Mount Emei
MountainTrain JourneyLocal FoodCultural Exchange

Mount Emei

China flag
Emeishan, China
David
Writer
Kro
Photographer
Published on
Tuesday, September 12, 2017

We really wanted to hike the Mount Emei - one of the most important sacred mountains in China. Sadly, our time in Emeishan was coming to an end and our sleeper train would not wait for us.

So, we only caught a glimpse of the Mount Emei, starting from the Emeishan town. We knew we were missing out on something big but this is a reason to come back to China.

Distant view of Mount Emei's misty peaks from Emeishan town

Journey to Kunming

After a simple and light meal, we pack our backpacks and took the direction to the Emeishan train station for our second overnight train and a 17-hour ride to Kunming.

We were less excited (17h!) but eager to reach the next destination. We settled comfortably in our bunk beds. The last 2 beds in our cabin were booked by a family of four. A young mum, her cute daughter and what we assumed were her Chinese parents. Our cabin was going to be cosy!

Food and Friendship

Our cabin buddies didn't speak English, but they communicated through their food. With plenty of Leshan specialities in their baggage, they made us try everything: duck wings, spicy rabbit stew, very tiny apples, walnuts, and sweet bread filled with fresh grapefruit. Our stomachs full, we were ready for a good night's sleep.

Tip

Mount Emei & Sleeper Trains

  • Mount Emei (峨眉山) is one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains - allow at least 2-3 days to explore properly
  • The hike to the Golden Summit takes 2 days - plan your itinerary carefully if on a tight schedule
  • Emeishan train station connects to major cities - overnight trains to Kunming take 17 hours
  • Chinese families on trains often share food - accept graciously and share your snacks in return
  • Book sleeper train tickets in advance, especially during peak season

Note:

Pin These Moments

Misty view of Mount Emei from Emeishan town

⛰️ Sacred Mount Emei

A glimpse of one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains from the town below

Traditional Leshan food specialties shared on sleeper train

🍜 Train Food Culture

Sharing local Leshan delicacies with a Chinese family during a 17-hour train journey to Kunming

Have you visited Mount Emei? Did you make it to the Golden Summit? Have you experienced the warmth of Chinese hospitality on sleeper trains? Share your stories below!