Baishan Scenic Area

Baishan Scenic Area

The unique wonder of Northeast China—Baishan, located in Guzhangzi Township in the northeast of Jianchang, features undulating peaks and evergreen pines and cypresses. Among the dense woods, 880,000 cypress trees thrive, making it the region with the highest concentration of cypresses in the Northeast. Within the scenic area, the Shanzuizi Cave belongs to the Hongshan Culture type dating back 6,000 years, where human activity began as early as the Neolithic Age. The famous Longquan Temple and Qingquan Temple are nestled within this mountain. The origin of the historic Liuguxi River lies in two ever-flowing springs above Longquan Temple. The Longquan Lake, built along the mountain, resembles a radiant green pearl embedded at the end of Canglong Ridge. The combination of one lake, two temples, and the natural landscape of mountains, waters, forests, and caves forms numerous scenic spots that complement each other, creating a breathtaking and picturesque destination.

Longquan Lake is a reservoir formed by collecting water from Longquan. Lush trees and evergreen pines and cypresses line both banks. The lake surface is suitable for developing water recreational activities, while the verdant surroundings make it ideal for building a tourist resort as the main service area for the Baishan Scenic Area, forming a “one lake, two temples” tourism layout. The western bank’s mountain peaks stretch from southeast to northwest like a coiled dragon, and atop its spine sits a golden goblet from the Qin merchant era.

Longquan Temple was first built in the eighth year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign and destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. Upon entering the valley where the temple is located, visitors can see from the valley entrance a massive rock formation resembling a devout Buddhist pressing their palms together in prayer, chanting “Amitabha.”

Qingquan Temple was first built in the 24th year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign during the Qing Dynasty. With a long history, it boasts an elegant and rustic charm. Nestled against the mountain and built among rocks, the temple features a well-arranged layout with carved corridors, painted pillars, red doors and windows, morning bells and evening drums, and the continuous sounds of wooden blocks and Buddhist chants. The lingering incense inspires a sense of transcendence. The temple includes a three-room Hall of Heavenly Kings, a five-room Hall of Three Saints, nine rooms for monks, a 400-square-meter scripture depository, two bell and drum towers, two pairs of white marble stone lions, a 3.3-meter-high white marble Thousand Buddha Pagoda, a six-ton outdoor statue of Guanyin, and over 40 wooden and clay Buddha statues of various sizes. To the east of the temple stands a 400-year-old, 20-meter-tall straight ancient pine, while to the west grows a 3-meter-tall, 15-meter-long elm tree that creeps along the ground like a living dragon. Walking here purifies the soul, relieves worries, and leaves worldly troubles far behind.

Walking westward along the mountain path behind the temple, you’ll find a stone platform about 5 meters long and 2 meters high. Legend says it was where General Xue Rengui of the Tang Dynasty reviewed troops during his eastern campaign, hence it is now called the General Review Platform. Perched on a strategic location, the platform is surrounded by steep cliffs on the east, west, and north, with rugged terrain to the southwest, making it easily defensible. Standing atop the platform evokes the feeling of ancient warfare, with the chilling winds and clinking armor, stirring nostalgic thoughts of “Where are the generals of old? Now only the empty General Review Platform remains.”

Spring outings to Wuzhi Lotus Mountain reveal an incredibly magical landscape. Named for its five neatly arranged peaks resembling outstretched fingers, the mountain turns lush and green in summer. At its center lies Lotus Heart Mountain, where azaleas bloom in vibrant reds against the surrounding emerald peaks, creating a rare and breathtaking scene of “green leaves cradling red flowers” that delights visitors.

On the western side of Baishan, ascending through a quiet valley for about 800 meters, a small hill rises abruptly in the middle of a mountain hollow. It features three uniquely shaped peaks that look striking from all angles. The surrounding mountains also rise sharply from the ground, dotted with bizarre rocks, resembling the landscapes of southern China. When shrouded in mist, illuminated by sunset glows or rainbows, the area feels like a fairyland from Penglai, bringing a sense of peace and wonder.

The peaks of Baishan are not only stunningly beautiful, but the springs here are equally delightful. Among the encircling peaks are two springs. As visitors enter the mountains, they’ll spot an ancient well less than a meter deep that never dries up even in severe droughts. The famous name of Qingquan Temple originates from this spring. The second spring lies 150 meters east of the temple in an apricot grove, where water continuously flows down a steep cliff. The area is perpetually icy, known locally as Ice Gully—even by the Dragon Boat Festival, the ice remains unmelted. The spring water is crystal clear and refreshingly cool even in the height of summer. Many visitors stop here to rest and sip the sweet water, finding immense joy. Truly: “Golden goblets brim by Longquan Lake, coiling dragons and turtles guard the spring’s source. Deep in Baishan hide twin temples, where laughter mingles with sips from twin dragon springs.”

Guzhangzi Township: The name Guzhangzi comes from the Gu family who settled here in the first year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign. The area is abundant in millet, which is processed into millet praised as “golden rice” and served as tribute to the Qing imperial court.

● Geographic Location

The geographic coordinates of Guzhangzi Township are 120° east longitude and 41° north latitude. The township government is located in the main street of Guzhangzi Township. Situated in the northeast of Jianchang County, it borders Naniangmiao Township to the east, Linglongta Township to the south, Youzhangzi Township of Kazuo County to the west, and Wafangzi Town of Chaoyang County to the north. The total area of the township is 100 square kilometers.

● Administrative History

On October 1, 1949, Guzhangzi, Maozhangzi, Naniang... More detailed information about Guzhangzi Township++