China: Mount Wuyishan Scenic Area – Tianyou Peak

By far the most spectacular part of the Mount Wuyishan Scenic Area is the absolutely stunning monolith of the Tianyou Peak aka Heavenly Tour Peak. It is widely considered to be the single most iconic and visually spectacular location within the Mount Wuyishan landscape. Tianyou Peak is a monolithic sandstone crag that stands at an altitude of 408 meters (roughly 1,338 feet) above sea level. While its height is modest compared to massive mountain ranges, it rises almost completely perpendicular to the valley below. To reach the summit, you must ascend a famous flight of 840 steep stone steps cut directly into the exposed narrow spine of the ridge with sheer drops on either side – and absolutely thrilling and extremely difficult climb. The top of the peak serves as the ultimate observation deck for the entire scenic area with a sweeping 360 degree panorama of the Nine-Bend River – all beyond surreal! The historic Tianyou Temple, originally built during the Ming Dynasty, sits at the very top.