Desheng Rock

Desheng Rock

Desheng Rock is located about 13 kilometers north of the city. Known for its densely layered peaks, it is also called Chou Rock (Chou meaning “dense”). In the fourth year of the Wude era of the Tang Dynasty (621), Yiwu was named Chouzhou, derived from this very rock. Throughout history, it has been a popular destination for people to climb and enjoy the scenic views.

Desheng Rock has an elevation of 381.7 meters, which is quite modest compared to other famous mountains and ranges. However, as you ascend along the winding stone steps, you can truly feel its steepness. A scholar, leaning on his walking stick and wandering in a reverie, once composed the poetic lines: “Leaning on my staff I climb high — how many skies above? Treading clouds, up and down, I see rocks hanging in the air.”

The Desheng Rock scenic area features numerous peculiar rocks and mysterious caves. On a mountaintop behind the temple lies a giant stone turtle, whose lifelike form crafted by nature’s masterful hand is truly breathtaking. Other attractions include the Nine Dragons Competing for the Pearl Rock, Upper Rock Cave, Hong Rock Cave, and Guan Mountain.

There is a temple on Desheng Rock. It was formerly known as the Heling Xing Temple.

Built in the early Yuan Dynasty, it was constructed in honor of Hu Ze, a military minister of the Song Dynasty. Legend has it that as early as the Yuan Dynasty, the site was highly revered by locals. Scholars and literati flocked here, leaving behind many poems celebrating the moon and the scenery.