 Taishan Mountain in Shandong Province Taishan Mountain is of historical and cultural significance north of Tai’an City in Shandong Province. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. The sunrise on Taishan Mountain has always been considered one of the best in China and on Jan. 1, 2011, the sun will rise at about 7:15 a.m., according to a Chinese travel Web site. The ideal place to view the sunrise is on Sunrise Peak. Taishan Mountain is one of the “Five Sacred Mountains.” It is associated with sunrise, birth, and renewal and is often regarded as the foremost of the five. It has been a place of worship for at least 3,000 years and frequently served as the foremost ceremonial center for eastern China during this period. Transport: Fly to Jinan in Shandong Province from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport and take a train to Taishan Mountain. Or take a train to Guangzhou East Railway Station and then a train to Taishan Mountain. Accommodation: There are star-level hotels on the mountain costing around 200 yuan per night. Or stay at an air force hostel on the mountain, where visitors can enjoy the sunrise in their rooms. Cuisine: Try Taishan Mountain Sanmei, a dish with pakchoi, beancurd and water, deep-fried peanuts with vinegar, dishes cooked with traditional Chinese herbs, as well as wild vegetables. | 