Tai-an: China’s Most Popular and Sacred Mountain

Sacred and stunningly beautiful - there’s a reason it’s the most visited mountain in China. But the most extraordinary thing about Tai Mountain isn’t the ancient stone inscriptions at the top… _____ Tai Mountain –known as the Mountain of the Gods. It’s one of the five most sacred mountains in China. It’s a deeply spiritual place… and very, very crowded. China’s impressive economic growth has created a middle class with disposable income. Many of China’s 1.3 billion citizens are starting to explore their own country. To accommodate all those visitors, the government has built a bus system to carry people to the top. And of course, there’s a cable car. But many still choose to climb the stairs – all 7100 of them. It’s 4-7 grueling hours – straight up. Even after all that effort, they’re still cheerful. Some know exactly what they’re doing. Others may not have thought it completely through. Or chosen to be pretty over practical. Though it’s the parents who deserve a medal. And the older folks never stop. The goal isn’t just to reach the top – it’s the lovely Chinese inscriptions carved into the mountainside. There are 100 of them in all. But not everyone is here just for the selfies. The monastery at the top is 800 years old. Many come to pray and give offerings. Or ask a Taoist soothsayer to tell your future. Don’t forget to leave a lock behind - if you can find space. Or tie a red ribbon on a pole or tree. The Gods may grant your wish, especially if you leave a tip. And of course you’ll want lunch! Tomatoes, corn, cucumbers - not your standard Western fare. No wonder the Chinese are so healthy. And then it’s time to start back down. You can take a detour off the beaten track as long as you don’t get caught. Tune in for a new video every week from the far corners of our Human Planet! Download our complete PBS documentary series on China: Subscribe to OUR HUMAN PLANET: #Travel #Adventure #China LET’S CONNECT! • Say hi on FB: Category: Travel