Tianjing Mountain National Forest Park

Tianjing Mountain National Forest Park

Tianjing Mountain National Forest Park is a national-level forest park.

Tianjing Mountain is located 40 kilometers southwest of Wuwei County, bordering Lujiang to the west and facing Chaohu Lake to the north. Covering a total area of about 18,000 mu, it was officially approved as Tianjing Mountain National Forest Park by the former Ministry of Forestry in 1992. Tianjing Mountain features vast, open landscapes with crisscrossing valleys, numerous unique mountains, peculiar rocks, springs, ancient temples, and natural caves. It has profound cultural heritage. Stepping into this area, you are greeted by a world of greenery — layer upon layer of emerald mountains, lush forests, clear mountain springs murmuring through valleys, birds chirping among fragrant flowers, and fresh, moist air that refreshes the soul. The mountain gets its name from a natural "heavenly well" at its summit, which never dries up or overflows throughout the year.

Tianjing Mountain Park is a natural paradise and treasure trove for flora and fauna. The mountain is home to nearly 100 species of wild animals, including owls, orioles, cuckoos, egrets, turtles, and snakes. From March to October each year, flocks of egrets and cattle egrets migrate here, soaring and perching freely across the landscape — a spectacular sight. The mountain hosts over a thousand plant species, notably a 1,200-year-old blue sandalwood tree near Shuangquan Temple. With a trunk circumference wide enough for eight people to hug, the tree stands several zhang tall and spreads its canopy over an area of more than one mu. Its gnarled roots cradle a temple stele, merging with the stone as if narrating millennia of human history — a breathtaking scene for visitors. In 1996, the “Shuangquan Mountain Villa” (i.e., Tianjing Mountain Hotel) was newly built, covering a construction area of 2,200 square meters and integrating meeting rooms, guest rooms, a restaurant, and a ballroom. Visitors here can not only enjoy the refreshing natural scenery but also benefit from convenient, thoughtful services. The ancient blue sandalwood tree of Tianjing Mountain is located to the east of Shuangquan Temple on the mountain. With a history of over 1,200 years, it stands in a majestic pairing with the nearby relic pagoda, guarding the Great Buddha’s Hall. The tree has a girth of ten people’s arms, towers several zhang high, and spreads a canopy covering more than one mu. Its twisted roots embrace a temple stele, merging as if whispering tales of centuries past. The tree’s gnarled branches, some coiling and twisting, others reaching out casually, seem to invite drifting clouds and mist, listen to the sounds of temple bells, and bathe in the nourishment of silver springs and the essence of sun and moon. Having endured trials over thousands of years, it has achieved an ageless state, exuding an aura like “spring blossoms casting shade halfway up the mountain.” Visitors are always left in awe. This blue sandalwood tree has now been listed as a key protected rare species at the provincial level and is truly a national treasure.

Outside Shuangquan Temple lies the scenic attraction of the Twin Springs. One spring emerges from the root hollows beneath the blue sandalwood tree, covered by stone slabs above. It flows southward into a square pool, then continues eastward across Rolling Dragon Bridge, with the sound of flowing water tinkling like jade pendants or the strings of a zither. Another spring, about two hundred meters into the bamboo forest, seeps gently from beneath the present-day Guanyin Cave. Its fine stream, like threads or strands, meanders over a sandy pebble creek bed, sparkling in the sunlight like brocade or satin — offering a uniquely charming scene. The east and west springs complement each other perfectly, together forming the “Twin Springs.” Additionally, Tianjing Mountain features other attractions such as Xiangyan Rock, One-Pot Spring, and Steep Cliff, all of which captivate visitors and leave them lingering in admiration.

Tianjing Mountain National Forest Park was approved for establishment by the Ministry of Forestry in 1992. It is a key tourism destination in Wuwei County, situated in the western part of the county. Bordering Lujiang to the west and Chaohu Lake to the north, the park lies in the transitional zone between subtropical and warm temperate climates. The area features undulating peaks, dense forests, and a harmonious blend of woodlands and springs, creating pleasant scenery. Notably, the Qijiashan Mountain near Tianjing Mountain stands tall and graceful, offering panoramic views from its summit, including the sails on the Yangtze River and the blue waters of Chaohu Lake. As a pillar of Wuwei County’s tourism industry, Tianjing Mountain National Forest Park receives strong support from local government. Moreover, it benefits from convenient transportation and well-developed infrastructure. The implementation of projects here is expected to generate significant economic benefits.