The Wishing Tree of Bajingzi

The Wishing Tree of Bajingzi

If you visit Bajingzi, you must not miss seeing or paying your respects to a century-old elm tree located to the west of Zhangyunling Village in Bajingzi. Though this ancient elm may not be as grand and majestic as a thousand-year-old bodhi tree, nor as lush and towering as the ancient banyans of the south, it is quite well-known and beloved locally. This tree was born in 1893 and is now 114 years old. Locals call it the “Wishing Tree.”

Legend has it that a young lady from the Xu family fell in love with a poor scholar named Yuan, but their relationship was opposed by her family. Defying her parents, the young lady planned to elope with Yuan. Their maid overheard and informed the Xu family. To keep his daughter at home, Mr. Xu confined her indoors. Soon after, both the young lady and Yuan died of lovesickness due to missing each other. Feeling remorseful, Mr. Xu had them buried together. The following spring, a small tree grew from their grave. It thrived exceptionally well and is the very elm tree we see today. Moved by the faithful love of the young couple, locals named the tree the “Wishing Tree,” using a homophone of their surnames.

Later on, this flourishing ancient elm truly seemed to possess spiritual power. Scholars who made wishes here for academic or official success went on to enjoy prosperous careers and smooth promotions. Couples who had been childless for years were blessed with children, even late in life. Those praying for love and marriage found happiness and built joyful families. Since then, the “Wishing Tree” gained great fame, attracting an endless stream of visitors who came to admire and pray. Those who made sincere wishes saw their dreams come true in no time.

Address: Datong District, Daqing City, Heilongjiang Province