Tianzhu Peak

Tianzhu Peak

Tianzhu Peak is located on the southern cliff of Jiulonggang. The two peaks are not far apart, facing each other across a ravine, and both resemble giant candles, hence they are called Big Tianzhu Peak and Small Tianzhu Peak. Nearby these peaks is one of the best spots on Mount Tai to admire ancient pines—the Houshiwu Ancient Pine Garden is here, along with three pools of emerald water. To the south is the Mirror Pool, said to be where the Goddess of Mount Tai washed and gazed at her reflection, also known as the Jade Maiden’s Washing Basin; to the north is the Phoenix Pool, and to the northeast is the Tiger-Drinking Pool.

Below Big Tianzhu Peak lies Xilǐyu, an old valley where it was said a demoness attained nirvana, hence also called Wind Demon Valley. A waterfall known as Tianzhu Waterfall flows through the stream. Small Tianzhu Peak is a solitary column-like peak that suddenly rises from the valley floor, towering like a candle, with a sturdy pine at its tip that resembles flickering candle flames—thus it’s called the “Candle Flame Pine.” To the east of Small Tianzhu Peak stands another columnar peak, slightly more majestic and robust than Small Tianzhu Peak, which is Big Tianzhu Peak. Below Small Tianzhu Peak is a small bay called Crane-Washing Pool, where pine trees and cranes were once often seen resting and playing. Southwest of the twin peaks, near Tiānshān Mountain, lies a famous Taoist temple complex, including Laojun Temple, Yuanyang Temple, Yuanyang Tomb, Lingyi Spring, Lotus Cave, and the Jade Maiden’s Cultivation Site.

The route from Tianzhu Peak Scenic Area to Houshiwu Scenic Area at the summit of Mount Tai is the most primitive and rustic hiking trail on the mountain, as well as the one with the most concentrated and beautiful natural scenery. Here, the peaks are steep, the valleys deep, and ancient pines and peculiar rocks are scattered everywhere. Mountain springs, streams, and waterfalls can be found all around. Aside from the main hiking paths, there are few signs of human alteration. This area was once rarely visited, brimming with untamed natural beauty, and its stunning landscape rivals that of Huangshan or Zhangjiajie. Hence, it’s referred to as the Hidden Gem of Mount Tai. Visitors feel as if they are walking through a painting, which is why it’s also called Mount Tai’s “Ten-Mile Gallery.” It’s the best route for those who enjoy adventure travel and independent exploration.

Guide

Tianzhu Waterfall:

The Small Tianzhu Peak leans against Jiulonggang, and water from the ridge flows down beside the peak, forming a waterfall. The waterfall faces north and stretches several dozen meters in length. In ancient times, it was called the “Thousand-Foot Waterfall” or “Thousand-Zhang Waterfall.” But these names only describe its length, lacking deeper meaning. Nowadays, people think “Tianzhu Waterfall” is a better name. Indeed, isn’t that hanging white silk-like flow just the wax cascading from a heavenly candle?

Special Tips

1. This scenic area is especially suitable for photography enthusiasts and hikers, as there is minimal artificial development and it boasts abundant natural scenery full of wild charm.

2. The scenic area is in the back of Mount Tai, where there are few people. It’s best to go with companions, prioritizing safety.

Address: Inside Mount Tai Scenic Area, Tai’an City, Tai’an District, located north of Bixia Temple, at the summit of Mount Tai

Transportation: Located on the northeastern foothills of Mount Tai. Walk along the winding mountain path from Tianjie at the summit until you reach the end. Along this path, you can explore the Tianzhu Peak Scenic Area, known as the Hidden Gem of Mount Tai.

Type: Geological Landscape, Mountain, Waterfall

Recommended Visit Duration: 2–3 hours

Opening Hours:

Open all day

Ticket Information:

No separate ticket required. Included in the Mount Tai Scenic Area ticket.