Yongnian Congming Mountain

Yongnian Congming Mountain

Congming Mountain is located at the junction of Linzhang County and Yongnian County in the southern part of the Hebei Plain, covering an area of several square kilometers. It runs from north to south, with its peaks rising abruptly from the flat land, presenting a steep and imposing landscape. When viewed directly from the front, it resembles a giant elephant lying facing the south. Although it stands only 262.8 meters above sea level — not particularly impressive compared to other mountains — it is still quite famous on the land of Yongnian. As the local saying goes, “On the third day of the third lunar month and the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, take a walk up Congming Mountain.” During the annual temple fairs on these two days, people from within a hundred-mile radius come here to burn incense, make wishes, and pray for peace. The mountain features various structures including the Zhao Huiwang Shrine, Kuixing Pavilion, Ten Thousand Buddhas Tower, Lingxiao Palace (Jade Emperor Hall), and a senior cultural activity center.

Among them, the Zhao Huiwang Shrine and its ruins are now a provincial-level key cultural relics protection unit. This is a grand architectural complex, attracting hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. The complex faces east and is built along the mountain slope, covering an area of 16,500 square meters. Historical records indicate that the original complex included the Zhao Huiwang Shrine, Buddha Hall, Goddess Hall, Ten Thousand Buddhas Tower, Bell Tower, and Drum Tower. In the third year of the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty (1853), around 20,000 Taiping Rebellion troops led by Lin Fengxiang (Heavenly King’s Deputy Prime Minister), Li Kaifang (Earthly King’s Prime Minister), and Ji Wen Yuan (Spring Official’s Deputy Prime Minister) engaged in fierce battle with Qing forces at the foot of Congming Mountain near Shibei Kou Village. They defeated the Qing army commanded by Zhili Governor-General Naliding’e. Since the Taiping troops did not believe in fate, they set fire to all buildings at the foot of the mountain after their victory. Further destruction occurred during the Japanese invasion in 1937 and the Cultural Revolution, leaving only ruins. In December 1988, with approval from provincial cultural heritage authorities, main structures such as the Zhao Huiwang Shrine, Kuixing Pavilion, and Ten Thousand Buddhas Tower were rebuilt on the original site.

The current Zhao Huiwang Shrine is built in the style of the Ming Dynasty. The main hall sits atop a six-tiered platform, spans five bays in width and three in depth, and houses the statue of Zhao Huiwang. The plaque above the main hall inscribed with “Zhao Huiwang Shrine” was calligraphed by Qian Shaowu, a renowned contemporary calligrapher (also a famous sculptor and professor at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, known for works like the “Monument to Li Dazhao” and “Song of the Road”).

At the northern foot of Congming Mountain lies the Spinning Flower Cave, formed over 2,000 years ago. Legend has it that during the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, a woman surnamed Chai lived in the cave spinning thread to make a living. She toiled day and night, eventually becoming immortal, and later appeared multiple times to save people. A statue was erected in her honor and a temple was built inside the cave for worship. This cave is a unique attraction of Congming Mountain. When water drips from its ceiling, it is said that rain will fall nearby within two days. If you sit quietly inside, you can even hear the humming sound of a spinning wheel.

Before the 1970s, the area was covered in pine and cypress trees, with rugged rocks, numerous shrines, and misty scenery. The mountain and its surroundings were picturesque with clear waters. Viewed from the mountaintop, the forest below was lush. To the north stood ? (unknown place name), and to the west ? (unknown place name), creating a majestic view. In ancient times, the scenery was described as: “The valleys were deep and shaded, the creeks were gentle, and the hills rolled on. In the past, there was a pavilion halfway up the mountain, along with the Congming Ancestral Shrine. People often came here in their leisure time, hoping to meet immortals. Ascending further up, the cliffs grew steeper, the paths narrower, the air cooler, and the scenery more refreshing, hence the name ‘Clever Mountain’.”

To the west of Congming Mountain lies a range of hills that are sprawling and ideal for hiding troops. To the east, the land is broad and flat with streams crisscrossing, fertile soil, and abundant harvests. The area overlooks Linzhang County. According to the “Yongnian County Annals,” in the 21st year of the Kangxi reign (1682), a fire was lit to signal for help from Linzhang County. There is also a high-ranking official surnamed Xu from this region, who is still honored by locals today. Historical records note that near the mountain there were many steles, most of which were erected to commemorate individuals who achieved success in the imperial examinations here. These serve as evidence of the area’s historical importance as a cultural hub. Shandong Province, known for its distinct regional culture, also has its own share of historical sites. To the south lies the hometown of the eminent scholar Yan Xizhai. During the late Ming and early Qing dynasties (1644–1661), an imperial tribute student — famed in his youth for his poetry and prose — became known alongside Yin Yue and Zhang Gai as one of the “Three Talents of Southern Hebei.” He rejected official positions despite repeated invitations, gaining even greater fame in his later years. His works include “Poetry Collection of Congming Mountain,” “Prose Collection of Congming Mountain” (included in the “Complete Library of the Four Treasuries”), and “Jingyuan Aphorisms.”

Today, Congming Mountain has been developed into a park, with vegetation gradually increasing and greening projects taking initial shape. With the rise in private car ownership, in recent years, people have come here to hike and exercise every morning and afternoon. The beautiful Congming Mountain is gradually regaining its former glory.

Scenic Area Address: Shibei Kou Village, Yongnian County, Handan City, Hebei Province

Transportation: Take a minibus headed for Shibei Kou within Yongnian County directly to the scenic area.

Self-driving Route: From various cities, take National Highway G309 or G107 — turn onto Yongfeng Highway (Provincial Highway S211) — upon reaching Shibei Kou, follow the signs to the scenic area.