Hey guys, I'm going to china on the 25th this month and I am using the LP guide to China. It has been very useful in planning my 42 day (!) visit to the country.
My first question is about the hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling. The Lonely Planet guide mentions the detour around the military zone. I still find the directions a little vague and I'm worried I'll get lost. Does anyone who has done this hike recently have a good idea on how to take the detour. Perhaps someone has a map?
My second question is about hotels on Hua Shan. I am planning on travelling from Xi'an to Hua Shan and then staying the night at the base of the mountain. I want to hike up, do the full circuit and then find a hotel at the top, preferably near the east peak, where I want to see sunset and sunrise. After sunrise I want to take the cable car down and travel onwards to Shanghai.
Help with these two questions is much appreciated!