Immortal Water Cave (Narcissus Cave)

Immortal Water Cave (Narcissus Cave)

Immortal Water Cave, also known as Narcissus Cave, is nestled among the steep cliffs on the western slope of Buxu Mountain. To its north are Dripping Water Cave and Meditation Cave, while to the south lies the Dinghu Peak. Above it stands Pianyun Pavilion, and below it overlooks the Lianjin Stream, more than fifty meters above the stream surface. In ancient times, people could climb up using ladders. The cave entrance faces the stream and is round like a mirror, hence it is also called Mirror Rock.

Throughout the ages, Immortal Water Cave has attracted many high-ranking officials, nobles, and literary giants. Historical figures such as Duan Chengshi, Pi Rixiu, Lu Guimeng, Zhao Qian, Shen Kuo, and Li Zhiyi all left their footprints here. There are a total of 38 Tang and Song dynasty cliff inscriptions scattered inside and outside the cave, which are treasures of China’s cultural heritage.

Within the rocky cavities of the cave ceiling, there is milky spring water that drips down to form a pool, crystal clear to the bottom. The flow is sparse in spring and summer but steady in autumn and winter. The water is pure, sweet, cool, and remains fresh even when stored for long periods. Legend has it that the Yellow Emperor used this water for alchemy. People who drink it regularly are said to be cured of ailments, become lighter in body, and enjoy longer lives—thus the name “Immortal Water.”

For generations, local villagers have believed it is due to the manifestation of the Water Immortal Goddess. Tao Hongjing, a renowned Taoist and literary figure of the Liang Dynasty, wrote the “Ode to the Water Immortal,” which has been passed down through history. Later, the Tang Dynasty Taoist Zhou Jingfu became immortal after drinking this water.

It can be said that at Immortal Water Cave, one can not only experience the mystical ambiance of a celestial cave but also taste the refreshing nectar-like water. The Song Dynasty writer Zhao Qian once wrote a poem: “Walking on the cloud’s edge, step by step so light; within the cave, a clear stream gently flows. Though I meet no true immortals, their traces remain; yet I rejoice to see names carved on ancient cliffs.”

Location

Dinghu Peak, Xiandu

Xiandu Subdistrict: The Xiandu Scenic Area Management Committee of Jinyun County (referred to as the Xiandu Management Committee) and the Xiandu Subdistrict Office share the same leadership and operate under two different names. The committee and subdistrict office work together, taking full responsibility for the protection, planning, development, construction, and various other economic and social management affairs within the Xiandu Scenic Area. The subdistrict office governs 7 administrative villages, covering an area of 35.9 square kilometers. Within its jurisdiction, there is 1 police station, 1 primary school, 1 township health center, and a total resident population of 9,862 people, with an average rural per capita income of 9,388 yuan.

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