Hike Through Moganshan: Embark on a Magical Green Trail Adventure in China
About Moganshan’s Location & Surrounding Cities
Moganshan is located in Deqing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, which sits at the core of the Shanghai-Nanjing-Hangzhou Golden Triangle—a prosperous region in eastern China known for its convenient transportation and rich cultural landscapes. Zhejiang Province, where Moganshan resides, is celebrated for its picturesque water towns, lush bamboo forests, and profound cultural traditions, while Deqing County, the local city of Moganshan, offers a peaceful gateway to the mountains with its charming rural scenery and warm hospitality.
The mountain itself is a spur of the Tianmu Mountains, with its main peak, Tashan, reaching an altitude of 718.9 meters. Blessed with a subtropical monsoon climate, Moganshan enjoys a pleasant temperature year-round, with an average annual temperature of 13.3℃—about 5℃ lower than nearby metropolises like Shanghai and Hangzhou in summer. This unique climate, coupled with a 93.5% forest coverage rate and 127 square kilometers of contiguous bamboo forests, earns it the reputation of “Cool World”. Legend has it that during the late Spring and Autumn Period, the swordsmiths Gan Jiang and Mo Xie forged a pair of magical swords here for King Helü of Wu, giving the mountain its name.
The Hiking Adventure
Our hiking journey kicks off from Mogaowu to Jianchi Scenic Area, following the historic Chiang Kai-shek Ancient Trail. The route features a continuous uphill climb, which is quite a test for your physical strength, especially for first-time hikers. Even with the temperature soaring to 33 degrees Celsius, the enthusiasm of fellow hikers never fades. Some hikers might find their heart rate climbing up to 190 beats per minute during the tough ascent, but with mutual encouragement and steady pacing, everyone can conquer the challenge and reach the top.
Thanks to the recent rainfall before the trip, the trail is lined with gurgling streams. The crystal-clear water adds a refreshing touch to the hike, and you don’t have to worry about getting your shoes wet at all. It’s a perfect combination of adventure and comfort.
As we proceed to the Wangwu Platform section, a sudden rain shower may greet you. But don’t let the rain dampen your spirits! It’s actually a blessing in disguise. The light rain turns the mountain into a misty wonderland, and soon enough, the magnificent sea of clouds will unfold before your eyes. The rolling clouds surge between the lush mountains, creating a scene that looks like it’s straight out of a painting. This is the magic of hiking in Moganshan on rainy days—all the sweat and tiredness will vanish in an instant when you feast your eyes on this breathtaking view.
Besides the stunning natural scenery, there are also lovely surprises along the way. You’ll come across a charming church nestled in the greenery, which is an ideal spot for taking memorable photos. Capture the moment with your hiking buddies, their bright smiles against the backdrop of the church and mountains will be a memory you cherish forever. Additionally, Moganshan is home to over 250 villas built from the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China, showcasing a variety of architectural styles, earning it the title of “Museum of Modern World Architecture”.
Transportation Guide
Moganshan’s prime location in the Shanghai-Nanjing-Hangzhou Golden Triangle makes it easily accessible by various means of transportation:
– From Shanghai: You can take a direct long-distance bus from Shanghai’s Qiujiang Road Long-Distance Bus Station to Wukang Town (Deqing County) at 6:30 and 13:00 daily, with a 4-hour journey and a fare of around 42 yuan. Then transfer to a minibus to Moganshan Scenic Area (8 yuan). For self-driving, it’s about 239 kilometers from Shanghai, taking approximately 3 hours via the Shensu-Zhewan Expressway.
– From Hangzhou: Take a bus from Hangzhou North Bus Station to Wukang Town every 15-20 minutes (10 yuan), then transfer to a minibus or charter a car to the mountain, with a total journey of about 1.5 hours. High-speed trains to Deqing Station are also available every hour from Hangzhou, followed by a tourist special line Y1 directly to the scenic area.
