Bai Zhi Mountain Scenic Area

Bai Zhi Mountain Scenic Area

Bai Zhi Mountain is located 15 kilometers east of Ezhou City, Hubei Province, situated south of Bishi Town and west of Tingzu Town. It is a scenic area that integrates mountains, water, streams, valleys, and idyllic villages.

Legend has it that in ancient times, an immortal rode a white pheasant here and rested briefly. The immortal left in high spirits, while the white pheasant transformed into the main peak, hence the name. The Ming Dynasty poet Wang Bidong once wrote a poem: “The peaks of Wuchang rise piercing the clouds, as if ready to take flight, yet remain still—graceful as a pheasant…” The southern ridgeline forms an arc-like bow back, stretching approximately 6 kilometers; the northern ridgeline resembles a straight bowstring, spanning about 3.5 kilometers. Between the two lies a embrace of flat fertile fields and picturesque countryside. The eastern end of the bow merges into the Shiqiao Reservoir, connecting with the continuous mountain ranges of the east. The western end culminates in Furong Peak, over 400 meters above sea level, which boasts the greatest height and ruggedness among the city’s peaks.

Bai Zhi Mountain is a scenic area that integrates mountains, water, streams, valleys, and idyllic villages. The main peak at the western end of Bai Zhi Mountain features steep cliffs and stands upright like a screen, exuding a majestic and lofty charm. In front of the peak lies Lion Ridge, and behind it is Golden Rooster Rock. Legend says there used to be a stone Buddha at the mountaintop. Rain-seekers would divine the weather by attempting to move the statue—if it could be lifted, rain would come; if it remained immovable, the plea would go unanswered. The mid-slopes are shaded by dense woods, dotted with the occasional glimpse of chickens, dogs, and cottages, creating a mystical, otherworldly ambiance. After rain, the mountain scenery is particularly stunning, with layered cliffs and valleys veiled in mist, resembling dragons exhaling clouds, and cascading waterfalls forming breathtaking vistas. Hence, it is known as “Pheasant Mountain Misty Rain.” The Ming Dynasty poet Xiang Rihong once composed a poem in its praise: “Deep in the emerald hues, white clouds linger in secluded repose; winding paths twist back to reach the heights above. To the north, the borderland moon glows through veils of dust; from the west, wind and rain bring autumn to Dongting’s shore. Starry rivers descend at dawn beside the faint toll of bells; wild geese cast shadows alongside the ancient pagoda floating in haze. No wonder immortals rode white pheasants here—this place is truly a paradise on earth.”