Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park is one of China’s most extraordinary attractions, standing over 1,500 meters tall. Often hailed as the most beautiful mountain in the world, it is home to a cave entrance known as the “Stairway to Heaven.” The mountain also boasts the longest passenger cableway in the world, offering visitors a panoramic experience as they ascend from the base to the summit. For those who prefer a more adventurous route, a series of cliffside paths and stairways lead to the top, including one that holds special significance.
This particular stairway, the Stairway to Heaven, consists of 999 steps that guide visitors to the Cave Square. Rising from 1,105 meters to 1,170 meters, the 218-meter-long stairway is seen by the Chinese as a spiritual path leading directly to Heaven. The name “Tianmen” itself is derived from the Chinese word for Heaven, symbolizing the gateway to divine realms.
Tianmen Mountain holds deep religious significance due to its connection to Taoist beliefs. According to legend, a powerful boom from the sky heralded the arrival of five clouds that hovered over the mountain. In response, the Jade Emperor, the supreme god in Taoism, bestowed his blessings on those who heard his voice before disappearing. After this event, the mountain was renamed, as the Chinese believed it was a direct link between Earth and the Gods. The Stairway to Heaven is thought to represent this sacred encounter.
At the summit, beyond the cave, lies the Altar of Tianmen, a temple where visitors offer prayers. The number of steps—999—has profound symbolic meaning in Chinese culture. The number 9 is associated with infinity, representing the eternal connection between Heaven and Earth.
Along the way, there are five platforms, each offering a moment of rest and reflection. These platforms are named after the five blessings in Taoism: “You Yu” (wealth), “Qin Se” (happiness), “Chang Sheng” (long life), “Qing Yun” (power), and “Ru Yi” (luck). Each blessing is essential to life and is believed to be granted to those who visit the stairway.
In addition to its spiritual significance, Tianmen Mountain and its Stairway to Heaven are a remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting both pilgrims and tourists alike.
