Huangshan

Huangshan — the Yellow Mountain — is China's most celebrated mountain, a range of granite peaks, twisted pines and a "sea of clouds" that has filled classical paintings for centuries. Its stone steps, cable cars and summit hotels make it accessible, while the sunrise views from the ridgetop are rightly legendary.

At the mountain's foot sit two of China's best-preserved historic villages: Hongcun and Xidi, whitewashed Hui-style houses reflected in still ponds. Together they make a classic two- or three-day escape combining dramatic hiking with a dose of old Anhui culture.

Getting there: Huangshan Tunxi (TXN) is the nearest airport; Hefei (HFE) is the larger hub about 3 hours away. High-speed rail reaches Huangshan North station from Shanghai (about 2.5 hours) and Hangzhou, with buses to the mountain gate.

Getting around: Cable cars carry you up from the foot of the mountain to the summit area, after which you hike between viewpoints. The villages are reached by bus or taxi from the town of Tunxi.

The local Hui cuisine is salty, stewed and intensely savoury. Signature dishes include stinky mandarin fish (chòu guìyú) — a fermented, surprisingly delicious local specialty — hairy tofu, and braised bamboo shoots. It's mountain food, rich and warming after a day of hiking.

Apr–Jun and Sep–Nov

If you want the sunrise, book a summit hotel well in advance — they fill up. Pack layers even in summer, as it's cool and changeable at the top. Avoid the June–July rainy season if you can, and note the mountain closes sections in snow and ice.