Mount Tai, Shandong

China's coolest World Heritage sites
2014-07-24
China’s Grand Canal and Silk Road joined UNESCO’s World Heritage list at the 38th session of the World Heritage Committee which convened in Qatar. China now has 47 world heritage sites, second only to Italy. China’s heritage sites are either natural or historical treasures or both, and one can never grasp the true beauty or magnificence of these places unless you pack your bag, grab your camera and see them with your own eyes. Although all of the 47 sites are well worth visiting, here we recommend 10 places that are best visited during the summer season. 1. Mount Tai The sacred Mount Tai is located in Tai'an city of Shandong province. With an an elevation of 1,545 meters, Mount Tai is the highest peak in Shandong. The mountain is reputed as "Chief of the Five Sacred Mountains" and "First Mountain Under Heaven". Mount Tai was the object of an imperial cult for nearly 2,000 years, and the artistic masterpieces found there are in perfect harmony with the natural landscape. It has always been a source of inspiration for Chinese artists and scholars and symbolizes ancient Chinese civilizations and beliefs.