Mount Yanguang

Mount Yanguang

Mount Yanguang

Located in the southwest of Xikou District, it originates from the Five Ridges, spans approximately 20 kilometers in circumference, and has an elevation of 1,150 meters. Towering ancient trees and dense bamboo forests block out the sun, creating a serene and tranquil landscape. At the foot of the mountain lies the Quanzhen Hermitage. The journey from the hermitage to the summit is about 15 kilometers. There is a hermitage that served as the place where Yanguang cultivated his spiritual practice. The mountain is known for its five wonders: (1) Near the hermitage, the terrain is high on the outside and low in the middle, covering an area of about five acres. Even during prolonged periods of rain, the water in the depression drains away on its own, and no one knows where it goes; (2) Within the depression, there are two small ponds connected to each other—one clear and the other murky. The clear one is called the Sacred Pool, and the murky one is called the Dragon Pool. Though they share the same location, their colors differ, and they neither dry up nor overflow throughout the four seasons; (3) Every three to five years, white waves suddenly surge from the depression, rising one to two feet high, before quickly drying up. Locals call this phenomenon “temple-washing water”; (4) Inside the hermitage, there is a statue of the World-Honored One, no taller than a foot, with an ancient and elegant bronze body covered in gold. It resembles works by the painter Wu Daozi. The local villagers call it the Golden Buddha, though its origin and the era it comes from remain unknown; (5) The mountain emits a warm and fragrant air. Its high elevation and secluded environment create a uniquely cool climate—even in the height of summer, only light jackets are needed—making it an ideal summer retreat.

The Quanzhen Hermitage has been destroyed, and only its ruins remain; the pools have also dried up, leaving behind just a small pond. However, the pond water remains as clear as a mirror, and it is said that drinking this water can cure all kinds of illnesses. Next to the ruins of the hermitage, there is still a “Five-Grain Tree” that is lush and full of vitality. It is said to have been brought here by an elder from the hermitage from Mount Emei in Sichuan.