– Within the scenic area: There are circular tourist buses connecting major attractions and villas. You can also rent a car for around 200 yuan per day to explore at your own pace. Some attractions like Jianchi (Sword Pond) and Luhuadang Park require hiking, so it’s recommended to wear non-slip shoes.
Local Cuisine
After a day of hiking, indulge in Moganshan’s delicious local cuisine, which features fresh ingredients from the mountains and rivers:
– Bamboo Tube Rice: A signature dish where glutinous rice is cooked in fresh bamboo tubes, absorbing the natural fragrance of bamboo. You can even experience making it yourself at some homestays—from cutting bamboo to roasting the rice.
– Bamboo Forest Chicken Pot: Tender local chicken stewed with bamboo shoots and herbs, creating a rich and nutritious broth. It’s a must-try at local restaurants like A Hua Restaurant.
– Crispy Mulberry Leaves & Earthen Stove Tofu: Unique mountain delicacies that showcase the freshness of local ingredients. Try them at Yunxi Mountain Feast, a private kitchen halfway up the mountain.
– Qingtuan (Green Rice Cakes): A traditional snack made with glutinous rice and mugwort juice, filled with red bean paste or mustard. You can find them at street stalls in Yinshan Street for about 3 yuan each.
– Songzhi Drink: A refreshing local beverage made from pine needles, perfect for quenching thirst after hiking.
Accommodation Options
Moganshan offers a variety of accommodation choices, from cozy homestays to stylish boutique hotels, all integrating with the mountain’s natural beauty:
– Huisu Yinshe Bamboo Theme Homestay: Located in Xiantan Village, this homestay focuses on bamboo culture experiences. It has 8 well-designed rooms that can accommodate 20-30 people, ideal for family gatherings or group trips. Enjoy open-air barbecues, frisbee on the lawn, or relax in a rocking chair surrounded by bamboo forests. Pets are allowed for free, and the friendly staff can help arrange hiking trips.
– ZAN Designer Boutique Hotel: Nestled in Miaotian Village, this hotel embodies the concept of “Zen + Art + Nature”. Each owner acts as a butler, guiding guests to watch sunrises, sunsets, or hike the mountain trails. The rooms are elegantly designed with wooden furniture and warm lighting, and facilities include a café, family theater, and chess room. A hearty Chinese breakfast is available for 38 yuan per person.
– Villa Resorts: For a luxurious experience, choose one of the historic villas in the mountain area. Many of these villas were built in the early 20th century, showcasing a mix of Western and Chinese architectural styles, and offer stunning mountain views.
Local Specialties to Bring Home
Take a piece of Moganshan home with these authentic local specialties:
– Moganshan Huangya Tea: A famous green tea with a clear soup and elegant aroma. Spring tea (600-1200 yuan per catty) is highly recommended. You can visit Qingxi Tea Garden to experience tea picking and processing.
– Bamboo Shoots Dried: Made from fresh mountain bamboo shoots, it’s a versatile ingredient for stir-fries or soups. Available at local specialty stores for about 30 yuan per bottle.
– Wild Pueraria Powder: A healthy product with heat-clearing and lung-moistening effects. Mix it with honey for a refreshing summer drink. You can buy it from local farmers in Qinchuan Ancient Village for 30 yuan per bag.
– Bamboo Fiber Products: Eco-friendly and comfortable, including scarves and socks (80-200 yuan each) available at Zhuyu Workshop in Houwu Village. Custom engraving is also offered.
– Wild Walnuts: A crunchy snack, available at street stalls in Yinshan Street for about 15 yuan per catty after bargaining.
Moganshan is more than just a hiking destination. With its moderate altitude and distinct seasons, it offers different charms year-round. In winter, the mountains are covered in snow, turning into a serene white paradise. Whether you’re here for the thrill of hiking, the beauty of the sea of clouds, the taste of local delicacies, or the joy of making new friends, Moganshan promises an experience you’ll never forget.
Gather your hiking gear, team up with your adventure partners, and set off to Moganshan. Let the green trails lead you to a world of wonder and create unforgettable memories in the heart of China!
