There are numerous pilgrim roads in China, may of which lead up to the Holy Mountains. These paths are often demanding stairways hiking upward for several kilometers, along narrow ridges and cliffs. Still, the journey is worth it, since they lead up to a spectacular view. The Holy Mountains were named by the Taoists, who believed that the gods and immortals resided on top of them. In the early days, Taoist monks lived there, believing that they were the perfect place for self-cultivation and connecting with the gods. Later, upon the invitation of the Emperor, many of them moved to the temples built for their use near the capital. As Taoism developed and became more admired, they built several temples, even smaller villages along the lines of the Holy Mountains, facing the five cardinal directions.