What are the Five Great Mountains in China?

Notice! 2025 available cruise routes include 4~5 days Chongqing-Yichang (most classic) and 11~12 days Chongqing-Shanghai (limited).

Speaking of long Chinese history, religious culture and distinctive natural scenery, the Five Great Mountains (Wu Yue) are the best destinations to discovery once for all. Despite the lower height than those high mountains like Mount Emei (3099m) and Mount Wutai (3058m), the five in different directions are known far and wide as the great figure of Chinese nation, through the combination of worshipping tradition of ancient mount gods, theory of five Taoist elements (Gold, Wood, Water, Fire and Soil) and mountain apotheosis from emperors. As the popular saying goes, trips to China's five great mountains belittle trips to other mountains unnecessary (五岳归来不看山). Moreover, the starring five famous mountains in China are still major ashram of Chinese Taoism, where each own typical characteristics with both scenic and cultural significance. Now, please follow our Five Great Mountains in China list to decide which one to visit in 2026.

TripAdvisor Impression: Great Cultural Experience & Nice Hike, Impressive, China Highlights, Breathtaking with Good View, Cool Experience, etc.