Longmen Curved Lake

Longmen Curved Lake

Longmen Lake stretches in a "U" shape, surrounded by green-topped red cliffs and crimson rocks set against clear blue waters.

The uniqueness of Longmen Lake does not lie in its size but in its winding curves, elegance, clarity, and beauty. The lake water extends slowly along the mountain hollows, winding and twisting everywhere. Counting them up, there are 99 bends. The rocky skeleton coils around the protrusions. Viewed from above, the entire Longmen Lake resembles a giant sea coral reef, densely clustered with branches and intricacies. A gentle breeze brushes past, and the red rocks and green waters lightly kiss. The lake stretches long and far, like a giant dragon lying dormant among the red rock hollows. The dragon stirs gently in the breeze, while fish swim joyfully within its body, occasionally leaping out of the water to offer a delightful surprise.

At the far left end of the lake, at the bottom of the clear waters, six circular pools are visible. The pools vary in size—the larger ones have a diameter of about two meters, while the smaller ones are roughly one meter across. The pools are perfectly round, as if meticulously crafted by divine hands. The six circular pools are evenly distributed. The submerged pools are so clear that you can see the bottom through the pristine water. Their shape is exquisitely ingenious and indescribably wonderful. Legend has it that these were the secret bathing spots of seven fairies from the heavens who sneaked down to the human world. But why are there only six pools? It is said that one fairy had to stay onshore as a lookout, fearing that lovesick mortal youths might steal their colorful celestial robes. Without their clothes, they would be in grave trouble—unable to return to the heavens. And if they couldn’t return, the Jade Emperor’s wrath might bring disaster to the land. Otherwise, there surely would have been a beautiful sight of seven fairies bathing together, emerging like lotus flowers from the clear waters. At the far right end lies the Twin Rocks Ancient Temple. Landing here allows you to admire the charm of this ancient temple. The middle end leads directly to the foot of the natural giant reclining Buddha, where you can go ashore to explore the unique mountains and caves of Longmen Rock.

The banks of Longmen Lake are lined with competing peaks, each more spectacular than the last. There is the massive Elephant Peak, standing majestically by the lakeside with overwhelming presence. Adjacent to Elephant Peak is a uniquely shaped hill resembling a seashell. Viewed from different angles, it takes on various forms—sometimes like a spiral, sometimes like a bell, and other times like a crouching lion, all of which amaze at the wonders of nature. Opposite Seashell Peak is another peak, as if cleaved diagonally by the hands of the gods, forming a natural wind-sheltered bay. Standing within it, you may feel as if the massive peak might collapse at any moment—but such worries are entirely unfounded. The walls of the peak feature quiet, long-standing traces of water flow, resembling silent waterfalls that quietly trickle down, creating patterns of countless forms. Observe closely and savor thoughtfully, and you’re sure to discover majestic and beautiful traditional Chinese paintings.

Longmen Lake has been developed into an ideal destination for leisure, entertainment, and enjoying the mountains and waters. The newly established Longmen Lake Recreation Center has acquired speedboats and pleasure boats. Cruising along the winding Longmen Lake, with clear water splashing your face and droplets flying, the green mountains and trees on either bank glide slowly past, offering you a feeling of embracing nature.

Ah, beautiful Longmen Lake.