Tianningzhai

Tianningzhai

Tianningzhai is one of the popular tourist routes in the Tianzhu Mountain National Scenic Area, located in the southern part of Meicheng Town, Qianshan County. It stands about 10 meters above the surrounding area, covering nearly 5 acres, and is the only small elevated landform within the city. Historical records indicate that during the Qingli era of the Northern Song Dynasty, the Tianning Temple was first built on the hill, and at the end of the Ming Dynasty, Shi Kefa established the Tianning Camp here; later, it gradually evolved into what is now known as Tianningzhai. Locals often refer to it simply as "Tianzhai."

The main gate of Tianningzhai faces south, and as you step through, you ascend step by step until you reach the top, where you can overlook the beautiful South Lake. About a hundred meters from the entrance, you’ll find the site of the “Moonlit Night on Shu Terrace,” one of the Ten Scenic Spots of Qianshan. This was once the reading place of Wang Anshi, a renowned statesman and literary figure of the Song Dynasty. During the Tang and Song Dynasties, Qianshan served as the administrative center of Shuzhou and was then the political, economic, and cultural hub of the region. In the third year of the Huangyou reign (1051), the 31-year-old Wang Anshi was appointed as the Prefectural Judge of Shuzhou. Historical accounts say that during his three years in Shuzhou, Wang Anshi was diligent in his studies and governance, earning widespread praise. Locals would gaze toward his study and see the lights flickering from his window, with rays of gentle light spilling out — hence the name “Moonlit Night on Shu Terrace.” Generations of visitors have climbed here to reflect on the past, often moved to deep emotion. The Ming Dynasty censor Li Kuang wrote: “The pavilion of Prince Shu towers a hundred feet high, yet few know of his great deeds. Now, when the bright moon suddenly appears, it seems to still shine upon his face.” The magistrate of Qian County, Li Zaiyang, also penned: “The terrace high, the moon so bright, its clear reflection on the corridor. To this day, the historic site remains, its fragrance lingering through the ages.”

Located near South Lake and facing the rural fields in the distance, Tianningzhai is just 2 kilometers from the scenic “Wanguang Garden” and about 10 kilometers from the Sanzu Temple and cliff inscriptions — both key national cultural heritage sites at the foot of Tianzhu Mountain. Strolling on the hill, you’ll enjoy fresh air and, when you look out, a vast, open view — especially striking is the Tianzhu Peak rising proudly through the mist. Tianningzhai truly embodies the phrase “in the midst of a busy city yet free from noise, in a tranquil environment yet never lonely.” It’s an ideal spot for sightseeing, leisure, and especially for escaping the summer heat to refresh both body and mind.

Tianzhu Mountain

Sanzu Temple

Shiniu Ancient Cave Cliff Inscriptions

Mysterious Valley

Black Tiger Waterfall

Immortal Peach Rock

Xiguanzhai

Cliff Carvings

Mazu Nunnery