“Viewing the Bishui River” Stele

“Viewing the Bishui River” Stele

The “Viewing the Bishui River” stele is located on the banks of the Bishui River south of Biyang County and was erected in June of the second year of the Xianfeng reign during the Qing Dynasty. The inscription describes an event where the then-county magistrate, accompanied by friends, went for a spring outing on the north bank of the Bishui River. They admired the river flowing mightily westward, which greatly pleased them, and one of them composed a poem to share with his companions. Ten days later, local residents had the moment engraved on stone: “Once we explored the eastern source at Dahu Mountain, a river flows westward encircling the outskirts; unaware of what lies beyond Qichizhi Gate, it feels as if living between the waters of integrity and courtesy; fresh reeds and the rise of peach blossoms swell the water by three feet, small melon-skinned boats reach several bends; I deeply feel joy born from hunger, where the river flows mightily, how can one’s heart not be at ease?”

Photo by Fan Jinfeng