Tai'an exists for one reason: Mount Tai. Taishan is the most revered of China's Five Sacred Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city at its base has served pilgrims, emperors, and travellers for thousands of years. The climb begins at Dai Temple in the centre of town, a sprawling complex that is itself worth a visit before you start the ascent.
The mountain trail runs about 7,000 steps to the summit, lined with inscriptions carved into the rock by emperors and poets over the centuries. From the ceremonial Red Gate at the base, the path climbs past the Doumu Palace, the Middle Heavenly Gate, and the South Heavenly Gate before reaching the Jade Emperor Peak. You can take a bus partway and a cable car to the top, but the walk is the point — generations of Chinese have made this climb as an act of devotion or ambition. Confucius climbed it. Mao climbed it. The sunrise from the peak is famous across China.
The city below is unremarkable on its own, but as a gateway to Taishan it has all the hotels, restaurants, and transport connections you need. The lively Tongtian Street between Dai Temple and the mountain is the easiest place to eat and sleep, and the local tofu — made with Mount Tai spring water — is a genuine speciality.