Yang’e Ancient Trail

Yang’e Ancient Trail

Yang’e Ancient Trail is a cultural relic protection unit of Yuyao City.

Yang’e Ancient Trail, built during the Jiading era of the Southern Song Dynasty, has a history of over 780 years. It has long served as a vital route connecting Liangnong to Dalan, often referred to as a “stairway to the heavens.” Historical records tell of Sun Deyu, the ninth-generation descendant of the Sun family, who once served as an imperial lecturer at the Chongzheng Hall. After suffering a foot injury that failed to heal despite prolonged treatment, Emperor Ningzong bestowed upon him a walking stick. Soon afterward, he returned to his hometown on sick leave. He was especially close to the monk Deyun of Qingyuan. Since Deyun presided over the Zhàngxī Temple, which was located far away with treacherous mountain paths making travel inconvenient, the two jointly funded the excavation of Yang’e Ridge. The words “Yang’e Ancient Trail” are carved into the rock face beside the ridge.

The ancient trail stretches approximately five kilometers in length and is constructed from block stones, with a width of about two meters. Towering cliffs rise on either side, dense bamboo and trees shade the path, birds chirp melodiously, orchid blossoms exude fragrance, and the stream at the bottom of the ravine murmurs like the notes of a zither. On rainy days, mist envelops the ridge, giving the impression of walking through clouds. From the top, one can take in the sweeping views of the landscapes of Liangnong. Legend has it that the immortal Danqiu Zi once cultivated Daoism and herded sheep in this area, adding an air of mystery to the ancient trail.

To the east of the trail lies a valley called Beidou Bay, home to numerous mountain streams and creeks. The largest of these is called Jianshuǐyán Stream, whose waters are clear, cold, and inhabited by the salamander — a second-class nationally protected animal. At the mouth of the bay, there is a cliff inscription carved with a large “Buddha” character, beneath which are inscribed over a hundred smaller characters documenting the construction of the Yang’e Ridge Nunnery and the donation of fields. With its timeless charm, the Yang’e Ancient Trail and the well-preserved ecological environment of Beidou Bay make it an ideal destination for leisurely travel.

Further Reading:

· Fifth Batch of Municipal Cultural Relic Protection Units in Yuyao City