Huashan Xifeng Hotel

It was indeed great, exceeding my expectations, and for this price, a shared room is definitely a good deal. After camping out and roughing it, staying here for one night and then watching the sunrise from the West Peak in the morning was just perfect. The only drawback was that the toilet was a bit dirty, like a public restroom for tourists.

I had originally booked a room, but upon arrival, there was a two-person room available, so we adjusted. The accommodation was decent, with dining options right downstairs. Hot water was plentiful, and the restroom wasn't too far. It's just a few minutes' climb to the top, where you can catch perfect sunsets and sunrises. Being summer, the sunrise view was even better than from the East Peak.

Heads up: 1. No slippers provided, which is a bit inconvenient for bathroom trips. 2. The bathroom is outside. Although it's not far, there's a strong smell. I suggest installing an extractor fan. Also, the lights inside are broken, so you'll need your phone for illumination. 3. The overall smell in the dorm was fine when I first arrived, but it really depends on your roommates. 4. You can also catch the sunrise from West Peak, no need to crowd into East Peak.

Someone said that in summer the sun rises from the northeast when watching the sunset, making it very convenient to watch the sunrise from the West Peak with no obstructions at all. Only in winter, when it rises from due east, will there be a slight obstruction. Sure enough, the next morning there were no obstructions at all. So, it seems the West Peak is unbeatable – fewer people and more peaceful. The only downsides are no hot water for foot baths, which isn't great, and mixed-gender dorms are a bit inconvenient. In these two aspects, it's not as good as Huangshan.

This is a good option for friends planning to stay on the mountain top. Conditions on the mountain are limited, so just having a place to stay is already great. The 8-person room offers good value for money. It's a bit rustic, but you won't freeze. The only toilets are shared dry toilets, which you'll have to deal with, or you can walk a bit further to the check-in area where the toilets are better. Just be aware that it's quite dark at night, so be careful and it's best not to go alone. Hot water is available.