The distance from Shanghai to Huangshan is approximately 400-475 km. By high-speed train, the journey takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours. By car, it takes about 4-6 hours to drive the 392.8 km distance.

Taking the high-speed train is the most convenient and fastest way to travel from Shanghai to Huangshan, with frequent departures and a journey time of just 2.5-3.5 hours. Flights are also available for a quicker journey, while buses and private cars offer more flexibility at the expense of longer travel times.

Best Ways to Travel from Shanghai to Huangshan
High-Speed Train
Taking the high-speed train is the most convenient and popular way to travel from Shanghai to Huangshan. There are over 10 pairs of high-speed trains running daily between Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and Huangshan North Railway Station. The fastest train G7301 completes the 632 km journey in just 2 hours and 22 minutes.

Flight
There are 1-2 direct flights per day between Shanghai and Huangshan, with a flight time of around 1 hour. Flights depart from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport and arrive at Huangshan Tunxi International Airport, which is 7 km from downtown Huangshan.

Bus
Long-distance buses are also available, taking around 5.5-6 hours to travel from Shanghai to Huangshan. Buses depart from Shanghai South Bus Station or Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Center.

Private Car
Hiring a private car is an option for those who want more flexibility. The 400 km drive takes approximately 5 – 6 hours.

Tunxi, also known as Huangshan City, is an excellent base for exploring Mount Huangshan and its surroundings. Located about 60 km (37 miles) from the Huangshan Mountain scenic area,
It is a great place to stay and visit near the famous Mount Huangshan in China’s Anhui province. Many travelers spend a night or two in Tunxi before heading to Huangshan.

Tunxi Ancient Street
One of the main attractions in Tunxi is the ancient street lined with well-preserved Hui-style architecture. Strolling down the picturesque street is a highlight, with shops selling local specialties like dried chrysanthemum flowers, pickles, calligraphy supplies, and more. You can also visit museums showcasing Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, art, and architecture.

Convenient Location
Tunxi is conveniently located near major transportation hubs like the Huangshan Railway Station and Tunxi Airport. It serves as a great base for visiting Mount Huangshan, as well as nearby ancient villages like Hongcun and Xidi. Many visitors spend a night in Tunxi before heading to the mountain.

Variety of Accommodations
Tunxi offers a range of hotels from 5-star luxury to budget options, so you can find something to suit your needs and budget. Some recommended hotels include the Huangshan International Hotel and Huangshan Xiangming Hotel in the city center near the ancient street.

Experiencing Local Culture
Staying in Tunxi allows you to experience the local Huizhou culture and architecture up close. You can visit workshops to try your hand at making traditional crafts like ink sticks or calligraphy brushes. The town also has a lively food scene with many restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.

When comparing the Eastern Steps and Western Steps on Mount Huangshan, each has its own advantages, making the choice dependent on your preferences and hiking goals.

Eastern Steps(Back Mountain)
Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours for a distance of about 7.5 km (4.6 miles).
Difficulty: Generally considered less strenuous than the Western Steps, making it suitable for those looking for a more moderate hike.
Scenery: While it may not be as dramatic as the Western Steps, the Eastern route features beautiful spots like the Beginning to Believe Peak and offers a more shaded and pleasant hiking experience, especially in warmer months.
Popularity: This route tends to be busier, especially near the cable car station, as many visitors opt to take the cable car to shorten their hike.

Yungu Cable Car:
Location: Eastern Steps (Back Mountain)
Starting Point: Cloud Valley Temple (Yun Gu Si)
Destination: White Goose Peak (Bai E Ling)
Length: Approximately 2,804 meters
Travel Time: About 8 minutes
Located on the Eastern Steps, it takes you from Cloud Valley Temple to White Goose Peak. After taking this cable car, visitors typically hike for about an hour to reach key scenic spots.

Western Steps(Front Mountain)
Duration: Takes about 5 to 6 hours to complete, covering a distance of approximately 15 km (9.3 miles).
Difficulty: More challenging due to its length and steeper sections, requiring a greater level of fitness and stamina.
Scenery: Offers breathtaking views of iconic peaks such as Celestial Capital and Bright Summit, along with unique rock formations and the famous “Rock That Flies from Afar.” This route is often regarded as more scenic and rewarding for those seeking stunning landscapes.
Crowds: Generally less crowded than the Eastern Steps, especially on the ascent, making it a better choice for those seeking a quieter experience.

Yuping Cable Car
Location: Western Steps (Front Mountain)
Starting Point: Mercy Light Pavilion (Ciguangge)
Destination: Jade Screen Pavilion (Yu Ping Lou)
Length: Approximately 2,012 meters
Travel Time: About 10 minutes

Recommendations
Many hikers recommend starting with the Eastern Steps for the ascent due to its shorter distance and easier terrain, then descending via the Western Steps to experience the more scenic views. This combination allows for a well-rounded experience of Mount Huangshan’s beauty while managing the physical demands of the hike effectively.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your hiking experience, fitness level, and what you hope to see along the way.

There are a few family-friendly hiking trails near the cable car stations on Mount Huangshan:

Hiking Trails from Yungu Cable Car
White Goose Ridge (Bai E Ling) 
This is a relatively easy hike from the Yungu Cable Car top station. The trail is gentle with some steps, making it suitable for families. It offers great views of the sea of clouds.

Beginning-to-Believe Peak (Shi Xin Feng) 

Another scenic spot accessible from the Yungu Cable Car. The hike is not too strenuous and the views are stunning. The name means “you’ll begin to believe how beautiful it is after your arrival”.

Hiking Trails from Yuping Cable Car
Greeting-Guest Pine (Ying Ke Song) 
This famous pine tree is a popular photo spot near the Yuping Cable Car top station. The hike to reach it is short and easy.

Lotus Peak (Lian Hua Feng) 

Divert to this peak, the highest in the Huangshan range, before continuing on to Bright Summit. The hike is moderate but the views are breathtaking.