Cloud Marble Rock

Cloud Marble Rock

Cloud Marble Rock

Cloud Marble Rock is located on Cloud Marble Rock Mountain in Yu’kou Management Area, at an elevation of 160 meters. Surrounded by verdant peaks, ancient maple trees blaze crimson, and a solitary peak appears to have flown in from nowhere, thrusting straight into the sky. The temple is built halfway up the mountain, with stone steps leading down to the base of the mountain — a total of 470 steps, historically known as the “Cloud Marble Rock Path.” To reach the temple, visitors must ascend these stone steps step by step. Tourists must climb up and down this path one step at a time. Behind the rock, rugged stones jut out among shaded woods, accompanied by birdsong and floral fragrance. Secluded winding paths reveal unexpected beauty, while the murmuring springs echo from within the rocky cliffs, and refreshing breezes bring cool comfort, evoking the feeling that “dust on the stone path is swept away by the wind, and the Peach Blossom Spring welcomes the moon free of worldly cares.” The site has the imposing presence of a dragon leaping or a tiger crouching, as if aspiring to soar into the clouds. Springs trickle from crevices in the rocks, showcasing the unique charm of the mountain’s forests, stones, and springs.

The three characters “云石岩” (Cloud Marble Rock) on the temple gate were inscribed in the 11th year of the Qianlong reign (1746). The front section houses a scripture depository, behind which lies a hidden spring called “Cloud Spring,” which flows continuously and provides premium water for brewing Gongfu tea. Climbing up the stone steps on the cliff leads to the main hall, with side chambers on both sides of the stairway. A small stone-built pavilion stands high atop the rocks. On the left side of the front courtyard stands a stone pagoda tomb, renovated in the 9th year of the Qianlong reign (1744). The pavilions among the rocks and woods are strikingly majestic and uniquely scenic. Visitors have penned lines such as “Sit on the rock and watch the clouds rise; lean on the rock and wait for the clouds to return,” capturing the splendor of Cloud Marble Rock. Recent additions include a mountain gate and a fountain, and the stone steps have been paved with cement to allow vehicles to reach the gate directly. In 1961, it was listed as a key cultural relic protection unit of Puning County.