Our stay at this Maoshan mountain-top hotel was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The hospitality began well before we arrived. The host (proprietor) reached out directly to our UK phone number to invite us to a WeChat group. Through this, they seamlessly provided all the essential travel information, details on local attractions, transport schedules, and dining times. They even kept in touch during our transit to ensure we made it up the mountain safely and smoothly.
Upon arrival, we were immediately made to feel welcome. The staff showed us a few available rooms and generously offered us a complimentary upgrade to a superior room. The room was exceptionally clean, comfortable, and featured an absolutely spectacular viewpoint overlooking the mountain landscape. Shortly after, we were invited to the reception area to enjoy traditional Chinese tea and chat with the host and other guests, creating a warm, community-like atmosphere.
The food and the evening activities were spectacular. For a very reasonable extra fee, we enjoyed delicious, authentic local-style dinners that were more than enough to fill us up. After dinner, we watched a stunning sunset followed by a personalized night tour of the surrounding grounds. The host introduced us to the basics of Daoist philosophy and the history of the local temple courtyards. We even encountered quite a bit of local wildlife and insects, which were completely non-threatening and added a wonderful, natural charm to the mountain night. Before bed, we had the special opportunity to light traditional long-stick incense and offer prayers for our family in the Daoist tradition.
The next morning, the host arranged an incredible early session with a Tai Chi master. We were tutored in *Ba Duan Jin* (a traditional Chinese QiGong style of exercise) outdoors in the fresh mountain air. It was amazing to watch the master perform, ask questions, and receive hands-on guidance. We spent the rest of our day exploring local temples and attractions. We even received a remarkably accurate fortune-telling reading before lighting more incense and offering prayers. While a few specific spots like the cave were closed, the walks were stunning, just remember to bring water and stay cool under the hot sun!
What truly sets this hotel apart is how the staff goes above and beyond. The host helped us connect with a Daoist master to write a beautiful, custom talisman for our family. We were able to meet the master, receive a blessing, and collect the talisman on our way down. Furthermore, when Typhoon Bavi unexpectedly forced the park to close the following day, the host personally stepped in to help us safely navigate from the summit back down to the mountain base. We are incredibly grateful for their unmatched care and would not hesitate to return to this magical place!
