Moonlight Over River Sounds

Moonlight Over River Sounds

Introduction

Moonlight Over River Sounds is an oval-shaped island located to the north of Shuixin Pavilion in the Chengde Mountain Resort. It was built in the 42nd year of Emperor Kangxi’s reign during the Qing Dynasty (1703). The lakeside three-bay gate hall was inscribed by Emperor Kangxi with the name “Moonlight Over River Sounds,” inspired by Su Shi’s “Former Ode on the Red Cliff” and “Later Ode on the Red Cliff.” When the moon rises over the eastern hills, the lake is bathed in silvery light and all is quiet—only the gentle lapping of water against the shore creates a pleasing sound. The architectural layout of the island follows the style of traditional northern courtyard houses, with corridors connecting the various halls. To the west of the gate hall lies the Cold Fragrance Pavilion, where one can sit and admire the lotuses in the height of summer. To the north of the gate hall is the Tranquil Seclusion Mountain House, where Qing emperors used to read. Behind it is the Bright Heart Hall, also used as an imperial study. Further back is a courtyard complex inscribed by Emperor Kangxi as “Lakes and Mountains Like a Painting.” From the windows, one can gaze out at the picturesque scenery of lake and mountain blending as if in a painting. The pillars outside the gate hall appear tilted and on the verge of falling, yet they are actually solid and stable—this is one of the three marvels of the resort’s architecture. Legend has it that this design was authorized by Emperor Kangxi himself to convey the message that “if the upper beam is not straight, the lower ones will be crooked,” serving as a warning to his ministers.

Chengde City, Hebei Province