Taishan. Sunrise Mountain

Taishan, a mountain in the Chinese province of Shandong, is one of the five sacred peaks of Taoism. Therefore, the flow of visitors to it is endless. Traditionally, the mountain was considered the habitat of Taoist saints and immortals. And on its top, called the Jade Emperor Peak, there is a temple-the goal of numerous pilgrims for 3000 years.

The Chinese like to go to the mountains, especially on weekends. Whole groups, with sticks in their hands. They climb on their own, without spending money on a cable car. The highest point, which offers a gorgeous view of the nearby city of Tai'an, is located 1545 meters above sea level, and walking lovers go to the top in strings for six hours. Maybe that's right. The monks made the same long journey several centuries ago. Although now visiting mountain complexes in China usually has a slightly different character than worshipping the holy peaks. The Chinese like to brag: "This year I climbed here, and next year I will climb there..."

Photo and text: Yulia Khalezova