Beijing to Shanghai Sights

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1. Mount Tai

Reaching 5,067 feet above sea level, Mount Tai is the most venerated of the five sacred mountains of China. It is also reputedly the most climbed peak on earth, tamed by 7,000 steps over 7½ km (4½ miles) from base to summit, making it accessible to anyone with a sturdy pair of shoes and a head for heights. Over the ages, calligraphy has been etched into boulders and cliffs like graffiti, and temples of various faiths line the route, making a climb here a fascinating jaunt through Chinese history. It's possible to follow the steps to the summit and back down in a day (a cinch if you use the cable car), but spending the night on the peak is also an option. The classic photo—sunrise over the cloud-hugged peaks—is actually a rare sight because of the mist.