Ancient Qu-Chu Trail

Ancient Qu-Chu Trail

Ancient Qu-Chu Trail

Starting (and passing) points: Taoyuan, Jin Family Ancestral Hall, Hongtangkeng Reservoir, Bai'eshan Mountain, Zikeng, Shangshuwu, BaiXinglin, Golden Rooster Stone, Waterfall, Ruins of an Ancient Temple.

Total length: 10 km

Overview and main features: The “Ancient Qu-Chu Trail” was an essential route from Quzhou to Lishui in ancient times. Lishui, anciently known as Chuzhou, lies to the south of Longyou. The pass tower along this trail is a structure from the Ming Dynasty. In the past, when someone passed away, their spirit had to go through this pass tower and then reach the ancestral hall before being considered properly reunited with their ancestors. Walking straight through to the end of this pass tower leads you to Hongtangkeng Reservoir, which is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts to gather with friends over holidays. Zhuangyuan Valley, as the most classic section of the “Ancient Qu-Chu Trail” within Quzhou City, is known for its “winding bird path, famously called the Eighteen Bends. Ascend to its summit, and the distant views are utterly breathtaking.” This section of the ancient trail is paved with mountain stones, lined with winding streams, rugged rocks, and splashing waterfalls. The Song Dynasty cliff inscriptions on the “Golden Rooster Stone” feature various symbols and characters that spark the imagination. At the endpoint, you can gaze at the natural “Mountain God” sculpture, explore the remnants of the former residence of Lu Xiufu, a renowned minister of the Southern Song Dynasty, and reflect on history in front of the ruins of the Lingyao Temple branch.

Source: Zhejiang Provincial Forestry Bureau

Further reading:

· Top Ten Cultural Trails in Zhejiang