Yinshan

Yinshan

Yinshan is small yet exquisite. Though called a mountain, it is actually just an island in the lake. Climbing up from the foot of the hill, you’ll reach the top after ascending about sixty steps. The summit is flat, spanning nearly three hundred square meters. A large pine tree stands on the hill—its trunk is so thick that it takes two people holding hands to encircle it. There’s a hydrological station built at the top. During flood season, hydrological workers live alone on this desolate island, and working conditions are extremely harsh. An isolated isle in the vast expanse of water offers sweeping views of drifting clouds and rising tides, which also endows those living in solitude with a broad mind and boundless imagination. When the flood season passes and the water recedes, the hill emerges. You can see lush grass covering the lake islets and flocks of water birds lingering nearby. At sunrise, watch cranes dance auspiciously as rosy clouds glow along the horizon—welcoming the prosperity of the east wind and the refreshing autumn breeze. At dusk, admire the sunset over river and sky, dotted with sailing boats. Listen to fishermen singing at evening tide, their boats full and hearts merry. It truly offers a serene and delightful experience—one might easily lose all desire to leave.

Yinshan guards the southern waterway out of the city, presenting a formidable barrier where one man could hold off ten thousand. From time to time, the sound of ship horns drifts through the air, mingling with the songs of water birds. When the wind rises, you can hear it howl across heaven and earth; when rain comes, you can hear waves surge and crash against the river—a truly majestic sight. It subdues water demons and protects the city, monitors hydrology and safeguards the people. How can one not feel inspired to sing in your praise?