Name: Tai'an

Chinese name: 泰安

Province: Shandong

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 5,499,000 inhabitants

Area: 7,762 km²

Tai'an is a city in Shandong province situated at the foot of the famous Mount Tai Shan and borders Jinan to the north, Qufu to the south, and the Yellow River to the west.

Beyond Mount Tai Shan, this major city surrounded by mountains has numerous assets to captivate passing visitors.

History

During the Neolithic era, Tai'an was home to the Dawenkou culture.

The region was controlled by the states of Qi and Lu during the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period.

Today

The city of Tai'an has developed to welcome tourists who come to climb Mount Tai Shan. Several historical structures dot the city and reflect part of the Dawenkou history and culture.

At the heart of the city stand the Dai temples, which were once a stop on the pilgrimage route to the sacred mountain Tai Shan. The complex perfectly reflects the beauty of period Chinese architecture and promises an enjoyable visit.

Not far away lies a Gothic-style Christian church crowned with a small bell tower. This active place of worship is worth visiting and offers a perfect opportunity to cool off.

Wandering the streets at random, you may stumble upon several other colonial buildings dating from the era of German concessions.

Of course, the main interest of a stay in Tai'an is the discovery of the sacred Taoist mountain, Tai Shan. This mountain is indeed the most venerated of the five sacred Taoist mountains in Chine. The ascent of this mountain attracts numerous visitors each year for the beauty of the landscapes and the serenity that emanates from the place. A few temples dot the landscape and allow for a welcome rest before reaching the summit.

Climate

The climate of Tai'an city is very different from what is felt on the mountain. While Tai'an may enjoy clear skies and sunny days, Mount Tai Shan can gently disappear under thick clouds, especially in summer.

Temperatures can be mild or even warm in the city and become very cold at the mountain summit.

The weather clears from October onwards and the clouds completely lift in winter, but give way to cold.

The best periods to visit Tai'an are from May to October. Remember to bring warm clothing for the mountain and evenings.

Train

The Tai'an railway station is served by Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Jinan, Yantai and other cities in the region.

Long-distance buses

There are four long-distance bus stations in Tai'an. Connections are easily made with Jinan, Kaifeng, Qufu, Qingdao, Yantai, Weihai, and Beijing.

There are approximately 30 local buses allowing you to navigate the city with ease.

Taxis also offer inexpensive fares and will be happy to take you to the gate of Mount Tai Shan.

What to do in Tai'an?

• Visit the Dai temples.

Go hiking and climb the thousands of steps of Mount Tai Shan