Zhinu Mountain

Zhinu Mountain

The Zhinu Mountain Ecological Scenic Area is located in the northwest of Lingshou County, Shijiazhuang, approximately 96 kilometers from downtown Shijiazhuang, covering a total area of 1,500 hectares. The scenic area features low mountain terrain in the eastern part of the central Taihang Mountains. At the foot of the southern mountain lies Wangmu Village, the legendary birthplace of the Queen Mother of the West, who is said to have attained immortality and enlightenment. On the mountain stands the Wangmu Temple, which commemorates the Queen Mother’s ascension to heaven. This peak has an elevation of 1,251.9 meters. Legend has it that the Queen Mother was enlightened by an immortal here and ascended to the heavens, where she married the Jade Emperor and was bestowed the title of Queen Mother. Hence, there is a saying: “Wangmu Temple is only half a foot away from the sky.”

At the entrance of the scenic area, there are two villages: one is Niu Zhuang (originally named Niulang Zhuang, or Cowherd Village), and the other is Nü Zhuang (originally named Zhinu Zhuang, or Weaving Maid Village). A river separates the two villages, which is said to be the legendary “Milky Way.” The Queen Mother used her golden hairpin to draw the river, separating the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid. As the hairpin was coated with hair oil, oil droplets can still be seen floating in the river, hence locals also call it the “Seven-Oil Valley.” Within the scenic area, there are uniquely shaped peaks and peculiar rocks, as well as deep valleys covered with various types of trees. There are murmuring streams and towering green peaks; fantastical and magnificent cloud formations, as well as cool and pleasant sunny days. There is the solemn Wangmu Temple, and also the Japanese invaders’ watchtowers that serve as constant reminders to humanity. Even more fascinating is that the love legend of the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid is said to have taken place here, leaving behind touching tales that have become part of local folklore. As such, it has been recognized as the “No.1 Mountain of Love in the World.”

Scenic Area Address: Qiyougou Village, Zhaotou Township, Lingshou County, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province

Self-driving Route: Shijiazhuang (Shiyan Highway) – Baichigan – Lingshou County Town – Chen Zhuang – Zhinu Zhuang – Turn left at Niu Zhuang Bridge – Qinv Gully Village – Zhinu Mountain.