gaze upon the mortal world. Accommodation: On Laojun Mountain, there are many hotels under the first cable car station where you can stay. I stayed near the Luoyang Museum and set out at five in the morning, reaching Laojun Mountain in two hours. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in Luanchuan County, which is just over ten minutes from the foot of the mountain and very convenient. Mountain Transportation: Drive to the first cable car station, where there are roadside parking spaces and many paid parking lots. It's best to arrive early for convenient parking. First Cable Car: You can choose either the Yunjing Cable Car or the Zhongling Cable Car to go up; both work, and a round trip costs 130. It's a must, otherwise, you'll be climbing all morning. Second Cable Car: From halfway up the mountain to the summit. The Fenglin Cable Car costs 80 for a round trip, and it's best to take it if you're with elderly or children. Summit Elevator: An option for the lazy. After getting off the second cable car, you can take a single-person ride to the top for 40. I brought elderly and children with me, and we climbed the mountain on the sixth day of the lunar month. There were quite a few people, so we took both cable cars and the elevator to make it down the mountain by two o'clock. However, even with the cable cars, there is still a considerable amount of walking and climbing involved, with beautiful scenery everywhere. Dining: At the bottom of the mountain, right under the first cable car station, which is also below Zhongtian Gate, there are plenty of restaurants, making dining very convenient. Not visiting Laojun Mountain when you're in Luoyang would be a missed opportunity. Be sure to book and buy tickets early.