Recently, an incident involving five people illegally crossing the “Aotai Line” in the Qinling Mountains has drawn public attention. On the 9th, contact was made with rescue personnel involved in the search and rescue operation for this “Aotai Line” crossing. According to the rescuers, around 5 p.m. on January 1st, a blizzard hit the area along with a fierce wind, with nighttime temperatures dropping to -30°C. The Mount Ao area is mostly ridge routes with dense cliffs and experiences drastic climate changes, where one can witness four seasons in a single day, making hypothermia and dangerous situations highly likely. It is reported that local relevant departments have repeatedly warned that parts of the Mount Ao area belong to a nature reserve, and illegal crossings are extremely dangerous. The public is urged to comply with regulations and laws, respect nature, and cherish life.

Aotai Line

The Aotai Line is a historic railway in China, originally constructed by Japanese occupiers in the 1930s-40s to transport coal and resources from the Fushun mines. Today, it is preserved as a heritage steam railway in Liaoning province, offering scenic rides that showcase both its industrial past and the surrounding landscape.

Qinling Mountains

The Qinling Mountains are a major east-west mountain range in central China, historically serving as a natural boundary between the country’s north and south. This range is ecologically significant as a habitat for rare species like the giant panda and culturally important as the location of numerous ancient tombs and temples. Its slopes were also a cradle for early Chinese civilization, lying near the heartland of the Zhou and Qin dynasties.

Mount Ao

Mount Ao, also known as Ao Shan, is a historically significant mountain located in Shandong Province, China, revered as the birthplace of Taoism. It is traditionally considered the site where the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi) ascended to heaven and has been a major center for Taoist worship and pilgrimage for over two millennia. The mountain is dotted with ancient temples, including the renowned Taiqing Palace, which dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE).