Nine-Dragon Pine

Nine-Dragon Pine

The Nine-Dragon Pine is located in Wudao Ying Township, about 15 kilometers northwest of Fengning County. According to experts, this tree was planted in the mid-Northern Song Dynasty, has survived through six dynasties, and is over 980 years old. The Nine-Dragon Pine stands 9.1 meters tall, with a girth of 2.8 meters, and its longest branch extends up to 13 meters. Visually, it has nine thick branches that twist and intertwine. The nine branches resemble dragon heads at their tips, the trunk curves like a dragon’s body, and the bark is chunky, resembling dragon scales. Each of the nine branches looks like a dragon soaring upward, which is why locals call it the Nine-Dragon Pine.

So, why is it also known as the “World’s Number One Unique Pine”? Because it possesses several remarkable features that are truly one-of-a-kind and unparalleled in the world.

First Wonder: From a distance, the tree looks like a large bonsai. When viewed from different angles, its appearance changes dramatically. For example, when viewed from the north facing south, the outline and growth pattern of the tree perfectly match the contour and direction of the Fuma Mountain range in front of it. Even more remarkably, the tree is clearly divided into four distinct levels from top to bottom, and the corresponding Fuma Mountain also has four matching levels. The mountain and the tree echo each other from afar, creating a picturesque harmony.

Second Wonder: The tree’s branches grow in a peculiar manner. After a thousand years, instead of growing taller, the tree has spread outward in all directions, and all of its branches twist, curve, and spiral as they grow. Its growth exhibits four main characteristics: first, it is not very tall but covers a large area. The tree stands just over 9 meters high, with a main trunk height of 3.5 meters, a girth that requires three people to encircle, covering an area of 525 square meters and occupying 8 decare of land. Second, the trunk grows in twists and turns, resembling the form of a dragon. Third, some branches appear as if they were sculpted by human hands. Fourth, the branches grow in patterns of both divergence and convergence, arranged in a well-balanced manner.

Third Wonder: Despite being over a thousand years old, the pine continues to grow outward every year and bears pinecones annually. The pine nuts are white and plump when unripe, and when mature, they have only a single layer of skin inside. According to years of experiments by the Hebei Provincial Forestry Department, even with the most advanced technology and methods, no second-generation pine or cypress can be cultivated from its seeds — a true marvel unique in the world.

Fourth Wonder: Experts have measured that the area around the tree has a powerful energy field. If you close your eyes, you can sense something unusual, and if you place your ear close to the trunk, you can hear a strange echo. Moreover, this solitary pine forms its own "forest" — even a gentle breeze can create the sound of rustling pine waves.

In addition, the scenic area also features the Temple of the Five Dragon Goddess, an exhibition hall showcasing ancient Chinese trees, and outdoor reliefs depicting the Nine Sons of the Dragon. Local temple fairs and other events are held here annually.